Protective gear at Global Swanky helps you stay in the game and work comfortably: basketball and volleyball knee pads, skateboarding elbow pads, cycling and weightlifting wrist guards, ankle supports, soccer shin guards, padded compression sleeves, boxing gloves, motorcycle knee and elbow pads, cut-resistant arm guards and gardening knee pads. Prices start at $19.81.

On this page

1. Why Wear Protective Gear?
2. What the Research Shows
3. What's in Our Protective Gear Collection?
4. Knee Pads
5. Elbow and Wrist Protection
6. Ankle, Shin and Leg Protection
7. Combat Sports and Specialist Gear
8. Getting the Right Fit
9. Protective Gear by Activity
10. How to Choose Protective Gear
11. Caring for Protective Gear
12. How Much Does Protective Gear Cost?
13. Shipping, Returns and Support
14. Protective Gear FAQs
15. Find the Right Protective Gear

Why Wear Protective Gear?

Falls, knocks and repetitive strain are part of many sports and jobs. The right protective gear cushions impact, supports joints and helps you play or work with more confidence, whether you're diving for a volleyball, skating at the park or kneeling in the garden.

Impact protection

Padded knee and elbow guards absorb knocks and falls.

Joint support

Compression supports and wraps add stability to wrists and ankles.

Confidence

Feeling protected helps you focus on your game or task.

What the Research Shows

The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine notes that for in-line skaters, wearing wrist guards has been shown to reduce wrist injuries by 87 percent, elbow pads to reduce elbow injuries by 82 percent, and knee pads to reduce knee injuries by 32 percent. It also recommends helmets to help prevent serious head injuries.

What's in Our Protective Gear Collection?

The collection lists 630 products as of October 10, 2026.

Counts come from product types on October 10, 2026. For workout clothing and accessories, browse our fitness accessories collection.

Knee Pads

Basketball knee pads

Padded sleeves cushion knees during falls and hard landings.

Volleyball knee pads

Thick padding protects knees when diving and sliding on court.

Work and gardening knee pads

EVA and hard-shell pads make kneeling more comfortable on hard ground.

Elbow and Wrist Protection

Skateboarding elbow pads

Hard caps and padding protect elbows in falls.

Wrist guards

Splinted guards support wrists for skating, and wraps support wrists for weightlifting.

Elbow sleeves

Compression sleeves add warmth and support during training.

Ankle, Shin and Leg Protection

Ankle supports

Compression braces and straps add stability for running and court sports.

Shin guards

Lightweight guards protect shins in soccer. Adult Soccer Shin Guards with Ultra-Thin Impact Protection start at $23.34.

Padded leg sleeves

Honeycomb padding protects legs from knocks in basketball and football.

Combat Sports and Specialist Gear

Boxing gloves

Padded gloves protect hands during bag work and sparring.

Motorcycle pads

Hard-shell knee and elbow pads add protection for riders. Motorcycle gear should be worn with a certified helmet.

Cut-resistant arm guards

Reinforced sleeves help protect arms in workshops and kitchens.

Getting the Right Fit

Measure first

Measure around the joint, such as the knee or elbow, and compare with each size chart.

Snug, not tight

Gear should stay in place without cutting off circulation.

Check condition

Replace gear with flattened padding, torn fabric or broken straps.

Protective Gear by Activity

How to Choose Protective Gear

1. Choose gear designed for your sport or task.
2. Measure the joint and check the size chart.
3. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics.
4. Check padding thickness for the level of impact.
5. Make sure straps and closures hold securely.
6. Replace worn gear promptly.

Caring for Protective Gear

• Wash sleeves and pads as the label allows after heavy use.
• Air dry away from direct heat to keep padding in shape.
• Wipe hard shells with a damp cloth.
• Check straps and stitching regularly.
• Store gear dry to prevent odors.

How Much Does Protective Gear Cost?

Prices start at $19.81, and the median starting price is $23.79. About 396 products start under $25, 157 start between $25 and $40, and 77 start at $40 or more.

Standard US shipping is free on every order.

Shipping, Returns and Support

We ship sports gear to US addresses only, and standard shipping is free. Most orders arrive within 6 to 32 business days, and you can track your order once it ships.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery if the item is new, unused and in its original packaging, with no restocking fee. Read the full terms in our return policy, and contact our support team if your order arrives damaged.

Protective Gear FAQs

Do knee pads really help?

Yes, padded knee pads cushion falls and hard landings in court sports, skating and kneeling work. The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine reports that knee pads reduced knee injuries by 32 percent among in-line skaters.

What size knee pad should I buy?

Measure around the knee, usually just above or at the center of the kneecap, with your leg slightly bent. Compare the measurement with each listing's size chart, and choose the smaller size if you're between sizes for a snug fit.

Are wrist guards good for skating?

Yes, wrist guards with firm splints help protect against wrist injuries from falls, which are among the most common skating injuries. The AOSSM reports that wrist guards reduced wrist injuries by 87 percent among in-line skaters.

Can I wash knee pads?

Many fabric knee sleeves and soft pads can be hand or machine washed on a gentle cycle in a laundry bag. Remove any hard inserts first, air dry away from heat, and check each label for care instructions.

How tight should protective gear be?

Protective gear should be snug enough to stay in place during movement, but not so tight that it pinches, leaves deep marks or causes tingling. Adjust straps between activities and loosen gear when resting.

When should I replace protective gear?

Replace pads and guards when padding flattens, foam cracks, fabric tears or straps no longer hold securely. Worn gear may look fine but offer much less protection, so check it before each season.

Do I need a helmet too?

For skating, cycling, scootering and motorcycling, always wear a properly certified helmet as well as pads. Knee, elbow and wrist protection doesn't protect the head, and head injuries can be the most serious.

Are these supports medical braces?

No, they're sports supports designed for comfort and stability during activity, not medical devices for treating injuries. See a doctor or physical therapist about injuries, swelling or ongoing joint pain.

What protective gear do kids need for skating?

Kids should wear a certified helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads and knee pads every time they skate, scooter or skateboard. Choose gear sized for children, check the fit as they grow, and replace anything worn or damaged.

What protective gear is best for volleyball?

Thick, flexible volleyball knee pads protect knees when diving and sliding, and ankle supports can add stability for jumping and quick changes of direction. Choose breathable fabrics that stay in place during long matches.

How long does shipping take?

Most orders arrive within 6 to 32 business days of being placed. That covers 1 to 2 business days of handling and 5 to 30 business days in transit. Standard shipping is free on every order, and we currently ship to US addresses only.

Can I return protective gear?

Yes, within 30 days of delivery, if the item is new, unused and in its original packaging. Email support@globalswanky.com with your order number, the product name and the reason for the return, then wait for return instructions. There's no restocking fee.

Find the Right Protective Gear

Choosing protective gear comes down to three checks: gear designed for your activity, a snug and comfortable fit, and padding in good condition. Knee pads, wrist guards and elbow pads cover most sports and skating.

Ready to choose? Scroll up to the product grid, or browse our sports apparel and exercise equipment collections.