A deflected attack countered, a dive to send it back in the air, knees scraping the floor: it's for this kind of action that the McDavid protections were designed during Black Friday. Hex Force knee pads, Jumpy, Volley Pro and Volley Flexy, Hex Wrap Around padded shorts, leg sleeves and Stealth Cleat ankle guards are on sale.
The American specialist in support relies on its Hex foam, cut into small hexagons.
The Volley Flexy, Volley Pro, and Jumpy have volley in their name or in their use, and are sold in pairs. They cover the kneecap and the front of the knee, the area that touches the floor when you're defending in a low position or catching a ball at full tilt. The Jumpy, in white, goes well with a light outfit. The 4 Way Elastic knee pad, with its gel supports, is aimed more at those looking for support around the kneecap.
The brand signature of McDavid is Hex: foam cut into small hexagons and combined with a soft fabric. This cutting allows the protection to bend with the joint instead of being rigid. The Hex Force knee pads, available in black, white, red, or royal blue, are the most well-known example, and the Hex compression sleeve, in white or black, applies the same principle to the leg.
The Hex Wrap Around shorts, in white or black, are worn under the match shorts and cushion side slides: hips and thighs stay protected from bruises, a real plus for liberos and receivers. The reversible Hex Power Shooter leg sleeves can be worn with a plain or patterned side, camouflage, tie-dye, galaxy or graffiti, for those who want to stand out on the court.
The Stealth Cleat ankle brace, in black, adds support to the ankle. It mainly interests players who have already suffered a sprain and want to jump at the net with peace of mind. Choose it based on the shoe size and ankle circumference indicated on the product sheet.
All brands are gathered in Black Friday protections. After the sale, the special protection offers and the clearance protection remain available until Christmas, followed by the sales.
They're all on this page, from Volley Flexy to Hex Force. The product type filter isolates the knee pads, and the color filter helps match them to your team's jersey.
Measure where indicated on the sheet (usually the thigh circumference, just above the knee), then refer to the size chart. If the knee pad is too loose, it will shift during movement; if it's too tight, it will pinch when bending the legs.
Yes, they protect the knee during low receptions and dives. The choice between Hex Force and the Volley models mainly depends on the comfort felt and style. Try bending your leg completely once the knee pad is on: it should neither pinch nor slide.
For a libero or defender who often slides sideways, yes: it prevents burns and bruises on the hips. It is worn snugly under the match shorts and does not hinder jumps.
Wash them at low temperature, preferably in a mesh bag, then let them air dry flat. The tumble dryer and radiator harden the foam and wear out the elastic.