Cricket Batting Pads Buying Guide: Size, Fit and Protection

Choose batting pads (also called leg guards) that fit your leg length, so the knee roll sits on your knee and the pad covers you from just above the knee down to the top of your foot. Pads that are too long make it hard to run, and pads that are too short leave your knee or shin exposed. Lightweight pads suit juniors and players who like to move freely. Traditional cane pads give more protection against fast bowling.

We fit batting pads from Gray-Nicolls, Kookaburra, Masuri, New Balance, Gunn & Moore, SS, SG and MRF at Western Sports Centre in Derrimut. Here's how to choose.

Quick picks

See our full range of cricket batting pads for current stock and sizes.

What size do I need?

Pad sizes usually run from smallest to largest like this:

• Small Junior: young children.
• Junior: primary school age.
• Youth: early teens and shorter adults.
• Small Adult: older teens and shorter adults.
• Adult: most adults.
• Large Adult: tall adults.

The best guide is your leg length, not your age. Sizes vary a little between brands, so check the product page or try them on in store. Here's the Gunn & Moore pad size chart as a guide:

How should batting pads fit?

1. Knee roll on your knee: the middle knee roll should sit right on your knee cap when you stand normally.
2. Top of the pad: it should come up a little above your knee, protecting the lower thigh.
3. Bottom of the pad: it should rest on the top of your foot, where your laces are, without digging into your ankle.
4. Straps: do them up firmly but not tight, with the buckles on the outside of each leg.
5. Move around: take your stance, step forward and back, and jog a few steps. The pads shouldn't slip or twist.

Lightweight or traditional cane pads?

• Lightweight pads use moulded foam. They're light and comfortable, great for juniors, and good for players who like to run hard between wickets.
• Traditional cane pads have cane rods inside the vertical bolsters. They're a little heavier but absorb hard hits better, so many players prefer them against quick bowling.

Right-handed, left-handed or ambidextrous?

Many pads come in right-handed and left-handed versions, with extra protection where the ball is most likely to hit for that type of batter. Choose the side you bat. Ambidextrous ("ambi") pads can be worn by either, which is handy for families and clubs sharing gear.

Looking after your pads

• Let them air dry after every game and wipe off any dirt.
• Store them flat or hanging up so they keep their shape.
• Check the straps and stitching regularly.
• Want to add team colours? Try Gray-Nicolls legguard clads.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if my batting pads are the right size?

Stand normally with the pads on. The knee roll should sit on your knee cap, and the bottom of the pad should rest on the top of your foot.

Should juniors buy pads to grow into?

No. Pads that are too long make it hard to run and can trip you up. Buy the size that fits now.

Do I need a thigh guard as well?

For hard-ball cricket, yes. Pads only protect up to just above the knee. A thigh guard protects the thigh from short balls and inside edges. See our thigh guards.

Get fitted

Come into Western Sports Centre in Derrimut to try pads on. Or shop batting pads online. Need gloves too? Read our batting gloves buying guide.