How to choose cricket pads: Important factors to consider

Ankit Gupta

Selecting the right cricket pads is crucial for both your performance and safety on the cricket field. Whether you're a beginner picking up your first pair of pads or an experienced player looking to upgrade your gear, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.

Top 3 Factors in Choosing Cricket Pads

1. Protection and safety

Your cricket pads are your primary defence against fast-moving balls, making protection the most crucial factor. Typically, cricket batters look for pads that offer:

  • High-density foam padding in the knee and shin areas
  • Reinforced protection around common impact points
  • Cane rod or high-grade synthetic support for structural integrity
  • Wide wing protection for side impacts

2. Weight and mobility

Modern cricket has evolved into a fast-paced game where quick running between wickets can make the difference between winning and losing a cricket match. This is where lightweight pads like Morrant Ultralite Cricket Batting Pads and Moonwalkr Leg Guards 2.0 come into their own:

Traditional cricket pads typically weigh between 1.3-1.5 kg per pad, while lightweight options can weigh as little as 800-900 grams. This weight difference offers several advantages:

  • Reduced fatigue during long innings
  • Improved running speed between wickets
  • Better manoeuvrability while playing shots
  • Less strain on your legs during fielding

How lightweight cricket pads give you both protection and mobility

Great players like Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar thrived with the lightweight cricket batting pads. (Source: Leading Indian newspaper HT)

Brands like Morrant who use and Moonwalkr have revolutionized cricket pad design by incorporating innovative materials and construction techniques. Here's why these lightweight options are worth considering:

Enhanced Performance

  • The reduced weight allows for quicker foot movement
  • Better balance while playing aggressive shots
  • Less energy expenditure during long batting sessions
  • Improved ability to rotate strike

Modern Technology - These pads utilize advanced materials such as:

  • High-density EVA foam or ballistic proof composites for impact protection
  • Anti bounce construction to minimise bat pad dismissals
  • Moisture-wicking fabric for comfort
  • Aerodynamic design for reduced air resistance
  • Ambidextrous design – suitable for left and right handed batsmen
  • 2 straps instead of 3 – making it easier to quickly pad up or down

3. Size and fit

Proper sizing is essential for both protection and comfort. To find your correct pad size:

  1. Measure from the middle of your knee to your ankle
  2. Add 10-12 cm for above-knee protection
  3. Consider your playing style – ultra aggressive players might prefer additional coverage with larger size

Comfort features to consider when buying cricket pads:

  • Internal padding material
  • Strap quality and positioning
  • Ventilation system
  • Inner lining material
  • Ankle protection design

Making your final decision

Consider these additional factors when making your purchase decision regarding cricket batting pads:

  1. Your skill level and playing frequency – if you are just starting cricket or play amateur level, you still need best protection to allow yourself to bat freely so that you can hone your technique. With pads that don’t offer full protection or hamper your mobility, you can disturb your batting technique as the fear of getting hit by the hard cricket ball can push your body into wrong batting positions.
  2. Local playing conditions – heat, humidity etc. all play key roles in cricket gear selection.
  3. Preferred playing style – more aggressive batters require superior protection.
  4. Level of competition – even if you are playing in social cricket competitions, you still shouldn’t compromise your comfort and protection.

Why choose lightweight cricket pads?

For many cricket players in New Zealand, lightest cricket pads like Morrant Ultralite Cricket Batting Pads and Moonwalkr Leg Guards 2.0 have never been an option previously as most NZ cricket stores don’t offer these cricket pads. 

Buying them from overseas is complicated and expensive. Cricket Warehouse is helping kiwi cricketers to strike the perfect balance between protection and mobility. These modern pads are particularly suitable for:

  • Players who bat for long periods
  • Aggressive batsmen who run frequently between wickets
  • Those who want to reduce fatigue during matches
  • Players looking to improve their footwork and agility
  • Junior cricketers wanting to build a great batting technique and remove fear of getting hit

Choosing the right cricket pads is a significant decision that can impact your performance and enjoyment of the game. While traditional batting pads have served cricketers well for generations, modern lightweight options offer compelling advantages for today's fast-paced cricket. Consider your specific needs, playing style, and budget when making your choice.

Visit our website to explore our full range of cricket pads, including the latest lightweight options from Morrant and Moonwalkr. Our experienced staff are always ready to help you find the perfect pair of cricket pads for your needs, just flick an email to howzzat@cricketwarehouse.co.nz

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