Why Don’t Football Players Wear Knee Pads Anymore?

Knee pads were the most important football pads at the initial time. It was the only one knee protective gear to secure the knee from the injury. At that time, there was no such 7-padded girdle was introduced.

When they started wearing the 7 padded girdles, Players Realized more problems with kneepads. They choose the girdle which was better than than knee pads. The pads are sewn into different parts of the girdle such as Hips, Thighs, Tailbone, and Knees.

The pads still play a very important role in high school players. But, College, NFL, and professional players do not like to wear knee pads.

It is not worth discussing whether it reduces the risk of knee injury or not, All-time data proved that knee pads are only best for minor injuries like bruises and scrapes, it cannot prevent the player from serious injuries like ACL tears.

Ultimately, This issue totally depends on the player’s comfort and their performance Because some professional players still love to wear knee pads.

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Why Don’t Football Players Wear Knee Pads Anymore?

There are several reasons to players avoid wearing knee pads such as restricted movement, more weight, and design.

Restricted Movement:: Traditional knee pads restrict the player’s movement. These are often bulky, heavy, and not very breathable which reduces the player’s stamina and speed. The players are unable to make quick cuts or change direction acceleration properly.

Unnecessary Weight: Most of the time, the player feels that these knee pads weights are something extra heavy which is not too necessary for the player. These pads slightly reduce the stamina and overall performance.

Perception of Protection: Today’s advanced football girdle provides adequate protection, There is no need to add extra padding in the knee area. The player also feels that the girdle offers them sufficient protection without compromising their energy.

Preference for Streamlined Appearance: Some of the players love to look streamlined without compromising knee protection. these small pads which are sewn with the pants also provide the same level of protection.

Adaptation to Modern Gameplay: Modern Gameplay is different from the traditional. The physical injury has become lower because of new rules and regulations with player-to-player passing. so the player loves to wear less bulky knee pads for injury.

Individual Player Choice: Some player loves to wear knee pads and some do not. ultimately. It varies from player to player. some players need adequate protection and some players prefer comfort, freedom of movement, and a streamlined appearance.
Why Do Some Players Love to Wear Knee Pads?

The players can customize their knee pads. They can easily exchange the pads for better safety, comfort, and mobility But it is not possible in the integrated girdle.

Let’s understand more about knee pads and why some players like to wear them. The types may be the one reason. There are different types of knee pads available.

Foam knee Pads: These are kind of knee pads made of lightweight, and durable foam material to protect the knee, it is used in football as well as other sports like volleyball, basketball, and skateboarding.

Hardshell Knee Pads: The hard shell is made of polycarbonate or ABS plastic that provides great protection against impact. To absorb the socks, EVA foam is also found in the pads.

In addition, The hard shell knee pad also provides Adjustable straps, an Anti-slip grip, and Breathable materials

Knee Sleeves: These are made of nylon, spandex, and polyester to provide better compression and support. and stability.

if the players have any existing pain, it reduces the pain, its elastic nature also improves the blood flow and helps players to boost their performance.

Compression level may impact their performance. Always try to choose the right compression sleeves,A higher compression knee sleeve can provide better support and stability but it may also make you uncomfortable.

Knee Braces: Knee braces are more rigid than knee sleeves and provide more support to the knee joint. They are often used to treat or prevent specific knee injuries, such as ACL tears.

Turf tape. Turf tape is a type of athletic tape that can be used to wrap the knee joint. It can help to provide support and reduce pain, but it is not as effective as knee pads or knee braces at preventing injuries.

Conclusion

Knee pads are not fully replaced by the other pads but it has some benefits. It depends on the player whether it is working good for them or not. Some positions of the game need extra padding, which can only be possible by the customizing knee pad.

At less-risk positions, players do not like to wear knee pads because it can affect on their range of motion. so it is an individual decision whether you like to wear it or not.

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