Do You Need Special Padding To Play Volleyball?

Unlike sports such as football and hockey, volleyball typically involves little, if any, contact. Since players usually aren't in contact with one another and volleyball requires quick movements, it doesn't require you to wear a lot of padding, and in some cases you can play without any padding whatsoever. By defining your comfort zone and assessing the type of player you are, you can suit up with the proper padding for the most mobility around the court.

Knee Pads

The only padding typically used in volleyball is the knee pad. Since volleyball players often dive and slide after the ball, their knees are susceptible to bumps and bruises, specifically when playing on an indoor hardwood court. Knee pads are simply elastic padding that slips over the foot and ankle and then is positioned over the knee. Wearing knee pads is a personal preference and might not be necessary if you're a player who doesn't dive often.

Types of Pads

Knee pads come in two types: bubble pads and skinny pads. Bubble pads are best for beginners. They offer a large "bubble" of padding that is positioned directly over the kneecap and provide the most protection when you use your knees for diving. They also can be bulky and are best for stationary players. Skinny pads are much slimmer and allow for better maneuverability on the court, but they provide much less protection. Skinnies are best for speed players.

Court Surface

The type of court on which you play also will dictate the type of knee pads you use and whether they're necessary. Knee pads are reserved for indoor courts that have hard floors and harsher impact. If you prefer beach volleyball, you won't need knee pads. The sand provides enough cushion to avoid pain in the knees from diving. Still, on particularly hot days, wearing skinny pads on the sand could protect your knees from the hot surface.

Equipment

The only other type of padding used in volleyball is that found around the poles. Since players constantly are running around the court, the poles can pose a problem should a player run or slide into them. Mats typically are secured around the poles to protect players. Some players also tape their wrists to help with the impact of the ball against the base of the thumbs when bumping, but it's a personal preference and not required.