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Have been dithering for a while now. I don't generally fall off and usually ride well within my comfort zone (aka mince!) ... but do sometimes ride places more challenging for me. Also, at 51 years young, I don't bounce/heal as quickly as I used to, so thinking it would be good to have some pads I could wear anytime, even on my familiar local stuff.
So, looking for something XC/trail oriented, something light weight and wearable regularly, but will give a bit of protection even on rocky Lakes descents. I'm aware there are some pads that instantly harden on impact, are these the way to go?
So, hit me with your suggestions!
I've just been through this yesterday, read reviews searched on here, was shocked at the prices. Found Chainreaction was out of stock on reductions in my size.
Then ordered these:
https://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/5806/products/fox-launch-pro-knee-guards-black.aspx
Fox launch pro reduced to £40 delivered.
Not worn them yet....
Troy Lee Speed Sleeves.
Elbow & knee guards, light enough to wear every ride but tough enough to take the edge off impacts.
Have had hard shell pads for donkeys years, first some dianese ones, which were poo and latterly some raceface. They were ok, but you really knew they were there. Great for cold days plummeting in kielder. I've now bought some endura mt500 knee pads. They're a revelation. I forgot I had them on when riding recently. They don't give as much shin protection, but then that never really bothered me as all the times I've come off only the knee has touched down. Really impressed. Just need to find something similar for my arms now.
I've been looking at those Troy Lee ones. My current Dainese knee pads are getting a bit worn out and they look just the ticket. Do they have decent ventilation to stop you getting sweaty around the back of your knee?
My POC VPD Air are good. Light, comfortable and not too hot.
Do they have decent ventilation to stop you getting sweaty around the back of your knee?
Not really. They're nice & warm in winter though.
I've just started using bliss minimalist knee pads. Great fit and comfortable to ride in as they're a lycra sleeve with some moulded plastic stuff bonded to them. The sleeve is quite long so covers quite a lot of leg.
The lycra has picked up a tear on mine from getting snagged on a pedal pin. I've not had a major off in them but they have stopped a couple of grazed knees in slow speed offs onto rock
661 d30 knee pads
They are soft to touch and you can bend them but whack them and the D30 compound goes instantly hard
Ive been using them on the BMX and MTB for around 10 years now with no issues, very comfy when pedaling, dont slip down especially in a crash and the D30 compound insert can be removed for washing, they also have cut outs on the rear so the back of your knee gets air and they don't get squashed up in the back of your knee every time you pedal
https://winstanleysbmx.com/661-evo-ii-knee-pads