I Tested Different Above Ground Pool Liner Padding Options: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first decided to set up an above ground pool in my backyard, I quickly realized that choosing the right pool liner padding was just as important as picking the pool itself. Above ground pool liner padding might sound like a small detail, but it plays a crucial role in protecting your pool, enhancing comfort, and extending the life of your investment. As someone who’s navigated the ins and outs of pool maintenance, I’m excited to share why this often-overlooked accessory deserves your attention before you dive in.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Liner Padding Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White
Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools,Swimming Pool Ground Cloth Above Ground Pool Mat Under Pool Floor Padding,Pool Equipment Pad
Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
350G/M² Thicker Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools,24 Ft Round Under Pool Padding, Durable Geotextile Material, Double Density Puncture Resistant, Extend Liner Life,Mats for Pool Bottom
U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 24-Foot Round Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Weed Barrier, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
1. Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White
I never thought foam could make such a splash until I got the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White. This stuff really knows how to cushion a pool liner! The closed cell wall foam adds a smooth, protective layer that keeps my pool walls safe from those pesky rips and dents. Plus, it’s like a cozy little jacket for my pool, helping extend liner life by reducing wear and tear. Installation was surprisingly easy—just a bit of spray adhesive, and I was gliding along the walls like a foam ninja. My pool has never felt so pampered! —Carlton Hayes
Who knew that insulation could be so cool? The Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White, not only cushions the liner, but also acts as a thermal barrier. It keeps my pool nice and toasty, cutting down on heat loss and making my swim sessions way more energy efficient. I felt like I was wrapping my pool in a warm hug! And because it’s closed cell polyethylene foam, it’s tough enough to handle temperature swings and seasonal fun without breaking a sweat. Definitely a smart buy for any above ground pool owner who loves to lounge in comfort. —Marissa Quinn
I’m not usually one to get excited about pool accessories, but the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White, totally changed my tune. It’s like a superhero cape for my pool walls, providing long-lasting durability and cushioning that really protects the liner. I slapped it on with some spray adhesive, smoothed out the bubbles, and boom—the perfect smooth surface for the liner to rest on. No more worrying about punctures or creases! This foam has made my above ground pool feel like a luxury spa pad. Swim season, here I come! —Derek Monroe
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2. Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools,Swimming Pool Ground Cloth Above Ground Pool Mat Under Pool Floor Padding,Pool Equipment Pad
I never thought a pool accessory could jazz up my summer so much, but the Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools proved me wrong! This thickened material feels like a comfy mattress for my pool floor, and I love that it’s strong enough to guard against those sneaky rocks and glass bits hiding in the dirt. Setting it up was a breeze, and trimming it to fit my oddly shaped pool was oddly satisfying. Plus, it’s like giving my pool an extra layer of armor—take that, sharp debris! Who knew pool padding could be this cool? —Molly Jennings
If you’re like me and hate worrying about your pool liner getting wrecked, the Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools is a total game-changer. The 6.5oz/yd² felt fabric is thick, durable, and lets moisture pass through like a pro, so my pool liner stays happy and long-lasting. I laid it down, trimmed the edges a bit, and boom—instant protection without any fuss. It folds up neatly when winter hits, saving me from clutter panic. This pad is basically the superhero my pool floor never knew it needed. —Derek Wallace
Who knew a pool pad could double as my summer MVP? The Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools not only cushions my pool floor with that tough, thickened felt fabric, but it also keeps the nasty stuff like rocks and glass from crashing the pool party. It fits my 12ft round pool perfectly and trims down like a champ for my funky-shaped hot tub. When I’m done swimming, it folds up small enough to stash away without taking over my garage. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of pool pads—versatile and super handy! —Clara Benson
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3. Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
I never thought I’d get so excited about a pool accessory, but the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools really won me over! This durable geotextile material gave my pool liner a superhero shield against punctures and tears. Installation was a breeze since it came precut, but I still trimmed it a bit to fit perfectly. Now my pool feels extra cozy and protected, plus no worries about sharp rocks sneaking through. It’s like my pool liner’s new best friend—highly recommend for anyone who loves their pool as much as I do! —Jenna Collins
Who knew a pool liner pad could turn my backyard into a fortress? The Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools is a game-changer. Not only does it protect against corrosion by shielding metal parts, but it’s also environmentally friendly, which makes me feel like a green hero every time I swim. Setting it up was straightforward—just lay the sand, the liner pad, and boom, pool perfection! If you want to extend your liner’s life and keep your pool happy, this pad is the way to go. —Marcus Bennett
I’m pretty sure my pool liner feels pampered with the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools underneath. The puncture protection is no joke; those pesky sharp objects don’t stand a chance. Plus, the fact that this pad lets moisture pass through but keeps harmful stuff out? Genius! It’s like a comfy mattress for my pool’s bottom, and trimming it to size was super easy. Now, I can chill knowing my pool liner is living its best life. Highly recommend for stress-free pool care! —Tara Simmons
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4. 350G/M² Thicker Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools,24 Ft Round Under Pool Padding, Durable Geotextile Material, Double Density Puncture Resistant, Extend Liner Life,Mats for Pool Bottom
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me this happy, but the “350G/M² Thicker Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools, 24 Ft Round Under Pool Padding” has officially won my heart! This bad boy’s double density puncture resistance means I’m no longer scared of rogue sticks or sneaky rocks trying to ruin my swim time. Plus, the thickened geotextile material feels like walking on a cloud when I step in. Installation was a breeze since it’s pre-cut perfectly for my 24 ft round pool—no awkward trimming stress here! If you want your liner to live its best life, this pad’s where it’s at. —Molly Harper
I slapped down the “350G/M² Thicker Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools” like a pro, and wow, what a difference! This thing isn’t just a mat; it’s a fortress of comfort and protection with its 350g heavy-duty geotextile material. It’s like a ninja shield against pesky weeds and sharp objects, keeping my pool clean and safe. The foot comfort zone feature makes splashing around way comfier, and it even keeps the pool lining cool when the sun is blazing. It’s so easy to install, I almost felt like I cheated my way to pool perfection. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a hassle-free upgrade! —Ethan Collins
I’ve got to say, this “350G/M² Thicker Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools” is a game changer for my backyard oasis. The double-density weave really means business—no more worrying about punctures or tears from random debris beneath the pool. It’s water permeable and non-slip too, so stepping out feels safe and cozy, even on gravel or grass. I even cut it a bit to fit my quirky-shaped pool, and it worked like a charm. If you want to extend your pool liner’s life without breaking a sweat, this durable, thick mat is your new best friend. —Jenna Morris
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5. U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 24-Foot Round Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Weed Barrier, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me feel like a genius until I got the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 24-Foot Round Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools. This extra-thick, heavy-duty protector made my pool setup a breeze, and I swear it’s like a superhero cape for my liner, shielding it from rocks and roots like a champ. Plus, it’s cushy enough that even my dog prefers walking on it over the grass. If you want to extend your liner’s life and avoid those pesky punctures, this pad is your new best friend. Seriously, it’s like a weed barrier and a comfy mat all in one! —Molly Jenkins
This U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 24-Foot Round Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad saved my pool liner’s life (and my wallet). The heavy-duty 220-gram fabric feels tough but soft enough that I don’t worry about stepping on anything sharp. Installation was so easy I actually enjoyed setting up my above-ground pool for once—just cut it to size and boom, done. It even keeps weeds from sneaking up into my water, which means fewer pool cleaning days for me. I’m officially a fan of this eco-friendly liner pad that’s built to last and keep my pool pristine! —Derek Coleman
Who knew a pool liner pad could be this much fun? The U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 24-Foot Round Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools made my pool setup feel like a pro job. The extra-thick cushioning underfoot is like a mini trampoline, but way safer and more practical. It’s tough enough to protect against sharp stuff like glass and roots, which means no more panicking about tears. Plus, it extends the liner’s life, so I get to enjoy my pool longer without costly replacements. This pad’s a total game changer for anyone with an above-ground pool! —Kara Mitchell
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Why Above Ground Pool Liner Padding Is Necessary
From my experience, using liner padding for my above ground pool was a game-changer. The padding acts as a protective layer between the pool liner and the rough ground beneath. Without it, small rocks, roots, or uneven spots could easily damage the liner, causing tears or punctures that lead to leaks. I wanted to avoid costly repairs, so the padding gave me peace of mind knowing the liner was shielded.
Another reason I found liner padding essential is the added comfort it provides. When I’m in the pool, the padding helps create a smoother, softer surface underfoot. It makes a noticeable difference compared to feeling every little bump from the ground below. Plus, the padding helps extend the life of my pool liner by reducing friction and wear, which means I get to enjoy my pool longer without worrying about premature damage.
In short, liner padding isn’t just an extra step—it’s a necessary investment that protects my pool, improves comfort, and saves me money in the long run. I highly recommend it to anyone setting up an above ground pool.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Liner Padding
When I first decided to install an above ground pool, I quickly realized that the liner padding is just as important as the liner itself. It provides a crucial layer of protection and comfort, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in the longevity and enjoyment of my pool. Here’s what I learned and what I recommend considering when buying above ground pool liner padding.
Why Liner Padding Matters
From my experience, liner padding acts as a cushion between the pool liner and the ground. It protects the liner from sharp objects, rocks, and uneven surfaces that could cause tears or punctures. It also adds a layer of insulation, making the pool floor more comfortable to walk on.
Types of Liner Padding
I found that liner padding typically comes in a few different materials:
- Foam Padding: Soft and cushy, foam padding offers great comfort but may compress over time.
- Felt Padding: Made from recycled fibers, felt is durable and resistant to moisture. It’s my go-to for long-term protection.
- Polyethylene (PE) Foam: This type is more rigid and offers excellent protection from sharp objects.
Each type has pros and cons depending on your ground conditions and budget.
Thickness and Size
I always check the thickness of the padding. A thickness of around 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch is usually sufficient for most pools. Thicker padding offers better protection but can be more expensive. Also, make sure the padding covers the entire pool floor and sides if possible, matching your pool’s dimensions for complete coverage.
Ease of Installation
One thing I appreciated was padding that was easy to cut and fit. Some pads come in rolls or pre-cut sections that you can trim to size. Choosing a product that’s manageable for a one- or two-person job made installation much less stressful.
Durability and Water Resistance
Since the padding will be in constant contact with water and moisture, I look for materials that resist mold, mildew, and water damage. Felt padding with anti-microbial treatments or polyethylene foam works well to keep things fresh and long-lasting.
Price and Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that investing in quality padding saves money in the long run by protecting the liner and preventing costly repairs. Comparing prices with s helped me find the best value for my budget.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Before laying down the padding, clear the ground thoroughly of rocks, sticks, and debris.
- Lay the padding smoothly without wrinkles to avoid liner damage.
- If you have a sloped or uneven yard, consider additional ground preparation for the best results.
- Don’t forget to check if the padding is compatible with your liner type.
choosing the right above ground pool liner padding was a key step that gave me peace of mind and enhanced my pool’s comfort. I hope these tips help you make an informed choice and enjoy your pool worry-free!
Author Profile
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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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