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ION K-Pact AMP HD
The K-Pact from Ion is a classic among knee protectors. In past tests, the knee protector achieved the best cushioning values (Test winner in the 2022 BIKE test). It reduces the impact by more than 90 per cent. At the same time, it is comfortable and sits firmly on the knee, even if it is a little sweaty. The K-Pact has now been further developed. The Ion engineers have given the protector a hard plastic shell over the SAS-TEC foam padding. This is designed to prevent the protector from being pulled off the knee in the event of a fall. Great: the new Ion K-Pact also covers the upper shin. Two Velcro fasteners hold the protector firmly in place. Lateral foam pads provide additional cushioning. Laboratory results are not yet available, but the new K-Pact makes a first-class impression in terms of fit and workmanship. At least on the downhill. When cranking, however, it pinches in the hollow of the knee.
- Weight: 516 grams (pair, L)
- Price: 170 Euro >> available here
STRENGTHS
- Fit
- Hard plastic plate
- Optics
WEAKNESSES
- Downhill only, pinches the back of the knee when pedalling
- Price
Conclusion on the ION K-Pact AMP HD:
Successful knee pad for park use only! Good fit! Nothing for pedalling.
Sweet Protection Knee Guard Pro
In addition to a junior version, the Norwegians have three knee protectors in their programme. One Light version (89 euros), the trail and Enduro Protector Pro (129 euros) and the Gravity variant Pro Hard Shell (159 euros). We tested the medium Pro model. The protector has just one Velcro strap on the lower edge, but sits firmly and comfortably on the knee. The Norwegians have dispensed with lateral padding on this model. It's easy to put on and take off. Nothing pinches even when pedalling. This wearing comfort gives the protector a very wide range of applications. A proprietary product is used as the foam padding. It is flexible and moulds comfortably to the knee. However, the foam pad only fulfils the tame level 1 of the Euro standard. By comparison, the pads in the Ion K-Pact and Alpina Flowpad fulfil the stricter level 2.
- Weight: 366 grams (pair, size L)
- Price: 129 Euro >> available here
STRENGTHS
- Comfort (Uphill & DH)
- Fit
- Light
WEAKNESSES
- Not quite as impact-resistant
Conclusion on the Sweet Protection Knee Guard Pro:
Super comfortable to wear, nothing pinches or slips. Top! But only fulfils protection level 1.
Alpina Flowpad
Alpina was previously known for goggles and helmets. Now the Bavarians have developed MTB protectors for knees and elbows for the first time. Alpina has a wealth of experience in the ski and snowboard sector - the Augsburg-based company is a big player in this field. We tried out the super-lightweight Flowpad trail knee pad. The sock contains a mouldable protector from SAS-TEC, which is certified to the stricter protection level 2 of the Euro standard. There are two additional pads made of simpler foam on each side. Striking: the mesh material of the sock extends far up to the thigh. The pad is extremely comfortable to wear when pedalling, nothing pinches. Great! But then came the disillusionment during a crash (see photo). The protector slipped down and exposed the knee. Suspected reasons: The sock is too elastic, the pad too small. Please make improvements!
- Weight: 250 grams (pair)
- Price: 100 Euro
STRENGTHS
- Wearing comfort
- Light
- Certificate Level 2
WEAKNESSES
- Pad tends to expose the knee when falling
Conclusion on the Alpina Flowpad:
Super comfortable trail protector. Unfortunately, it slipped when I fell. Please improve it!
