How to Choose Knee Pads for Mountain Biking
Choosing the right knee pads for mountain biking is essential for protection, comfort, and performance. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
Key Factors to Consider
Type of Riding
Cross-Country (XC): look for lightweight and breathable knee pads with minimal bulk. Flexibility and comfort are key since XC involves a lot of pedaling.
Trail/All-Mountain: choose pads that offer a balance between protection and comfort. They should be durable enough for rough trails but still allow you to move.
Enduro: opt for more robust pads that provide substantial protection, especially for long descents and technical terrains.
Downhill (DH): prioritize maximum protection with thicker, more reinforced knee pads that can withstand high-impact crashes.
Level of Protection
Soft Shell Pads: made from flexible materials like foam or gel, these pads offer good protection while being lightweight and comfortable. They’re ideal for trail and all-mountain riding.
Hard Shell Pads: feature a hard plastic outer shell for added protection against severe impacts. Best for downhill and enduro riding.
Fit and Comfort
Size: be sure to choose the correct size. Pads should be snug but not so tight that they restrict blood flow. Have a look at the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
Straps and Closures: look for adjustable straps and closures to ensure a secure fit.
Ventilation: consider pads with breathable materials and ventilation features to keep your knees cool during long rides.
Mobility
Flexibility: make sure the pads offer enough flexibility for pedaling & maneuvering on the bike.
Pre-Shaped Design: some knee pads are pre-shaped to fit the natural bend of your knee, offering better comfort and mobility.
Durability
Materials: Check for high-quality, durable materials that can withstand abrasion and frequent use.
Reinforcements: look for reinforced stitching and additional protection on high-impact areas.
Additional Features
Slip-On vs. Wrap-Around: slip-on pads are generally lighter and more comfortable, while wrap-around designs offer better adjustability and can be easier to put on and take off without removing your shoes.
Impact Certification: some pads come with impact certifications (e.g., CE certification) to guarantee a certain level of protection.
Our Recommendations
Fox Racing Launch D3O Knee Guards: known for an excellent balance between protection and flexibility, and suitable for trail and enduro riding.
G-Form Pro-X Knee Pads: lightweight and highly flexible, great for XC and trail riding.
POC Joint VPD 2.0 Knee Pads: offer superior protection and comfort with adjustable straps, ideal for all-mountain and enduro riders.
Leatt Airflex Pro Knee Guards: lightweight and ventilated with good impact protection, perfect for trail and enduro riding.
Find the right knee pads to match your mountain biking style and Ride On!
Size Guide - Mountain Bike Protection
measure 14 cm above your knee or elbow and 14 cm below the center of the knee or elbow for proper fitting.
Elbow | Bicep | Forearm |
|---|---|---|
SM | 31 - 32 CM | 25 - 27 CM |
MD | 32 - 33 CM | 27 - 29 CM |
LG | 34 - 35 CM | 29 - 31 CM |
XL | 35 - 36 CM | 31 - 34 CM |
SM/MD | 31 - 33 CM | 25 - 29 CM |
L/XL | 34 - 36 CM | 29 - 34 CM |
Knee | Thigh | Calf |
|---|---|---|
SM | 40 - 41 CM | 35 - 37 CM |
MD | 41 - 42 CM | 37 - 39 CM |
LG | 43 - 44 CM | 39 - 41 CM |
XL | 45 - 47 CM | 41 - 43 CM |
SM/MD | 40 - 42 CM | 35 - 39 CM |
L/XL | 43 - 47 CM | 36 - 43 CM |
