Information About Volleyball Knee Pads
The fast-paced sport of volleyball requires players on defense to do whatever it takes to keep the ball in play. Athletes frequently dive, roll or slide across the court. Most volleyball players wear protective gear on their knees to prevent injuries. Knee pads come in a variety of designs and styles, with some of the most important features being comfort, protection and durability.
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Purpose
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Volleyball knee pads are designed to provide maximum protection for the medial and patella, or kneecap. By absorbing the shock when the knee hits the ground, the pads help shield the patella from serious injuries such as fractures, dislocation or cartilage damage. In addition the knee pads offer lateral protection, yet still allow full range of motion.
Material
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Knee pads are a one-piece sleeve made of spandex, cotton and/or a poly blend material. It's contoured to fit the knee securely. Most knee pads have a knit-woven fabric, or mesh, that comfortably fits over the back part of the knee. The front part of the knee pad, which offers the protection against harsh impact, is often made of polyurethane foam. The material also helps a player slide when she dives or reaches for a ball.
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Features
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Special highlights of some of the more expensive knee pads include gel cushioning system or memory foam that add extra shock protection and comfort. Some knee pads have a special fabric that prevents rashes or burns during long-term use. They also feature wrap panels for extra protection on the sides.
Types
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Some of the well known brands of volleyball kneepads are Mizuno, Asics and Mikasa. Mizuno has a series of contoured knee pads, some of which include an intercooled ventilation system that helps minimize humidity and heat. Asics pads have a gel cushioning system for shock absorption and KinetoFoam for an easy fit. Mikasa kneepads feature advanced patella and leg joint protection and a "Microbe Shield" intended to help prevent infections.
Cost
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The price for knee pads range anywhere from $8 to $30 depending on the quality and manufacturer.
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References
- Photo Credit volleyball girl image by alice rawson from Fotolia.com
