Drum Practice Pads

A Drummer’s Guide to the Best Practice Pads: Rubber, Mesh, and Gel

Drum practice pads are an essential tool for any drummer, regardless of their skill level. They allow you to hone your technique, develop new skills, and improve your overall playing. But with so many different types of practice pads on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.

Let’s take a look at the three most popular types of practice pads: rubber, mesh, and gel. Then I’ll mention some of their pros and cons to help you choose the best pad for your needs.

Rubber Drum Practice Pads

Rubber practice pads are the most common type of practice pad. They’re affordable, durable, and easy to find. Rubber pads provide a good rebound and a consistent feel, making them ideal for practicing rudiments and other technical exercises.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Durable
• Easy to find
• Good rebound and more realistic feel
• Consistent feel

Cons:

• Can be noisy
• May not be as comfortable for playing for long periods of time

Mesh Pads

Mesh practice pads are becoming increasingly popular among drummers. They offer a more comfortably feel thanks to their synthetic drumhead surface. Mesh pads are also quieter than rubber pads, making them a good choice for practicing in apartments or other shared spaces.

Pros:

• More comfortably than rubber pads
• Quieter than rubber pads
• Can be used with electronic drum triggers

Cons:

• More expensive than rubber pads
• Can be damaged more easily
• May not be as durable as rubber pads

Gel Pads

Gel practice pads are a newer type of practice pad that offers a unique feel. They are made of a soft, squishy material that provides a very different rebound than rubber or mesh pads. These pads are often used by drummers who are looking for a workout and would like to practice their accents and doubles.

Pros:

• Soft, squishy rebound
• Can be used to practice different techniques, such as ghost notes and double strokes
• Builds endurance and wrist strength

Cons:

• More expensive than rubber or mesh pads
• Hard to practice on for long periods of time
• May not be as durable as rubber or mesh pads
• Not as realistic as mesh or rubber pads

 

What type of practice pad is right for you?

If you’re just starting out, or if you’re on a budget, a rubber practice pad is a good option. Rubber pads are affordable, durable, and easy to find.

If you’re looking for a more comfortable feel, or if you need a practice pad that is quiet enough to use in a shared space, a mesh practice pad is a good choice. Mesh pads are also a good option if you plan on using your practice pad with electronic drum triggers.

If you’re looking for a practice pad that provides a good workout, or if you want to practice different techniques, such as ghost notes and double strokes, a gel practice pad may be a good option for you.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right practice pad for you is to try out a few different types and see what feels best. Most music stores have a selection of practice pads that you can try out before you buy.

Here are a few additional tips for choosing a practice pad:

• Consider the size of the pad. A smaller pad can be better for beginners since it requires the sticks to hit in a small and specific location. However, if you want to be able to practice different techniques, such as playing multiple drums at the same time, you may want to choose a larger pad.
• Think about the type of surface you’ll be playing on. If you’re going to be playing on a hard surface, such as a table or desk, you may want a pad with a good rebound.
• Consider your budget. Practice pads can range in price from around $10 to $100. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about drum practice pads or would like to try drum lessons.