3 Best Elbow Pads for Basketball in 2021 (With Real Reviews)

As an athlete, an elbow injury is one of those things that could very easily end it all for you. This applies to basically all sports from tennis and golf to volleyball and basketball.
Below are the 3 best elbow pads designed to offer support and protection to basketballers
- McDavid 6440 Hex Knee, Elbow and Shin Pads
- McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Basketball Arm Sleeve
- McDavid 645 Knee and Elbow Pads
McDavid 6440 Hex Knee, Elbow and Shin Pads

Best features
- Slip-on design with elastic bands at the top
This is meant to allow fast putting on of the brace by simply slipping it on to the wrist. The elastic band at the top prevents it from slipping off your arm as you move around and play.
- Flexible material blend
It is made from a blend of 80% nylon and 20% spandex. These to make the material flexible which allows you as the wearer full and free range of movement. This makes them ideal for use during sports exercises. The material also offers compression which helps to reduce pain, stabilize the joint and promote healing.
- Closed-cell foam padding
This goes over the back of the elbow. It offers additional support and compression to stabilize the joint. It also cushions the joint and therefore protects it from further injury as a result of high impact with other players or with the ground.
- Uses hDc moisture management
This unique McDavid brace feature wicks moisture from the skin and makes the brace breathable. This contributes greatly to the comfort offered.
Pros
- It is multi-purpose and can be used on both elbow and knee injuries
- It is made from hypoallergenic materials
- It offers support while allowing full range of limb movement
- It is machine washable and dryable
Cons
- The material is thin and tears up very quickly with or without impact
Watch how to put on the McDavid Elbow Pads
(Real) Reviews for the McDavid 6440 Hex Knee, Elbow and Shin Pads
Purchase the McDavid 6440 Hex Knee, Elbow and Shin Pads here
McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Basketball Arm Sleeve
Best features
- HexPad Impact Shielding Technology
This special design protects the elbow from further injury due to body-to-body impact. It is therefore ideal for use by athletes, especially in basketball.
- Hydravent fabric
This ensures airflow to keep the skin cool and the brace breathable. It also wicks moisture for dry comfort.
- Flexible material blend
It is made from 80% nylon and 20% spandex. These provide both elasticity and compression which makes the brace both comfortable and effective in support.
- Large area covered
The brace is very long measuring 17 inches. It covers the area from mid-arm to the wrist. This ensures that the compression and support are spread out over a large area for improved effectiveness and comfort. It also significantly reduces slipping when the brace is worn for active sports like basketball.
Pros
- It is lightweight thus comfortable
- It allows free and a full range of movement without compromising on support
- It is firm and does not slip even as the wearer moves
- It is machine washable
- It is ideal for injury healing and prevention in contact sports
Cons
- It is difficult to slip on and off especially over sensitive and swollen elbow joints
- The size chart is not accurate with the recommended sizes often being smaller than expected
Watch How To Put On McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Basketball Arm Sleeve
(Real) Reviews For McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Basketball Arm Sleeve
Purchase the McDavid 6500 Hex Padded Basketball Arm Sleeve here
McDavid 645 Knee and Elbow Pads
Best features
- Flexible material blend
It is made out of 70% polyester, 12% rayon and 18% rubber. This blend makes the brace strong and very durable. It also provides adequate flexibility for free movement as well as compression for improved healing.
- ½ inch closed cell foam padding
This is cushions the elbow ensuring that the brace is as comfortable as possible. The padding also makes the back a little stiff which restricts unnecessary movements to prevent further injury to the elbow.
- Elastic sleeve
This makes it easy to put on and take off by simply slipping it on to the elbow.
Pros
- Offers body to surface protection
- Versatile as it can be used for both elbow and knee injuries
- Designed for wearing on both left and right arm
Cons
- Poor fit over the elbow which means that it slips a lot when the arm is in motion
- The slip-on design makes it painful to wear or take off over a swollen elbow
- They are not breathable which makes the elbow hot and sweaty when worn for long
(Real) Reviews For McDavid Knee & Elbow Pads
Purchase the McDavid 645 Knee and Elbow Pads here
Bottom line
The McDavid Shooters arm sleeve for basketball players is perfect for athletes who want support without compromise on movement. It is firm, comfortable and offers great coverage. The McDavid 6440 and the McDavid 645, on the other hand, might not fit as well but are good for body-to-body and body-to-surface impact protection respectively. They also provide versatility in terms of application as they can also be used as knee braces. In a nutshell, the 3 products have a lot to offer you. All you need is to figure out your priorities and you should be able to make the right decision.
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