Lightweight MTB knee pads for trail bikers: Thin pachyderm: The Bluegrass Skinny D3O on test

Bluegrass Skinny D3O MTB knee pads - Features

Even though the Bluegrass goes by the name of Skinny, at 364 grams (size L) it is clearly one of the heavier models in the test. However, it has a much more stable grip than many of its competitors. Its robust material on the front can withstand the odd fall without damage, making the Skinny knee pad a real winner. but also somewhat less flexible overall.

The back of the Skinny has a more airy mesh material. The heavily pre-shaped D3O protector is firmly sewn into the fabric and cannot be removed for washing. The side is marked on the inside of the sock for orientation. The Bluegrass does not have Velcro for a better hold, but the knee pad is fitted with silicone strips all round the edges. There is no labelling at all to classify the protector.

>> You already have the right protector, but are still looking for a new helmet? In this article, we have got to the bottom of the jet helmet trend.

The Bluegrass Skinny on the test bench

With an average of 15.89 kN, the Skinny is clearly within the standard limit of 35 kN and thus ranks in the lower midfield. The residual force directly in the centre of the knee is 15.5 kN - a reasonable value for this rather heavy protector. Good: The D3O protector is neatly moulded to the knee and extends down to the base of the shin.

Want to know how we tested the knee pads? Read more about this in our "This is how BIKE tests" article.

Fit & comfort

The Skinny knee pad has a rather large cut. The somewhat sturdier material at the front in particular offers little stretch. In combination with the narrow silicone strip, which sticks only moderately to the skin, the Bluegrass sits somewhat insecurely and you often have to adjust it on rough descents. The Bluegrass protector is also always in motion when pedalling, which causes friction at the front of the knee in the long run.

Although the back is well ventilated with the mesh fabric, hardly any wind gets through from the front and so the Skinny quickly gets a little sweaty. Top: The protector is well moulded to the knee and therefore offers good support. For an even better fit, the sock should be a little longer and extend over the cycling shorts.

Conclusion on the Bluegrass Skinny D30 knee pad in the test:

The Skinny is relatively large and sits less firmly on the leg due to the barely stretchy material. The silicone straps are not very sticky and the protector lies loosely over the knee, which also contributes to the only moderate fit. In the lab, the Bluegrass delivers solid results, and the material on the front is also robust and durable, although ventilation suffers somewhat on pedalling sections. - Stefan Frey, BIKE editor

Bluegrass Skinny D3O Knee pads - Details and price

• Price 110 Euro >> available here
• Weight¹ / Sizes 364 gram / XS-XL
• Country of manufacture China
• Equipment Long D3O pad; mesh back; stretch trims
• Protector removable no
• Protector / protection level² D3O / EN 1621-1, Level 1
• Residual force¹ (centre / bottom / side) 15,5 / 14,96 / 17,21

Valuation

¹BIKE measured values. ²The protection level refers to the manufacturer's official specification. The BIKE grade is independent of price. The BIKE rating is based on the school grading system with grades 1 to 5.