View source for No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls

{{Infobox album
| name         = No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls
| type         = studio
| artist       = [[Simple Plan]]
| cover        = Nopads.jpg
| alt          = The band members partying in a hotel room with several women
| released     = March 19, 2002
| recorded     = 
| studio       = {{hlist|Arnyard|Select Sound|Studio West}}
| genre        = <!-- Do not remove sourced genres --> [[Pop-punk]] <!-- sourced in prose -->
| length       = 43:13
| label        = *[[Lava Records|Lava]]
*[[Atlantic Records|Atlantic]]
| producer     = [[Arnold Lanni]]
| next_title   = [[Still Not Getting Any...]]
| next_year    = 2004
| misc         = {{Singles
 | name        = No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls
 | type        = studio
 | single1     = [[I'm Just a Kid]]
 | single1date = February 4, 2002
 | single2     = [[I'd Do Anything (Simple Plan song)|I'd Do Anything]]
 | single2date = September 16, 2002
 | single3     = [[Addicted (Simple Plan song)|Addicted]]
 | single3date = February 24, 2003
 | single4     = [[Perfect (Simple Plan song)|Perfect]]
 | single4date = August 25, 2003
}}
}}
'''''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls''''' is the debut studio album by Canadian [[Rock music|rock]] band [[Simple Plan]]. Formed by members of [[Reset (Canadian band)|Reset]], Simple Plan spent over a year recording their first album with producer [[Arnold Lanni]]. It is a [[pop-punk]] record that revolves around being an outcast, drawing comparisons to [[Blink-182]], [[Good Charlotte]] and [[New Found Glory]]. After signing with major label [[Atlantic Records]], "[[I'm Just a Kid]]" was released as a single in February 2002, with ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' following on March 19. It received a mixed reaction from [[Music journalism|music critics]], with some commenting on the lack of originality and others praising the production.

They promoted it with supporting slots for [[Sugar Ray]], Blink-182, [[Green Day]] and short stint on [[Warped Tour]]. Between support slots for Good Charlotte and [[the Mighty Mighty Bosstones]], "[[I'd Do Anything (Simple Plan song)|I'd Do Anything]]" was released as a single. Preceded by the single release of "[[Addicted (Simple Plan song)|Addicted]]", the band supported [[Avril Lavigne]], before appearing on Warped Tour again. Their fourth and final single "[[Perfect (Simple Plan song)|Perfect]]" was followed by radio festivals and a co-headlining tour with [[MxPx]] in early 2004.

==Background and production==
In 1993, vocalist/guitarist Pierre Bouvier and drummer Chuck Comeau formed punk rock band [[Reset (Canadian band)|Reset]] when they were both 13. The group would later tour Canada with the likes of [[Face to Face (punk band)|Face to Face]], [[Ten Foot Pole]] and [[MxPx]].<ref name=AMbio>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/simple-plan-mn0000049062/biography|title=Simple Plan {{!}} Biography & History|publisher=AllMusic|author=Wilson, MacKenzie|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=May 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517055610/https://www.allmusic.com/artist/simple-plan-mn0000049062/biography|url-status=live}}</ref> They released their debut album ''No Worries'' in 1997;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greenland.ca/reset_bio.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19981202173515/http://www.greenland.ca/reset_bio.html|title=Reset|publisher=Greenland|archive-date=December 2, 1998|access-date=August 22, 2020}}</ref> unhappy with the musical direction, Comeau left to attend college.<ref name=CAReset/> Reset released their follow-up, ''No Limits'' in 1999.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Limits|others=[[Reset (Canadian band)|Reset]]|year=1999|type=sleeve|publisher=2112 Records|id=TOT-15-2}}</ref> Later in the year, Comeau formed a new band with guitarists Jeff Stinco and Sebastien Lefebvre. Bouvier was going tired of being both a singer and a guitarist; he met Comeau again in late 1999 and joined the latter's new band.<ref name=AMbio/> For some time, Bouvier switched between the new group and Reset, before ultimately leaving the latter.<ref name=CAReset/>

Bassist David Desrosiers briefly filled Bouvier's position in Reset, which impressed Bouvier and Comeau. Desrosiers was interested in joining another band.<ref name=CAReset/> when he was asked to join the new outfit. As they began touring, they went under the name Simple Plan, and appeared on the 2001 [[Warped Tour]].<ref name=AMbio/> The band rehearsed material at Rumble Fish Studios, before recording at Arnyard Studios in Toronto, Ontario. [[Arnold Lanni]] produced the sessions; he and Ziad Al-Hillal handled recording.<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet/> There were a number of occasions where Lanni would leave Stinco in charge of recording for a few days at a time, only for him to come back and a scrap everything he did.<ref name=AltPoral>{{cite web|url=https://www.altpress.com/features/simple_plan_oral_history_no_pads_no_helmets_just_balls/|title=Simple Plan tell the real story behind 'No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'|work=Alternative Press|author=AltPress|date=May 18, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=October 31, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191031135235/https://www.altpress.com/features/simple_plan_oral_history_no_pads_no_helmets_just_balls/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Additional recording was done at Select Sound (in Buffalo, New York) and Studio West (in San Diego, California) with Angelo Caruso. The sessions lasted a year to a year-and-a-half,<ref name=AltPoral/> eventually concluding in February 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/2786/simple-plan-launches-invasion|title=Simple Plan launches Invasion|publisher=Punknews.org|author=White, Adam|date=February 13, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075756/https://www.punknews.org/article/2786/simple-plan-launches-invasion|url-status=live}}</ref> Bouvier said the long process was due to a clash of opinions between the band and Lanni: "He came from a different world than we did, and he wanted to push the quirky, pop side of what we were doing. We were more of the pop-punk guys that wanted to keep it a little more simple."<ref name=AltPoral/> Lanni wanted Bouvier to sound more whiny, which Lanni felt would help the band sound more unique; Bouvier later regretted this.<ref name=AltPoral/> Caruso, Al-Hillal and Dom Condo did digital editing, before the tracks were mastered by George Marino at Sterling Sound in New York City.<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet/>

==Composition==
Musically, ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' has been described as [[pop-punk]],<ref name=IGNreview2/> drawing comparisons to [[Blink-182]],<ref name=Melodicreview/> [[Good Charlotte]] and [[New Found Glory]].<ref name=Exclaimreview/> The album's predominant theme revolves around being an outcast.<ref name=Kludgeinterview>{{cite web|url=http://ekmag.com:80/interviews.php?id=115|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040131152955/http://ekmag.com/interviews.php?id=115|title=Interview: Simple Plan|work=Kludge|author=Perez, Arturo|archive-date=January 31, 2004|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The material was written in Comeau's basement; Bouvier said they wanted every track to have "[l]ots of power, energy and catchiness."<ref name=CAReset>{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2002/06/07/simple-plan-invite-you-to-do-anything/|title=Simple Plan: Pressing The Reset Button|work=Chart Attack|author=Carman, Keith|date=May 1, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060219093825/http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2002/05/0112.cfm|archive-date=February 19, 2006}}</ref>

The opening track "I'd Do Anything" was one of the first songs written for inclusion on the album,<ref name=MTVAnything/> and includes [[Mark Hoppus]] of Blink-182 doing back-up vocals.<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet/> The members had become friends with Blink-182 when Reset opened a show for them in 1997, and subsequently stayed in contact. The narrator reminisces about a girl from high school later in life, and wondering if life would be different if they stayed with her.<ref name=MTVAnything>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1458187/simple-plan-the-little-devil-on-mark-hoppus-shoulder/|title=Simple Plan — The Little Devil On Mark Hoppus' Shoulder|publisher=MTV|author=Wiederhorn, Jon|date=October 17, 2002|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075756/http://www.mtv.com/news/1458187/simple-plan-the-little-devil-on-mark-hoppus-shoulder/|url-status=dead}}</ref> It is followed by "The Worst Day Ever", which sees Bouvier talk about the worst day he's experienced.<ref name=IGNreview/> [[Joel Madden]] of Good Charlotte provided back-up vocals for "You Don't Mean Anything".<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet/> Bouvier said he and Comeau wrote "I'm Just a Kid" about how they felt when they attending high school, namely "feel[ing] like it's the end of the world".<ref name=MTVKid>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1452319/alienation-lands-simple-plan-on-movie-soundtrack-warped-tour/|title=Alienation Lands Simple Plan On Movie Soundtrack, Warped Tour|publisher=MTV|author=Wiederhorn, Jon|date=February 14, 2002|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=July 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702162547/http://www.mtv.com/news/1452319/alienation-lands-simple-plan-on-movie-soundtrack-warped-tour/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Lanni contributed piano to "Meet You There".<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet/> With "My Alien", the narrator divulges his relationship with an extraterrestrial.<ref name=IGNreview2>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/28/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls?page=2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822001143/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/28/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls?page=2|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls (page 2)|publisher=IGN|author=JR|date=September 28, 2004|archive-date=August 22, 2013|access-date=August 22, 2020}}</ref> Discussing the closing track "Perfect", Bouvier said it was about parents wanting and expecting a lot from their children, such as pushing them into careers they don't want.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.teenpeople.com:80/teenpeople/stars/tuned/0,8104,365054,00.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021215181415/http://www.teenpeople.com/teenpeople/stars/tuned/0,8104,365054,00.html|title=Tuned In Simple Plan|work=Teen People|author=Shultz, Cara Lynn|archive-date=December 15, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Release==
Partway through the recording sessions, they signed to major label [[Atlantic Records]] in October 2001.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/2056/simple-plan-sign-with-atlantic|title=Simple Plan sign with Atlantic|publisher=Punknews.org|author=White, Adam|date=October 3, 2001|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075756/https://www.punknews.org/article/2056/simple-plan-sign-with-atlantic|url-status=live}}</ref> "I'm Just a Kid" was released as a single on February 4, 2002.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Going for Adds|magazine=[[Radio & Records]]|issue=1438|page=32|date=February 1, 2002}}</ref> The CD version included "One by One" and "Grow Up" as extra tracks.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=I'm Just a Kid|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava/Atlantic Records|id=7567-85260-2}}</ref> The band wanted "Addicted" as the first single, however, due to a film opportunity, "I'm Just a Kid" was chosen instead;<ref name=AltPoral2>{{cite web|url=https://www.altpress.com/features/simple_plan_oral_history_no_pads_no_helmets_just_balls/2/|title=Simple Plan tell the real story behind 'No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls' (page 2)|work=Alternative Press|author=AltPress|date=May 18, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075810/https://www.altpress.com/features/simple_plan_oral_history_no_pads_no_helmets_just_balls/2/|url-status=live}}</ref> it ultimately appeared on the soundtrack for ''The New Guy''.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=I'm Just a Kid|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava/Atlantic Records|id=PRCD 300754}}</ref> The song's music video was directed by Smith N' Borin; it features [[DJ Qualls]] and [[Eliza Dushku]] (both of whom appear in ''The New Guy''). The clip shows the pair dating, which ties into ''The New Guy'', while the band attempts to impress Dushku.<ref name=MTVKid/>

''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' was released on March 19 through [[Lava Records|Lava]] and Atlantic Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls-japan-bonus-track-mr0001424373|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls [Japan Bonus Track] - Simple Plan {{!}} Release Credits|publisher=AllMusic|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075814/https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls-japan-bonus-track-mr0001424373|url-status=live}}</ref> Various countries and territories had different bonus tracks: Australia and Japan ("One by One" and "Grow Up"),<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava/Atlantic Records|id=7567931262}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava/Atlantic Records|id=AMCY-10026}}</ref> the US ("Grow Up" and "My Christmas List"),<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=83617-2}}</ref> and Europe ("Grow Up" and a live cover of "American Jesus" by [[Bad Religion]]).<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=Simple Plan|year=2003|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=7567 93200-2}}</ref> On June 8, a music video was filmed for "I'd Do Anything" in Toronto, Canada,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2002/06/07/simple-plan-invite-you-to-do-anything/|title=Simple Plan Invite You To Do Anything|work=Chart Attack|date=March 19, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180228202103/http://www.chartattack.com/news/2002/06/07/simple-plan-invite-you-to-do-anything/|archive-date=February 28, 2018}}</ref> and additional filming being done in Cleveland, Ohio with Hoppus.<ref name=MTVAnything/> "I'd Do Anything" was released as a single on September 16.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aria.com.au/Issue655.pdf|title=The ARIA Report: New Releases Singles – Week Commencing 16th September 2002|publisher=[[Australian Recording Industry Association|ARIA]]|page=27|date=September 16, 2002|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20021001140000/http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/23790/20021002-0000/Issue655.pdf|archive-date=October 1, 2002|access-date=March 3, 2022}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> The CD version included "Vacation", a live version of "The Worst Day Ever", and video for "I'd Do Anything".<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=I'd Do Anything|others=Simple Plan|year=2002|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=AT0149CD}}</ref>

The Japanese-exclusive live album ''Live in Japan 2002'' was released on January 21, 2003.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Live in Japan 2002|others=Simple Plan|year=2003|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=WPCR-11437}}</ref> "Addicted" was released as a single on February 24.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Going for Adds|magazine=Radio & Records|issue=1492|page=30|date=February 21, 2003}}</ref> The CD version included a cover of [[Cheap Trick]] song "[[Surrender (Cheap Trick song)|Surrender]]" and the video for "Addicted",<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Addicted|others=Simple Plan|year=2003|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=AT0158CD1}}</ref> while the 7" vinyl version included "Surrender" and a demo of "One by One".<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Addicted|others=Simple Plan|year=2003|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=7567-88139-7}}</ref> The track's music video was directed by Smith N' Borin. In the clip, the band destroy possessions in a room, and ends with an explosion, inspired by an effect in ''[[The Natural (film)|The Natural]]'' (1984).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1476942/sizing-up-the-money-shots-of-50-cent-sean-paul-and-others/|title=Sizing Up The Money Shots Of 50 Cent, Sean Paul And Others|publisher=MTV|author=Moss, Corey|date=August 18, 2003|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=June 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170614143426/http://www.mtv.com/news/1476942/sizing-up-the-money-shots-of-50-cent-sean-paul-and-others/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

"Perfect" was released as a single on August 25, 2003.<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Going for Adds|magazine=Radio & Records|issue=1518|page=28|date=August 25, 2003}}</ref> The CD version included an acoustic version of "Perfect" and a cover of [[the Turtles]]' "[[Happy Together (song)|Happy Together]]".<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Perfect|others=Simple Plan|year=2004|type=sleeve|publisher=Lava Records|id=AT0175CD}}</ref> The song's video was directed by [[Liz Friedlander]], and sees the group playing on the roof of a house in the rain.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1476720/simple-plan-rock-the-roof-under-their-feet-in-perfect/|title=Simple Plan Rock The Roof Under Their Feet In 'Perfect'|publisher=MTV|author=Moss, Corey|date=August 12, 2003|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075835/http://www.mtv.com/news/1476720/simple-plan-rock-the-roof-under-their-feet-in-perfect/|url-status=dead}}</ref> On November 25, the video album ''A Big Package for You: 1999–2003'' was released;<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/a-big-package-for-you-1999-2003-mr0001943794|title=A Big Package for You: 1999-2003 - Simple Plan {{!}} Release Credits|publisher=AllMusic|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075830/https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/a-big-package-for-you-1999-2003-mr0001943794|url-status=live}}</ref> it contained footage from the recording of the album and various home videos, alongside the music videos for "I'm Just a Kid", "I'd Do Anything", "Addicted" and "Perfect".<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=A Big Package for You: 1999–2003|others=Simple Plan|year=2003|type=sleeve|publisher=[[Warner Music Vision]]|id=8536-53139-2}}</ref>

The album was included in a package with ''[[Get Your Heart On!]]'' (2011) in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/get-your-heart-on-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-mr0004174438|title=Get Your Heart On/No Pads No Helmets Just Balls - Simple Plan {{!}} Release Credits|publisher=AllMusic|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075838/https://www.allmusic.com/album/release/get-your-heart-on-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-mr0004174438|url-status=live}}</ref> In March and April 2017, the band went on a celebratory 15-year anniversary tour for the album in the US.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.altpress.com/news/simple_plan_announce_15_year_anniversary_no_pads_no_helmets-just_balls_to/|title=Simple Plan announce 15-year anniversary 'No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls' tour|work=Alternative Press|author=Ralph, Caitlyn|date=January 10, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=November 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191108141713/https://www.altpress.com/news/simple_plan_announce_15_year_anniversary_no_pads_no_helmets-just_balls_to/|url-status=live}}</ref> To coincide with this, the album was pressed on vinyl.<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=Simple Plan|year=2017|type=sleeve|publisher=Atlantic Records|id=560075-1}}</ref> It was followed by European leg in May and June,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kerrang.com/the-news/simple-plan-announce-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-anniversary-tour/|title=Simple Plan Announce No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls Anniversary Tour|work=Kerrang!|date=February 10, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075851/https://www.kerrang.com/the-news/simple-plan-announce-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-anniversary-tour/|url-status=live}}</ref> a second US stint in August and September,<ref name=AltPoral2/> and Australia<ref>{{cite web|url=https://themusic.com.au/news/simple-plan-announce-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-15th-anniversary-aussie-tour/EqIFBAcGCQg/11-01-18/|title=Simple Plan Announce 'No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls' 15th Anniversary Aus Tour|work=The Music|date=January 10, 2018|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075848/https://themusic.com.au/news/simple-plan-announce-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-15th-anniversary-aussie-tour/EqIFBAcGCQg/11-01-18/|url-status=live}}</ref> and New Zealand in April 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1801/S00049/simple-plan-bring-15th-anniversary-world-tour-to-nz-in-april.htm|title=Simple Plan bring 15th anniversary world tour to NZ in april|work=Scoop|date=January 11, 2018|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075854/https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1801/S00049/simple-plan-bring-15th-anniversary-world-tour-to-nz-in-april.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> A 15th anniversary edition of the album was released, featuring several bonus tracks: "One by One", "Grow Up", "Happy Together", "Vacation", live versions of "Addicted" and "Perfect", and an acoustic version of "Perfect".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-15th-anniversary-tour-edition/1355149359|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200823105328/https://music.apple.com/us/album/no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-15th-anniversary-tour-edition/1355149359|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls (15th Anniversary Tour Edition) by Simple Plan|publisher=Apple Music|archive-date=August 23, 2020|access-date=August 23, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> "I'm Just a Kid" saw a resurgence in popularity in 2020 due to a [[List of Internet phenomena#Challenges|challenge]] on the social media platform [[TikTok]] that involves family members re-creating childhood photos.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://time.com/5821238/im-just-a-kid-challenge-explained/|title=Families Travel Back in Time With Childhood Photos for the 'I'm Just a Kid' Challenge|magazine=[[Time (magazine)|Time]]|last=Locker|first=Melissa|date=April 15, 2020|access-date=April 17, 2020|archive-date=April 16, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200416232941/https://time.com/5821238/im-just-a-kid-challenge-explained/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Touring==
Following the album's release, the band promoted it with a supporting slot for [[Sugar Ray]].<ref name=Kludgeinterview/> In June, the band supported Blink-182 and [[Green Day]] on their co-headlining North American tour [[Pop Disaster Tour|Pop Disaster]].<ref name=PNWarped>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/3298/simple-plan-added-to-pop-disaster-warped|title=Simple Plan added to Pop Disaster, Warped|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=April 16, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075854/https://www.punknews.org/article/3298/simple-plan-added-to-pop-disaster-warped|url-status=live}}</ref> In August, the band appeared on a handful of 2002 Warped Tour dates.<ref name=PNWarped/> Throughout the tour, the band were accused of [[selling out]] due to their commercial appeal.<ref name=AltPoral2/> Following this, the group toured Australia and New Zealand for two weeks before returning to the US, where they played with Good Charlotte for two weeks.<ref name=Kludgeinterview/> On September 20 and October 8, Simple Plan performed on ''[[Total Request Live]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/4254/bands-on-tv-week-of-9-16-02|title=Bands on TV - week of 9/16/02|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=September 16, 2002|accessdate=February 28, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/4410/bands-on-tv-week-of-10-7-02|title=Bands on TV - week of 10/7/02|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=October 7, 2002|accessdate=February 28, 2021}}</ref> They played in Canada,<ref name=Kludgeinterview/> prior to a US support slot for [[the Mighty Mighty Bosstones]] in November and December.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/4226/tours-mm-bosstones-bigwig-hit-the-road-in-november|title=M.M Bosstones, Bigwig hit the road in November|publisher=Punknews.org|author=White, Adam|date=September 12, 2002|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075852/https://www.punknews.org/article/4226/tours-mm-bosstones-bigwig-hit-the-road-in-november|url-status=live}}</ref> Later in December, the band performed on ''Total Request Live'' and ''[[Sports Unlimited]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/4785/bands-on-tv-week-of-12-2-02|title=Bands on TV - week of 12/2/02|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=December 2, 2002|accessdate=March 3, 2021}}</ref>

In January and February 2003, the group appeared on ''[[Late Night with Conan O'Brien]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/5181/bands-on-tv-week-of-1-27-03|title=Bands on TV - week of 1/27/03|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=January 27, 2003|accessdate=March 4, 2021}}</ref> and ''[[Jimmy Kimmel Live!]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/5229/bands-on-tv-week-of-2-3-03|title=Bands on TV - week of 2/3/03|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=February 3, 2003|accessdate=March 4, 2021}}</ref> In March 2003, the band toured the US, with [[Gob (band)|Gob]] and Madcap,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/5468/madcap-lineup-change-tour-dates|title=Madcap Lineup Change, Tour Dates|publisher=Punknews.org|author=White, Adam|date=March 5, 2003|accessdate=March 4, 2021}}</ref> and performed on ''[[The Tonight Show with Jay Leno]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/5514/bands-on-tv-week-of-3-10-03|title=Bands on TV - week of 3/10/03|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=March 10, 2003|accessdate=March 4, 2021}}</ref> In April and May 2003, the band supported [[Avril Lavigne]] on her Try to Shut Me Up! Tour in the US.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1459744/for-the-record-quick-news-on-pink-avril-lavigne-simple-plan-pete-yorn-grandmaster-flash-third-eye-blind-more/|title=For The Record: Quick News On Pink, Avril Lavigne, Simple Plan, Pete Yorn, Grandmaster Flash, Third Eye Blind & More|publisher=MTV|author=MTV News Staff|date=January 29, 2003|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075903/http://www.mtv.com/news/1459744/for-the-record-quick-news-on-pink-avril-lavigne-simple-plan-pete-yorn-grandmaster-flash-third-eye-blind-more/|url-status=dead}}</ref> From June to August, the group went on the 2003 Warped Tour.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1459529/used-simple-plan-rancid-distillers-on-warped-tour-03/|title=Used, Simple Plan, Rancid, Distillers On Warped Tour '03|publisher=MTV|author=Staff|date=January 14, 2003|access-date=June 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160302210534/http://www.mtv.com/news/1459529/used-simple-plan-rancid-distillers-on-warped-tour-03/|archive-date=2016-03-02|url-status=dead}}</ref> On August 12, the band appeared on ''Total Request Live'' again.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/6799/bands-on-tv-week-of-8-11-03|title=Bands on TV - week of 8/11/03|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=August 11, 2003|accessdate=March 10, 2021}}</ref> Following the release of ''A Big Package'', the group played a handful of radio festivals in December,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1479753/simple-plan-compile-their-stupidities-in-one-big-package/|title=Simple Plan Compile Their Stupidities In One 'Big Package'|publisher=MTV|author=D'Angelo, Joe|date=October 14, 2003|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=August 24, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200824075910/http://www.mtv.com/news/1479753/simple-plan-compile-their-stupidities-in-one-big-package/|url-status=dead}}</ref> and a handful of shows with [[Jersey (band)|Jersey]], Gob, and Don't Look Down.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/7741/tours-jersey-and-alexisonfire-touring-minus-one-guitar|title=Jersey & Alexisonfire touring, minus one guitar|publisher=Punknews.org|author=White, Adam|date=November 30, 2003|accessdate=March 14, 2021}}</ref> In January and February 2004, the band embarked on a co-headlining US tour with [[MxPx]]. They were supported by [[Sugarcult]], [[Motion City Soundtrack]] and [[Billy Talent]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://66.227.101.159/news.php|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031209141514/http://66.227.101.159/news.php|title=Sugarcult News|publisher=Sugarcult|archive-date=December 9, 2003|access-date=April 4, 2020}}</ref> Throughout February 2004, Simple Plan appeared on ''[[IMX (TV series)|IMX]]'', ''The Tonight Show with Jay Leno'', and ''Jimmy Kimmel Live!''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/8248/bands-on-tv-week-of-2-2-04|title=Bands on TV - week of 2/2/04|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=February 2, 2004|accessdate=March 22, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.punknews.org/article/8463/bands-on-tv-week-of-2-23-04|title=Bands on TV - week of 2/23/04|publisher=Punknews.org|author=Heisel, Scott|date=February 23, 2004|accessdate=March 23, 2021}}</ref>

==Critical response==
{{Music ratings
| rev1      = [[AllMusic]]
| rev1Score = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name=AMreview>{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls-mw0000658489|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls - Simple Plan {{!}} Songs, Reviews, Credits|publisher=AllMusic|author=Kristel, Todd|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=April 12, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412224755/https://www.allmusic.com/album/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls-mw0000658489|url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev2      = ''[[Chart Attack]]''
| rev2score = Unfavorable<ref name=CAreview>{{cite web|url=http://www.chartattack.com/news/2002/03/19/simple-plan-no-helmets-no-pads-just-balls/|title=CD Reviews: Simple Plan, Sarah Slean, ODB, Blade II OST and many more|work=Chart Attack|author=Guy, Hannah|date=March 19, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051206183955/http://www.chartattack.com/DAMN/2002/03/1901.cfm|archive-date=December 6, 2005}}</ref>
| rev3      = ''[[Exclaim!]]''
| rev3Score = Unfavorable<ref name=Exclaimreview>{{cite web|url=https://exclaim.ca/music/article/simple_plan-no_pads_no_helmets_just|title=Simple Plan No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls|work=Exclaim!|author=Green, Stuart|date=April 1, 2002|access-date=August 22, 2020|archive-date=August 5, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200805061233/https://exclaim.ca/music/article/simple_plan-no_pads_no_helmets_just|url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev4      = [[IGN]]
| rev4Score = 6/10 <ref name=IGNreview>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/28/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104054747/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/28/no-pads-no-helmetsjust-balls|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|publisher=IGN|author=JR|date=September 28, 2004|archive-date=November 4, 2012|access-date=July 19, 2017}}</ref>
| rev5      = ''[[Melodic (magazine)|Melodic]]''
| rev5Score = {{Rating|3|5}} <ref name=Melodicreview>{{cite web|url=http://melodic.net/#!/album/523|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200822075944/http://melodic.net/%23!/album/523|title=Simple Plan - No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls|work=Melodic|author=Winberg, Pär|date=May 8, 2002|archive-date=August 22, 2020|access-date=August 22, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev6      = ''[[Rolling Stone]]''
| rev6Score = {{Rating|2|5}}<ref name=RSreview>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/153426/review/5944233/no_helmets_no_pads_just_balls |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070825094213/http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/153426/review/5944233/no_helmets_no_pads_just_balls|title=No Helmets No Pads... Just Balls : Simple Plan : Review |magazine=Rolling Stone|author=Caramanica, Jon|date=February 25, 2003|archive-date=August 25, 2007|url-status=dead |access-date=August 22, 2020}}</ref>
}}
''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' received mixed reviews from [[Music journalism|music critic]]s. AllMusic reviewer Todd Kristel opened his piece by stating the band didn't have "anything new to say, but at least it sounds like they're having a good time saying it", being "so full of pep and energy".<ref name=AMreview/> The band fails to "break any new ground and doesn't stay revved on all cylinders all the time."<ref name=AMreview/> Pär Winberg of ''[[Melodic (magazine)|Melodic]]'' said he was "so bored" with Blink-182 ripoff acts such as Simple Plan "trying to be funny on the sleeve with a nerd look".<ref name=Melodicreview/> Though the tracks were "so damn good" and the "superb
production" from Lanni gave it a "[g]reat sound all over".<ref name=Melodicreview/> The "lack of originality takes down the grading a bit."<ref name=Melodicreview/> ''[[Exclaim!]]''{{'s}} Stuart Green said the group disseminated a "trite and derivative brand of inoffensive mall punk" in the vein of New Found Glory and Good Charlotte.<ref name=Exclaimreview/> With the aid of Lanni, the tracks were "polished to a glossy finish that will undoubtedly find itself a market."<ref name=Exclaimreview/>

[[IGN]] writer JR viewed it as "harmless bubblegum pop-punk for the junior high set", and said multiple listens of it were "considerably less taxing on the psyche" than his initial impression.<ref name=IGNreview2/> He added that its "shelf-life is remarkably poor and it brings absolutely nothing of consequence to the table".<ref name=IGNreview2/> Hannah Guy of ''[[Chart Attack]]'' said the group "delved into the previously explored-and-pillaged genre of pop-punk", however, they lacked the hooks of their peers.<ref name=CAreview/> It was "pretty lame ó and it'll likely be one of Canadian music's next big exports."<ref name=CAreview/> ''[[Rolling Stone]]''{{'s}} Jon Caramanica wrote that the tracks were "brief, ephemeral, tautly structured, bombastically produced blasts of snotty posing."<ref name=RSreview/> Similar to their peers, the band "insist on balancing their immaturity with excuses for their immaturity".<ref name=RSreview/>

''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' was included on best-of pop-punk album lists by [[A.Side TV]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ontheaside.com/music/the-13-best-albums-from-the-emopop-punk-boom/|title=The 13 best albums from the emo/pop-punk boom|publisher=A.Side TV|author=Rousseau, Rob|date=February 23, 2016|access-date=August 2, 2020|archive-date=February 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180222201340/http://ontheaside.com/music/the-13-best-albums-from-the-emopop-punk-boom/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[BuzzFeed]],<ref name=BuzzFeed>{{cite web|url=https://www.buzzfeed.com/mariasherm/36-pop-punk-albums-you-need-to-hear-before-you-f-ing-die|title=36 Pop Punk Albums You Need To Hear Before You F----ing Die|author1=Sherman, Maria|author2=Broderick, Ryan|work=BuzzFeed|date=July 2, 2013|access-date=July 29, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117141758/http://www.buzzfeed.com/mariasherm/36-pop-punk-albums-you-need-to-hear-before-you-f-ing-die|archive-date=2016-01-17|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Houston Press]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.houstonpress.com/music/full-collapse-the-best-pop-punk-and-emo-albums-of-2002-6779516|title=Full Collapse: The Best Pop-Punk & Emo Albums Of 2002|work=Houston Press|author=Hlavaty, Craig|date=July 1, 2011|access-date=September 5, 2020}}</ref> ''[[Rock Sound]]''<ref>Bird, ed. 2014, p. 69</ref> and ''Rolling Stone''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/50-greatest-pop-punk-albums-122677/simple-plan-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-2002-124586/|title=50 Greatest Pop-Punk Albums|magazine=Rolling Stone|author=Spanos, Brittany |date=November 15, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2020|archive-date=July 4, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704212937/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/50-greatest-pop-punk-albums-122677/simple-plan-no-pads-no-helmets-just-balls-2002-124586/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Cleveland.com]] ranked "I’d Do Anything" at number 31 on their list of the top 100 pop-punk songs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2022/03/the-100-greatest-pop-punk-songs-of-all-time.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303183529/https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2022/03/the-100-greatest-pop-punk-songs-of-all-time.html|title=The 100 greatest pop punk songs of all time|publisher=[[Cleveland.com]]|author=Smith, Troy L.|date=March 2, 2022|archivedate=March 3, 2022|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref>

==Commercial performance==
''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls'' was a commercial success. The album peaked at number 8 on the Canadian Alternative Albums Chart, and was certified double platinum. It also peaked at number 35 on the United States [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]], and at number 2 on the US catalog albums chart.<ref>{{cite magazine | title = Simple Plan Album & Song Chart History | magazine = [[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]| url = {{BillboardURLbyName|artist=simple plan|chart=Billboard 200}} }}</ref> In Australia, it reached number 29.

It was certified [[RIAA certification|double platinum]] in Canada ([[Music Canada]])<ref name=CanPlat/> and the US ([[Recording Industry Association of America]]), denoting shipments of two million copies;<ref name=USplat/> platinum in Australia ([[Australian Recording Industry Association]]);<ref name=AusPlat/> gold in New Zealand ([[Recorded Music NZ]]);<ref name=NZgold/> and silver in the UK ([[British Phonographic Industry]]).<ref name=UKsil/> Similarly, "I'm Just a Kid" was certified platinum in the US,<ref>{{cite certification|region=United States|artist=Simple Plan|accessdate=May 26, 2020}}</ref> and "Perfect" was certified platinum in Australia.<ref name=ariasingles1>{{cite web|url=http://www.aria.com.au/pages/aria-charts-accreditations-singles-2004.htm|title=ARIA Charts > Accreditations > 2004 Singles|publisher=[[Australian Recording Industry Association]]|access-date=April 9, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101205165250/http://aria.com.au/pages/aria-charts-accreditations-singles-2004.htm|archive-date=December 5, 2010|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Track listing==
Track listing per booklet. All songs by Simple Plan, except "Happy Together" written by [[Alan Gordon (songwriter)|Alan Gordon]] and Gary Bonner.<ref name="NPNHJBbooklet" />

{{track listing
| title1 = [[I'd Do Anything (Simple Plan song)|I'd Do Anything]]
| length1 = 3:17
| title2 = The Worst Day Ever
| length2 = 3:27
| title3 = You Don't Mean Anything
| length3 = 2:28
| title4 = [[I'm Just a Kid]]
| length4 = 3:18
| title5 = When I'm with You
| length5 = 2:37
| title6 = Meet You There
| length6 = 4:14
| title7 = [[Addicted (Simple Plan song)|Addicted]]
| length7 = 3:52
| title8 = My Alien
| length8 = 3:08
| title9 = God Must Hate Me
| length9 = 2:44
| title10 = I Won't Be There
| length10 = 3:09
| title11 = One Day
| length11 = 3:15
| title12 = [[Perfect (Simple Plan song)|Perfect]]
| length12 = 4:37
| title13 = My Christmas List (Hidden Track)
| length13 = 3:27
| total_length = 43:13
}}'''15th Anniversary Tour Edition'''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-01-10 |title=Simple Plan announce 15-year anniversary 'No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls' tour |url=https://www.altpress.com/news/simple_plan_announce_15_year_anniversary_no_pads_no_helmets-just_balls_to/ |access-date=2022-05-06 |website=Alternative Press Magazine |language=en}}</ref>
{{Track listing
| title13 = One by One
| length13 = 3:23
| title14 = Grow Up
| length14 = 2:33
| title15 = Happy Together
| length15 = 2:35
| title16 = Addicted (Live from California 2017)
| length16 = 4:20
| title17 = Vacation
| length17 = 2:31
| title18 = Perfect (Live from California 2017)
| length18 = 5:03
| title19 = Perfect (Acoustic Version)
| length19 = 4:07
| total_length = 63:58
}}

==Personnel==
Personnel per booklet.<ref name=NPNHJBbooklet>{{cite AV media notes|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|others=[[Simple Plan]]|year=2002|type=booklet|publisher=[[Lava Records|Lava]]/[[Atlantic Records]]|id=CD93119}}</ref>
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
'''Simple Plan'''
* [[Pierre Bouvier]]{{spaced ndash}}lead vocals
* [[Chuck Comeau]]{{spaced ndash}}drums
* David Desrosiers{{spaced ndash}}bass, backing vocals
* [[Sébastien Lefebvre]]{{spaced ndash}}guitar, backing vocals
* Jeff Stinco{{spaced ndash}}guitar

'''Additional musicians'''
* [[Mark Hoppus]]{{spaced ndash}}back-up vocals <small>(track 1)</small>
* [[Joel Madden]]{{spaced ndash}}back-up vocals <small>(track 3)</small>
* [[Arnold Lanni]]{{spaced ndash}}piano <small>(track 6)</small>
{{col-2}}
'''Production'''
* Arnold Lanni{{spaced ndash}}producer, mixing, recording
* Ziad Al-Hillal{{spaced ndash}}recording, digital editing
* Angelo Caruso{{spaced ndash}}additional recording, digital editing
* Dom Condo{{spaced ndash}}digital editing
* George Marino{{spaced ndash}}mastering
* Simple Plan{{spaced ndash}}concept, layout
* F. Scott Schafer{{spaced ndash}}photography
* Lynn Kowalewski{{spaced ndash}}art direction
{{col-end}}

==Charts==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}

=== Weekly charts ===
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center"
|+Weekly chart performance for ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls''
! scope="col"| Chart (2002–2005)
! scope="col"| Peak<br />position
|-
{{album chart|Australia|29|artist=Simple Plan|album=No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls|rowheader=true|access-date=June 11, 2021}}
|-
!scope="row"| [[Canadian Albums Chart|Canadian Albums]] ([[Billboard (magazine)|''Billboard'']])<ref>{{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20040902002102/http://www.jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/prev_032802_ALBUMS.html|archivedate=September 2, 2004|url=http://www.jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/prev_032802_ALBUMS.html|title=Top 100 Albums: March 28, 2002|website=[[Jam!]]|accessdate=November 18, 2023}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"| 22
|-
!scope="row"|Canadian Alternative Albums (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20020425180637/http://www.sunmedia.ca/JamMusicCharts/ALTERNATIVE.html|archivedate=April 25, 2002|url=http://www.sunmedia.ca/JamMusicCharts/ALTERNATIVE.html|title=Top 50 Alternative Albums|website=[[Jam!]]|accessdate=November 21, 2023}}</ref>
| 8
|-
!scope="row"| [[Oricon Albums Chart|Japanese Albums]] ([[Oricon]])<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oricon.co.jp/prof/299299/products/480085/1/|title=Simple Plan - Simple Plan|publisher=[[Oricon]]|language=ja|access-date=March 11, 2023}}</ref>
| 20
|-
{{album chart|New Zealand|5|artist=Simple Plan|album=No Pads, No Helmets... Just Balls|rowheader=true|access-date=June 11, 2021}}
|-
! scope="row"| [[UK Albums Chart|UK Albums]] ([[Official Charts Company|OCC]])<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.zobbel.de/cluk/CLUK_S.HTM|title=Chart Log UK: 1994–2010|publisher=Zobbel.de|access-date=March 11, 2023}}</ref>
| 179
|-
! scope="row"| [[Lists of UK Rock & Metal Singles and Albums Charts number ones|UK Rock & Metal Albums]] ([[Official Charts Company|OCC]])<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/rock-and-metal-albums-chart/20030629/112/|title=Official Rock & Metal Albums Chart Top 40|publisher=[[Official Charts Company]]|date=June 29, 2003|access-date=March 11, 2023}}</ref>
| 24
|-
{{album chart|Billboard200|35|artist=Simple Plan|rowheader=true|access-date=June 11, 2021}}
|}
{{col-2}}

=== Year-end charts ===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center"
|+Year-end chart performance for ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls''
!Chart (2002)
!Position
|-
! scope="row"|Canadian Albums (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20040812030723/http://www.jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/200-1_2002.html|archivedate=August 12, 2004|url=http://www.jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/200-1_2002.html|title=Top 200 Albums of 2002 (based on sales)|website=[[Jam!]]|accessdate=March 24, 2022}}</ref>
|88
|-
!scope="row"|Canadian Alternative Albums (''Billboard'')<ref name = "CANALTYE02">{{cite web|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20031204012816/http://jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/2002_alt.html|archivedate=December 4, 2003|url=http://jamshowbiz.com/JamMusicCharts/2002_alt.html|title=Canada's Top 200 Alternative albums of 2002|website=[[Jam!]]|accessdate=March 26, 2022}}</ref>
| 25
|-
! scope="col"| Chart (2003)
! scope="col"| Position
|-
! scope="row"| US ''Billboard'' 200<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2003/top-billboard-200-albums|title=Top Billboard 200 Albums – Year-End 2003|magazine=Billboard|access-date=June 11, 2021}}</ref>
| 70
|-
! scope="col"| Chart (2004)
! scope="col"| Position
|-
! scope="row"| US ''Billboard'' 200<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2004/top-billboard-200-albums|title=Top Billboard 200 Albums – Year-End 2004|magazine=Billboard|access-date=June 11, 2021}}</ref>
| 120
|}
{{col-end}}

== Certifications ==
{{Certification Table Top
|caption=Certifications for ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls''}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Australia|type=album|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|artist=Simple Plan|award=Platinum|certyear=2005|relyear=2003|refname=AusPlat}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Canada|type=album|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|artist=Simple Plan|award=Platinum|number=2|certyear=2005|relyear=2003|refname=CanPlat}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Japan|type=album|title=Simple Plan|artist=Simple Plan|award=Gold|relyear=2002|certyear=2003|certmonth=3}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=New Zealand|type=album|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|artist=Simple Plan|award=Gold|certyear=2005|relyear=2003|id=2004-04-16|source=newchart|access-date=2024-11-20|refname=NZgold}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United Kingdom|type=album|title=No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls|artist=Simple Plan|award=Silver|certyear=2017|relyear=2003|id=14406-4442-2|refname=UKsil}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United States|type=album|title=No Pads, No Helmets|artist=Simple Plan|award=Platinum|number=2|certyear=2005|relyear=2003|refname=USplat}}
{{Certification Table Bottom | streaming=true | nosales=true}}

==References==
'''Citations'''
{{reflist}}

'''Sources'''
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite journal|editor1-last=Bird|editor1-first=Ryan|title=The 51 Most Essential Pop Punk Albums of All Time|journal=Rock Sound|date=September 2014|issue=191|publisher=Freeway Press Inc.|location=London|issn=1465-0185}}
{{refend}}

==External links==
<!-- This is a licensed stream for the album, which is allowed under Wikipedia polices -->
*[https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFi8Rt2P-6PKYnAgB9xITXUJYPIrDADH7 ''No Pads, No Helmets...Just Balls''] at [[YouTube]] (streamed copy where licensed)

{{Simple Plan}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Simple Plan albums]]
[[Category:2002 debut albums]]
[[Category:Albums produced by Arnold Lanni]]
[[Category:Atlantic Records albums]]
[[Category:Lava Records albums]]