How to Install Outdoor Stadium Wall Pads

Posted on March 26, 2025 by Customer Service

At AK Athletics, we specialize in custom, high-quality baseball and softball stadium wall pads, using durable materials designed for long-lasting performance. Our pads are built to withstand the elements and can be customized to display sponsor logos with vibrant, eco-friendly UV inks.

Since every field is unique, we make each wall pad to order based on your specific measurements. This blog is designed to guide you through the process of installing your outdoor stadium wall pads. Whether you’re outfitting a professional field or a local diamond, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to ensure a smooth, professional installation.

Step 1: Get Started with Z-Clips

The foundation of any successful installation starts with understanding the Z-clips. These clips are what hold your pads securely to the wall.

Each pad comes with two matching Z-clips: one on the pad and one on the wall.

Clip Orientation: It’s crucial to attach the Z-clips in the correct direction to ensure your pads are supported properly.

The clip on the wall should face up, while the clip on the pad should face down. The curved ends of the Z-clips are your guide—this curve helps with attachment and removal and ensures a perfect fit. When you install the clips, they should overlap by about one inch for a tight, secure fit.

Step 2: Creating Your Baseline

The key to a professional, polished look is accuracy. Here’s how to set up your wall for perfect pad installation:

1. Positioning Your Pads: Start by hanging the pads about 3 inches above the ground. This will prevent wrinkles in the padding, allow water to drain out through the weep holes at the bottom of the pads, and give the installation a clean, sleek appearance.
2. Marking Your Baseline: Use a chalk line to draw a horizontal baseline along the bottom of your wall where the padding will start. This line should be parallel to the ground, so take extra care to use a level to ensure it’s straight.
3. Top Line: Once the baseline is set, create a second line marking where the top of the wall padding should go. This is key for ensuring that your pads are aligned correctly from top to bottom.
4. Place Your Z-Clips: Next, attach the Z-clips to the wall, one near the top and one near the bottom of the wall’s padded area. Install clips at 20-foot intervals for consistent alignment.

Step 3: Installing Z-Clips on the Pads

Now that you’ve set the wall clips, it’s time to attach the Z-clips to the pads: 

1. Find the Weep Hole: Each pad has a weep hole at the bottom for drainage. Lay the pad flat with the backside facing up.
2. Measure and Mark: Use a permanent marker to measure from the bottom of the pad to the location where the Z-clip will be placed. Add an additional 2 ¾ inches to ensure proper clip placement.
3. Attach Z-Clips: Using ⅜” screws, attach the Z-clips to the marked spots on the pad. Repeat this for both the top and bottom clips.
4. Hang the Pads: Once the Z-clips are secured to the pads, hang them on the pre-installed Z-clips on the wall. Be sure that the mounting hardware is hidden behind the pad for a clean, professional finish.

Why Choose AK Athletics?

Each field is unique, which is why we don’t offer off-the-shelf pads. When you’re ready to get started, simply send us the measurements of your field, making sure to note any 45-degree turns or poles that need padding. Our sales team will provide you with a personalized estimate within 30 days.

- Quality Materials: Every pad is handcrafted at our warehouse in Ohio, using premium materials for long-lasting durability.

- Customization: We tailor each pad to your field’s exact measurements, ensuring a perfect fit. With limitless color options and design choices, we can help make your pads safe and stylish.

- Professional Look: Our eco-friendly UV ink printing helps you showcase your sponsors with vibrant, fade-resistant colors.

- Easy Installation: Our simple Z-clip system ensures a secure fit and easy setup.

Whether you're outfitting a new field or updating an existing one, AK Athletics has the custom wall padding solutions you need. Our attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and customer-first approach ensure that your field looks professional and performs at its best. Let us help you create a safer, more impressive venue with our custom-made baseball and softball wall pads.

Ready to get started? Contact us today with your field measurements, and we’ll provide you with a personalized estimate!

Posted in Athletic Padding, baseball, outdoor padding, Wall Pads

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