In today’s NBA with players like James Harden getting to the foul line with the slightest touch, it’s easy to forget that basketball is actually a physical sport. Players do need to and should learn how to take contact and finish plays when getting hit by defenders.
So what’s one of the best ways to train players for the likely scenario of getting bumped on court without getting a foul call? Basketball training pads! They are excellent to use to simulate contact with players and can be used to add contact to a whole bunch of training drills like layups, screening, rebounding, and dribbling.
What are some of the best basketball training pads available? We’ve taken a look and briefly reviewed 7 of the best basketball training pads on the market in 2022 for you!
Our Top Picks For Basketball Pads In 2022
| Features | |
|---|---|
Best Overall Basketball Pad  | - Lightweight 1.04 kg - Suitable for indoor & outdoor training - Comes with a 1-year warranty Check Amazon Price |
Most Versatile Training Pad  | - Super versatile, can be used for a number of drills - Made with quality materials Check Amazon Price |
Best Priced Training Pad  | - Well priced - Size 26" L x 16" W x 5" H - 5" thick core of high-density foam Check Amazon Price |
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Things to consider when buying basketball training pads
The size of the basketball training pad
Training pads come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that is appropriate for the drills you’ll be doing. For example, larger pads are great for simulating contact with a defender, while smaller blocking pads can help build strength and confidence in your dribbling ability and finishing a shot/layup in an And-1 situation.
Adding two different sizes of training pads to your repertoire can create more effective training sessions.
What material is being used?
The material used on a basketball training pad is an important factor when it comes to durability and comfortability. PVC and heavy-duty tarpaulin are great durable materials that are water and tear-resistant, they are both great choices if you’re looking for a pad that will last a long time.
How well does it absorb impact?
One of the most important things to consider when buying basketball training pads is how well they absorb impact. You want a pad that is going to protect you from injury, but you also don’t want one that is so bulky and heavy that it interferes with your movement. Look for a pad that is made of high density foam and is covered with durable material.
When choosing a basketball training pad, keep all of these factors in mind! They will help you choose the best pad for your needs.
The 7 best basketball training pads: Our 2022 recommendations
1. GoSports Blocking Pad
The first pad on our list is the GoSports Blocking Pad. It’s a great all-around pad that can be used for a variety of drills. The GoSports Blocking Pad is made with high-density foam and is covered with a tough composite leather exterior that is sweat, and waterproof. It’s also relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver.
The Pros:
- Multi-sport use
- Reasonably priced and great value for money
The Cons
- The handles are one sides fits all which can be limiting when you can adjust it to fit the person carrying the pad
2. Ball Hog Bump Contact Training Pad
The second pad on our list is the Ball Hog Bump Contact Training Pad. The Ball Hog Bump Contact Training Pad is light and portable, making it easy for coaches and trainers to use. Made with high-density foam, it’s also great for absorbing impact. They are perfect for adding contact to your ball handling, layup, and shooting drills.
The Pros
- Super lightweight
- Not bulky and easily portable
The Cons
- According to a number of reviews, the material feels cheap
- It doesn’t come with a warranty
- Its small size makes it hard to use for more physical drills
3. Goalrilla Blocking Pad
The third pad on our list is the Goalrilla Blocking Pad. This blocking pad is a great choice if you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting training tool. With its high-density foam and heavy-duty PVC construction, the Goalrilla Blocking Pad can withstand intense workouts and repeated impact. Additionally, the reinforced straps and handles provide extra stability and control during sessions
The Pros
- Reinforced heavy-duty handles give the user more control
- Built with very durable material
The Cons
- Limited 90 day warranty
4. Spalding NBA Training Blocking Pad
The fourth pad on our list is the Spalding NBA Training Blocking Pad. Spalding is a reliable basketball equipment brand. Their training blocking Pad is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and reliable training pad.
The foam is thick and able to take a lot of abuse, and the pad is also lightweight and easy to move in, making it a great option for drills that require quick movement. Its dimensions are 24″ x 18″ x 4″, making a good size for layup and rebounding drills.
The Pros
- Backed by Spalding’s Warranty for 1 whole year
- Heavy-duty tarpaulin cover material, making it long-lasting
- Great for indoor and outdoor training
- Lightweight for its size at 1.04 kg
The Cons
- Due to it being larger in size, it might not be the best for light dribbling drills
5. GoSports Big Paws and Padded Blocking Guards
The fifth pad on our list is the GoSports Big Paws and Padded Blocking Guards. These heavy duty arm pads can be used to simulate defending, and they are made from robust padded foam. The arms slide to grip an inner handle which provides superior control and comfort during training drills! They are quite weighty at 2.72 kg
The Pros
- Versatile tool, that is uniquely designed. The wearable arm guards can be used to help with a variety of drills that simulate different positions and situations
The Cons
- Limited warranty when you compare it to what some other basketball pad manufacture.
- One of the heavier items on the list, which might make it tiring to use for basketball drills
6. HoopsKing Defender Extender Basketball Training Pads
The sixth basketball training pad on the list the Defender Extender training pads. These pads are long and light enough to allow a coach, trainer, or partner to simulate a much taller player than you would normally play against.
The Pros
- They are super light-weight at 0.8 kg making them great for ball handling and shooting drills
The Cons
- Limited drill use because of its size. You definitely won’t be doing any post up drills with these
- Expensive in comparison to other products on this list
7. HoopsKing Basketball Toughness Training Pad
The seventh and final pad on the list is The HoopsKing Toughness Training Pad. It is a lightweight pad worn on the forearm that allows coaches, trainers, and players to easily add contact to drills. Unlike some big, blocky pads, these are light enough to run up and down the court with.
The Pros
- These training pads are compact, they give just enough contact but without the bulkiness of some other comparable basketball pads
The Cons
- It’s expensive and would only be useful in a limited amount of drills
That completes our list of the best basketball training pads. They can be used as a great way to add intensity and contact to your ball handling, layup, and shooting drills. There are a number of different basketball training pads on the market, so it is important to do your research before purchasing one.
Looking for some more interesting basketball-related content? Check out some more articles here.
Basketball Training Pads FAQs
What are basketball training pads used for?
Basketball training pads are used to add contact to drills. They help players get used to taking hits and finishing plays through contact.
What should I look for when buying a basketball training pad?
When buying basketball training pads, consider the size of the pad, the material it is made out of, and how well it absorbs impact. You want a pad that is durable and will protect you from injury without being too bulky or heavy.
What are some of the best basketball training pads?
Some of the best basketball training pads include the JKJ Training Blocking Pad, the SKLZ Contact Pad, the D-Fenders Training Blocking Pad, and the Spalding NBA Training Blocking Pad.
Where can I buy basketball training pads?
Basketball training pads are available for purchase online and in sporting goods stores. Different retailers might have the same or similar products for discounted prices, so don’t forget to shop around.
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