As cricketers come in all shapes and sizes, so do leg guards. The height of a cricketer does not necessarily give the best indication of what size they may be as it is dependent on the dimensions of the area that needs protecting. It can be difficult to decide on behalf of someone else what to buy however, there are some guidelines worth considering.

The two main areas to measure are the length from the instep, to the centre of the knee. This is best done while the cricketer is seated.  The standard large size caters for 39-42cm, medium 37-39, and small 35-37cm.

The other main concern is the diameter of the leg, as a younger cricket will differ to an adult. Male differs to female and there are quite simply put, some players with very skinny legs! Bradbury have developed an innovative strap design that provides a number of options and flexibility in these variables. Released in the Australian 2019/20 season, this strap system overcomes ill fitting leg guards and prevents straps that overhang in the Virtute range.

The level of protection should also be considered. The greater the protection, the bulkier the pad which can inhibit movement and leg speed for cricketers of smaller stature. Test players facing rapid bowling over 140 kph would prefer a high level of protection, and players that are facing such bowling usually have the leg strength to handle the bulkier pad. The HC450 range combines a good level of protection, suitable for competitive cricket with a more streamlined, ambidextrous design.  However, junior players do not require the bulk, rather a streamlined light weight pad that gives minimal protection on impact and the Virtute range is best suited.  The materials and workmanship in a leg guard is considerate and reflected in the price.  The foam densities and designs all contribute.  Know what you need and have that need addressed, go beyond appearances.