Best Hockey Elbow Pads

Here at IW Hockey, we are dedicated to helping you find the best elbow pad that suits your level of play! From the seasoned veteran to the player stepping on the ice for the first time, we've got you covered. In each category, we have one elbow pad that is the best at 'Overall Performance', which is chosen purely on tech and spec. The other winner considers price as one of the main factors, giving players an elbow pad that has the 'Best Value'.

$149.99 MSRP for Junior (MD, LG)
$179.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

Exemplifying premium protection, the CCM Tacks XF Pro Elbow Pads are built for players who aren't afraid to battle in corners, weave their way through traffic, or dish a big forecheck hit. Unlike standard foams, D3O drastically reduces the amount of impact energy to the body and is used in strategic areas such as the elbow donut and forearm guard. Players will enjoy the anatomical fit and highly comfortable strapping system which can be fine-tuned for a customized fit.

$89.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$109.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

The Sherwood Code Encrypt 1 Elbow Pads can do it all! A low profile and three-piece design best suits the quick and agile player, yet, the Encrypt 1 is built with truly elite-level impact protection so players can confidently battle in the hard areas and weave their way through a gauntlet of sticks.

It's loaded with technologies that include VIP and 360¡ Wrap. Viconic Impact Protection can easily handle repeated impacts and is located in the elbow for premium joint protection. The Encrypt 1's 360¡ Wrap is Sherwood's most comfortable fit yet, allowing the protection to move with you and stay exactly where it needs to be. With elite-level protection, game-ready comfort, and ultimate mobility in an affordable package, the Encrypt 1 Elbow Pad is easily the best value for 2024.

Warrior's Alpha Pro Elbow Pad offers elite-level protection without a super steep price tag. It has a great balance of coverage and mobility, making this a great option for the physical player who can still deke out a few defenders at a time. Its three-piece design provides that full range of motion necessary to dangle while Warrior's Sling Wrap is one of the most comfortable middle anchor straps on the market.

The CCM JetSpeed FTW Elbow Pad was perfectly built for women's body proportions and designed for every level of play. Whether it's a young girl's first time playing on a hockey team or the highly competitive female player, the FTW provides elite-level protection in a featherlight and mobile fit.

$79.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$89.99 MSRP for Senior (XS, SM, MD, LG)

Without breaking the bank, the Warrior Alpha Lite Elbow Pads cater to the physical but mobile player looking for max coverage and a full range of motion. Boasting an amazing fit, the Alpha Lite comes with a three-piece design and a great protection package, providing the competitive player fantastic protection at a very reasonable price.

$59.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$79.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

Almost identical to the Encrypt 1, the Sherwood Code Encrypt 2 Elbow Pads is a standout choice for the competitive player who is seeking top-level performance but in a more affordable package. Aside from the VIP protection and grip printed liner found in the Encrypt 1, the Encrypt 2 shares almost all the same features including the three-piece construction, 360¡ Wrap, forearm protection, and MicroBan odor technology.

For any player who has their eye on the CCM Tacks line but needs something more affordable than their top two price points, the CCM Tacks XF 80 Elbow Pads are a solid starting point. It's got the perfect protection package for competitive play while offering a lightweight fit and even length adjustability in the forearm strap.

A close runner-up is the True AX7 Elbow Pads which give a great balance between protection, mobility, and price. The AX7 features Absor Foam, which is great at absorbing impact energy before it reaches the elbow joint.

$24.99 MSRP for Youth (SM/MD, LG/XL)
$34.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$44.99 MSRP for Senior (XS, SM, MD, LG)

Warrior takes the overall spot with their Rise Elbow Pad. At this price, the entry-level player can save money while still knowing they get protection and comfort. With a hard molded plastic elbow cap and thick standard foam for the bicep and forearm, the Warrior Rise Elbow Pads offer great value for the casual, recreational player.

$34.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$39.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG)

The Winnwell Q7 Elbow Pads are the perfect choice for any recreational or entry-level player who is seeking a comfortable fit and lightweight protection. Its low-profile design feels great on the arm and it comes with a three-piece strapping system to ensure the protection stays locked on the body. A standout feature at this price point is the CleanSport NXT, which is an odor control technology throughout the liner.

The CCM Next Elbow Pads are the perfect choice for a first-time hockey player seeking great protection without drying up the bank account. CCM used a compressed EVA foam and PE insert in one of the most prone areas to slashes, the forearm. Its low-profile design feels great on the arm and it comes with a convenient strapping system that includes a sleeve fit on the bicep for optimal comfort.

The best choice for players who truly want the lowest profile and minimal bulk is the Sherwood 5030 HOF Soft Cap Elbow Pads. It provides just the right amount of protection that a player requires for very casual hockey like pick-up games or the outdoor rink.

If you are unsure how to select the right size or having trouble deciding which level of play best suits your game, head over to our dedicated learning centers by using the buttons below!