The Best Hockey Elbow Pads for 2025
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:
| Rank | Name | Image | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CCM Jetspeed FT8 Pro Elbow Pads |  |  |
| 2 | Bauer Vapor Flylite Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 3 | Warrior Alpha Pro Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 4 | Sherwood Rekker Morph 1 Elbow Pads |  | |
| 5 | CCM Tacks XF Pro Hockey Elbow Pads | | |
| 6 | Bauer Supreme M5 Pro Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 7 | CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 8 | Bauer Vapor 3X Pro Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 9 | Warrior Alpha LX Pro Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
| 10 | Sherwood Code Encrypt 1 Hockey Elbow Pads |  | |
Overview:
New line, same DNA. The all-new CCM Jetspeed FT8 Pro Senior Elbow Pads deliver maximum breathability, mobility, and lightweight comfort. Built with CCM’s AER-TEC thermoregulation system and pro-level protection, these pads keep players feeling cool and protected without sacrificing range of motion.
Key Features:
- 3-Piece Flexmotion Construction – Moves naturally with the elbow for superior mobility and comfort.
- AER-TEC Thermoregulation System – Enhances airflow and breathability to keep players cool and dry.
- Molded JDP Elbow Cap – Disperses impact force away from the joint for top-tier protection.
- High-Density Reinforced Foam Forearm – Lightweight yet durable pro-level protection with added ventilation.
- Dual Lock Strap System – Ensures a secure fit with anti-slip design for consistent comfort and stability.
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.
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.
Overview:
Never underestimate the player in Sherwood Rekker Morph 1 Senior Elbow Pads — built for agility, comfort, and 360° impact protection. Designed for players who battle hard every shift, these pads combine elite mobility with smart protection technologies to keep you locked in and ready for contact.
Key Features:
- Anatomical 360° Fit – Delivers full coverage with high-impact resistance for all-around protection.
- Nitrex® Impact Foam – Lightweight, flexible, and waterproof foam built to absorb repeated impacts.
- Microban® Liner – Anti-microbial treatment helps prevent odor and keeps gear fresh.
- Anatomical Isolated Zones (AIZ) – Independent protection zones enhance mobility and responsiveness.
- Customizable Impact Protection (CIP) – Allows players to fine-tune fit and protection to their style of play.
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.
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.
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.
Overview:
New line, same DNA. The CCM Jetspeed FT8 Senior Hockey Elbow Pads are built for players who want elite mobility and unmatched airflow in a lightweight design. Featuring CCM’s innovative AER-TEC thermoregulation system, these pads keep you cool and dry without compromising on protection—so you can move fast, stay light, and play your game at full speed.
Key Features:
3-Piece Flexmotion Construction – Moves naturally with the arm for pro-level comfort and mobility.
AER-TEC Thermoregulation System – Maximizes airflow and breathability to keep you cool during intense play.
JDP Molded PE Cap – Disperses impact energy away from the elbow joint for elite protection.
Reinforced High-Density Foam Forearm – Lightweight, compress-molded foam provides durable, pro-level coverage.
Secure Dual-Strap System – Flexible lock strap and nylon forearm strap keep the pad comfortably locked in place.
Overview:
Sleek but mighty, the Bauer Vapor FlyPro Senior Hockey Elbow Pads deliver pro-level protection in a lightweight, tapered design. Built for players who rely on agility and quick reactions, these pads move naturally with your body while keeping you protected from slashes, impacts, and collisions.
Key Features:
3-Piece Ergonomic Cap – Low-profile design stays secure through every stride and shot.
Floating Bicep with PE Insert – Provides upper-arm protection without restricting shoulder movement.
360° Forearm Protection – HyperLite foam and Wrap-Lock strap create a connected, natural feel.
Comfort Anchor Strap – Keeps pads locked in place while allowing for full mobility.
ThermoMax+ Liner – Enhances airflow and wicks moisture to keep you dry and fresh all game.
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.
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.
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!
