Find the right cricket batting pads for your game with VKS, the UK's leading cricket specialist. Whether you're buying your first pair of junior pads, upgrading for regular club cricket or choosing lightweight protection for competitive league matches, a well-fitted pair of batting pads can make a real difference to comfort, confidence and movement at the crease.
Our range includes batting pads for juniors, beginners, club players and advanced cricketers, with options from trusted brands including VKS, Gray-Nicolls, Kookaburra, GM, SS Ton and Infinity. Choose from lightweight pads for easy movement, traditional cane-style designs for structured protection and high-performance models built for serious match play.
Browse the collection below to compare size, fit, weight, protection level and price, or use our linked guides to explore junior pads, VKS batting pad ranges and wicket keeping pads in more detail.
Batting pads are one of the most important pieces of protective equipment in a cricketer's kit. They are designed to protect the shin, knee and lower leg from impact while allowing the batter to move comfortably at the crease. The best cricket batting pads should feel secure, well-balanced and comfortable without unnecessarily restricting movement.
On this page, the focus is helping you choose the right pair from the full VKS batting pad range. If you need more detailed advice, explore our dedicated guides covering junior cricket pads, the VKS batting pad range and wicket keeping pads.
A good pair of batting pads should provide reliable protection for the shin, knee, side of the leg and instep while remaining comfortable to wear throughout a match. They should offer appropriate protection without feeling unnecessarily bulky or restrictive during batting.
Correct fit is just as important as protection. Pads that are too small can leave areas exposed, while pads that are too large may twist, slip or feel uncomfortable during play. Choosing the correct size helps ensure both comfort and effective protection.
Beginner batting pads should be comfortable, easy to wear and suitable for players who are still developing their confidence and technique. For junior and recreational cricketers, choosing the correct fit is generally more important than buying the highest specification model.
Club cricket batting pads should offer a dependable balance of protection, comfort and durability. Players who regularly compete in league matches or attend net sessions often benefit from pads that provide reliable impact protection while remaining comfortable over extended periods of play.
Advanced batting pads are typically designed for players competing at higher standards of cricket, where additional protection, refined construction and reduced weight are often important considerations.
There is no single perfect batting pad for every player. Some cricketers prefer lightweight designs that feel less bulky during long innings, while others prioritise additional protection when facing quicker bowling. The right choice depends on the standard of cricket being played, the type of bowling faced and personal preference.
As a general guide, junior players often benefit from lightweight, correctly fitted pads that encourage comfort, while regular club and league players may choose models offering increased protection and premium materials for frequent use throughout the season.
Modern cricket batting pads are commonly constructed using a combination of traditional cane-style bolsters, high-density foam and lightweight synthetic materials. Cane provides structure and impact absorption, while modern foams and advanced materials help reduce overall weight without compromising protection.
The knee roll is one of the most important areas to check when choosing batting pads. When fitted correctly, the knee should sit comfortably within the knee roll to maximise both comfort and protection. The side wing provides additional protection to the outside of the leg, while the instep section should sit neatly over the cricket shoe.
Batting pads should move naturally with the player. A well-fitted pair should allow comfortable movement when taking guard, playing shots and running between the wickets without feeling unnecessarily restrictive. Modern batting pads are designed to balance protection with mobility, allowing players to focus on their game rather than their equipment.
Many cricket batting pads are available in right-handed and left-handed versions because the leading leg receives the greatest exposure when batting. Selecting the correct handed option helps ensure the additional protection is positioned where it is needed most.
Always check the individual product description before ordering, as handedness and construction can vary between manufacturers and models.
The most reliable way to determine the correct size is to measure from the centre of the kneecap to the top of the foot, then compare this measurement with the manufacturer's size guide. This is generally more accurate than selecting pads based on age alone, particularly for growing junior players.
When worn correctly, batting pads should comfortably cover the shin, knee and top of the foot, while the straps should hold the pads securely without needing to be excessively tight.
Batting pads form just one part of a complete cricket protection system. Many players also choose to wear cricket batting gloves, a correctly fitted cricket helmet, an abdominal guard, and where appropriate, additional thigh, arm or chest protection.
For junior players especially, ensuring all protective equipment fits correctly helps maximise both comfort and protection throughout training sessions and matches.
Since 1973, VKS has supplied cricketers with carefully selected equipment from many of the sport's most respected manufacturers. Our range includes batting pads for juniors, beginners, club cricketers and advanced players, allowing you to choose the right combination of protection, comfort and value for your game.
If you're unsure which model best suits your needs, our knowledgeable team is available both online and in our London cricket store to help you make an informed choice.
Q: What size cricket batting pads do I need?
A: Measure from the centre of your kneecap to the top of your foot and compare the measurement with the manufacturer's size guide. The knee should sit comfortably within the knee roll.
Q: Are cricket batting pads available for both right-handed and left-handed players?
A: Yes. Many models are available in both right-handed and left-handed versions, allowing the additional protection to be positioned correctly for the leading leg.
Q: Are lightweight batting pads protective enough?
A: Many lightweight batting pads provide excellent protection. The most suitable level of protection depends on the standard of cricket being played, the bowling being faced and individual preference.
Q: What are the best batting pads for junior cricketers?
A: Junior players generally benefit most from correctly sized batting pads that provide appropriate protection while remaining comfortable and easy to move in.
Q: Can batting pads be used for wicket keeping?
A: No. Wicket keeping pads are specifically designed for keeping wicket and differ significantly in shape and construction from batting pads.
Q: How long should cricket batting pads last?
A: Lifespan depends on how frequently they are used, the standard of cricket being played and how well they are cared for. Allowing pads to dry naturally after use and storing them correctly can help prolong their life.
