Cricket Batting Pads Explained:

There are many different types of batting pads available to cricketers and it’s very important to choose the ones to suit your game. There are reasons why the price, look, and shape of leg guards differ. The guide below should assist you in your purchase.

First steps
1. Selecting the correct size pads is VERY IMPORTANT. The Greg Chappell Cricket Centre staff will assist you on selecting the correct size. 
2. Try on as many different pads at the price point you wish to spend.

Batting Pad Sizes
The sizes that are available are: Oversize Adults (Large), Adults (Medium), Small Adults (Small), Youth, Junior, Small Junior, XS Junior, XXS Junior.
The best guide for leg guard sizes is to ensure your knee is lined up right in the middle of the knee roll and that the top of the pads are not getting in the way of your hands when you are in your batting stance. 
Never choose bigger pads to grow into. The batting pads will get in the way and become a burden when running and playing strokes. They are also less effective in providing protection as the padding is situated in the wrong places due to incorrect size. 

Batting Pad Designs
Each Cricket Equipment Company has their own designs, shapes, and theories on the best leg guards available. 
The best batting pads for you are the ones that are the most comfortable, do not impede movement, and are the price you want to spend. 
The designs generally differ by quality of material, colour, shape, and added benefits like padding around the buckles. 
Generally the more expensive pads provide lighter more advanced protection, allowing you the flexibility when running and playing stokes. 

Batting Pad Materials 
All batting pads are faced with a variety of P.U (Polyurethane) and PVC materials which are hard wearing, light synthetic coverings, easily maintained with wipe clean care. 
The interior is a mixture of cane, cotton, and some offer carbon reinforcement for extra protection. 
There are generally two styles when it comes to the main area at the front of the pad. One is where the cane is right at the front, covered in P.U, and the other has mostly foam covered in P.U. Both of these styles will then have the reverse material on the inside near the leg. 
The pair of pads that are best suited to your game will be purchased using a mixture of ideas. The level of protection and the price you wish to spend. The best protection for your legs is definitely available in the higher models. 
The best information on each pair of pads is listed throughout the Cricket Centre catalogue and website. 

Batting Pad Care
A few simple steps after each innings can prolong the life and effectiveness of your batting pads.
Straight after batting, always leave your batting pads in a shady area to dry with the straps open. Never in the sun and never in your bag. The sun will cause the padding at the back to dry out and harden, your bag will keep the padded area moist this leads to wear and smell. This includes after each net session! 
A tip for when you first buy your batting pads. Leave them in your bag with the straps done up, however pull the straps as tight as possible. This will get the pads used to the shape of your leg quicker.