A lightweight pad system for a climber is disclosed having a bracket with a curved portion in the shape of a “C” and ends including elongate slots for receiving a strap. The bracket has a recessed columnar channel extending below the lower edge of the plane of the plate, the channel forming an angle with the lower edge in a range of between seventy two degrees and seventy five degrees. Hook and loop fastener is affixed to the “C” shaped plate between a first end and the channel, and a strap passes through the bracket for adjusting the fit of the pad assembly. Inside the bracket is a removable pad having a “C” shape corresponding with the curved plate, the removable pad having a back surface comprising complimentary hook and loop fastening material cooperating with the first hook and loop fastener material to achieve a releasable attachment with the bracket.