Ridden and Rated - Five Trail Knee Guards

Jun 23, 2016
by Mike Kazimer  
5 sets of knees guards

It used to be that knee pads were worn almost solely by DH racers and freeriders, due largely to the weight and bulkiness of the available options – pedaling around all day in what looked like armor stolen from a Stormtrooper wasn't that appealing to most trail riders. The advent of foams that harden on impact helped to change that, and there are now more lightweight, low profile options on the market than ever.

There's also the fact that today's trail bikes are capable of taking on seriously technical trails, places where a crash can have ugly results. No one likes to be forced to take time off the bike due to an injury, which is why a set of knee pads can help reduce the repercussions of an unplanned trip to the ground. Not all pads are created equal though, and the five sets showcased below represent the top tier of the various styles currently on the market based on their fit and on-trail performance.



Dakine Slayer kneepad

Dakine Slayer

• 3D molded, CE certified DK Impact foam
• Polygiene odor control fabric
• Colors: black, sulphur
• Sizes: S, M, L
• Weight: 370 grams (size M)
• MSRP: $65 USD
• www.dakine.com/bike, @dakine



The Slayer knee pads are a relatively recent addition to Dakine's product line, but it's clear the company did their homework before launching their new protective gear. The pads use an open-backed, slip on design, and rely on a CE-certified foam pad that hardens upon impact to keep those knobby knees safe. They're comfortable enough to bring on rides with loads of pedaling, but the padding is thick enough to actually work in the event of a hard crash. The price is reasonable too - $60 is a small price to pay considering how much a trip to the doctor's office can cost.

Dakine Slayer full review.


• Extremely comfortable
• CE-certified padding
• Reasonably priced

• Upper cuff could be slightly taller





2016 Troy Lee Designs Raid Knee Guards Review

Troy Lee Designs Raid

• CE certified D3O knee pad
• Foam side padding
• Breathable mesh back panel
• CE EN 1621.1 certified
• Sizes: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL
• Weight: 414 grams (size M/L)
• MSRP: $115 USD
• www.troyleedesigns.com


Troy Lee Designs created the Raid knee pads to fulfill the requests of their elite DH racers, who wanted a lower profile pad that didn't skimp on protection. To that end, a generous amount of D30 padding is used over the front of knee, with additional foam padding used on each side. Even though the Raid pads are aimed more towards the downhill crowd, and are slightly heavier duty than the other pads featured in this article, they're also a worthy option for riders looking for a set of pads that can be used for pedalling and lift served riding.

Troy Lee Designs Raid full review.


• Remain securely in place, even under DH pants
• Padding on both sides of the knee
• Velcro upper strap for fine tuning fit

• Pricey
• Warmer than options with less padding




n a

Dainese Trail Skins

• Pro Shape protector using Formula One technology
• Silicone grippers and velcro adjustments
• Tested to EN1621.1 standards
• Sizes available: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 292g for the pair
• MSRP: $79.99 USD
• www.dainese.com


Dainese's Trail Skins are one of the lightest sets of CE-certified knee pads on the market, thanks to the use of a material called Pro Shape for impact protection. They even have protection on the sides, a welcome feature in such a low profile pad. They're probably not the best choice for days in the bike park, but otherwise they're the type of pad you can put on at the beginning of the day and forget about until you return home hours later. They get bonus points for the velcro adjustments at the upper and lower cuff, making it easier to fine-tune the fit.

Dainese Trails Skins Full Review.


• Lightweight
• Padding on sides of the knee
• Well ventilated

• Knees move a bit inside the pad when pedaling




7iDP Covert pad review

Seven iDP Covert

• Two layers of foam with a hard shell cap
• Silicone strip inside upper elasticized cuff
• CE EN 1621/1 certified
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• Weight: 416 grams (size M)
• MSRP: $89.95 USD
• 7protection.com/


The Covert knee pads uses two layers of foam and a plastic cap for protetion, a system that allows riders to customize the level of protection to suit their needs. Heading out for some shuttle runs? Stack all three layers for the maximum amount of protection. For rides with more pedaling, running the larger foam layer and the hard plastic cap helps give them a lower profile without drastically reducing the amount of protection. There aren't any velcro adjustments on the cuffs, but they extend far enough that there's little risk of the pads slipping down while pedaling.

7iDP Covert Knee Full Review.


• Customizable amount of protection
• Hard plastic layer helps prevent puncture wounds
• Stretchy cuff prevents slipping


• Can feel bulky with all three layers installed
• Not as low profile a shape as other options




Specialized Atlas knee pad review


Specialized Atlas Knee Pads

• Anti-shock foam pad
• Tall upper cuff for improved fit
• Weight: 157 grams
• Sizes: S, M, L, XL
• MSRP: $60.00 USD
• www.specialized.com



Specialized's Atlas Pads aren't designed for the athletes lining up at the start gate of the Red Bull Rampage – instead, they're aimed at riders who might normally forgo knee protection all together, offering a modest amount of protection against abrasions and lighter impacts. The upper cuff extends almost to mid-thigh to keep them in place while pedaling, and the perforated fabric on the back panel helps with temperature regulation. Our test pair did have the stitching begin to unravel at one of the seams, but even after months of additional usage after that review aired they're still holding up relatively well.

Specialized Atlas Pad Full Review.


• Very comfortable
• Lightweight
• Easily packable

• Not CE certified
• Best suited for light duty usage



Which of These Pads Are the Best?

All of the five pads profiled are strong contenders, and it really depends on your riding style and the type of trails you're planning on tackling.

For riders who are pedaling into rowdy terrain the Dakine Slayer pads are tough to beat – even after nine months of abuse they're still going strong, and the price makes them even more appealing. For that reason they're my pick for the best all-around knee pads out of the bunch.

If you're looking for something even burlier, a set of pads that you could use also use in the bike park, and don't mind a slightly larger profile, the TLD Raid knee pads are a worthy choice. They're a little warmer than the other four options, but they make up for it with the added protection they provide.

For the minimalist, someone who might otherwise skip wearing pads altogether, Dainese's Trail Skins fit the bill. They have a good amount of protection considering their light weight, and they're well-ventilated enough to keep them from being left at home on hot summer days.

MENTIONS: @dakine / @troyleedesigns / @Dainese / @sevenidp / @Specialized


Posted In:
Reviews and Tech Reviews Ridden And Rated Kneepads Dainese Dakine Seven Specialized Troy Lee Designs


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149 Comments
  • 252 3
 An actual comparison of like products.... dare I say almost a shootout. If we can get PB to do this with bikes, I would be a happy person.
  • 41 0
 I'm happy with this too...
  • 16 1
 Agreed. As an example always loved the below comparison. Hope PB will do similar reviews:
flowmountainbike.com/tests/enduro-bike-comparison-norco-range-vs-trek-slash-vs-yt-capra-vs-giant-reign
  • 69 5
 In all honesty, I struggle with the idea of trusting knee protection to a company whose name sounds distinctly like "Die Knees"... Just my 2 cents though
  • 15 78
flag asnedaigas (Jun 24, 2016 at 1:34) (Below Threshold)
 @BeRudeNot2: pro motobikers around the world trust it more than anyone else. First ones to invent airbags for motorbike gear. Your 2 British pennies are really worthless, sorry man.
  • 88 1
 @asnedaigas: I take it you didn't appreciate the joke... Tough crowd
  • 74 0
 @BeRudeNot2: don't think he appreciates geography either.
  • 6 1
 @asnedaigas: I think, though I'm not sure, but aren't British pennies caller pence?
  • 6 14
flag asnedaigas (Jun 24, 2016 at 8:24) (Below Threshold)
 @obee1: yeah yeah. didn't get the joke at first, sorry. pence - pennies? no? and my geo is really in place. brexit, anyone?
  • 12 0
 With the fall of the Pound Sterling, will things be cheaper thru CRC?
  • 10 0
 @asnedaigas: seems your current events is spot on, but the geography I was referring to was in regards to the " worthless british pennies" you mentioned to BeRude about. last time I was in new Zealand they had their own currency.
  • 4 0
 pinkbike is to neutral for a real shootout Gotta keep everyone happy Not a bad thing ,
  • 3 1
 @BeRudeNot2:

Dainese = Day-nee-sa
  • 4 0
 @XCMark:

actually it's Die-NAY-say
  • 2 1
 @endlessblockades:

Well, that's not how an Italian pronounced it for me once.
  • 3 0
 @XCMark: It's a little contentious for sure, but I live by the Dainese store her in SF and have heard it said, discussed, argued often, I've also heard Valentino Rossi say it dye-nay-say (on video). I'm in there because the broadcast moto-GP races and have a party for each event.
  • 4 0
 @asnedaigas: I'm guessing something was lost in translation to get so butt hurt by that comment.
  • 2 0
 @VwHarman: A 2p would be called 2 pence, and two 1p would be pennies.
  • 1 0
 @freeridefever: either way that's more than I make in a week in Canadian dollars, which are worse again. Thanks Brexit!
  • 1 0
 @BeRudeNot2: Oh no, it's French for 'thee knees'
  • 33 4
 How could you forget the maxi pads!? Super protection and they always stay in place.
  • 5 0
 know anywhere that still sells them? I loved them but the straps wore out a bit quick.
  • 3 1
 TWSS
  • 4 1
 great for road rash band aids
  • 10 2
 And the fancy ones have wings! You'd be flying down the trail using them!
  • 5 3
 Red Balls - They give you WWWIIINNnnnnggssss!!!
  • 5 0
 love my Maxis - got them from for super cheap from Jenson last year because they were in a 'deals of the month' article here on PB.
  • 1 0
 I get you Wink
  • 1 0
 @jubs17: got the same deal. I only got them cause they were only $20 and absolutely Love them. Although I had to trim about a half inch off the top of the inner pad to make it fit better
  • 1 0
 T.H.E changed their logo(again) hence the blowout price. I had em, great pads. Loving my 7idp minamalist alot better... not shown on this comparison, but are basically the 1st layer of convert.
  • 6 0
 For those heavy flow days.
  • 1 0
 @Krzymndyd: yeah that sounds like what I paid too! I have not thought of trimming the inner pad, maybe I should try that - THANKS tup
  • 22 0
 Been using IXS flows for a year and love them. I pedal all day rides with them and have a dozen crashes (yeah I suck that bad) and the pads always keep my knees good. Had bad experiences with dainese trail skins falling off during crashes. The retention straps are dainty.
  • 5 0
 Second that. The flows are my favorite too. Got their helmet too.
  • 4 1
 Agreed, best pads I've had by far! I leave them on after riding and get dinner and beers!
  • 3 0
 Had mine for 2 years now and i love them. I forget they're even on after a bit.
  • 6 0
 @masontuor: those post-beer falls must be treacherous
  • 2 0
 I've been rocking the Trail Skins for a couple years now (since they did that media blitz way back when) and I like them and are great for all day rides bc they're light and breathable. BUT they definitely move way out of place from anything but light crashes.
  • 2 0
 Ditto. I have the IXS Flows for a second season now and they are very comfortable for all day peddlin. The handful of falls I have taken, including the first ride with them, have proven them to be a good buy. Too bad they weren't included in the test.
  • 1 0
 Been rocking the daggers and love them. Don't mind pedaling in them either. Ixs pads have been my favorite so far.
  • 2 0
 Can someone fill me in on why you choose knees over knee shins?? Seems like ya protect the joint from impact, but what about splitting shins on peadls etc??? Ill stick to my knee shins.
  • 4 0
 @PJD1: Chicks dig scars.
  • 1 0
 @scjeremy: I know just had 19stitches pulled a week ago. Not really worrh it.
  • 1 0
 @PJD1: You win. Mine was 10 down to the muscle and yes I did concider shin protection.
  • 1 0
 @scjeremy: fox launch pros...gotta say, even local trails, much more confident with them and 510s....saved my shin. Once so far
  • 1 0
 I had the same experience with both. IXS is better
  • 1 0
 @AfshinB: IXS cleavers? Or just knee pads?
  • 16 0
 I have the Specialized Atlas knee pads and have the exact same problem of the stitching coming undone. After one ride, the stitching started to come loose on both knee pads... I contacted Specialized, who failed to reply. I emailed a few times but they never bothered to acknowledge me. 1 year later the knee pads have held up well, but it is still pretty annoying to know it was impossible to contact the manufacturer when something was wrong.
  • 3 1
 So they're really only practical for doing flooring projects and working on your garden.
  • 25 1
 You should have posted online that you were naming your dog 'Camber'...you would have gotten their attention.
  • 12 0
 I love my Trail Skins! Had the unfortunate chance to crash test it and my knee survived the off! I had a honeycomb bruise and wound form for a few weeks, from the shape of the padding, but who cares!! Saved me from getting stitches and, I still am using the same pair of pads! They're a tough pair. I highly recommend them!
  • 8 0
 Surprised to not see Fox enduro pads here, would love to see how they stack up
  • 4 0
 I had Fox Launch and Fox Enduros for the past few years; Launch for pure lift accessed days and Enduros if I'll be pedalling. Never had any big direct hits to the Enduro knees but they're just soft thin foam, good for stopping abrasion on slide-outs but not much else.

I got the Dakine Slayers last month and I can tell that I'll wear them almost all the time now. Way, way more protection than the Enduros, just as comfortable and they pedal and breathe almost as well.
  • 2 0
 I have the Fox Launch Enduro kneepads and I love them. Probably as much protection as the S ones above. Very comfortable by the third ride. Use them every ride now and I used to hate wearing protection. No idea how they stand up in a crash, but I got them mainly to prevent skin-loss on my everyday rides.
  • 1 0
 launches are great, use them for pretty much everything. Eying up some race face ambush for more pedally days though
  • 1 0
 I have the Enduro elbows and taken some slams. They appear to work but I'm a bit leery on the thinness of them for knees. The Launch pros I use for DH and trail because they never fail me. But on climbs you're best off to slide them to your ankles.
  • 1 0
 I just find that the fox pads are extremely small fitting.
  • 1 0
 But they can be comfy. If only they weren't so tight.
  • 1 0
 @dh1stan: I thought so too but after a few rides and hours they stretched and now fit perfectly. I'd prefer that to starting out comfy and then stretch to be too loose.
  • 1 0
 @iamamodel: True. I bought my Launch Pros comfy (size L/XL) and they ended up a bit baggy. Then got my Launch Enduros in a M which were very tight for the first few rides but stretched out for a perfect fit.
  • 4 0
 I'd like to see another version of this test geared towards the most low profile pads. Troy Lee Speed, Fox Launch enduro, race face charge and Indy, G Form, etc. For my non-rowdy / pedal-intensive rides it's nice to wear pads without a cup or shell inside. I have the TLD speed and so far they're great. I'd like to see a slightly taller section above the knee though.
  • 1 0
 Agree a lightweight shootout would be great. I use tld raid for enduro and dh but use speed for regular trail riding. Only thing is the speeds are a bit warm in summer. Wish tld used the same thin material in back as they did for raid and a Velcro strap up top like raid on the speed. I crashed with the tld speed going fast into a fallen tree on ground and was impressed. Only ended up with a slight bruise on my kneecap.
  • 4 0
 next test 661, rf, astars, ixs, fox then move on to knee shins, as they are more complicated, my 661 evo knees are great but the rampage knee shins are worthless, I opted for astars over ixs because I don't have to take my shoes off
  • 5 0
 Raceface Ambush? I hate to say it but a pair of pads I can put on and take off without
removing my shoes is appealing at this point. Must be getting old.
  • 5 3
 I run POC Vpd air, being a socket foilled with a thin layer of D3O and I crashed in them in a few ways now. They are cool for pedalling and as knee warmers yes. They are surprisingly good for bouncing off the terrain, even rocks and roots, as low ng as you slide. But they will put you into world of pain if you hit something directly and the knee won't be bouncing of it, like I did when I landed straight on knee cap after I haven't managed to clip out on a climb. So in a way those thin protectors are kind of you get what you pretend you don't see at the first sight. I am super interested in trying TLDs.
  • 2 1
 I too have been pimped by 3dO and other soft compounds and I have returned to a cup style hard protection and it payed off.
  • 1 1
 I used to have POC pads (first generation of the product) and they sucked. One of the pads got totally deformated and wasn't protecting my knee like it should have. Changed them to IXS and they are great.
  • 3 0
 If theres pedaling involved I love my POC Joint VPD 2.0 Long Knee Pads, good protection, super comfy, and they dont slip. If its getting serious bike park/shuttles I like the Troy Lee full shin/knee hard shell pads.
  • 1 1
 @WAKIdesigns @madmon: we are using both in our new featured AirCobra. You can check it at rockingtor.com. Soft memory foam with hard/medium shell, plus also some other no less interesting features...
  • 2 0
 @Rockingtor: i need more pictures
  • 1 0
 @WAKIdesigns: Waki finally, check it out here you´ll find all the pictures you need I hope:
www.kickstarter.com/projects/rockingtor/rockingtor-aircobra-ultimate-mountainbike-knee-shi
  • 7 0
 I love my G-Form pads 3
  • 3 0
 I like the G-Forms as well--just tripled down on my original kneepad purchase and got elbow pads and compression shorts to go with. Useful protection and insanely light. Competitively priced with any of these.
  • 4 0
 I too like the G-Forms. They're comfortable, keep you cool and offer decent protection, although I did a rip a set during my first crash when using them. But G-Form replaced them for free and they've held up since, so no complaints Big Grin
  • 2 0
 @mikekazimer I have pretty large quads and have issues with even the best strapped knee pads sliding, any advice on which of the bunch is best? I have 7idp flex pads now, and they're pretty good. They only slide sometimes, but I wouldn't mind lower profile stuff.
  • 1 0
 Second this. I don't have roadie quads and finding kneepads that don't slide had not been very successful. The POC's I currently have are all right but I had to go with a pad too large for my calf and too small for my quad.
  • 2 0
 I use POC bones. Yep they are visible but surprisingly easy to pedal in. Have had many crashes in them. Fell 6 feet once and drove my knee cap right into a rock. Heard my buddy gasp at the sound of the impact. Got up brushed myself off, gave my brake levers a squeeze and got back on the trail. I use POC.
  • 4 0
 Please keep these reviews up PB. Head to head product testing is very appreciated!
  • 2 0
 I'm riding these dainese knee guards in BMX race, I had big crashes and they protect me very weel beside their low protection surface. Very cool T° when using these knee guards, 50€ on CRC, pretty good !
  • 1 0
 Absolutely agree with Mitch7Yeti above. Give the Airflex Pro's a shot. MUCH cooler than the G-Forms. I have no doubt they will protect against initial impact, but they're going to slide in a high speed full slider, just like ALL of them will without a good velcro strap on the top and bottom. Long pedal day...Airflex Pro. Tech and bigger hit days...661 Rage. The TLD's have me curious about a pad that might actually do both...hmmm.
  • 2 1
 Basically avoid closed cell foam in soft pads. Upon impact the air will be forced out and break the membranes, and not suck back in. Leaving the pads harder and harder for each impact. it's science.... Rednering them useless after 4-5 crashes....
  • 1 0
 Do people constantly feel what they're wearing? When I'm riding I'm not aware of my helmet, shoes, gloves nor kneepads as long as everything stays in place. Only if I pay attention, but why should I? And when I take it off at the end of the ride it will either be steaming or soaked and cold, depending on the conditions. It is not going to change no matter how minimal that stuff is. I'm still riding the 661 Tomcat kneepads which are probably stiff and bulky by modern standards. It uses a removable shell (so I can wash the sleeve) similar to their DJ kneepads and I really don't notice them. The only thing is that because my bike's reach (and stem) are short by modern standards the pads are a bit in the way when doing tight turns on a steep climb.

I would never skimp on knee protection as knee injury is annoying. But I'd only buy another one for at least the same amount of protection, never for less protection in turn for a bit more comfort. It isn't worth it.
  • 4 2
 Can someone explain to me how Specialized gets away with naming their pads 'Atlas' after Raceface has used the name long before?
I am pretty sure if it was the other way around, the story would be different.
  • 1 0
 Will say this time and time again: Scott Grenade Pro II knee pads are my absolute favorite.

I've been through several serious crashes and they've survived and stayed on without any slippage. Comfortable and no matter how rough the terrain or how hard I pedal they never bother me.

Looks damn cool, solid protection, well designed and super comfortable.
  • 1 0
 The Trailskins are very good, but the fit is funky and they really need thicker velcro straps. The mesh material on the side and back of the knee is not very durable, so any good hit to that area not only won't protect you but they'll tear as well leaving the pad useless. I managed to complete tear the side of mine on a pretty tame crash.
  • 2 0
 PB, for real?? The initiative to compare products like these is hella good, but how is it possible to not include POC, GForm or Bliss in the mix? POC without a doubt is a top contender in the trail knee pads..
  • 4 0
 That tld looks awesome, let me see the price.....well sh**t
  • 8 1
 As I'm flying through the air only two thoughts enter my mind. One is man I've sure been up here a while. The other, wow I'm glad I saved money by wearing my old roller blading pads.
  • 2 1
 after ripping open my knee after pads sliding down I can sacrifice some leg suffication, and leg dehydration for I-don't-care-what-the-weight knee pads THAT WILL NOT fall down in a crash for dh use. Any suggestions?
  • 2 0
 Race face makes some good ones. I have been wearing them ever since I had some lighter weight ones slide off on a crash and gouged my knee. They are a bit warm and a little bulky, but they can be put on without taking off your shoes, and they won't slide off in a crash.
  • 4 0
 IXS Dagger. All the way. Got them intended for DH riding only, but ended up using them for everything for a season and a half. Ultra comfortable like all IXS, and saved my knees many times!
  • 1 0
 can suggest fox launch, although not really made for lots of pedaling (I've found mine rub a little bit on the bottom strap) but it's great to know the only compromise is going to be from pedaling rather than when I actually need them going down (tried and trued).
  • 1 0
 Fox Launch. I pedal them a lot and I don't really mind the bulkiness. I have G-forms too, which are pretty comfortable, but zero side protection.
  • 3 0
 I think it just depends on your legs - different pads will fit different people. I'd look for something with straps at the top and bottom as they are likely to be more secure, or perhaps size down on them for an ultra tight fit, but I think most are likely to move a bit in a crash, particularly a big one. Can you try some on in a store locally?

I'm currently wearing POC Air 2's and highly rate them, although I've not yet crashed in them so can't really rate that side of them yet... My old POC Bones went through many big crashes and bore some serious action well, but were perhaps a bit overkill for usual riding.

For me, the first consideration is comfort, as if the pad is not comfortable I'd not wear it. After that you get the most protection you can!
  • 2 2
 please check out our AirCobra model in rockigntor.com , our clear shin-guard avoids the whole thing from sliding down.
  • 1 0
 @JBSDesigns: I really wanted to like the IXS dagger, but they are extremely uncomfortable to pedal in for me - the upper half sticks to my leg while the bottom half doesn't move at all, so i get tons of friction with every rotation of the pedals. I can't return my pair, so i may just keep them for light DH days when i don't use full leg guards
  • 1 0
 After some less positive experiences with my old 661 (slide down while crashing) I wanted knee protection that stayed in place. Switched to 7idp Control. Happy men now. Took a few diggers with the. In the law 12 months and they hold up fine and never have those crappy rashes under the knee pad. They pedal not bad at all for a gravity knee pad. Used them yesterday at the Pass'Portes tour. Leave them on all day long and do not feel the need to take them off at the end of the day.
  • 1 0
 Hmmm. My typing qualities on the phone aren't what it used to be...
  • 2 1
 I just got some 661 EVO Knee and Elbow pads. Haven't been able to take them for a ride yet, but they seemed pretty comfy just wearing them around. Also for $40 I couldn't not buy them.
  • 2 2
 you got ripped off. I found 'em for $29 about a month ago. hahaha.

They work though. I took the end of a log to the inside of my knee when I crashed at speed. No bruising what-so-ever. Now, I happened to get a high grade 2 sprain on my MCL and a grade 2 sprain on the PCL. I don't know that any pad could've protected me from that. I was quite surprised by the lack of bruising though and attribute that to the pad.
  • 2 1
 Love my 661 EVO knee pads. Great paddling, comfortable, and have protected me pretty well.
  • 1 0
 @jojotherider1977: I got both elbow and knee for a combined $42, so $21 each.
  • 2 0
 @trevor426: oh snap! you win!
  • 1 0
 I have the TLD Raids. Love them. The liner is super soft, the knee cuff keeps them exactly where they should be and the pre-curved knee pad doesn't rub my knee cap at all when pedaling.
  • 2 0
 I use RaceFace pads and like them a lot. Ran into a tree, heard the sound of my kneepad knocking on wood, but i didnt feel anything.
  • 2 0
 I love my older TLD 5450s. Super comfortable. While hardening foams are all the rage, there is something comforting about good ol' hard plastic.
  • 3 0
 Where the heck is IXS? They make superior pads in pretty much every category.
  • 1 0
 whatever pads you intend on purchasing, try them out, dont 'buy blind' or because some rad dude wears them.. be safe, or get injured and ride less ..if at all, thats my brexit penny spent
  • 1 0
 I found this updated article on the best mtb knee pads in 2018. It includes Dainese Trail Skins 2, POC VPD, Race Face Ambush, 7IDP and many more furiousbikes.com/best-mtb-knee-pads-reviews
  • 1 1
 Living in a subtropical climate the only time I want pads is when I've crashed. I wish someone would make breathable pads that would cool when you started sweating like there's neat headbands you soak in water
  • 2 2
 Hey, check out rockingtor.com, We tried to do the more breathable and comfortable ones and that more protect... check it out and you´ll get surprised...
  • 2 0
 @Rockingtor: I tried to check it out but all it is is a picture of a guy on a Santa Cruz and a statement that says launching soon. But thanks for the info
  • 2 2
 @properp: sorry it´s just been updated. Now you can find better pictures and info.
  • 3 0
 Much kneeded cap to cap review.
  • 3 0
 with a great recap
  • 4 0
 No kneed for puns today. We blew em out yesterday.
  • 2 1
 @aoneal: you're right, let's focus on the fact these multi product review offer great consumer protection by keeping the manufactures on their guard
  • 1 0
 I just kneaded some dough for pizza!

Wait, Did I do that right?

*Edit - Punctuation
  • 2 0
 They missed Leatt's new Airflex Pro's. I just got a pair and they are unbelievable. Definitely reccomended!
  • 2 1
 G-Form Xpro, ultra lightweight and all day comfort will take a big hit and only bruise knees no swelling. Warning not best on razor rocks
  • 3 0
 Bliss Protection's Minimalist?
  • 2 1
 Am I the only one who like shin protection? Riding flat pedals I'm more likely to slip a pedal and shred my shin than I am to fall, landing on my knees.
  • 2 2
 @FaithUSA No, you are not the only one... At Rockingtor we think is pointless to ride without shin protection when you can have only the advantages... For this reason we invented this clear shin-guard, check it out and support: www.rockingtor.com
  • 1 0
 I almost bought the Trail Skins, but they did not have them in my size. So I bought the 7iDp Covert. They are great knee protectors. Got the Coverts at 1/3 the price too!
  • 1 0
 Enduro mags brake shootout is an interesting read wish pinkbike could pink bike could put out stories like that. This is getting closer
  • 1 0
 Having permanent injury wearing minimal pads where can I get maximum pads anymore. 661 stopped making DJ pros and I left mine stateside.
  • 3 2
 The Dakines are the win for me. The price is good , the padding is ce certified foam. Comfortable as well.
  • 2 0
 where is ION k-sleeve? the best minimalist-knee guard for me
  • 1 0
 I have 7IDP Control pads

Work great , a bit longer contact at the bottom would be better , like 1/2- 3/4 " more .
  • 3 1
 @mikekazimer why no comparison test on the iXS Flow knee pads!?
  • 3 0
 What's up my kneeguards!
  • 1 0
 Quite like my dainese trail skins, but after a year the elastic has gone wavy, like the sides of a sea cucumber.
  • 2 0
 Brand X
  • 1 1
 I've just broken my toe? Can anyone recommend which of these I should have been using? :-)
  • 1 0
 I really kneed a pair of these.
  • 1 0
 Got the 7iDP Transition for this season. They feel like a glove really
  • 1 1
 Really Pink Bike? Just 5 models for side by side review?? Thanks. You're very helpful.
  • 2 1
 Alpinestars Paragon?
  • 1 0
 Very happy with mine, although I have no comparisons and maybe could have gone down a size.
  • 1 0
 They are super comfy, you forget they're on, and not too hot...though that will get tested in the next couple of months. Fortunately, haven't had a serious impact to test them.
  • 1 0
 @ReformedRoadie: I agree, very comfortable. I've crashed plenty on them, but never a big one. They are holding up well. And a good price compared to many others *cough* Fox *cough*.
  • 2 2
 My pads have wings!
  • 1 2
 Race Face Indy, good protection and not too hot to wear.
  • 3 3
 Sixsixone
  • 1 2
 Race Face knee pads: I don't have to take off my shoes to put them on.
  • 1 2
 good job PB. what about dh pads?
  • 1 2
 Loving my new RaceFace Ambush, I wish they would be part of the test..
  • 1 2
 661 RAGE-oldies but goodies
  • 1 2
 no raceface ?





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