Welcome to BuySmart.ai, your trusted AI shopping assistant, where we understand that skateboarding is not just a sport but a lifestyle that thrives on freedom and flair. However, with the thrills of shredding and grinding come the risks of spills and falls. That's why we're here to guide you through the essential protective gear for skateboarders in 2024, ensuring that you stay safe while you express yourself on the concrete canvas.
Protection is paramount, and we've scoured the market for gear that meets the highest safety standards without compromising on comfort. Our recommendations focus on helmets with robust ABS shells and shock-absorbing EPS foam liners, alongside knee and elbow pads that combine tough plastic covers with cushioning EVA padding. These selections are the armor you need against the unexpected, designed to keep you rolling after a tumble.
But safety gear shouldn't feel like a burden. We prioritize comfort with features like adjustable straps for a custom fit, breathable materials to keep you cool, and lightweight designs that won't weigh you down as you perform your tricks. Durability is also key; we've identified gear crafted from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding, ensuring that your investment lasts as long as your passion for the sport. With a range of sizes available, every skateboarder can find the perfect fit to stay protected and push their limits. Stay tuned as we dive into the best protective gear for skateboarders in 2024, where safety meets style.
Triple Eight Dual Certified MIPS Helmet: Best Advanced Safety Helmet
Triple Eight Dual Certified Helmet -- $59.95(Zumiez)
Why We Picked It
The Triple Eight Dual Certified MIPS Helmet is a premium choice for those seeking advanced safety features in their protective gear. The inclusion of MIPS technology sets it apart from standard helmets by offering enhanced protection against rotational forces during an impact, which can reduce the risk of brain injuries. Its dual certification for both bike and skate use ensures versatility and compliance with safety standards.
Who It's For
This helmet is ideal for action sports enthusiasts who prioritize safety and are willing to invest in higher-end protective equipment. It's perfect for cyclists, skateboarders, and rollerbladers who engage in activities where falls and impacts are a risk and who understand the value of the latest safety innovations like MIPS.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Equipped with MIPS technology for superior protection | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard helmets without MIPS |
| ✅ Dual certified for bike and skate use, offering versatility | ❌ May be heavier than non-MIPS helmets due to additional technology |
| ✅ Designed for a comfortable fit with adjustable straps | ❌ Limited style options compared to some other helmet brands |
187 Killer Pads Pro Knee Pads: Best Professional-Level Knee Protection
187 KILLER PADS , Pro Knee Medium, Black / Black -- $109.99(Amazon)
187 Killer Pads Pro Derby Pad, Black, Small -- $111.14(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The 187 Killer Pads Pro Knee Pads are selected for their exceptional protection and durability, designed to withstand high-impact activities such as skateboarding. Their professional-grade construction and comfort features make them a top choice for athletes who require reliable safety gear.
Who It's For
These knee pads are best suited for professional or serious skaters who prioritize safety and are engaged in high-impact skateboarding. They may not be ideal for casual skaters or those who prefer minimal gear due to their size.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Professional-level protection for high-impact sports | ❌ Bulkier design may restrict movement |
| ✅ Comfortable fit with a seamless interior and fast-drying lining | ❌ Higher price point compared to basic models |
| ✅ Durable ballistic nylon construction with industrial-weight stitching | ❌ Open back design may not suit all preferences for fit and security |
Pro-Tec Street Wrist Guards: Optimal Skateboarder Wrist Protection
Pro-Tec Street Wrist Guard - Camo M -- $19.95(Pro-Tec)
Why We Picked It
The Pro-Tec Street Wrist Guards are chosen for their exceptional blend of support, protection, and dexterity. They are specifically designed to cater to skateboarders who need reliable wrist protection without losing the essential grip on their skateboards. The camo design adds a stylish touch, making them not only functional but also fashionable. Priced at an affordable $19.95, these wrist guards offer great value for skateboarders seeking quality protection.
Who It's For
These wrist guards are ideal for skateboarders of all levels who prioritize safety without compromising on performance. They are especially suited for those who engage in street skating where falls are common. However, they might not be the best fit for individuals looking for highly breathable wrist protection due to their focus on support and durability.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Excellent support and protection for skateboarding activities | ❌ May not offer as much breathability as other wrist guard options |
| ✅ Designed to maintain grip ability on the skateboard | ❌ Limited color options beyond the camo design |
| ✅ Stylish camo design at an affordable price | ❌ Could be perceived as bulky by some users |
G-Form Pro-X Elbow Pads: Best Protective Elbow Pads for Active Sports
Pro-X Elbow Pad(1 Pair) - Youth and Adult -- $55.96(Amazon)
G-Form Pro X2 Elbow Pads - Black / x Large -- $17.99(G-Form)
Pro-X Elbow Pads, Black/Red, Adult X-Large -- $55.96(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The G-Form Pro-X Elbow Pads are chosen for their innovative technology that combines comfort and protection. They are designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing for a full range of motion, yet they harden upon impact to provide superior protection. This makes them ideal for athletes and enthusiasts who engage in sports or activities where falls and impacts are common.
Who It's For
These elbow pads are best suited for individuals who participate in sports such as skateboarding, mountain biking, or other action sports where elbow protection is crucial. They are also great for anyone looking for elbow pads that won't restrict movement but still offer excellent protection during falls or collisions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ SmartFlex technology ensures pads are flexible during use and harden upon impact | ❌ Sizing may run small, requiring careful examination of the size chart |
| ✅ Moisture-wicking, UPF 50+ compression fabric offers comfort and breathability | ❌ Price point may be higher compared to some other elbow pad brands |
| ✅ Machine washable for easy care and maintenance | ❌ May not be suitable for all sports, particularly those requiring heavier duty protection |
TSG All Terrain Knee Pads: Best Durable Knee Pads for Skaters
TSG All Terrain Knee Pads Black -- $47.54(eevee's)
TSG - Kneepad All Terrain Black / M -- $49.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The TSG All Terrain Knee Pads are selected for their robust construction and design tailored to meet the demands of skaters tackling rough surfaces. With their high-grade durable fabrics and full coverage caps, they offer comprehensive protection that doesn't compromise on the freedom of movement necessary for skateboarding.
Who It's For
These knee pads are ideal for skaters who engage in park and street skating across all terrains, especially those who prioritize safety and durability over other features. They are not the best fit for individuals who require extensive ventilation due to the nature of their activities.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 100% Nylon double layered foam inner padding for enhanced protection | ❌ May not provide as much ventilation as other models |
| ✅ Adjustable Velcro straps with Neoprene backing for a secure, non-slip fit | ❌ Potential import duty/gst for international buyers |
| ✅ Durable PE cap for longevity and resistance to wear and tear | ❌ Limited color options available |
Smith Scabs Elite II Knee Pads: High-Protection Skating Gear
Smith Scabs Elite II Knee Pad Re-Caps - White -- $19.95(Socal Skateshop)
Smith Scabs Elite II Knee Pad Re-Caps - Blue -- $19.95(Socal Skateshop)
Smith Scabs Safety Gear - Elite II Knee Pad Recap - White | Skate Ratz -- $14.99(Skate Ratz)
Why We Picked It
The Smith Scabs Elite II Knee Pads are designed with the safety and comfort of skaters in mind, featuring high-density foam for superior impact absorption. Their adjustable straps ensure a custom fit for a wide range of users, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to protect their knees while engaging in skating activities. The availability of replacement caps in different colors, such as white and blue, at an affordable price point, further enhances their appeal by allowing for easy maintenance and personalization.
Who It's For
These knee pads are ideal for skaters who prioritize safety and comfort during their activities. They are especially suited for individuals who engage in aggressive skating or those who are learning new tricks and need reliable protection. The customizable fit and the option to replace caps make them a great choice for both casual and serious skaters. However, they may not be the best fit for skaters who prefer minimalistic gear due to their bulkier design.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-density foam for superior impact absorption | ❌ Design may be considered too bulky for some skaters |
| ✅ Adjustable straps for a customizable fit | ❌ May not fit seamlessly under tight clothing |
| ✅ Affordable replacement caps for easy maintenance and personalization | ❌ Bulkier design could restrict movement for some users |
Triple Eight Saver Series 3-Pack: Best Protective Gear Starter Pack
Triple Eight Saver Series 3 Pack -- $39.99(Amazon)
Triple Eight Saver Series 3-Pack Box -- $34.95(Zumiez)
SAVER 3-PACK-XS,Black -- $43.64(Amazon)
Triple Eight Saver Color Series 3-Pack S Sunset -- $49.95(SkatePro.com)
SAVER 3-PACK-SUNSET-XS -- $41.94(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Triple Eight Saver Series 3-Pack is an excellent choice for beginners in action sports due to its comprehensive protection package. It includes knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, all designed to provide a snug fit and impact resistance, which is essential for those just starting out and prone to falls.
Who It's For
This 3-pack is best suited for beginners or intermediate skaters, rollerbladers, and bikers who need reliable protection without the complexity of professional-grade gear. Advanced skaters or those participating in high-impact sports might find that they require more specialized equipment for each body part.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Includes knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards for comprehensive protection | ❌ May not offer sufficient protection for high-impact or professional use |
| ✅ Ergonomically designed for comfort with a snug fit | ❌ One-size-fits-all approach may not suit all body types perfectly |
| ✅ High-density, impact-resistant molded ABS splints and EVA foam for shock absorption | ❌ Advanced users might prefer more specialized, individual gear |
S1 Lifer Helmet with Visor: Ultimate Protection for High-Speed Riding
S1 Lifer Helmet for Skateboarding, BMX, and Roller Skating -- $89.99(Amazon)
S1 Lifer Visor Helmet - Gen 2 - Silver Gloss Glitter w/ Tint Visor -- $153.99(Walmart - FigureSkatingStore)
S1 Lifer Visor Helmet - Black Gloss | Adult Skate Helmets From S-One | S... -- $143.99(Skate Ratz)
S1 Lifer Visor Helmet - Gen 2 - Silver Gloss Glitter Roller Derby Helmet... -- $153.99(S1 Helmets)
Why We Picked It
The S1 Lifer Helmet with Visor is a top-tier choice for those engaging in high-speed activities like downhill skateboarding, BMX, and roller skating. Its design incorporates specially formulated EPS Fusion Foam, offering a deep fit and enhanced protection that's 5x more protective than regular skate helmets. Certified for both multi-impact (ASTM) and high impact (CPSC), this helmet is built to safeguard against severe impacts, making it an ideal companion for extreme sports enthusiasts. The inclusion of a visor not only adds to the full-face protection but also shields the eyes from debris and sunlight, enhancing visibility and safety during rides.
Who It's For
This helmet is best suited for individuals who participate in high-speed, high-impact sports where the risk of falls and collisions is elevated. It's particularly recommended for downhill skateboarders, BMX riders, and roller skaters looking for comprehensive head and face protection. While it's designed with safety in mind for high-speed activities, casual skateboarders who find full-face helmets too restrictive might prefer a more open design for better airflow and comfort during leisurely rides.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Specially formulated EPS Fusion Foam for superior impact resistance | ❌ May be too restrictive for casual skateboarding |
| ✅ Certified Multi-Impact and High Impact for maximum safety | ❌ Higher price point compared to standard skate helmets |
| ✅ Includes a visor for full-face protection and enhanced visibility | ❌ Full-face design might limit airflow for some users |
Demon United Hyper X D30 Mountain Bike Knee Pads: Best Heavy-Duty Knee Protection
Demon United Demon D3O Hyper Knee/Shin Mountain Bike Knee Pads- D30 Knee... -- $99.99(Amazon)
Demon Hyper x D30 V3 Mountain Bike Knee Pad | BMX | MX | Snowboard (XLar... -- $99.99(Sears - zabiva)
Demon Hyper X D30 V3 Mountain Bike Knee Pad | BMX | MX | Snowboard (Larg... -- $114.99(Walmart - Queenoris Design)
Demon United Hyper x D3O Elbow Pads- Mountain Bike Elbow Pads w/ D30 Imp... -- $59.99(Amazon)
Demon Hyper X D30 V3 Mountain Bike Knee pad | BMX | MX | Snowboard (Large) -- $79.71(Amazon)
Demon Hyper Knee/Shin X D3O V3 ** CLOSEOUT/FINAL SALE** SMALL -- $49.99(Demon United)
Why We Picked It
The Demon United Hyper X D30 Mountain Bike Knee Pads are chosen for their advanced D30 protection technology, which provides exceptional shock absorption for high-impact activities. Their robust construction with a Kevlar front shield and double bound stitching ensures durability and long-lasting use, while the thoughtful design features like perforated neoprene for ventilation, terry lined wicking, and soft mesh panels enhance comfort during rigorous activities.
Who It's For
These knee pads are ideal for mountain bikers, BMX riders, motocross enthusiasts, and snowboarders who require superior protection. They are also suitable for skateboarders who need reliable knee protection in rough terrains or during high-impact tricks. However, they may be overbuilt for those who skateboard in more controlled, urban environments where such heavy-duty protection isn't necessary.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ D30 high-performance shock absorbing foam for superior protection | ❌ May be too rugged and bulky for urban skateboarding |
| ✅ Kevlar front shield and double bound stitching for enhanced durability | ❌ Higher price point compared to basic knee pads |
| ✅ Comfort features like venting, moisture control, and a cool inner knee mesh panel | ❌ Could be overkill for low-impact activities |
Ennui City Brace: Best Sleek Design Wrist Guard
Ennui City Brace Wrist M -- $48.73(inlinex.com.sg)
ENNUI City Brace II Wrist Protection -- $54.97(ProSkaters Place)
Why We Picked It
The Ennui City Brace wrist guards are selected for their modern approach to protective gear, combining a sleek design with essential safety features. The inclusion of a palm slider and brace support ensures that users have robust protection during urban skating activities, while maintaining a low-profile look that appeals to style-conscious athletes.
Who It's For
These wrist guards are ideal for urban skaters and action sports enthusiasts who prioritize both style and safety. They are best suited for those who require reliable wrist protection without the bulkiness of traditional pads, making them a great choice for daily commuting or casual skating sessions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stylish, low-profile design | ❌ Less padding compared to other wrist guards |
| ✅ Includes palm slider for added protection | ❌ May not be suitable for high-impact sports |
| ✅ Brace support for enhanced wrist stability | ❌ Could be less comfortable for some users due to reduced padding |
Thanks for checking out the best protective gear for skateboarders! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy skating!