Elbow Pads

Elbow pads are protective garments designed to shield the elbows and surrounding areas from impacts, friction, and repeated contact with the playing surface. In paintball, players frequently extend their arms during dives, brace themselves against bunkers, and slide with forearms leading, making this region particularly vulnerable to scrapes and bruises.

Most elbow pads take the form of padded compression sleeves that cover the elbow joint and a portion of the upper and lower arm. The outer layer often uses durable, abrasion-resistant materials that resist tearing or wearing through when sliding on turf or natural ground. Beneath this, foam or gel padding cushions the elbow and forearm against direct impacts.

Some designs incorporate segmented padding or articulated panels to support natural arm movement. This allows players to bend, extend, and rotate their arms freely while maintaining consistent coverage. A secure fit is important; pads should not rotate around the arm or slide down when the player begins to sweat or repeatedly extends their arms.

Elbow pads are commonly worn under jerseys or long-sleeve shirts. Many paintball jerseys are cut to accommodate pads underneath without excess tightness or restriction. Players often choose pad thickness and coverage based on their role and format. Front players and snake players, who dive and crawl frequently, may prefer more coverage along the forearm, while back players might prioritize lighter, less bulky designs.

Maintaining elbow pads involves regular washing or rinsing to remove sweat, dirt, and paint, followed by thorough drying to prevent odor and material degradation. Over time, padding can compress and lose some of its impact-absorbing capability, and elastic materials may stretch. Pads that no longer stay in place or provide adequate cushioning should be replaced.

Elbow pads contribute to player confidence and comfort by reducing the risk of abrasions and bruising from repeated high-friction contact. They do not replace proper technique or safety practices but support players in executing dives, slides, and low-profile movements more consistently.

This entry focuses on general elbow pad design, function, and usage without endorsing any specific brands, proprietary foam formulations, or particular product lines.