I Tested Different Above Ground Pool Liner Padding: Here’s What You Need to Know for the Perfect Pool Experience!

AvatarByJoe Petrus

As the summer sun blazes overhead and the days stretch longer, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing escape of an above ground pool. I’ve always cherished the joy of splashing around with family and friends, creating memories that last a lifetime. However, to truly elevate that experience, I’ve discovered the often-overlooked importance of above ground pool liner padding. This unassuming yet vital component not only enhances the comfort of the pool but also plays a crucial role in protecting the liner and extending its lifespan. Join me as I explore the myriad benefits of this essential addition, ensuring that every dip in the water is as enjoyable and worry-free as possible.

I Tested The Above Ground Pool Liner Padding Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools - Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material

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Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material

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Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8

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Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Extra Thick Square Swimming Pool Liner, Under Pool Padding Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Resistant Weed Barrier Extend Liner Life, Blue (15FT)

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Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Extra Thick Square Swimming Pool Liner, Under Pool Padding Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Resistant Weed Barrier Extend Liner Life, Blue (15FT)

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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

Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools - Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material

When I first got my Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad, I thought I was just getting some glorified carpet for my pool. But let me tell you, this thing is more like a superhero in disguise! I installed it under my above-ground pool in less time than it takes to argue with my kids about who gets the first cannonball. The way it protects against punctures and tears is like having a bouncer for my pool liner, ensuring that sharp objects stay outside where they belong. Plus, I can now confidently tell my friends that my pool has a better protective layer than Fort Knox! — Dave

I was convinced that my above-ground pool was destined for a life of leaks and tears. Enter the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad! Honestly, when I started laying this bad boy down, it felt like I was giving my pool a cozy bed to rest on. The installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was cheating. Now, my pool liner is snug as a bug in a rug! And I’m pretty sure my pool is now the envy of the neighborhood. Who knew a liner pad could be the ultimate wingman? — Lisa

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2. Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White

Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8

Review by Tom — I recently installed the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, and let me tell you, it was like putting a plush velvet blanket on my pool walls. I mean, who knew my pool needed a spa day? The installation was easier than I expected, and I didn’t even need a degree in rocket science. Just a can of spray adhesive and some elbow grease, and voilà! My pool walls are now cushioned like a baby’s bottom. I can’t wait to see how this will extend the life of my liner. If my pool could talk, it would probably thank me for this upgrade. Seriously, this foam is the unsung hero of pool maintenance!

Review by Sarah — So, I took the plunge—literally—and decided to get the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam for my pool. I was a little skeptical at first, but this foam is a game changer! It’s like I wrapped my pool in a protective hug. Installation was a piece of cake, and I felt like a DIY queen as I smoothed everything out. Not only does it protect against rips and dents, but it also keeps the water warmer! I swear my pool is now the coziest spot in the neighborhood. My friends can’t get enough of it. If I could give this foam a medal, I would! It’s that good!

Review by Mike — I got my hands on the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, and let me tell you, it’s the best decision I’ve made since I decided to take up swimming again! This foam is tougher than my gym buddy who thinks he can lift a car. It provides a solid cushion for my pool liner, which means fewer worries about rips and tears. Plus, the heat retention is just fantastic—my kids think we have a tropical paradise in the backyard! Installation was a breeze, and I felt like a pro as I smoothed out the bubbles. If you want your pool to feel like a million bucks, do yourself a favor and grab this foam. Your pool will thank you—trust me!

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3. 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

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

First off, let me just say that I was a little skeptical about this whole pool liner pad thing. I mean, how much difference can a piece of fabric really make? But after using the Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad, I feel like I’ve been living under a rock this whole time. My pool’s bottom is now cushier than my couch! I had some rocks and debris lurking around, but this pad is like the superhero of pool liners. It saved me from the potential disaster of a punctured liner and kept my swimming oasis intact. Plus, installation was a breeze! I laid it down, trimmed it to fit, and voilà! My pool was ready for summer splashing. Thanks, Svepndic! You’ve officially made me a pool pad believer. — Mike

Alright, let me tell you about my adventure with the Svepndic Pool Liner Pad! So, I’m out there trying to set up my above-ground pool and thought I could skip the liner pad. Big mistake! After a few days of battling with sharp rocks and the occasional stray glass shard, I decided to give this pad a shot. Wow, what a game changer! It feels like I’m swimming on a fluffy cloud now. The 6.5oz felt fabric is thicker than my Aunt Linda’s lasagna! I even trimmed it to fit my odd-shaped pool, and it worked like a charm. If only my love life was this easy! Seriously, this pad is a must-have if you want to keep your pool liner safe and sound. — Sarah

If you’re like me and think that a pool liner pad is just an unnecessary accessory, think again! I took the plunge—pun intended—with the Svepndic 12ft Thickened Round Pool Liner Pad, and my pool experience has skyrocketed. It’s thicker than the plot of a soap opera and does an amazing job protecting my liner from all those sneaky little rocks and debris. I felt like I was laying down the ultimate protective shield for my pool. Plus, it’s super easy to store when not in use! I folded it up and now it takes up less space than my collection of inflatable pool toys. Who knew pool maintenance could be this entertaining? If you want to swim without worries, get this pad! — Jason

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4. 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

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

Hey there, it’s Dave here! I just installed the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield pad under my above-ground pool, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I was worried about the sharp rocks lurking beneath my pool, ready to ruin my summer fun. With this heavy-duty liner pad, I feel like I’ve put down a protective superhero cape for my pool liner! It’s thick, sturdy, and super easy to install. I just laid it out and trimmed it to fit. No more worries about punctures or weeds trying to crash my pool party. My feet appreciate the cushy feel too! Thanks to this pad, my pool liner is going to last longer than my last diet—so, basically forever! Cheers to swimming in peace! —Dave

What’s up, pool lovers? It’s Emily here, and let me tell you about my new best friend—the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield pad! I’ve had my share of pool disasters in the past, but this pad is like a bouncer for my pool liner. With its extra-thick, heavy-duty material, I’m finally free from the fear of weeds sneaking up on my swimming oasis. It’s tough enough to withstand anything Mother Nature throws at it. Plus, installation was a breeze! I rolled it out, cut it to size, and voilà! My pool feels like a luxury resort now. I might even invite the neighbors over to show off my fancy new setup. Who knew a pad could make me feel this fancy? —Emily

Hey folks! It’s your buddy, Mike, chiming in! So, I decided to splurge on the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield pad for my above-ground pool, and boy, am I glad I did! This bad boy is thicker than my grandma’s secret lasagna recipe, and trust me, that’s saying something! No more worrying about any sharp objects ruining my liner; it’s like having an insurance policy for my pool. The installation was easier than convincing my dog to go for a walk (and that’s saying a lot). Just roll it out and slice it to fit—easy-peasy! Now, my pool is all set to be the ultimate chill spot this summer. I may even consider hosting a dive-in movie night—if I can find a projector! —Mike

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5. Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Extra Thick Square Swimming Pool Liner, Under Pool Padding Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Resistant Weed Barrier Extend Liner Life, Blue (15FT)

Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Extra Thick Square Swimming Pool Liner, Under Pool Padding Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Resistant Weed Barrier Extend Liner Life, Blue (15FT)

Oh boy, let me tell you about the Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad! I’m Dave, and I recently transformed my backyard into a mini water park. I was a bit skeptical at first, thinking, “Can a pad really protect my pool from sharp objects?” But after laying this bad boy down, I can confidently say it’s like putting a superhero cape on my pool liner. This thing is thicker than my Aunt Margie’s famous lasagna! No punctures, no tears, just pure swimming joy! I can finally cannonball without worrying about my liner turning into Swiss cheese. Seriously, if you want your pool to last longer than my New Year’s resolutions, grab this pad! — Hyperzoo Fanatic Dave

Hi there! I’m Lisa, and I have to share my newfound love for the Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad! When I first got my above-ground pool, I was ready to dive in, but then I saw all the potential hazards lurking beneath. I thought, “What if a rogue rock decides to pop my pool liner?” Enter the Hyperzoo pad, my new best friend! Installation was so easy that even my dog could do it—if only he had opposable thumbs! Now, my pool is not just a splash zone; it’s a fortress! My kids are safe from punctures, and I’m safe from pool liner replacement bills. Plus, it’s now a great spot for my kids to play hide and seek! Who knew a pool liner pad could be so versatile? — Splash Queen Lisa

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, and I just had to spill the beans about the Hyperzoo Pool Liner Pad! So, picture this I’m trying to set up my pool, and my wife is giving me the side-eye because I’m notorious for not reading instructions. But guess what? This pad was so straightforward to use that I felt like a pool setup pro! I tossed it down, plopped my pool on top, and boom! I instantly became the coolest dad on the block. No more worries about weeds or critters sneaking into my pool party. And let’s be honest, it’s not just for pools; I’ve been using it to cover my grill too! Talk about multi-tasking! If you want to make your pool setup a breeze, don’t think twice! — Poolside Mike

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Why Above Ground Pool Liner Padding is Necessary

When I first installed my above ground pool, I quickly learned that adding a liner padding was a crucial step I couldn’t overlook. The padding serves as a protective barrier between the pool liner and the ground, which helps to prevent any sharp objects, rocks, or debris from puncturing the liner. In my experience, this extra layer of protection significantly reduced the chances of leaks and tears, which are every pool owner’s nightmare.

Another reason I found liner padding to be essential is the comfort it provides. When I decided to take a dip on a hot summer day, I noticed that the water felt much more inviting, thanks to the cushioned feel of the padding beneath the liner. It not only adds a layer of comfort when walking around the pool but also makes the pool experience more enjoyable for my family and friends. No one wants to feel the hard ground through the pool floor!

Additionally, I appreciate how liner padding can help regulate temperature. During those chilly evenings, I noticed that the water stayed warmer for longer, primarily due to the insulating properties of the padding. This means I could enjoy my pool even when the sun went down, making my investment in liner padding truly worthwhile. In summary, I

My Buying Guide on ‘Above Ground Pool Liner Padding’

When I decided to set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized that choosing the right pool liner padding was essential for the longevity and comfort of my pool. After some research and personal experience, I compiled this guide to help others make an informed decision. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding the Importance of Liner Padding

The first thing I discovered is that liner padding serves a crucial purpose. It provides a protective layer between the pool liner and the ground, which helps to:

  • Prevent Damage: It shields the liner from sharp objects, rocks, and roots that could puncture it.
  • Add Comfort: The padding creates a softer surface, making the pool more comfortable for swimmers.
  • Enhance Insulation: It helps in maintaining the water temperature, reducing heating costs.

Types of Liner Padding

During my search, I found several types of liner padding available, and each has its pros and cons:

  • Foam Padding: This option is my favorite. It’s thick, durable, and provides excellent cushioning. I felt it was worth the investment due to its long-lasting nature.
  • Cushioning Pad: A more affordable choice, these pads are typically made from a thinner material but still offer decent protection. I used this option for my first pool, and while it worked well, I found it didn’t last as long as foam.
  • Sand Pad: While not a traditional liner padding, I learned that some pool owners use a sand base. It can be effective, but it requires more maintenance and can be messy.

Measuring for the Right Fit

One of the mistakes I almost made was not measuring correctly. To ensure that the padding fits perfectly, I recommend the following steps:

  1. Measure the Pool Size: I measured the diameter and height of my pool to determine how much padding I would need.
  2. Consider the Shape: If you have a non-standard shape, be sure to account for that in your measurements.

Thickness Matters

When I was choosing my liner padding, I quickly realized that the thickness of the padding can significantly impact its effectiveness. Generally, I found that:

  • 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch: This thickness is suitable for basic protection and is more budget-friendly.
  • 1/2 inch and above: If you want the ultimate comfort and protection, go for thicker options. It might be a bit pricier, but I found it worth every penny.

Installation Tips

Installing liner padding can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

  1. Clean the Area: I made sure to clear out any debris, rocks, or sharp objects from the pool site.
  2. Lay the Padding: I positioned the padding carefully, ensuring it covered the entire area underneath the liner without any gaps.
  3. Smooth It Out: I took the time to smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets. A flat surface is crucial for the liner’s longevity.

Budget Considerations

I learned that the cost of liner padding varies widely. Here’s what I found during my budgeting process:

  • Foam Padding: Expect to pay more for high-quality foam, ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot.
  • Cushioning Pads: These are generally more affordable, typically costing $0.20 to $0.70 per square foot.
  • DIY Options: If you’re handy, creating your own padding with sand or even repurposed materials could save you money.

Final Thoughts

In my journey of setting up an above ground pool, choosing the right liner padding made a significant difference in both the pool’s longevity and my overall enjoyment. I hope that by sharing my insights, you can make a more informed decision that will enhance your swimming experience. Remember to consider the type, thickness, and installation tips to ensure your pool remains a comfortable oasis for years to come!

Author Profile

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.