MTB knee pads in the test: 20 models for trail, enduro and bike park

Trail and enduro knee pads in the test

• 7IDP Transition Knee
• Amplifi Salvo Joint Knee
• Endura MT500 D3O Ghost Knee
• Fox Enduro D3O
• Fuse Omega Knee Pad
• ION K-Sleeve AMP
• IXS Flow Evo+
• O'Neal Flow Knee Guard
• Pearl Izumi Summit Knee Guard

Shuttle and bike park protectors in the test

• 100% Surpass Knee
• 7IDP Project Knee
• Amplifi Havok Knee Zip
• Bluegrass Solid D3O
• G-Form E-Line Knee
• ION K-Pact Knee
• IXS Trigger Race Knee
• Leatt 3DF 6.0 Knee
• Raceface Roam
• Scott Grenade Evo Hybrid

Protectors are like insurance policies. They cost money, are annoying and in most cases you don't even need them. But if something really does happen, you'll be glad you have them. When biking, this can happen quicker than you'd like. Often all it takes is a damp root lying across the path and the rider goes down like a rider at a rodeo. No chance for the reflexes to even begin to react. So it's no wonder that more and more mountain bikers are wearing knee pads even on their home trails. This is mainly because modern viscoelastic special foams are enabling ever thinner protectors that are comfortable to wear even on long rides - quite unlike the bulky bike park protectors, which literally put your knees in a headlock with their robust materials and additional buffer zones around the cushioning plates. For our test, we put ten models from each of the trail/enduro and shuttle/bike park categories through their paces on our in-house test bench and analysed their wearing characteristics in extensive test rides.

Even thin knee pads provide effective protection

The result was astonishing: on the one hand, even the thin pads from the light category can effectively absorb crash forces. On the other hand, some park protectors can also be comfortably pedalled over a short climb and sit comfortably on the knee.

The lightest models in the test have a layer of foam just one centimetre thick between the knee and the opponent. And yet even the weakest candidate only allows a good twelve per cent of the impact force to reach the knee. At best, only 10 kN reaches the body. This means that the POC can almost keep up with the best models in the park category, whose top values are just over 8 kN.

Unlike the EPS of a helmet, for example, the modern high-tech foams can withstand multiple impacts and return to their original shape after a short time. The air trapped in the cells ensures that the foams deform slightly during slow movements - such as pedalling - but harden at lightning speed when hit quickly. We were also surprised that the additional hard shells, which are attached to many of the heavy pads, hardly seem to improve the cushioning properties. However, they do ensure that the knee glides better over the ground in the event of a fall and the protector is not pulled off the knee so quickly. This is a problem that we have noticed particularly with the lighter protectors.

Velcro fasteners guarantee a secure fit without slipping

With their airy, stretchy socks, models such as 7IDP, O'Neal and Pearl Izumi are almost as inconspicuous as a normal knee ring. However, the flexible fabric does not manage to secure the protectors properly to the knee. Fox and Ion, for example, offer more support thanks to firmer materials. And they do so without compromising on comfort. Nevertheless, for the lightweight protectors to fit securely, the size must fit perfectly. A problem that most park protectors solve with at least one Velcro fastener on the upper or lower leg. With a few exceptions, this virtually rules out slipping in the event of a fall. A zip to make it easier to put on and take off, as with Amplifi, Bluegrass or G-Form, is actually superfluous in our eyes. However, it would be desirable for all manufacturers to finally provide their pads with clearly visible side markings. Which protector goes on which knee? It's often a case of guesswork. Once you've finally found the right protector, there's hardly any reason to hit the trails without the right protection. We can only hope that, like insurance, you won't need the protectors in the end.

How the protector test works at BIKE

Laboratory: Shock absorption is the most important criterion for protectors and therefore accounts for 60% of the bike park models and 50% of the trail protectors. We test on the BIKE test stand in close accordance with the motorbike test standard EN 1621.1: A steel body weighing five kilograms and 50 mm wide falls from a height of one metre onto the protector, which lies on a steel base. The impactor has the radius of a ball with a diameter of 80 mm on the impact side. Inside the impact body, an acceleration sensor measures how effectively the protector defuses the blow to the knee. This is visualised as the residual force in kN that acts on the knee. The higher the values, the lower the protection.

Practice: We tested the fit, comfort and ventilation of each schooner with a total of three testers. We covered a distance of approx. 25 kilometres with each model. Ventilation and comfort were rated slightly higher for the protectors in the trail category than for the protectors for bike park use. A secure fit, wearing comfort and ventilation were rated at 20%, 15% and 5% for the heavy protectors and 20%, 20% and 10% for the trail models in the BIKE judgement.

Labelling of protectors

Every protector must be labelled with this seal. We explain what the individual points mean:

1. Protector type: The protection area and size of the protector are specified here. In our case, K stands for knee. There are two sizes of this type of protector, A or B: Type B models protect a larger area than type A. For ergonomic reasons, type B may be unsuitable in some cases, in which case manufacturers often opt for the smaller type A for a better fit.
2. Power level: Knee protectors are divided into protection levels 1 and 2. In level 1, the protectors are designed to offer protection with minimal ergonomic disadvantages. The residual force values must not exceed 35 kN on average and no single impact must exceed 50 kN. In the higher protection class 2, the values must not exceed 20 kN on average. A single impact on the protector must not exceed 30 kN.
3. Temperature range T+/T-: Some protectors have also passed the high and low temperature test (40 °Celsius / -10 °Celsius). Although this is not required for mountain bike protectors, it guarantees that the protector will function reliably even in extreme weather conditions.

The test diagram

Flat curve, blunt tip and the shortest possible application time - this is the perfect damping behaviour with low residual force values.

If the impact rushes through the protector and generates a sharp, high peak, extreme force peaks act on the knee over a short period of time and the risk of injury increases significantly.

Residual force values in kN at a glance

Trail & Enduro

It's amazing how well the lightweight protectors absorb shocks. The best can also keep up with the park protectors. Only the Pearl Izumi falls significantly short.

Shuttle & Park

Three Sas-Tec protectors in the top four - strong cushioning, great fit. Only the Xmatter material in the IXS protector delivers even better values on the test bench.

The results of the MTB knee pads in the test

7IDP Transition Knee

• Price: 69,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 284 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 12.4 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 8 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: A long sock straps the Transition to the knee to prevent slipping. The stretchy material is airy and comfortable over long distances. Only the tight cuffs can cut in a little - other manufacturers do this better. The large Sas-Tec protector even fulfils the higher protection level and fits neatly over the kneecap. In the event of a fall, however, the sock does not hold the protector securely in place, so it can slip. The protector can be removed and the sock can be machine washed. Slightly bulkier pack size.

BIKE verdict: 49 points - very good

Amplifi Salvo Joint Knee

• Price: 84,99 Euro
• Weight / Sizes: 364 g / XS-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 14.7 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 7 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 4 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The Salvo is actually too bulky for a trail protector: although it offers good protection, including lateral padding, it is neither particularly comfortable to step on nor is it particularly well ventilated. The protector is cut very short above the protector, so it protrudes slightly from the thigh. The knee and silicone cuffs are rather sweaty, but the back is lined with airy mesh. Two Velcro straps hold the Salvo securely to the knee even in the event of a fall. There are no side markings and the protector is not removable, so it can only be washed by hand.

BIKE judgement: 43 points - good

Endura MT500 D30 Ghost Knee

• Price: 94,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes276 g / SM, ML, LXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 16.9 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 6 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Endura's lightweight trail protector is equipped with the open-pored D3O Ghost protector and, together with the mesh behind the knee, is very well ventilated. The wide silicone cuffs fit comfortably and keep the MT500 well in position. The sock is not very stretchy, the padding is a little wrinkled over the knee and it can pinch in the hollow of the knee when pedalling. Only fits well if the size is right. Despite the thin protector, the impact values are decent, but there is no labelling on the protector. The mesh tears easily when pulled. Small pack size.

BIKE judgement: 45 points - good

Fox Enduro D30

• Price: 85 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 296 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 14.1 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 7 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Fox uses a slightly thicker protector than Endura, but at the same time increases the protection and fit. Ventilation remains very good thanks to the thin, flexible material. The long sock holds the protector securely in place and is unobtrusive and comfortable even on long pedalling sections. No pinching, no scratching. The Fox protector is perfectly labelled, including side markings, and the D3O protector can be removed for washing. The Enduro D3O also fits in any jersey pocket when travelling.

BIKE verdict: 51 points - very good

Fuse Omega Knee Pad

• Price: 72,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 278 g / XS-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 14.8 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 7 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: With its soft inner side and the perfectly pre-shaped Sas-Tec shell, the BMX specialists' protector sits very comfortably, even if it is not as airy as the Fox. Despite the elaborate kinesio prints, the Omega slips easily off the thigh, and in the event of a fall, the print on the knee exacerbates this effect. The Fuse is very comfortable to wear when pedalling, with no pinching seams or creases. The reflective print on the lower leg comes off after just one ride, the protector is firmly sewn in. Runs very small, so be sure to try it on.

BIKE judgement: 44 points - good

ION K-Sleeve AMP

• Price: 89,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 310 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 16 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 6 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 9 out of 10 points

Conclusion: ION has revised its lightest schooner and finally certified it to Level 1. The long sock fits very tightly and takes a while to align properly, and the seams sometimes crack when you put it on. The K-Sleeve AMP runs rather small. When pedalling, the sock wrinkles slightly and can pinch in the hollow of the knee. On the other hand, the sock with the wide stretch cuff does not slip off the knee, even on long pedalling sections or when in contact with the ground. The protector can be easily removed for washing. Airy protector with a small pack size.

BIKE verdict: 47 points - very good

IXS Flow Evo+

• Price: 79,90 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 283 g / S-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 10.3 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 9 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The Flow Evo+ is a classic knee pad without long socks. It can be slipped on quickly and fastened securely over the calf using the Velcro fastening. This means it hardly slips, although it is rather loose on the thigh. The Xmatter protector fits neatly over the knee and achieved excellent values in the lab. Even though it is not quite as airy as Fox or ION and can pinch slightly in the hollow of the knee when pedalling, the IXS is also very comfortable to wear in the long term. Top labelling, including side markings, removable and washable protector.

BIKE verdict: 54 points - very good

O'Neal Flow Knee Guard

• Price: 79,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 264 / S-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 15.9 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 6 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 10 out of 10 points

Conclusion: With the minimalist O'Neal, the honeycomb protector is sewn directly to the lightweight sock. Wearing comfort and ventilation are very high - no pinching or scratching, and the flow is hardly noticeable when pedalling. However, the stretchy material does not manage to keep the protector firmly in place on the knee. It can easily slip when pedalling. If the sticky protector plate comes into contact with the ground, it can pull the O'Neal off the knee. Thanks to its tiny pack size, the Flow Knee is always with you, but the thin mesh on the back tears easily.

BIKE judgement: 45 points - good

Pearl Izumi Summit Knee Guard

• Price: 89,95 Euro
• Weight / Sizes: 206 g / XS-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 21.8 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 4 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 10 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Hardly any of the competitors are airier and more comfortable to wear. The wide stretch trims on the long mesh sock are still comfortable even after many kilometres and keep the protector in position - you can see the experience as a clothing manufacturer. However, the thin D3O protector allows the highest residual forces to reach the knee in comparison, offers hardly any lateral protection and does not fit perfectly to the body due to the flexible material. In the event of a fall, the Pearl Izumi can slip slightly. Always-on protection for light trail use.

BIKE judgement: 40 points - good

POC Oseus VPD Knee

• Price: 140 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 321 g / XS-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 10 kN

Rating:

Protection (50 %): 9 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (10 %): 8 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The expensive protector from POC is the purest skin flatterer. There are no seams or scratchy materials, and the Oseus is superbly made. Only when pedalling can it pinch slightly in the hollow of the knee. The ergonomically shaped protector delivers top values in the laboratory and is also officially certified to Level 2. It moulds perfectly to the knee and also provides good lateral protection. However, its short sock must fit snugly on the thigh to ensure a secure fit. A little sweatier overall, but suitable even for light parking applications.

BIKE verdict: 52 points - very good

100% Surpass Knee

• Price: 139 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 526 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 13.3 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 7 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The heavy Surpass is a real hardcore protector, with plenty of protection up to the shin and thigh. The combination of foam and hard shell offers good protection and reliably prevents slipping in the event of a fall. The two Velcro straps also hold the protector securely in place, but are not very flexible and pinch in the hollow of the knee. Due to the flexible transition from knee to thigh, the Surpass can also be pedalled a few metres, but then it quickly gets sweaty in the protector. Sewn-in protector, hand wash only.

BIKE verdict: 46 points - very good

7IDP Project Knee

• Price: 129,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 417 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 10.6 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 9 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 10 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Its long circular knit sock makes the Project Knee unique and extremely comfortable. The large Sas-Tec protector encloses the knee perfectly and also achieved very good impact values in the laboratory. However, the upper edge of the knee is almost exposed and the sock protector does not offer any additional protection on the outside. On the other hand, it sits comfortably even on long distances and is therefore ideal for long enduro rides. The protector can be removed and machine washed, but the Velcro can cause the material to fray slightly.

BIKE verdict: 53 points - very good

Amplifi Havok Knee Zip

• Price: 119,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 422 g / XS-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 9.3 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 10 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 9 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 6 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Amplifi also uses a large Sas-Tec protector and thus achieves top damping values. Additional foam inserts around the knee provide protection, the protector fits close to the body and sits very securely without slipping, even with just one Velcro strap. However, others score more points for comfort: The silicone cuffs are sweaty, the scratchy mesh pinches the back of the knee when pedalling. The zip works well, but is actually unnecessary. There are no side markings and the sewn-in protector means that only hand washing is possible.

BIKE judgement: 55 points - very good

Bluegrass Solid D30

• Price: 120 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 428 g / XS-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 15.9 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 5 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 7 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The Solid feels light and sits a little more airily on the knee than some other candidates - also thanks to the mesh insert on the back. We think the zip is unnecessary, but it's a good solution here. The sticky silicone straps pinch when you pull them up and the narrow Velcro also pinches the thigh. The lower Velcro only secures the zip, so the Bluegrass isn't too tight, but is still quite comfortable to pedal in. The D3O protector performs only mediocrely in the lab test. It cannot be removed and the Bluegrass can only be washed by hand.

BIKE verdict: 42 points - good

G-Form E-Line Knee

• Price: 109,99 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 499 g / S-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 14.3 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 7 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 5 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Due to its two-part construction - zip plus Velcro at the bottom, Velcro at the top - the G-Form is a little awkward to put on. The zip is difficult to close completely. However, because the hollow of the knee is open, it is quite comfortable. When standing, the protector protrudes far from the knee and creases at the sides. The protective effect of the protector is okay. However, the protector doesn't sit too firmly on the knee and can slip downwards on contact with the ground, despite the hard shell. The almost seamless inner material is comfortable, but a little sweaty.

BIKE verdict: 43 points - good

ION K-Pact Knee

• Price: 89,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 468 g / XS-XL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 8.4 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 10 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 9 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 6 out of 10 points

Conclusion: For less than 100 euros, the K-Pact is a level 2 protector with excellent values in the laboratory. But the ION is also impressive in practice: it sits extremely snugly over the knee and also offers good lateral protection. The two Velcro fasteners strap it to the leg without slipping, and it stays securely in place even in the event of a fall. Although the snug fit is a little restrictive when pedalling and the ventilation is also moderate, this is easy to get over when using it in the bike park. One small drawback: the Velcro straps fray quickly. Otherwise top!

BIKE verdict: 57 points - super

IXS Trigger Race Knee

• Price: 139 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 594 g / S-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 8.2 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 10 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 4 out of 10 points

Conclusion: Although the IXS is only officially certified to Level 1, it achieves the best values in the laboratory. Its combination of hard shell and foam padding offers maximum all-round protection and extends as far as the shin. This makes the heavy protector ideal for use in the car park. It can be securely fastened with two Velcro straps, but can slip slightly on contact with the ground - be sure to check the fit. When pedalling, the Trigger can hardly score any points, it is not very flexible and the Velcro straps pinch in the hollow of the knee. The mesh on the back is not very tear-resistant and the Velcro straps are snaggy.

BIKE verdict: 53 points - very good

Leatt 3DF 6.0 Knee

• Price: 99,99 Euro
• Weight / Sizes: 475 g / S-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 15.9 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 6 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 7 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 7 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 5 out of 10 points

Conclusion: The combination of foam and hard shell on the Leatt extends right down to the shin. The asymmetrical design takes some getting used to. Lateral padding provides additional protection, but the cushioning values are only mediocre. The fact that the Leatt stands a little further away from the knee means that it is still very comfortable to pedal, but the cut-out in the hollow of the knee can pinch a little. Overall, the 3DF sits securely but is slightly sweaty. It runs large, so be sure to try it on. The protector is firmly sewn in, but the fit is somewhat unconventional.

BIKE verdict: 42 points - good

Raceface Roam

• Price: 139,90 Euro
• Weight / Sizes: 562 g / XS-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 1 / 15.3 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 6 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 4 out of 10 points

Conclusion: You need a little patience to position the many Velcro straps correctly and attach the Roam properly to the knee. But then the heavy protector sits comfortably, albeit a little sweaty due to the softly terrycloth-lined inside. In the lab, the D3O protector delivered mediocre results, it protrudes slightly from the knee and is bulky. It hardly slips in a fall and is still easy to pedal. The workmanship could be better: some of the stitching is not very neat, the mesh on the back is not very tear-resistant and the logo on the knee plate smudges when you fall.

BIKE verdict: 42 points - good

Scott Grenade Evo Hybrid

• Price: 129,95 Euro >> available here
• Weight / Sizes: 562 g / XS-XXL
• Protection level / residual force: Level 2 / 11.2 kN

Rating:

protection (60 %): 8 out of 10 points

Secure fit (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Wearing comfort (15 %): 8 out of 10 points

Ventilation (5 %): 4 out of 10 points

Conclusion: With the massive Grenade, you are guaranteed to survive the next crash in the bike park unscathed. It sits extremely snugly on the knee and offers excellent protection with the additional hard shell and foam padding around the knee. It is also surprisingly comfortable to wear and is still easy to pedal in, even if it gets a little sweaty around the knee. The Scott also scores points in terms of workmanship. The protector can be easily removed for washing and the sides are clearly marked on the Velcro strip.

BIKE verdict: 51 points - very good