best hockey elbow pads

Hockey elbow pads offer protection from falls on the ice, shot pucks and contact with other players. In order to get the best ice hockey elbow pads, there are a few things you need to keep in mind while shopping. 

Read on, as we provide a comprehensive guide on what to look for when choosing new hockey elbow pads. We’ll also make some recommendations on the best hockey elbow pads for different types of players.

To see more options, check out our full selection of ice hockey elbow pads.

In this article, we’re covering:

List of the Best Ice Hockey Elbow Pads

RankNameImage 
1CCM Tacks XF Pro Elbow PadsCCM Tacks XF Pro Elbow PadsBuy Now
2Bauer Supreme Mach Hockey Elbow PadsBauer Supreme Mach Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
3Bauer Vapor Hyperlite Hockey Elbow PadsBauer Vapor Hyperlite Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
4CCM Tacks XF Hockey Elbow PadsCCM Tacks XF Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
5Warrior Alpha Pro Hockey Elbow PadsWarrior Alpha Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
6Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBauer Supreme M5 Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
7CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Hockey Elbow PadsCCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
8Bauer Vapor 3X Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBauer 3X Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
9Warrior Alpha LX Pro Hockey Elbow PadsWarrior Alpha LX Pro Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now
10Sherwood Code Encrypt 1 Hockey Elbow PadsSherwood Code Encrypt 1 Hockey Elbow PadsBuy Now

Overview: Take your game to the next level with the CCM Tacks XF Pro Elbow Pads—designed for powerful players who demand elite protection, custom fit, and total comfort.

Key Features:

  • Max Coverage Construction: The 2-piece ASD (Anatomical Shield Design) provides a pro-level protective shell without sacrificing freedom of movement.

  • Forearm Protection: ADPTFit Guard with D3O® Zero inserts delivers top-tier impact absorption and customizable fit, while the sublimated EVA liner enhances comfort and breathability.

  • Elbow Cap: The anatomical JDP cap disperses impact energy away from the joint, now with a repositioned D3O® Zero donut for a more secure, comfortable elbow cradle.

  • Bicep Guard: FlexMotion dual-layered bicep construction improves mobility and keeps the pad in place, with built-in air channels to boost airflow.

  • Strapping System: Customizable ADPTFit forearm coverage and a 360° wrap strap system with a triple-pull middle lock strap ensure a secure, personalized fit every time you hit the ice.

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Overview: The Bauer Supreme Mach Elbow Pads are built for players who need pro-level protection without giving up mobility. Featuring a low-profile, anatomical design, the Mach elbows prioritize a locked-in feel while allowing unrestricted movement through every shift.

Key Features:

  • Fit Profile: ErgoDynamic Lab design offers a deep, secure fit for enhanced stability and comfort.

  • Protection: CURV Composite forearm wrap delivers elite-level impact resistance, paired with an AMP hinged bicep for superior mobility and coverage.

  • Comfort Liner: THERMOCORE ZERO liner manages moisture, odor, and temperature to keep you cool and fresh all game long.

  • Mobility Focus: Streamlined design moves naturally with the arm for confident puck battles and controlled strides.

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Overview: Play your fastest, most confident game with the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite Elbow Pads—the lightest elite-level protection Bauer has ever made.

Key Features:

  • 3-Piece Flex Construction: Built for dynamic movement, the Vapor Hyperlite features a three-piece design that enhances mobility and comfort without compromising protection.

  • EXO-Lite Skin 360 Forearm: Delivers elite-level impact resistance and flexibility, letting you move freely while staying protected from slashes and contact.

  • Elite Elbow Cap Protection: An anatomically molded foam cap with a pro-style cover protects against direct falls and collisions.

  • Molded Bicep Protection: Independent bicep guard with molded PE + HD foams provides lightweight, contoured coverage that moves with your arm.

  • DynaFlex Strap System: Wide, breathable elastic straps create a secure fit and reduce the chances of loosening or snagging during gameplay.

  • THERMO CORE ZERO Liner: Advanced liner technology helps wick sweat and control odors to keep you dry and fresh throughout the game.

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Overview: Built for power, protection, and personalized fit—the CCM Tacks XF Elbow Pads give you the confidence to play your hardest shift after shift.

Key Features:

  • Anatomical Shield Design (ASD): Engineered for maximum coverage and impact dispersion, the XF delivers elite-level protection without limiting mobility.

  • Elite Forearm Protection: A pro-style injection-molded slash guard reinforced with D3O® Zero smart foam ensures top-tier impact absorption and long-lasting durability.

  • JDP Elbow Cap with Comfort Donut: The anatomically shaped cap helps deflect impacts away from the joint, while the built-in donut pad enhances comfort and stability.

  • FlexMotion Bicep Guard: Dual-layered for flexibility and protection, it allows for a full range of motion while keeping your elbow locked in place.

  • Secure Custom Fit: Dual-pull ADPTFit middle lock strap and a 360° wraparound strap system provide a snug, stay-put feel all game long.

  • Breathable Liner: A sublimated liner enhances airflow and comfort for dry, distraction-free performance.

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Overview: Be the Alpha on the ice. Built for elite-level performance, the Warrior Alpha Pro Elbow Pads combine lightweight mobility with reinforced protection—so you can play fast, hit hard, and stay locked in.

Key Features:

  • Sling Wrap with Fantom Stretch: A secure, anatomical strap system that locks the elbow in place for a connected feel, allowing for maximum control and reduced movement during impact.

  • MAX PROTECT Design: Compression-molded EVA IMPAX foam in high-impact zones along with lightweight, ergonomically molded slash and bicep guards give you enhanced coverage without sacrificing speed or range of motion.

  • Lay Flat Straps: Simplified, snag-free strap design makes gear-up quick and easy while preventing bunching under your jersey.

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Overview: Built to move. Designed to protect. The Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Junior Elbow Pads are perfect for young players who need elite-level mobility and coverage to stay fast and fearless on the ice.

Key Features:

  • ErgoDynamic Lab Design: A deep, secure fit engineered for maximum stability and comfort during movement.
  • CURV Composite Protection: Lightweight yet durable protection that wraps around the forearm for reinforced coverage.
  • Independent Bicep Guard: Molded insert construction gives added mobility and protection where it matters most.
  • THERMOMAX+ Liner: Moisture-wicking and odor-resistant tech to keep players cool, dry, and fresh all game long.

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Overview: Lightweight. Breathable. Built for Speed. The CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro Elbow Pads are made for elite players who demand pro-level protection without sacrificing agility or comfort. With a fresh redesign focused on airflow and mobility, these pads help keep you cool—mentally and physically—when the game heats up.

Key Features:

  • AER-TEC Thermoregulation System: Enhances airflow, sweat evaporation, and cooling to regulate body temperature and boost on-ice decision-making.

  • 3-Piece FlexMotion Construction: Follows natural arm movement for better mobility during stickhandling, passing, and shooting.

  • Pro-Level Forearm Protection: Compress-molded exposed foam with AER-TEC suspension for lightweight, ventilated impact resistance.

  • Anatomical JDP Elbow Cap: Molded PE cap disperses impact forces away from the joint, reinforced with EVA foam for extra protection.

  • DRYFOAM Bicep Liner: Lightweight, water-repellent construction paired with max airflow channels for cooler, drier performance.

  • Refined Y-Strap System: Anti-slip middle lock and secure nylon forearm straps deliver a stay-put fit without restricting movement.

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Overview: Elite Mobility. Serious Value.
The Bauer Vapor 3X Pro Elbow Pads offer high-end performance features at an unbeatable price point—designed for competitive players who want elite mobility and protection without going top-of-the-line.

Key Features:

  • 3-Piece Flex Construction: Promotes natural arm movement and all-around comfort for confident, unrestricted play.

  • Molded PE + MD Foam Forearm Guard: Lightweight protection that absorbs impact and resists wear and tear in key slash zones.

  • Anatomical Elbow Cap: Secure fit with added coverage for high-impact falls and collisions.

  • Independent Bicep Guard: PE-injected for reliable protection and mobility up top.

  • THERMOMAX+ Liner: Soft, moisture-wicking liner helps manage sweat and odor to keep you cool and dry.

  • Comfort Lock Strapping System: Easy-to-use straps provide a snug, customized fit that stays put all game long.

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Overview: Natural Feel. Pro-Level Protection.
Engineered for elite players who demand comfort, mobility, and impact protection, the Warrior Alpha LX Pro Elbow Pads are built to move with you—so you can focus on your game, not your gear.

Key Features:

  • 3-Piece Construction: Anatomical design mirrors your natural arm movement for seamless transitions between passes, shots, and checks.

  • EVA IMPAX Foam Protection: Compression-molded foam in high-impact areas absorbs and disperses impact while staying lightweight.

  • Molded Slash & Bicep Guards: Ergonomic coverage in key zones delivers top-tier protection without added bulk.

  • Shell Skin Texture: Reinforced forearm areas with added texture help reduce impact from slashes and puck strikes.

  • Sling Wrap Strapping System: Fantom Stretch lay-flat straps secure your fit while staying low-profile under your jersey.

  • WarTech FNC Stretch Sleeve: Compression sleeve fit with Polygiene treatment keeps pads snug, dry, and odor-free.

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Overview: Crack the Code. Unlock Elite Performance.
Built for elite-level playmakers, the Sherwood Code Encrypt 1 Elbow Pads deliver advanced protection and mobility in a lightweight, breathable package—so you can focus on the game, not your gear.

Key Features:

  • Tapered Fit: Provides extra coverage where it counts, with a close-to-body feel for maximum mobility and control.
  • Viconic VIP Protection: Elite-level material engineered to absorb repeated impacts without compromising flexibility.
  • 360 Wrap Strap System: Smartly designed straps contour around your arm for a locked-in fit that moves with you.
  • Featherlite X Construction: Lightweight foam design with exposed and perforated zones promotes airflow and cuts down on weight.
  • Microban Antimicrobial Treatment: Keeps your gear feeling and smelling fresh by fighting odor-causing bacteria.

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How To Measure for Hockey Elbow Pads

Properly fitted ice hockey elbow pads should fit snugly without sliding back and forth or rotating around your arm when in use. 

An elbow pad that’s too large will be constantly in motion, creating performance issues and exposing players’ elbows to potential contact with the ice, pucks, sticks and the boards. 

Elbow pads that are too small may be too tight and restrict motion. They’ll provide inadequate coverage over the lower bicep and upper forearm. 

Looking for a step-by-step process on how to size hockey elbow pads? Follow this simple three-step guide:

Step 1: Extend your arm downwards towards the floor.  

Step 2: Measure the distance between the center of your bicep and center of your forearm.

Step 3: Use this measurement to determine your elbow pad length. 

You can use the length you’ve measured and this hockey elbow pad size chart to determine the appropriately sized elbow pads. 

Once you've found your size, it’s a good idea to put on your shoulder pads and gloves to ensure the size you’re going with will protect your lower bicep and upper forearm. If you're in between sizes, go with the size that provides the best adequate coverage without being too loose.

Hockey Elbow Pads Sizing Chart

Types of Elbow Pad Design and Construction

When it comes to ice hockey elbow pads, choosing the best option comes down to making a few choices based on budget, skill level and comfort. There are different types of shell designs, strap systems, liners and bicep and forearm coverage. Before you purchase your next hockey elbow pads, look closely into these different designs.

Exterior Soft Shell: 

There are three different ways that hockey elbow pad soft shells are constructed. They can either be one intact piece, consist of two pieces for increased flexibility or they can be composed of three separate parts that are attached for the best responsiveness and movement.

  • One-Piece: One-piece elbow pads are exactly as described, one continuous pad from the forearm guard all the way to the end of the bicep protector. These pads don't offer high-level mobility, but they are heavily relied on by casual players and a smart choice for youth hockey elbow pads.
  • Two-Piece: Two-piece elbow pads are solid from the forearm through the elbow, but the bicep guard includes a separate, extended component. This offers more flexibility between the elbow and upper arm and longer bicep protection.
  • Three-Piece: The three-piece ice hockey elbow pad provides the most protection and flexibility, but is heavier than the two-piece design. These high-end elbow pads offer more protection at the bottom of the elbow pad when blocking shots or engaging in contact against the boards.

Strap System 

Most ice hockey elbow pads have a two or three strap system for keeping the elbow pad secure. Beginners and younger hockey players use a two-strap system, with one strap on the bicep guard and one securing the forearm. The slower speed and reduced contact during play help limit the potential for pads shifting during game play. 

Higher-end ice hockey elbow pads generally employ a three strap system with straps on the bicep guard, forearm cover and elbow to give active players a secure fit during athletic and physical play.

Interior Liners 

Hockey elbow pads liners will vary from style to style. They’ll also contribute to the cost of your pads. Beginner and budget elbow pads will generally have a nylon liner that’ll be protective, yet comfortable. These liners are designed for a low-contact game and beginner players who are just learning the sport. Higher-end elbow pads contain engineered liners from composite materials. Many of them will whisk away moisture and prevent bacteria growth.

Forearm and Bicep Guards

Ice hockey elbow pads protect much more than just the elbow itself. Hockey elbow pads include forearm and bicep guards to reduce the risk of injury to the lower bicep and the part of the forearm not covered by your gloves. 

One-piece elbow pads will offer shorter bicep and forearm protection.

Two-piece elbow pads offer a longer bicep guard.

Best Hockey Elbow Pads by Category

Depending on what brands you prefer and your level of play, you’ll have a few different options when it comes to finding the best ice hockey elbow pads. Below is a list of suggestions for elbow pads in a few different categories.

Best Budget Hockey Elbow Pads (under $100)

CCM Tacks 9550 Hockey Elbow Pads: The one-piece elbow pad is a streamlined and lightweight design allowing players' arms to remain mobile, making the CCM Tacks 9550 our pick for best budget elbow pads. A simplified three strap system helps you to better customize your fit to fit the exact shape of your arm, and JDP reinforcement and foam offer impact protection.

Best Bauer Hockey Elbow Pads

Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Hockey Elbow Pads: The Bauer M5 Pros have all the features elite players look for when searching top-rated hockey elbow pads. A deep fit allows for the best secure fit, and CURV Composite in the forearm and molded inserts in the bicep keep you protected without sacrificing mobility. A THERMOMAX+ Liner wicks moisture away from the arms, keeping players dry and comfortable throughout usage.

Best CCM Hockey Elbow Pads

CCM Super Tacks AS-V Hockey Elbow Pads: Max coverage anatomical shield design and a 2-piece flexmotion construction are engineered to offer a great level of coverage that follows the body’s natural shape while allowing for maximum protection without sacrificing mobility. A JDP reinforced elbow cap with D30 inside and outside is designed to disperse impact force away from the elbow while D30 absorbs shock and impact both inside and outside the pad. Adaptfit+ straps offer a dual pull middle lock strap plus a 360 degree wraparound forearm strap.

Best Warrior Hockey Elbow Pads

Warrior Alpha LX Pro Hockey Elbow Pads: Warrior’s Alpha LX Pro elbow pads feature a three-piece design to give professional protection and comfort. Compression molded IMPAX foam and lightweight molded slash/bicep guards give you maximum protection. The WarTech FNC Stretch Sleeve keeps your elbows pads in place during play.

Best Youth Hockey Elbow Pads

CCM Super Tacks AS1 Youth Hockey Elbow Pads: CCM has crafted their Super Tacks AS1 youth hockey elbow pads with the same engineering as their senior model to give young players enhanced protection and comfort. An adjustable single strap gives the ability to easily adjust snugness to ensure pads stay secured on smaller arms at all times.

Best Junior Hockey Elbow Pads

Bauer Vapor 2X Hockey Elbow Pads: Bauer has adapted their three-piece hockey elbow pad to fit the needs of junior hockey players. HyperLite foams give junior players the same feel as high-end lightweight ice hockey elbow pads, and HD foams, a PE forearm insert and a molded MD cap protects players from slashes, contact with the ice and shot pucks. The Thermo Max+ liner keeps players comfortable and dries quickly after use.

Best Senior Hockey Elbow Pads

True XC9 Hockey Elbow Pads: The True XC9 hockey elbow pads may be a newer entry on the market, but they don't disappoint when it comes to protection and security. Three-piece construction provides added mobility, and strategically placed EVA foams throughout these adult ice hockey elbow pads disperse impacts and shocks. The moisture wicking liner helps reduce weight and keep players dry, even during long games.

Find the Best Selection of Ice Hockey Elbow Pads at HockeyMonkey!

HockeyMonkey offers ice hockey elbow pads for every skill level and budget. Once you've decided what type of elbow pads are perfect for elevating your game, take some time to browse our full selection of ice hockey elbow pads. At HockeyMonkey, you’re sure to find the right comfort, fit and style pad!