Cricket has evolved significantly over the years, especially in terms of protective gear for players. One of the first pieces of protective equipment introduced in cricket were leg pads, designed to shield the legs from injuries resulting from the switch from under-arm bowling to a round-arm variety in the mid-19th century. As overarm bowling became legalised in 1864, leg pads became essential for batters to protect themselves during matches. However, it wasn’t until the turn of the 21st century that leg pads were designed not only for protection but also for comfort and freedom of movement.
Leg pads have come a long way since their inception, with modern designs focusing on providing ultimate comfort and protection for players. The evolution of leg pads has allowed cricketers to move more freely on the field, enabling them to play with greater agility and finesse. Players like AB De Villiers and Joe Root have taken full advantage of the improved leg pad designs, showcasing their 360-degree hitting game thanks to the enhanced leg movement provided by these pads.
To help cricketers of all levels find the perfect leg pads for their needs, we have compiled a list of the top 10 cricket leg pads that offer both comfort and protection. We consulted with former England player Lydia Greenway, cricketing equipment expert Daniel Inkpen from Kent Cricket Direct, as well as junior and senior players from Surrey and Sussex Leagues to guide our selection.
Best Leg Pads at a Glance
1. **GM Diamond Original Cricket Pads – £133.62, Amazon**
2. **Gray Nicolls Select Batting Pads – £70, Pro Direct Sport**
3. **SM HK111 Pads – £55, SM Cricket**
4. **Kookaburra Tempura – £38, Amazon**
5. **Aero P3 Leg Protectors – £49, Little Big Sport**
6. **Newbery SPS Cricket Pads – £95, Newbery**
7. **Chase R4 Batting Pads – £49.50, Kent Cricket Direct**
8. **New Balance TC660 Batting Pads – £47.99, Owzat Cricket**
9. **MRF Genius Grand 3.0 Pads – £59.99, Serious Sport**
10. **N-Series Junior Wicketkeeping/Fielding Pads – £15, Newbery**
GM Diamond Original Cricket Pads
One of the top choices for cricketers seeking the best overall protection and comfort is the GM Diamond Original Cricket Pads. Gunn & Moore, a legacy brand in the cricketing world, offers a range of pads to suit every budget, with the GM Diamond Original being a favorite among players like England captain Ben Stokes. According to Daniel Inkpen, the knee roll is a critical feature to look for in leg pads, as it provides enhanced protection. The GM Diamond Original pads are designed with Plastic Fibre and Tri-Layer Foam Knee Locator, ensuring that the knees are well-protected during matches.
Gray Nicolls Select Batting Pads
For cricketers who value classic comfort and style, the Gray Nicolls Select Batting Pads are an excellent choice. With a design that pays homage to cricketing legends like David Gower and Sir Alastair Cook, these pads offer a timeless look combined with modern features for enhanced protection. The red stripe flanked by black and white checks is not just a fashion statement but also a mark of quality that instills confidence in players. The vapour foam bolster of the Gray Nicolls Select pads provides extra protection against faster bowlers, making them a popular choice among cricketers looking for comfort and safety.
SM HK111 Pads
Designed specifically for female cricketers, the SM HK111 Pads are a top choice for women looking for comfortable and protective leg pads. Developed under the guidance of England skipper Heather Knight and former player Lydia Greenway, these pads address the unique needs of female players in terms of fit and protection. The HK111 pads feature plastazote padded curvature to fit the female thigh, foam-filled knee bolsters, and fibre shield for added confidence on the field. By catering to the female form, SM has set a new standard in cricket gear, ensuring that women players have access to high-quality, tailored equipment.
Kookaburra Tempura
For junior cricketers looking for a popular and reliable option, the Kookaburra Tempura pads are a great choice. Known for their quality and affordability, Kookaburra pads are favored by players up to county level, meeting the needs of young cricketers at various skill levels. The Tempura model offers quality protection at a budget-friendly price, making them ideal for club cricketers looking for reliable gear. Players at Lingfield Cricket Club have praised the Kookaburra Tempura pads for their comfort, lightweight design, and snug fit, allowing for easy movement on the field without compromising on safety.
Aero Cricket P3 Leg Protectors
Designed for junior beginners, the Aero Cricket P3 Leg Protectors are perfect for young cricketers who are just starting out in the game. These pads are not only geared towards providing protection but also enhancing the movement and agility of players. Aero claims that their leg pads can make a cricketer 9% faster, thanks to their sleek design that allows for ease of movement. With a comfortable liner and thick foam padding, the Aero P3 Leg Protectors offer young players the confidence and protection they need to excel on the field while learning the ropes of the game.
Newbery SPS Cricket Pads
Renowned for their high-quality, hand-made bats, Newbery also offers top-notch leg pads that provide extra protection for cricketers facing faster bowlers. The Newbery SPS Cricket Pads feature a combination of HD foam strips and cane rods that evenly disperse shock impact, ensuring that players feel secure and shielded during matches. The Grade 8 cane integrated into the oversized wing of the pads offers an additional layer of protection, making players feel like they have a force field around their legs. Whether facing international fast bowlers or local club teams, the Newbery SPS pads are designed to keep players safe and comfortable on the field.
Chase R4 Batting Pads
If you’re looking for value protection without compromising on comfort, the Chase R4 Batting Pads are an excellent choice. These entry-level pads offer superior comfort compared to other options in the same price range, making them a popular pick among cricketers. The lightweight design of the Chase R4 pads is achieved through the use of outer bolsters, ensuring that players can move freely on the field without feeling weighed down. In addition to comfort and protection, the sleek white design of the Chase R4 pads adds a touch of style to your cricket gear, making them a standout choice for batters looking to make a statement on the field.
New Balance TC660 Batting Pads
New Balance, known for their innovative and comfortable footwear, brings the same level of comfort and performance to their cricket gear, including the TC660 Batting Pads. These pads are favored by cricketers seeking a balance between comfort, protection, and agility on the field. The Litlon and foam-based knee protection of the New Balance TC660 pads allows players to move freely and execute a variety of shots with ease. Sussex League veteran Chris Foulerton praises the pads for their aerodynamic design, ease of use, and overall comfort, making them a reliable choice for cricketers of all levels.
MRF Genius Grand 3.0 Pads
Lightweight and durable, the MRF Genius Grand 3.0 Pads are a popular choice among cricketers looking for superior protection without added bulk. Endorsed by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, these pads offer high-density sponge and foam-filled protection, making them one of the lightest options on the market. The thick, strong straps of the MRF Genius Grand 3.0 pads provide added protection against calf and ankle injuries, ensuring that players can focus on their game without worrying about discomfort or injury. Whether facing fast bowlers or spinners, these pads are designed to keep players safe and agile on the field.
N-Series Junior Wicketkeeping/Fielding Pads
For junior keepers and fielders looking for a budget-friendly option, the N-Series Junior Wicketkeeping/Fielding Pads from Newbery are an ideal choice. These pads offer wrap-around support while being small and lightweight enough to wear comfortably underneath cricket whites. Designed for close-in fielders and junior keepers, the N-Series pads provide the protection and flexibility needed to excel in these specialized roles on the field. At an affordable price, these pads are a valuable investment for junior teams looking to equip their players with reliable and durable gear.
In conclusion, selecting the right leg pads is crucial for cricketers of all levels to ensure their safety and comfort on the field. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for top-of-the-line protection or a beginner seeking budget-friendly options, there are a variety of leg pad choices available to suit your needs. By considering factors such as comfort, protection, and agility, you can find the perfect pair of leg pads that will enhance your performance and confidence during matches. With the top 10 leg pads listed above, you can make an informed decision based on your specific requirements and preferences, enabling you to focus on playing your best game without worrying about your safety on the field.