Alpinestars Alps 2 Knee Pads - Review
Many of the latest crop of knee pads are super lightweight affairs that slip on and rely on visco-elastic cushions that harden upon impact. For those wanting a little more protection while still retaining the ability to put in a couple of hours saddle time without discomfort, the Alps 2 knee pads from the Italian brand Alpinestars could fit the bill. Described as a "highly flexible and lightweight knee guard constructed from breathable laminated rip-stop, PE foam and poly-mesh," the pads achieve are CE Level 1 certified, and there are two sizes to choose from. MSRP: $64.95.
Alpinestars Alps 2 Details
• Pre-shaped PE patella pad
• Snug design offers a firm compression fit
• Velcro top and bottom elastic straps
• Silicone printed strips top and bottom
• Stretch poly-mesh for added security
• CE Level 1 certified
• Sizes: S/M, L/XL
• MSRP: $64.95 USD
• www.alpinestars.com / @AlpinestarsMTB
• Pre-shaped PE patella pad
• Snug design offers a firm compression fit
• Velcro top and bottom elastic straps
• Silicone printed strips top and bottom
• Stretch poly-mesh for added security
• CE Level 1 certified
• Sizes: S/M, L/XL
• MSRP: $64.95 USD
• www.alpinestars.com / @AlpinestarsMTB
Extra padding to either side of the main knee pad shows they're not a token gesture of protection.
The mesh liner helps keep things in place and I barely had to use the Velcro straps to keep them steady.
Performance
The pre-shaped knee pad gave a very comfortable fit from the outset. The compression-fit liner and the silicone backing strips at the top and bottom of the pad helped to keep things in place; I barely had to tighten down the top elastic strap, and the lower calf strap needed next to zero tension. Not having to strap them down tightly is a comfort bonus on long rides and will help with all important blood flow.
I did develop a couple of small hotspots and soreness on the front of my knee during really long, sweaty rides but the compression-fit liner between the back of the legs and straps avoided any rubbing or pinching here. The liner has a small cutaway behind the knee that helps to keep things cool but it fits closely and won't let in the loam or mud.
Other test riders did complain of the silicone backing pulling at their hairy legs, making it feel like their
I did develop a couple of small hotspots and soreness on the front of my knee during really long, sweaty rides but the compression-fit liner between the back of the legs and straps avoided any rubbing or pinching here. The liner has a small cutaway behind the knee that helps to keep things cool but it fits closely and won't let in the loam or mud.
Other test riders did complain of the silicone backing pulling at their hairy legs, making it feel like their
The rubberized graphics started to peel at the edges after a few washing machine cycles but have stayed strong since then. Maybe I should have used the mesh washing bag they are delivered in instead of throwing it in the trash...
Pinkbike's Take
 | Silicone backing might not be for the extra-hairy legged amongst us, but it sure helps them to stay in place. A good compromise of fit, weight and protection, the Alps 2 pads are ideal for people still looking for a little more safety than some of the latest super light, minimalist, pedal-all-day knee pads. - Paul Aston |
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This is what I was expecting to read from a knee pad review...
Hahaha! I think I've thrown all mine out as well.