In the rough-and-tumble world of mountain biking, taking a spill is a question of when, rather than if, so it’s a good idea to take basic precautions to protect yourself from injury. Wearing pads on the areas where your body is most likely to contact the ground – knees and elbows – is highly recommended. Even if you’re just protecting against scratches and bruises, it can save you from prolonged periods off the bike or annoying aches and pains down the line.
Like with most bits of riding kit, knee pad fit and feel can be subjective, because everyone’s legs are different shapes and sizes. While brands do their best to make pads fit a wide range of people, it’s unlikely that everyone will have the same experience with them. Pads that one person loves, others may find clumpy or even uncomfortable, go getting the right pair for your needs is crucial.
But what makes one pair of pads better than another? Most importantly, they need to feel comfortable on your legs – don’t just focus on your knee, think about your calf and thigh, too, because ill-fitting pads can make those bits sore. They also need to hug your legs, so that the protection can’t slip or move when you’re pedalling or if you hit the deck, without overly restricting movement, which can impair pedalling performance and comfort. Brands generally use hook-and-loop straps or elasticated sleeves, or a combination of both, to keep the protective knee cup in place, but effectiveness varies.
After fit and security, heat and sweat are the next considerations on pedalling-focused pads like those here. Perforations, breathable
