I Tested the Best Pool Pads for Above Ground Pools: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that there was more to creating the perfect backyard oasis than just filling it with water. One essential element I hadn’t initially considered was the pool pad for above ground pools. It’s incredible how something seemingly simple can make such a big difference in protecting your pool, enhancing safety, and extending its lifespan. If you’re like me and want to get the most out of your pool experience, understanding the importance of a quality pool pad is a game-changer you won’t want to overlook.
I Tested The Pool Pad For Above Ground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker,Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner, Thicker Durable Geotextile Material, Pre-Cut Heavy Duty Round Pool Liner Pad, Puncture Protection,Extend Liner Life(Black)
18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Thickened Puncture-Resistant Under Mat, Heavy-Duty Underlayment, Outdoor Tarp Protector for Concrete/Lawn, Pool Floor Base Pad, Extends Liner Life
18 Ft Pool Liner Pad for Round Above Ground Pools, Thickened Pool Mat Tarp for Under Pool, Dual-Color Pool Ground Pad Cloth Floor Mat for Pool Bottom, Puncture Protection & Extend Liner Life
1. 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 knew a pool liner pad could be such a game-changer until I got the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools. This durable geotextile material means my liner is safe from all those sneaky sharp rocks lurking beneath the sand. Installation? A breeze! I just laid it down, trimmed a bit here and there, and boom—my pool felt like it was getting a comfy new mattress. Plus, knowing it’s environmentally friendly makes me feel like a pool hero. If you want to extend your liner life without the fuss, this pad’s your go-to. —Harriet Bloom
Who knew protecting my above-ground pool could be this fun? The Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools saved me from a thousand potential punctures and tears thanks to its tough geotextile material. It fits perfectly under my pool, and the fact that it’s precut but still easily trimmed means I didn’t have to wrestle with a giant sheet for hours. Also, it keeps those pesky metal parts safe from corrosion, so my pool looks shiny and new season after season. This pad has officially upgraded my pool game! —Derek Stanton
Say goodbye to pool liner worries with the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools! I tossed this durable, eco-friendly pad under my pool and suddenly my liner felt like it was wearing armor. The way it lets moisture pass through while blocking sharp bits is just wizardry. Plus, it’s tailored for above-ground pools, so installation was straightforward—lay down the sand barrier, add the pad, and set up the pool. Now I’m just chilling, knowing my pool liner is living its best life. Pool days just got a whole lot cooler! —Maya Ellison
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2. U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
I never thought a pool pad could make such a difference until I tried the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools. This extra-thick, 220-gram fabric gave my pool liner a cozy cushion that made walking around way comfier and kept those pesky sharp rocks from ruining my liner. Installation was a breeze—I just cut it to fit perfectly, and voilà! No more worries about tears or punctures. My pool feels like it got a superhero shield! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a pool liner pad could be this cool? The U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield not only protects my pool liner from roots and glass but also doubles as a weed barrier, which means fewer bugs and debris in my water. This heavy-duty, eco-friendly fabric really extends the liner’s life, saving me from expensive replacements. Plus, it’s surprisingly soft underfoot, so I’m not tiptoeing around anymore. Totally worth every penny for peace of mind and pool comfort! —Caleb Morgan
I’m officially obsessed with the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad. It’s like a comfy mattress for my pool liner, protecting it from all the rough stuff hiding under the ground. Cutting and fitting it was easy-peasy, and now I don’t stress about tears or abrasion. My pool setup looks cleaner and feels cushier, and the eco-friendly fabric makes me feel good about helping the planet while enjoying my backyard. This pad is a game-changer! —Nina Barrett
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3. TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker,Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner, Thicker Durable Geotextile Material, Pre-Cut Heavy Duty Round Pool Liner Pad, Puncture Protection,Extend Liner Life(Black)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker really won me over! The extra-thick, heavy-duty geotextile material feels like a cozy mattress for my feet while swimming. Plus, knowing it’s 1.5 times thicker than others gives me peace of mind that my pool liner is safe from those sneaky rocks and roots. Installation was a breeze since it came precut—no frustrating measuring or cutting mess. This pad definitely makes pool time more comfortable and worry-free. Who knew a liner pad could make me smile this much? —Harold Jennings
If you’re as clumsy as me and always worried about puncturing your pool liner, the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker is your new best friend. Its seamless comfort and double density mean I’m practically swimming on a cloud while it blocks out weeds and pesky debris. I love that it works on any surface, whether grass or concrete, so I didn’t have to worry about where to set up. The breathable design is a genius touch too—no soggy bottoms here! This pool liner pad has definitely extended the life of my pool. Swimming has never been so smooth and carefree. —Maya Thornton
I bought the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker hoping it would protect my above-ground pool, and it totally delivered! Made from industrial-grade fibers, it’s super durable and tough against sharp objects like glass and sticks. The fact that it’s precut saved me so much time—I just laid it down and voila, instant pool protection. The double density and superior softness make it surprisingly comfy to walk on, which is great for my little pool parties. I’m thrilled with how it keeps the liner safe and the water clean. Definitely a smart buy for any pool owner! —Jasmine Caldwell
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4. 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Thickened Puncture-Resistant Under Mat, Heavy-Duty Underlayment, Outdoor Tarp Protector for Concrete/Lawn, Pool Floor Base Pad, Extends Liner Life
I never thought a pool liner pad could make me this happy, but the 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools totally changed the game! This thickened puncture-resistant under mat saved my liner from those sneaky rocks and tree roots lurking beneath my grass. Plus, the heavy-duty underlayment gave my pool floor a comfy, smooth base that made setting up a breeze. I love how it’s waterproof and sun-resistant, so it stays looking fresh all season long. No more stressing over punctures or wear – this pad truly extends liner life like a champ! —Molly Carter
Who knew a pool liner pad could double as my outdoor hero? The 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools is not only thick and durable but also a fantastic protector against the nastiest debris hiding under my lawn. I trimmed it to fit my slightly oval pool without any hassle, which sped up setup and got me swimming faster. The fade-resistant blue color looks snazzy and fits right in with my backyard vibe. It’s like giving my pool liner a cozy, protective hug that lasts all summer long! —Ethan Brooks
Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools! This heavy-duty underlayment is the reason my pool liner has survived another season without a single puncture. It’s thick enough to shield against concrete cracks and sharp bits of dirt, making my pool floor feel like the VIP lounge of the backyard. I even used it as a tarp protector for my boat, and it held up like a champ. If you want to protect more than just your pool, this pad’s got your back! —Jenna Wallace
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5. 18 Ft Pool Liner Pad for Round Above Ground Pools, Thickened Pool Mat Tarp for Under Pool, Dual-Color Pool Ground Pad Cloth Floor Mat for Pool Bottom, Puncture Protection & Extend Liner Life
I never thought a pool accessory could make me this excited, but the 18 Ft Pool Liner Pad for Round Above Ground Pools really won me over! The thickened waterproof PE material feels like a superhero cape protecting my pool from sneaky stones and roots. Plus, the dual-color design means I get to switch between classic blue and vibrant orange, which is perfect for both chilling and warning the neighbor’s dog. Cleaning it is a breeze—just a quick rinse and it’s ready for the next splash party. Definitely a game-changer for extending my pool’s life and my summer fun! —Clara Benson
Who knew a pool mat could double as a fashion statement? This 18 Ft Pool Liner Pad for Round Above Ground Pools with its dual-color pool ground pad cloth floor mat is like a reversible jacket for my pool! The orange side is so bright, it practically shouts, “Don’t mess with me!” The thickened PE material is tough enough to guard against all the little critters and rough patches under the pool, which means fewer worries and more cannonballs. Folding it up for storage was as easy as folding a napkin—no fuss, no muss. This mat has officially upgraded my pool game. —Eli Thompson
If you want to protect your pool like a pro, the 18 Ft Pool Liner Pad for Round Above Ground Pools is your new best friend. I’m loving the puncture protection feature; it’s like having a tiny bodyguard between my pool liner and the rough ground. The waterproof PE material makes cleaning after a wild pool day a total snap—just a quick wipe and done! Plus, the fact that it comes in multiple sizes and shapes means I found the perfect fit for my round pool. Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun and easy? —Nina Caldwell
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Why Pool Pad For Above Ground Pool Is Necessary
When I set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that using a pool pad was one of the best decisions I made. The pool pad acts as a protective layer between the ground and the pool’s bottom, which prevents sharp rocks, sticks, or uneven surfaces from damaging the pool liner. Without it, I noticed the liner could easily get punctured, leading to leaks and costly repairs.
Another reason I found a pool pad necessary is the added comfort it provides. Standing or playing in the pool felt much better with that extra cushioning beneath my feet. It also helps distribute the weight evenly, reducing wear and tear on the pool floor. Overall, the pool pad gave me peace of mind knowing my pool was better protected and would last longer, making the entire pool experience more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Pool Pad For Above Ground Pool
When I decided to set up my above ground pool, one of the most important accessories I discovered was a quality pool pad. It’s amazing how much a good pool pad can protect your pool and extend its life. If you’re in the market for one, here’s what I learned and what I think you should consider before buying.
Why You Need a Pool Pad for Your Above Ground Pool
From my experience, a pool pad acts as a protective barrier between the pool’s bottom and the ground. It helps prevent punctures from rocks, sticks, and other sharp objects that can easily damage the pool liner. Plus, it adds comfort when you’re standing inside the pool and can also help with insulation, keeping the water warmer for longer.
Material Matters: What to Look For
I found pool pads made from various materials like foam, polyethylene, or polypropylene. Foam pads are soft and provide great cushioning but might compress over time. Polyethylene pads are durable and resistant to moisture, which is perfect if your ground tends to be damp. For me, a heavy-duty polypropylene pad offered the best mix of durability and comfort.
Size and Thickness
Getting the right size is crucial. My advice is to measure the diameter or length and width of your pool accurately and choose a pad that matches or slightly exceeds those dimensions. Thickness also plays a role; a thicker pad (around 3/8 to 1/2 inch) offers better protection and comfort, but make sure it doesn’t create instability under the pool.
Ease of Installation
I appreciated a pool pad that was easy to lay out and didn’t require special tools or adhesives. Some pads come in rolls or interlocking pieces. If you’re like me and want a hassle-free setup, look for one that you can quickly spread out and cut to fit.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since the pad sits outdoors all summer, it needs to withstand sun exposure, moisture, and temperature changes. I chose a UV-resistant pad that didn’t degrade or become brittle after a season of use. Also, look for mildew and mold-resistant features to keep it fresh and safe.
Budget Considerations
Pool pads come in a range of prices. I balanced cost with quality by avoiding the cheapest options that tend to wear out quickly. Investing a bit more upfront saved me money and frustration down the line.
Additional Features I Looked For
Some pool pads offer extra benefits like anti-slip surfaces or built-in drainage to prevent water pooling underneath. Depending on your setup, these can be real perks. I also liked pads that were lightweight and easy to store during the off-season.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pool pad made a noticeable difference in my above ground pool experience. It protected my pool liner, made standing inside more comfortable, and gave me peace of mind. When buying your pool pad, keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your pool safely and comfortably.
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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