Review: 6 of the Best New Pedal-Friendly Knee Pads
Save the Knees
The pedaling-friendly knee protection segment has grown dramatically over the last few years, and there are now dozens of options that are designed to be worn all day without causing discomfort.
For the most part, this style of pad uses a sleeve type design, similar to a knee warmer, with a large main pad constructed from some sort of viscoelastic material that hardens up on impact. Dainese is the outlier in this group – they use rubber that's been formed into a honeycomb lattice to help dissipate impacts.
No matter the material used, all 6 of the options included here meet CE level 1 certification, which was originally designed for protective motorcycle apparel. The test involves a 5kg weight being dropped with a force of 50 joules onto the pad. The resulting force is measured, and the average of nine tests must be less than 35 kN, with no single impact greater than 50 kN. Essentially, seeking out pads with that certification helps make you're purchasing protection that will at least do something in the event of an impact, rather than just being knee warmers that'll help hold all the pieces together.
What follows is a round up of 6 new options that I've been putting to the test over the last six months. For even more options, there are 10 more picks featured in the Round Up article that was published last spring.
Contents
Chromag Rift
Best known for their steel hardtails and aluminum stems, Chromag is a newcomer to the knee pad world. They've entered the mix with the Rift knee pads, which use RHEON's viscoelastic material to help absorb impacts, with additional foam padding on each side of the knee. There aren't any external adjustments on the pads, but there is a thick strip of silicone at the upper cuff to keep them from sliding down, and an elasticized band at the top of the calf.
These pads ended up seeing the most use over that last few months due to their excellent fit and slightly thicker padding. Now, all the pads featured here meet the same certification, but Rift pads do feel a little more substantial, with slightly more padding and coverage than, say, the G-Form Pro Rugged. They do run a little warmer than pads with more open padding designs, something to consider if you're totally adverse to sliding pads down for the climbs. I should stress again just how comfortable these are – they're like little pillows for your knees, and I didn't encounter any chafing or hot spots.
Even though the main pad isn't removable the Rift pads are machine washable, and they've survived my poor laundry techniques very well. There are a few stitches that have pulled out at one of the seams at the calf. It's tough to tell if that was from a pedal pin or sewing mistake, but it's worth a mention.
Pros
+ Very comfortable+ Good protection, even on side of knees
Cons
- On the higher end of the price scale- Slightly warmer than more ventilated options
Pearl Izumi Elevate
The Elevate knee guards borrow heavily from Pearl Izumi's popular knee warmer design, with a tall cuff that extends to mid-thigh. D3O handles the impact absorption duties, with holes cut into the padding itself to help promote air flow, and a mesh cover. There are smaller pads on each side of the knee, although they're fairly minimal – I wouldn't mind if these were thickened up a little for more protection.
Elevate Details
• D3O padding
• Weight: 354 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $125 USD
• pearlizumi.com
• D3O padding
• Weight: 354 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $125 USD
• pearlizumi.com
The fit of the Elevate pads was comfortable and unobtrusive, and the airflow through the front of the pads is noticeable. The upper elastic band and the overall length of the pads kept them from sliding down, but the upper cuff fabric seemed to lose some of its stretch over time, creating a slightly baggy fit. Maybe it'd be a different story if I had Dangerholm's legs, but I'm not holding my breath on that happening any time soon.
The main pad sits in an elastic pocket that makes it easily removable for washing. There are a couple stray threads here and there, but all of the main seams are completely intact – the stitches that have given up aren't crucial.
Pros
+ Well ventilated+ Extended upper cuff helps keep them in place
Cons
- Pricey- Upper cuff fabric could be stretchier for better fit
G-Form Pro Rugged
G-Form have taken steps over the last few years to make their kneepads more appealing to a wider range of riders while still providing plenty of protection. The Pro Ruggeds use the same SmartFlex material that put them on the map in the first place, except that it's now covered with a layer of Armortex abrasion-resistant fabric that's designed to increase the durability, with the side benefit of making them look a whole lot better.
Pro Rugged Details
• Smart Flex padding
• Weight: 279 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $79
• g-form.com
• Smart Flex padding
• Weight: 279 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $79
• g-form.com
An elastic upper strap with two strips of silicone helps keep the pads from sliding down, and there's also a velcro strap for further fine tuning of the fit.
The positioning of that strap at the back of the leg makes it a little hard to see, it didn't do much to increase the tightness of the cuff, at least for my size. Even though the velcro strap didn't do much, the pads stayed in place very well, and I didn't run into any comfort-related issues. However, the stitching has started to come undone at that same upper strap. All of the pulled stitching is at the bottom of the upper cuff, so the performance hasn't been compromised, but it's still a ding against these pads in the durability department.
My favorite feature of the Pro Ruggeds was the low profile, which makes them work well with pants. They do run a little hotter than the Dainese and Pearl Izumi pads due to the lack of ventilation in the front, something to keep in mind if you're on the hunt for the airiest pad out there.
Pros
+ Lightweight + Low profile design fits well under pants
Cons
- Velcro strap system could use refinement- Stitching coming undone at upper strap
Dakine Slayer
Dakine's Slayer kneepad received a slightly updated design for 2020, and was joined in the lineup by the Slayer Pro, which gets a velcro strap across the top and some additional padding on the sides.
It's the standard Slayer that's featured here, which uses Dakine's DK Impact polyeurethane foam to ward off blows, with a Cordura outer providing abrasion resistance. The upper cuff has a wide elastic band, with silicone dots to help keep it from sliding down.
It's the standard Slayer that's featured here, which uses Dakine's DK Impact polyeurethane foam to ward off blows, with a Cordura outer providing abrasion resistance. The upper cuff has a wide elastic band, with silicone dots to help keep it from sliding down.
The DK Impact foam is on the stiffer side of the spectrum, which can make it a little trickier to pull the pads on and off. Once it warms up it does soften up and becomes more form fitting, with a low profile shape that works well even when worn under pants. The pads do run a little small around the calf area, so riders who typically find themselves between sizes may want to go up a size.
It was the Slayer's resistance to slippage that impressed me the most – once they were on I rarely had to adjust them at all.
Pros
+ Reasonable price+ Secure, slip-free fit
Cons
- Stiffness of main pad makes taking them on / off more of a challenge- A little warmer than more highly ventilated options
Fox Enduro D3O
Fox's Enduro D3O knee guards are on the more minimalist side of the spectrum - on the scale they're the lightest out of all the pads featured here. There's still a decent amount of protection at the front of the knee, though, thanks to a D3O pad, which extends an inch or so futher down the shin compared to other pads for a little extra coverage.
However, if you're looking for something that can withstand repeated crashes through sharp rocks you might want to go with something a little more robust.
However, if you're looking for something that can withstand repeated crashes through sharp rocks you might want to go with something a little more robust.
Enduro D3O Details
• D3O padding
• Weight: 274 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $84.95
• foxracing.com
• D3O padding
• Weight: 274 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $84.95
• foxracing.com
As far as fit goes, the extended upper cuff works very well to prevent them from slipping out of place, although I did find that the fabric around the back of the knee had a tendency to bunch up every so often and cause some irritation. That's something to consider when comparing these to pads with a cut out at the back.
Pros
+ Light weight+ Good coverage over upper shin
Cons
- Fabric can bunch up at the back of the knee- Not much protection on the sides
Dainese Trail Skins Air
Dainese takes a slightly different route when it comes to impact absorption. Rather than using a viscoelsatic pad, they use a rubber that's molded into a shape that they say was inpired by the auxetic materials found in nature. It's called Pro-Shape 2.0, and the design expands when it's hit, dissipating the force of an impact. That shape is also very well ventilated, with plenty of room for airflow.
Trail Skins Air Details
• Pro Shape 2.0 padding
• Weight: 347 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $74.95
• dainese.com
• Pro Shape 2.0 padding
• Weight: 347 grams
• CE level 1 certified
• MSRP: $74.95
• dainese.com
Compared to Dainese's apparel, which tends to run small, the Trail Skins Air pads run big, especially around the upper cuff – I'd imagine most riders will need to go down a size. There's also the fact that the Pro-Shape protector didn't conform to my knees as well as the foam padding used on the other pads featured here. Plus, the weight of that rubber pad compared to the light mesh material that its sewn to means it's more likely to shift around.
I'll admit I'm not too worried about my knee pads getting dirty, but if you're obsessed with keeping your gear clean it does take a thorough washing rather than the occasional brush off to keep dirt from showing up in all the nooks and crannies of the main pad.
For riders looking for the airiest knee protection possible the Trail Skins Air might fit the bill, but the fit and the function of the main pad do take them down a notch.
Pros
+ Excellent ventilationCons
- Odd sizing- Padding isn't as form fitting as other options
Top Picks
To a certain extent, choosing the best knee pads comes down to fit. After all, all the magic foam technology in the world doesn't amount to anything if your knee pads don't stay put during a crash. Plus, the more comfortable and invisible a set of pads are the more likely you are to actually wear them in the first place.
Editor's Choice: the Chromag Rift pads were my favorites out of this bunch. They hit a sweet spot when it comes to the level of protection and coverage they offer while still remaining pedal friendly.
Best Ventilation: If ventilation was high on my priority list I'd go with the Pearl Izumi Elevate - the mesh front and open design of the D3O padding makes a difference, and they still offer a good amount of protection.
Minimalist: My pick for a minimalist, low profile option would be the Fox Enduro pads. They're light, offer good coverage, and can still handle the occasional slam.
Author Info:
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That said, in this test I’m a bit surprised not to see anything from 7iDP, IXS, Troy Lee, 661, etc., while the much less common products (at least on this side of the pond) from Chromag and G-Form are included. And it always feels a bit strange to me, when the most expensive products (that in this case also “win” the comparison) cost almost twice as much as the cheapest options...
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Lepage Flexible Plastic Adhesive is what worked.
We'll be doing some more typical full on gear guide style pieces in 2021, where we'll put our stamp on what we think are the best overall choices. But the purpose of this piece was to take a look at some of the newly released stuff.
The IXS Flows and 7iDP pads are well regarded, as well as some from POC, TLD, etc...
With that said, you couldn't pry my IXS flow and carve from my cold, dead hands.
Even so, if something comparable gets released “new”, I’ll be there to buy them.
Trick is to turn them inside out and velcro the tabs together.
Sorry no crash protection comments, since I never used them (touch wood). Probably next will be those System Lite
Take up golf. Mountain biking might not be for you.
enduro-mtb.com/en/the-best-mtb-knee-pads-you-can-buy
Mixed into pb reviews are kneepads that are basically paper (g form) with pads that are ce2 rated to stop motorcycle impacts (7idp sam hill) and we're deciding between the two based on how comfortable the mesh is.
They're great - very light, feature dual density impact foam and have good coverage on the sides too.
Felt a bit tight in the shop, but they were great on the trail.
If you need something comfortable and to take an occasional rumble or
www.decathlon.co.uk/p/volleyball-knee-pads-vkp900/_/R-p-115907
How do they stand up to weather and dirt, seeing as they are designed for indoor use?
I’m certainly not going to sneer at any kid (or adult, for that matter) wearing skateboard or paintball padding. That kind of elitist bs just discourages people from embracing the sport.
I put them on before I leave my apartment and take them off when I get back, so I'm wearing them continuously for the entire spin, and I find them pretty comfortable. Summer here can be 30-35 degrees, they do get sweaty when it's that hot but idk, I'm just used to it, I don't really notice them.
None of the "pedal friendly" ones ever felt as secure on my knee. I have had crashes before with other pads where the pad caught on the ground and slipped down, resulting in a bloody knee. Not life threatening stuff but annoying.
I guess it's the kind of thing where everybody has a favourite.
Sam Hills - sock ripped above the pad in a crash, pad pulled down, knee scraped badly
IXS - straps chafe , pad moves around and chafes upper shin
Fox Enduro Pro - sock ripped at side of pad in a crash, pad peeled back, knee scraped badly.
I'm going to try the new RF Indy, with the calf strap. I'm hoping the calf strap keeps it more secure. The fabric they use for the sock on the front is super soft and smooth - doesn't feel like chafing will be an issue. The back is mesh, so it doesn't tick that box. They're a bit less tall than the Fox, but more than a typical POC.
The Chromags here look pretty sweet - I like the idea of the elastic band more than a velcro strap.
I’m actually thinking of experimenting with soccer shin guards, to complement my knee pads. They should be light and unobtrusive enough, in theory.
Jokes aside, great to see a review put the effort in to explain certification levels.
Got them replaced under warranty but having a look at that the construction of the pad was enough to make me just sell on the replacements.
I guess it was just not meant to squeze it in the backpack and leave it in when washing them.
Recently I got the new traze zip and it seems the new pads have improved.
I just love the ZIPs and comfort/construction overall of the ION pads is quite good as well.
The pad is little blocks sitting on a really thin plastic feeling backing. So mine just kept curling up until that backing couldn’t take it any more and fell apart.
The IXS’ I replaced them with are the sort of chunky material I had expected to see.
If I still have the photos (they asked me to send) I’ll upload them and you can have a look. It made it very clear why they aren’t removable
www.pinkbike.com/photo/19815280
www.pinkbike.com/photo/19815279
Don't have a view from the other side unfortunately. They do have a very thin cover over part of the front
seems like its this one
www.sas-tec.de/en/products/sc-1-ka-new
the new traze seems to have a more solid one, not sure which as it can't be taken out any more
I managed to find replacement pads for my K-lites online, but they now smell so bad I'm looking for something with more ventilation! The fact that they use solid neoprene with no perforations means you have to wash them more than you would a wetsuit.
I was thinking less DH, more trail type pants. I had been looking at the Troy Lee Speed sleeve too.
(Yes kids. that's what you have to look forward to after years of high impact sports and general tom foolery skiing and snowboarding.)
www.d3o.com/media/1162/d3o-consumer-care-instructions.pdf
I find the chromag pads to be the least noticeable when pedaling. I haven’t used them yet when it’s been hot as I only got them in September.
Highly recommend. And it’s a local whistler company! Gotta like that.
Technically they are both just two big scars, luckily my skin heals very well so its not perceptible.
Last time I crashed I wasn't wearing knee pads because it was supposed to be a light ride, I ended up crashing on a low speed, low traction, very steep downhill section. and guess what was the only thing that got a new scar? Yup, my knee
I didnt like the POCs all that much but the fit just wasnt great for my leg so that was likely the issue, lots of people swear by them.
Best pedal friendly pads out there.
Dainese Oak 3/4 pads for the shuttle days.
I've tried the POC VPD Air, which I hated almost everything about. They're too short both above the knee and below, they stayed up poorly, and the gripper material at the thigh would cause chafing.
Next, a pair of Dakines, maybe the Hellions? I didn't like the open back design, it felt weird. Also, they got clapped out to the point that the material felt thin and didn't stay up pretty quickly. Required constant readjustment.
After that, POC VPD 2.0, which were better coverage, held in place better with the two velcro straps, and are generally much burlier than the Airs. Better side coverage too. They have the same gripper material that I hated on the Air, but for whatever reason, it didn't cause the same issues—probably a function of them staying in place better. But, they're hotter, heavier and bulkier than what I wanted.
Then I had a pair of IXS Flow Evos that have gotten a lot of positive mention in this comment section. For me, I think I'm maybe kind of between sizes? The smalls, trying them on at the shop were like, I could barely get them on, so I bought the mediums. But it didn't take long for them to stretch out and become too baggy up top. The calf strap would hold the pad generally in place, but the top would slide and bunch up and just generally make me way too aware of their presence.
The Rifts are straight Goldilocks territory for me. The fit is perfect in a medium, they stay in place unlike anything else I've ever tried, they're comfortable to the point that I don't think about them at all when riding, and the padding, both centrally over the kneecap and medially to the inner knee/thigh is highly effective without being oppressive to pedal.
I think Chromag keeps selling out of batches of the Rift. I keep thinking I should pick up a backup pair for when these eventually need to be retired.
While we're at it, why didn't you include MY bike in the field test?!
Leatt Airflex Pro. Soooo good