When choosing cricket pads, it can help to identify and have knowledge of the different parts that they consist of, and the features to examine and look out for. 

Top Hat - Above the knee roll, the top hat protects the upper thigh

Knee Roll - Usually features horizontal sections of padding, the knee roll offers additional protection to the knee of the player, whilst allowing flexion and extension of the leg.

When buying cricket pads, it’s important to choose the correct size in order to benefit from the maximum level of protection and comfort that they can offer. Whether you’re a batter facing down a fast-bowler, or a wicket-keeper relying on sharp reflexes, having top-quality cricket pads that offer the highest-level of comfort and protection is a must. 

The correct pads should allow full unrestricted range of movement without compromising on any level of safety and protection. 

To help you make the correct choice and buy the right size pads, we’ve compiled simple but detailed size charts for choosing batting pads and wicket keeper pads. 

• Measure from the centre of the kneecap to the top of the foot to determine the pad height required

• Compare the length with the size table below to find the recommended size for the player’s height (more accurate than matching by age)

In regards to wicket keeping pads, the same method for measuring is used. You may find however, that the measurements listed for wicket keeping pads are smaller, despite being listed as the same size.

Designed to protect cricketers from the fierce impact of a dense ball travelling up to 100mph, the materials used to manufacture cricket pads have a huge bearing on their effectiveness and the protection that they offer. The pads need to protect the cricket player from flying cricket balls, but also need to be lightweight enough that they don’t impede a batsman or wicket keeper's mobility. 

As it may compress and change shape more easily, cotton wadding pads can become deformed and bent more easily and can require more maintenance than synthetic materials. Cotton can also be a relatively expensive choice for padding, due to the amount required for sufficient protection and the cost of manufacturing compared to some synthetic materials.

Cotton is still a great choice for cricket pads. When used in conjunction with synthetic materials the pads can provide a well ventilated, robust and comfortable feel that provides a high level of protection and durability. 

Cane
Providing structure and rigidity to the shape of cricket pads, cane has been used as a traditional material for over a hundred years - since 1853 when Thomas Nixon designed the first open cane pads, to be exact. 

Durable and able to withstand repeated impacts, cane helps to significantly reduce the force of cricket balls, distributing the impact along the length of the pad. A cost effective option it can also provide a classic look and feel.

Cane is however, heavier than some modern materials and offers limited flexibility. Like cotton, cane can be susceptible to taking on moisture and degrading over time causing further weight and comfort issues. 

Some of these negative properties of cane in regards to cricket pads, can be overcome by combining cane with advanced materials including multi-layer high-density foam and PU leather. This hybrid design provides much of the benefits of cane in terms of impact resistance and distribution, without causing any problems with moisture and weight. 

PU (Polyurethane)
Often used as an alternative to traditional bovine leather, PU is lightweight, water-resistant and durable. Also known as “PU leather”, the synthetic material offers a high-level of shock absorption and distribution, without the heavy weight associated with traditional materials. It is also flexible and pliable, making it a comfortable material that helps cricketers to maintain their agility and freedom of movement. Fully recyclable, it is more environmentally friendly than many similar materials. 

Combining durability with high-performance, PU can also be manufactured to look virtually the same as traditional leather; making it aesthetically appealing too. 

Fibreglass
Fibreglass is used in relatively small quantities in some cricket pads. It increases the stiffness of the pads, providing rigidity and durability. It is relatively lightweight in comparison to traditional materials and cost-effective. 

Fibreglass is however less flexible and this can potentially make the pads less comfortable, as they are unlikely to mould and conform to fit the specific shape of the users legs. Fibreglass also has the potential to splinter, especially if it is not properly encased.

Optimising Performance with Hybrid Materials
FORTRESS cricket pads combine the benefits of traditional and synthetic modern materials to provide professional-quality cricket pads at a competitive price.

PU leather is used on the pads exterior layer. This makes the  pads water-resistant, durable and easy to wipe clean.  With an interior containing high density foam , traditional cane and cashmilon cotton padding, the pads offer an excellent level of shock absorption and protection, while remaining lightweight and comfortable. 

FORTRESS pads also feature low-density foam in specific areas including the shin, to provide optimal protection from impacts and mesh-linings to offer additional comfort and breathability. 

Offering a well considered balance of hybrid properties and materials from a range of natural and man-made sources, the FORTRESS cricket pads are available in a range of designs and sizes for children and adults. 

Popular in limited overs formats of modern cricket including T20 Leagues, coloured pads can also be used in a number of leagues that permit coloured kits. Coloured cricket pads are ideal for emphasising team identity and making some team sponsor’s more visible, 

Allowing players to coordinate protective equipment with their kits, coloured cricket pads are usually made of the same material as traditional white designs, but sometimes with an additional PU covering. The sizing should also be exactly the same.

At Net World Sports we supply a wide range of cricket pads in 5 colours.  Choose from 5 sizes and left or right hand dominant pads to find your perfect match. 

Batting Pads vs Wicket Keeping Pads - What’s the difference?

Whilst they may look similar at first glance, batting and wicket keeping pads have some distinct differences in terms of their design and purpose.

Batting pads are designed to prioritise protection whilst allowing for linear movement in terms of running and batting. Wicket keeping pads on the other hand, prioritise freedom of movement in multiple directions, and as such are lighter and have less padding than batting pads.

Below the main differences between batting and wicket keeping pads are listed:

• Top Hat - Top of the pad, that extends over the knee & protects the thigh
• Knee Roll - Protects the knee & provides some flexibility. Small or absent on wicket keeping pads.
• Side Wings - Provide protection to the sides of the leg. Wider on batting pads to cover deliveries from different angles
• Face - Front panel of the pads. Stiffer & more padded on batting pads
• Straps - Adjustable straps for a secure fit. Wicket keeping pads usually have only 2 straps to allow for greater movement
• Instep - Protects the foot. Thicker on batting pads.

How do you run with cricket pads on?

To ensure you are able to run as efficiently and as quickly as possible with cricket pads on, first ensure that you have the right size pads and that the straps are fitted correctly. The pads should cover the knee but not extend too far over the foot so that they become a tripping hazard. 

The pads should fit snugly, but not too tight - allowing for freedom of movement without them moving around or slipping down. 

Keep your bat close to your body so that it doesn’t swing out too widely which can affect balance. Finally, be sure to break in your pads properly before a match, during training for example, and practice running with your pads on. 

When turning remember to sink your hips and push hard off the ground to accelerate into the next run and the opposite direction.

How do you wash cricket pads?

Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and/or contact the manufacturer before washing the pads.

As a general guideline:

1. Brush off loose dirt

• Use a soft brush or dry cloth  to remove dirt, dust, loose mud and debris from the pads. 

2. Wipe with a damp cloth & mild soap

• Using lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap such as hand soap, wipe the pads down with a cloth.
• Avoid soaking the pads as the water can damage the pads inside and avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach or hot water.
• Pay attention to getting inside and around all the grooves and wash the front and back of the pads. Replace the cloth if it becomes dirty.
• Finally wipe down with lukewarm water and no soap, in order to rinse away any soapy residue

3. Use a soft brush to scrub the straps and inner padding

• To remove the sweat that can accumulate on the parts of the pads that come into contact with your legs and feet when batting, use a soft brush with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap to scrub the areas. 
• To remove stains, some manufacturers recommend mixing a small amount of baking soda with water to lightly scrub or rub on stained areas.

4. Dry out the pads

• Ideally dry the pads outdoors, away from direct sunlight. Avoid drying them near a radiator or heater as heat can cause them to warp,  and do not tumble dry the pads. 
• Ensure the pads are completely dry before putting them into storage.

• Store the pads correctly in a cool dry place

• Avoid wrapping the pads in a bag or air tight liner, as this could cause moisture to build up.

How do you identify left and right cricket pads?

To determine which batting pad is for your right leg, and which is for your left leg, check for a label. Many cricket batting pads be labelled with a “left” and a “right” label, or “L” and “R” .

Look for extra padding. The pad with extra padding, usually around the wings, is for your lead leg. If you are a right handed batsman, then your left batting pad will feature the additional padding.  This extra padding will include the side wing, and sometimes the instep and face. 

When fastening the straps, they should fasten on the outside of your legs. So the right leg should fasten to the right of your right leg. Finally, if the knee roll feels uncomfortable, and is not aligned perfectly with your knee, you may have the pads on the wrong legs.

The comfort and movement of both of the pads can also give an indication as to which batting pads is for the left leg, and which is for the right. If either of the pads feel uncomfortable or particularly restrictive in terms of the freedom of movement afforded by them, you can double check to make sure you have the correct pad on the correct leg.

How do you wear cricket pads correctly?

Essential for optimal comfort, mobility and safety, you can ensure that you are wearing your cricket pads correctly by:

• Identifying the left and right pads and putting them on the correct legs. 

If you are right handed, the left leg will have the most padding, and if you are left handed, the right leg will have the most padding.

• Make sure that your knee is correctly aligned with the knee roll - the cushioned section at the top of the pads

• The bottom of the pad should cover the top of your shoe’s tongue area

• Fasten the straps in the right order

Start with the middle strap to keep the pads in place. 

Next fasten the top strap and make sure it fits snug, so it doesn’t shift or move around but isn’t too tight

Tie and adjust the bottom strap so it’s tight and snug enough that you can run in the pads without discomfort 

• Adjust the straps tightness to provide optimal comfort & mobility

Jog and move around in the pads, to ensure that the pads stay in place and allow full movement.

Make sure that the pads don’t rub each other, and if required reposition, and adjust the straps. 

• Consider wearing cricket socks or base layers

To prevent the straps from rubbing on your legs, you may wish to try wearing long cricket socks or base layer/compression leggings

The right pads will provide the optimum level of safety, comfort and protection. Whether you are a professional batter facing fast bowlers or an amateur wicket keeper relying on agility and reactions, having the right equipment that fits correctly can make all the difference between a good and bad performance. 

Understanding the types of materials available can help you to make an informed decision when it comes to buying your cricket pads. At Net World Sports we supply a wide range of cricket batting and wicket keeping pads, as well as cricket helmets, cricket gloves, and cricket training equipment. Used by professional clubs including Durham County Cricket team, you can rely on FORZA and Net World Sports for cricket equipment that performs.