Do you need the best BMX shin guards and pads?
Getting shinners is still the WORST thing that can happen to you.
Luckily, there are plastic BMX pedals that don’t hurt as much as metal ones do.
(I split my shins open with metal pedals – not only once – and the pain is unimaginable.)
Luckily, there are multiple options you can choose from to keep your legs protected and your sessions more enjoyable.
Make a smart move.
Get shin guards.
This post covers:
Best BMX Shin Guards & Pads
1. Shadow Invisa Lite Shin Pads
If you’re looking for a slim solution that’ll protect but at the same time not ruin your style, here it is – the Shadow’s Invisa Lite.
These are the most minimalist solution that you can get, and they work so well.
Like other pads in the Invisa series, these also feature the super comfortable, breathable and stretchable lycra/micromesh with a double-layer impact foam.
What’s best about these is that you’ll forget you wear them.
These are the shinguards that I highly recommend.
Note: The only downside is that you may need to go up one size because I find them running slightly smaller (even after carefully measuring my calfs).
Price: $35.99 (may vary)
GET YOUR INVISA LIGHT PADS2. Shadow Invisa Lite Shin/Ankle Combo
If the Fuse’s shin and ankle protector is too sturdy for you, or you may not need as much protection, then, again, I recommend the Shadow’s Invisa Lite shin/ankle combo.
Both the shin and the ankle part are enriched with the medium durometer 3D impact foam.
The back is completely open, which ensures that you’ll barely notice you’re wearing any pads.
For this reason, these feel great even under skinnier pants/jeans.
Price: $53.99 (may vary)
GET YOUR INVISTA LIGHT COMBO PADS3. Triple 8 Shin Whip Guards
Triple Eight Shin whip guards are a lifesaver for BMX riders who know the pain of pedal strikes and tailwhip hits.
It sucks, I know!
These guards offer full shin and side protection with high-density molded splints, all while staying slim enough to wear under your pants.
They’re comfy and tough and made from breathable perforated neoprene with shock-absorbing EVA foam.
The removable splints make cleaning easy, and abrasion-resistant panels add extra durability.
With four Velcro straps for a secure, custom fit, you can ride confidently and catch those tailwhips without fear.
Price: $59.99 (may vary)
GET YOUR TRIPPLE 8 SHIN GUARDS4. TSG BMX Shinguards
TSG BMX shin guards are your go-to for keeping your shins safe from painful pedal slips.
Made with flexible, breathable neoprene and high-density shock-absorbing guards, these pads provide serious protection without sacrificing comfort.
The removable hard shells make cleaning a breeze so that you can keep them fresh ride after ride.
And if you just need light protection, you can ride these without the hard shells.
Secured with four Velcro straps, they stay snug and secure no matter how hard you’re riding.
Sold in pairs, these shin guards are a must-have for BMX riders who want to avoid busted shins and enjoy better progression.
Price: $64.95 (may vary)
GET YOUR TSG SHINGUARDSBest BMX Knee & Shin Pads (Combo)
5. G-Form Pro Rugged 2 Knee-Shin Guards
The G-Form Pro Rugged 2 Knee-Shin Guards are a next-level upgrade for BMX riders looking for top-notch protection and comfort.
With flexible SmartFlex padding that hardens on impact, these guards keep you safe without sacrificing mobility.
The DuraTx outer layer adds toughness, while the soft inner foam and vented mesh back keep things comfortable and breathable.
Adjustable hook-and-loop straps and silicone grippers ensure they stay in place no matter how hard you push.
Fully waterproof and machine washable, these guards are built for convenience and durability.
Perfect for taking your riding to the next level – crash protection without the bulk!
Price: $129.99 (may vary)
GET YOUR G-FORM RUGGED KNEE-SHIN GUARDS6. 7iDP Transition Knee/Shin Guard
The Transition knee/shin guards are perfect for riders who want light, pedal-friendly protection with a great range of motion.
With an extra five inches of shin coverage and side knee padding, these pads prepare you for anything, from BMX sessions to trail rides.
The high-length compression fit and internal silicone grippers keep them securely in place, while the breathable four-way stretch mesh ensures airflow for all-day comfort.
Designed with a pre-curved fit, they’re comfortable and stay put so that you can focus on the ride, not your gear.
Price: $124.99 (may vary)
GET YOUR 7IDIP TRANSITION KNEE-SHIN GUARDSDo I Need Shin Pads & Guards?
Here’s the thing: Protection isn’t necessary.
BUT it’s extremely recommended!
I suggest you opt for shin guards when you start riding BMX.
In fact, it’s a MUST!
I destroyed myself pretty heavily before I finally decided to put shinguards on.
That was a stupid move!
And not that I care about the looks of my legs. But I wasn’t able to ride my bike with severe shinners.
Learn from the errors of others. 🙂
Even when it came to learning crankflips, I only pulled it with shin pads on. (I was too scared to even try it without.)
They also help A LOT when it comes to learning tailwhips and other tricks as well.
So yes, begin your BMX career with shinguards – you WILL thank yourself later.
I still wear them, but only on one leg.
FAQs About BMX Shin Guards
Do shin pads really help with BMX?
Yes! Shin pads protect you from pedal bites, crank strikes (if they also have ankle guards), and missed tricks, letting you ride with more confidence and less pain.
Can you wear shin pads under skinny jeans?
Most sleeve-style shin pads fit under jeans, while bulkier strap-on versions work better over pants.
What’s the difference between BMX shin pads and soccer shin guards?
Soccer guards only cover the front of your shin, while BMX shin pads protect a wider area, often wrapping around the leg (and including ankle coverage).
Do shin pads protect against crank strikes, too?
Yes – many BMX shin pads cover enough of your leg to absorb crank hits as well as pedal slips. But not all shin guards include ankle protection.
Are shin pads necessary for beginners?
Yes. Beginners are more likely to slip pedals, so shin pads help you learn new tricks without the constant risk of pedal bite – which hurts A LOT, by the way.
How do I wash BMX shin pads?
Most can be hand-washed with mild soap and water, then air-dried. Avoid machine drying to keep straps and foam from wearing out. I usually rinse them under water after every few sessions.
What’s better: sleeve shin pads or strap-on shin pads?
Sleeve shin pads are lightweight, slim, and great for park riding, while strap-on pads give heavier-duty protection for street or trail sessions. But I recommend bulkier ones for beginners just to get that extra protection.
You may also want to check my other protection collections:
- Best BMX Helmets
- Best BMX Knee Pads
- Best BMX Ankle Braces & Guards
- Best BMX Elbow Pads
- Best BMX Wrist Support & Braces
