Should I Wear Elbow Pads for Skateboarding?

Deciding to wear elbow protectors is ultimately your choice, but having a pair can help prevent cuts and bruises to your elbows. Injuring this area can lead to a lengthy recovery period that may keep you from skating for some time.

There are various elbow guards available on the market, differing in size and hardness. Hard pads feature a large plastic shell on the outer layer, while softer pads focus more on comfort, using foam technology to absorb impacts from falls. Regarding size, you can choose a pad that just covers the elbow or opt for a longer sleeve or gasket-style protection.

Remember, skate pads are not just for skateboarding! Wearing skate elbow pads is also beneficial if you enjoy longboarding and cruising.

How to Wear Skateboard Elbow Pads

You should wear your pads so that they feel secure and snug but do not restrict your range of motion. If it’s hard to bend your arm, this indicates that they are too tight. Some styles of pads come with Velcro straps, allowing you to adjust them to your size easily.

Softer pads are generally smaller and can often be worn underneath clothing, while larger, harder pads are worn over clothing. Additionally, many elbow pads are designed to be ergonomic and lightweight, ensuring that wearing protection won’t interfere with your skating.

Elbow pads are just one component of the protective gear you should wear when skating. If you need the full set, check out our 3-Pack Protection Sets.