Knee pads, braces, etc.
 

Has there been a rule change or clarification/interp since last season ('12-'13) regarding knee pads/braces as 3-5-2? Specifically asking of the legality of these sleeve style braces that are approx 18" long, with padding in center covering full knee and compression type material extending each side of the padding. I don't see any reason by rule they would be outlawed, unless it is addressed in '13-'14 rule set. Also, is there a requirement that the pads be uniform in color from player to player as the arm sleeve rule (3-5-3)?

That 18" garment with a knee pad in the middle is a leg sleeve in my book.

Unfortunately, for us, it's not in the rule book as such. I hate those things... or better yet that NFHS has ignored them.

There was a discussion on this just a couple of weeks ago. You need to check with your state. Here, they are sleeves and subject to those rules.

So if they are a leg "sleeve", they would be legal as long as 3-5-3 is met?

OK I pulled that other thread up and checked it out. Sorry, should have looked there first.

A first for me
 

Had a player actually "utilize" their knee pads in my game last night (these were actual knee pads).

Pressure on A1 in the back court and B1 trying to make a steal, A1 quickly does a crossover dribble as B1 was lunging for the ball. B1 lost their balance and went down to their "padded knees" and quickly spun and pivoted up and was back very quickly on D.

Reminded me of my volleyball days when you actually practiced diving to the floor so it became second nature. It seemed to me that A1 was very comfortable utilizing these.....apparently for their intended purpose and NOT just for looks!

Me again
 

So the "sleeve with a pad" or "pad in a sleeve" question is left up to each state for determining legality? Do any of you Virginia guys know if VHSL has prohibited them?

I don't think any place prohibits them.

It's just whether they are knee pads (no restrictions) or leg sleeves (color / match restrictions)

I see them every game. We only make sure all members are wearing the same color.

So as far as you know VHSL has ruled this equipment as a sleeve? I would think no individual officials association within the state could make and enforce a separate interp, would you?

Sleeves are different than pads. That's a fact. Pads can be ANY color.

Sleeves must be the same for every team mate.

If you follow the RULE, you will be correct.

You are correct. The issue is that these are a hybrid/combo sleeve/pad. There is no clear cut NFHS rule that governs these hybrids.

I don't believe there is an issue with pads OR sleeves. I believe the guidance has been pointed out.

As I see it, the issue seems to be differntiating with what appear to be sleeves with the built in knee pads (or knee pads with extended material that goes further up and down the leg) - are they categorized as sleeves (restrictions) OR knee pads (not so much)?

Sounds like there are still different rulings gym to gym. Like someone else said, if NFHS had just categorized these pads/sleeves (since they seem to be all the rage) one way or the other and be done with it, that would make everyone's life a bit easier.