Getting ready for game day starts with the basics—gear up, suit up, and make sure everything fits like it should. One of the most overlooked but critical steps in youth football preparation is knowing how to put pads in youth football pantsproperly. Whether you’re a parent helping your child gear up, or a coach assisting first-time players, mastering this simple process is essential for both safety and comfort.
Youth football pants with integrated or insertable pads offer protection for the thighs, knees, hips, and tailbone—areas most vulnerable to impact during tackles and falls. But even the best gear won’t help if it’s not fitted or inserted correctly.
Let’s walk through how to do it the right way—because safety should always come before kick-off.
Why Pad Placement Matters
Pads aren’t just for compliance—they’re designed to absorb shock and minimize injuries. Improperly placed or unsecured pads can:
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Shift during play, leaving areas exposed
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Cause discomfort or restrict movement
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Lead to unnecessary bruises or worse
The goal is to ensure players can run, cut, block, and tackle confidently—with full range of motion and without distractions from slipping or bunched-up gear.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have:
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A pair of youth football pants with built-in pad pockets
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A set of football pads: typically 2 thigh pads, 2 knee pads, and (if not integrated) hip and tailbone pads
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Optional: Velcro straps or athletic tape for extra security
Some pants come with the pads already built in, but for those that don’t, here’s how to do it manually.
Step-by-Step: How to Put Pads in Youth Football Pants
1. Locate the Pad Pockets
Turn the pants inside out or feel along the interior to identify the pad pockets. There will be:
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Two at the front thighs
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Two at the knees
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Possibly others at the hips or tailbone depending on the design
Each pocket is specifically shaped for its corresponding pad.
2. Insert the Thigh Pads
Slide the thigh pads into the pockets on the upper front legs. The curved side should face the body, and the straight edge should face downward toward the knee.
Make sure:
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The pads sit flush against the leg
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There’s no bunching or folding
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They align with the center of the thigh for even coverage
3. Insert the Knee Pads
Knee pads go in the lowest pockets, directly over the knee joint. Some pants will have exterior flaps with openings to slide them in.
Check that:
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The center of the pad sits directly over the kneecap
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Movement isn’t restricted when bending the knee
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The padding feels firm and centered
4. Add Hip and Tailbone Pads (If Required)
For pants that don’t have integrated padding:
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Hip pads go on the sides, curving around the hip bone
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The tailbone pad slips into the rear center pocket just above the buttocks
These pads often secure with snaps, Velcro, or compression from the pants themselves.
5. Secure the Pads
If the pants don’t offer a tight enough fit to keep pads from shifting:
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Use Velcro tabs or athletic tape to lock them in place
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Tighten any built-in waistbands or drawstrings
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Some players also wear compression shorts underneath to keep pads stable
6. Have the Player Try Them On
The final test is putting the pants on and checking:
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Comfort
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Freedom of movement
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Pad alignment during walking, squatting, and sprinting
There should be no slipping, no pinching, and no visible gaps in protection.
Tips for Buying the Right Youth Football Pants
Not all pants are created equal. When shopping, keep the following in mind:
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Integrated pads are great for convenience, especially for younger players
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Look for pants with reinforced seams and moisture-wicking fabric
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A snug but flexible fit ensures pads stay in place while allowing full movement
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Consider pants with machine-washable materials for easy maintenance
For more help choosing quality gear, check out our article on How to Put Chin Straps on Youth Football Helmets—because top-to-bottom protection starts with every piece of equipment fitting properly.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
Just like helmets and cleats, football pants and pads need regular care.
Best Practices:
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Inspect weekly for wear, cracks, or compression loss
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Wash pants according to the manufacturer’s instructions (remove pads first if required)
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Replace any pads that are thin, misshaped, or torn
Well-maintained gear equals safer play.
Final Thoughts: Protection Starts with Preparation
Knowing how to put pads in youth football pants is a basic skill that pays off in a big way. When done correctly, it boosts safety, performance, and player confidence. Whether you’re gearing up for practice or game day, taking a few extra minutes to check pad placement can make all the difference.
A well-equipped athlete isn’t just safer—they play better, too. Make it part of your pre-game routine, and teach young players the importance of taking ownership of their gear and their safety.
