I just got back into mountainbiking after a 35 year break. I am quickly learning that my health is far more important than my comfort or " cool" factor. I am a 23 year old in a 56 year old body. I push harder than most at my age and need all the protection I can get so I can keep my construction business going. On a side note- When I last rode mountain bikes was between 82-86. Back then we were all riding rigid bikes..no suspension at all. I am amazed at how far MBing has come. I bought a BMC Two Stroke hardtailI. Now I already want a full suspension bike. Lol. I only wish I never quit. I am loving it. It consumes me. Peace
Yup wearing pads since I started riding again. Had some cheapies from Amazon now I'm using fox d30's. I'm 59 so I gotta be able to walk and go to work! Don't skimp on your equipment.
Yep, wear knee pads every ride! Hot or cold, it only took one serious fall where my knees took the brunt of the fall (onto rocks no less) that I realized walking was more important than being part of the "cool kids no kneepads crew". Use the Fox Launch D30's and love them!
Yep, same. Smashed my left knee (right knee and forearms took a hit too, but not even close to how hard my left knee absorbed the blow) into a giant slab of rock. The swelling was unreal. Counting my lucky stars I didn’t fracture the knee. Thanks for the recommendation. I’m too old (39) to keep fvcking around like that.
After a very slow crash on wet slimy granite while wearing cheap knee pads that moved as i hit the deck resulting in 4 inch cut across opening up my kneecap in the middle of a woodland trail on my own, 62 year old at the time and new to mountain biking after years of off road motorbike racing and trail riding ( "it 's only a pushbike ") luckily i carry a decent first aid kit when riding , cleaned it out and had to ride about 5 miles out of where i was to get home and jump then in my car to go to the hospital, drove myself there , the Doctor stitched me up and it took 3 courses of antibiotics to sort it out ,,,first purchase before i even went out again Endura mt500 hardshell pads .... and fox titan elbow guards and now i don't ride without them at all , the crash is the featured video on my youtube ( I just log my rides ) @@Adrian101882
I went for a casual ride by our local lake and ended up riding into an unmarked chain strung a few inches off the ground. I went flying forward and my legs got caught on the handlebars, ended up going to the hospital and both legs were black and blue front and backside. If I had my knee pads on, it would have prevented most of the damage. You are so right about wearing knee pads on every ride.
I was riding my mtb slowly through some puddles and started aqua planning. I fell off so slowly but tore my knee open exposing my left knee cap. Knee & elbow pads are a must for me now. Great video and advice.
@@goofyahhhamburger Sorry it was a typo. I meant aquaplaning. It’s an issue caused when a layer of water is allowed to build up between tyres and the surface of the ground beneath. At this point, the tyres cannot grip on the surface and this causes a lack of traction which means loss of control, unable to steer, brake or accelerate. That’s how I came off. 😖😩😂
Thankfully I started wearing knee pads after I broke four ribs……. Let me explain…. Been Mtbing for 10 years or more and last 4 years have been pushing my skills to learn more. A fluke accident going over a log skinny with a slip and fall broke my 4 ribs. While recovering I TH-camd my brains out looking for solutions and found your channel about full face helmets and knee pads, you are clear and concise in your videos which I enjoy. After getting back out on the trail. Coming a down pretty steep descent caught a root pretty hard, and you know I went OTB. My knee hit another root, and I suffered no injury, Thank You!
One of the weird things I’ve picked up is the importance of elbow pads. For some reason, about 65 percent of my falls scrape my elbows and leave my knees untouched. Anyone else?
@@Bike198 lightweight moto armour. Not like the old clunky plastic kinds but the new stuff that is more torso-body-suit style is light, breathable and stealthy. Fox in particular.
I am an EMT and have worked a few races, one of the biggest takeaways from these events was how often the racers impacted their elbows and forearms - by far the greatest number of injuries that I helped with.
I wear Fox Launch Knee/Shin guards. I like these because the coverage goes pretty far down the shin. I know the fit is not for everyone, as the Velcro straps may slide down, but thankfully these pads stay on during every ride for me. They have saved me countless times - falls, and the accidental pedal strike to the shin, lol. I will wear them 90% of my rides - even the easy ones a lot of times. Thumbs up to the video recommendations!
Thank you. I wear knee pads when riding my MTB. I use Fox D30 pads that are lightweight and comfortable. I don’t notice them while riding, no matter the distance of the ride. I think knee pads are essential.
Hey! Just want to say I just had a fall as a new rider and had listened to this video and many others warning me about it. I now am about to buy elbow pads(didn't have the money before). I have the shin and knee d30 from fox and the material got really torn up and I'm sore, but I can actually ride in a couple days after I have a rest period. Thank you, and wanted you to know this video actually helped.
Avoiding sharp pedals to the knees and shins is enough of a reason to wear them…even if you’re not falling. 😅 I wear them always, and have direct types for different rides.
I was never a pad wearer... until now. A week and a half ago I had a stupid crash in my neighborhood on concrete. My front tire washed out while making a turn on the sidewalk, went down knee and elbow first, there just happened to be a half inch landscaping stone on the sidewalk were I landed and that resulted in a one inch by half inch hole in my knee just below the knee cap. I could literally see into my leg before the blood started. Needless to say, I got online an ordered a set of knee pads once I got myself all bandaged up. Once healed and I can ride again I won't be leaving home without the knee pads
I wear a super light knee pad when riding the easier local trails, and the sam hills when riding the more tech downhill oriented jump line trails,,,, and ALWAYS a full face Enduro helmet
I’m mostly doing trail riding and am always wearing knee pads. Both for security and confidence. And I have gotten old enough to also appreciate the extra comfory during winter rides. The pads I use is the POC joint VPD 2.0 Protector due to the soft/flexible foam pads.
I’m in the process of transitioning from dirt biking to mountain biking. When riding a dirt bike (enduro) we’re basically dressed like medieval knights with all the armor. Then see mountain bikers going down the same trail, faster, wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I’ve been down countless times on a dirt bike and have always walked away. I sold the dirt bike and bought a mountain bike and a helmet. That’s it. My dirt bike gear is just so heavy. Took the new SC Hightower out for the first time this past weekend and almost face planted into a very large rock. I managed to save it but it brought me right back to the “now you’re one of those crazy mountain biker” moments. I’m currently selling all my dirt bike gear on eBay to help finance new mtb gear. Riding without it is just dumb.
It is crazy to me that certain mountain bikers are so resistant to protective gear...especially considering how comfortable they have made it now. Glad to hear you saved it and welcome to the MTB world!
Great example of a common opportunity for injury. I've had horrible knees since I was a kid, probably grew too fast (vertically and in circumference haha). I've started riding again and knee protection was the third thing I bought, after helemt and textile mesh motorcycle jacket to get the d30 armor. My knees are g-form e-line because I wanted a little more shell than what I was seeing, and I can take them off without having to take off my shoes. Stay safe!
like the thinking on this .. just bought my first set of knee and elbow pads.. i'm 62 yrs young.. go hard when I go .. I haven't been on the trail with then yet ... still muddy in Dallas.. trails are starting to dry out and looking forward to first rides to see if I get chaffed.. POC 2.0 long pads .. they feel really tight ... and I purchased a LG .. we'll see.. great advise though.. I'm on board... . UPDATE 6/20/21.. RODE TRAILS Friday evening.. 5 miles of blue ... Pads were incredible.. no chaffing.!! Didn't even notice them while on the trail... 100% sold !!
Don't have to tell me twice, when you're over 50 like me, a minor fall can take months to recover. Even riding green trails I put on my POC VPD knee and elbow, Bell super 3R MIPS full face, Leatte short sleeve body armor, Five Ten shoes, E-Skate gloves with palm padding and wrist guard.....Impact shorts for hip and thigh is next on my to buy list. 👍 Was on my electric skateboard 2 weeks ago to get some beer at corner store, board slid under me and I landed on side of my hip and femur area, still hurting today.
Had a really bad wreck snowboarding when I was 22, and made sure I wore a helmet every day from there on out. When I got big in to mountain biking, I had no issue padding up. Sometimes it's hot, but it's saved me some major pain on a few occasions.
I think a lot of biking came from the road biking mentality at first. I still see road bikers in my area riding without helmets on because they are "too hot". That is changing over time quickly right now though.
Found your vid too late...dislocated my knee cap on an easy ride when i simply caught a tree with my bars. I have troy lees like your which are super comfy but i only use them at the bike park. You can bet i will use them for now on!
Not long ago I got the new Pearl Izumi Elevate knee and elbow pads, they are quite breathable, and I don't get rashes, nor overheat. they are secure if worn correctly. They are comfy. they use removable D3O pads, which have many venting holes, and are flexible, and soft, and are about 1cm thick. Thickness is important too. I have Leatt AirFlex Pro too, but they are too thin, not for gnarly riding, trust me I crash tested them accidentally of course.
Dang wish I had seen this yesterday. First crash today and have a 1 inch gash under left knee from hitting a rock full blast. Couldn’t get up for about five minutes, but I don’t think anything is broken. Already wear wrist guards and elbow pads but won’t ride again without knee pads.
Gravity dropper and those pads here too bro! Worn them ever since. I like the Fox pads that have padding on the sides of knee too. Vital IMHO. Today I took a spill into a rock garden and have bruising on front of right knee wearing pads! A few weeks ago a spill into rocks has a gash in the pad wrapping around the side pads too. I'm now looking at elbow pads and even padded shorts... and maybe slowing down 😂
i'm wearing kneepads as I watch this video, cause I'm wondering whether I can actually ride with these things (POC VPD 2.0 Long). Your video helped, thanks. I've already got a herniated muscle in my shin from a crash so I think I'll have to give these a proper try. If I was wearing these that day I'd have a much nicer looking and feeling leg right now. I'm also getting older and riding harder and more technical trails. Great point about the confidence. I rode a few months back and forgot my gloves. Something so simple and my mindset was completely messed up. I second guessed myself the whole ride, every tech feature I'd grip hard and tense up, not fun.
I use the G-Form E-Line knee pads on all my rides even on trail rides. I thought they would be to bulky but they are comfortable. Did not want to buy some for trail and some for park.
I'm using my new Fox Enduro D30 which I just got like 5 days ago. I just got them bcs I know I'm gonna fall in the future so I just decided to wear some protection. I also have elbow guards. My friend broke his wrist by falling with 0 speed so I might as well get something to protect me. I wanna make the risk as low as possible
I just ordered the Troy Lee ones you reviewed in another video. What convinced me was to see my friend in the "stupidest" trail go down going over some tree roots and hitting his knee against a rock. He was sore for days. I'm 53 and these "parts" are not manufactured anymore :-)
View recently got my self a MTB, its been probably 12 years since if rode a push bike tbh. I got day one a Leatt Helmet, full finger gloves, Leatt MTB 3.0 Shoes as it says it gives a little ankle protection. I always ride with glasses too. After seeing many videos i recently just ordered POC knee pages and will likely look into some elbow pads too. Hell even if they’re not full on protectors, its better than nothing. I’d image you’d hit your elbows just as much as knees on a fall.
Wear kneepads on every ride, hot or cold, rocky or just plain trails. Snapped my ACL & PCL ligaments in my knee from taking a hit with no pads on and don’t really want to go through that again. You don’t realize the importance of kneepads until it’s too late.
Personally I value elbow and hand protection more. Knees are much closer to the ground and will not get as hurt. I’ve scrapped my shins more often than I had a nick in my knees. From most to least hurt here’s my list: Hands- elbows- head - hip side - shins - back - knees. (Shins from my pedals…)
I use the Fox Enduro D30 because they are very pedal friendly while offering good protection. The only problem is that the rear part tears very easy if you use flat pedals and the pins get stuck in a hole of the net.
Great video with your own real world example of how a fall (and OTB) can happen at anytime on any trail really. I just got the new G-Form E-Line knee pads in today after going down a really hardcore rocky descent trail last weekend which a much better rider leading the way and he put his knee pads on for that section. I look forward to trying the new G-Form knee pads riding this weekend. In a side note, my girlfriend on her very first mountain biking ride last month scraped up her knee pretty badly. Right after that she ordered knee pads. If only she had had them from the first ride!
Looking forward to hearing how you like the G-Forms Jason! I am posting my review of the TLD's today and have some 661 and POC's in. Knee pads are definitely one of those items that you don't need...until you do. Hopefully your girlfriend didn't take too hard of a hit!
@@Bike198 Unfortunately from first putting the new E-Line pads on, the left knee pad I could feel rubbing on the back of my knee (knee pit?) area. I could see nothing physically wrong or different with the left kneed pad compared to the right one. I went on a ride anyway and sure enough, had two places rubbed red and slightly raw from the left knee pad. The right knee pad was totally comfortable with no marks. My left quad is slightly larger than my right, and I compensated for that in closing the straps. Did you experience any rubbing initially? Maybe I need to experiment with the straps tighter or looser? Or a break in of a couple more rides still? The issue was so bad I ordered in the meantime Poc VPD Air knee pads (not yet received).
I haven't tried the G-Forms but I haven't had that kind of issue out of the ones I do have. I am testing out the POC VPD System light pads right now and I am having a hard time keeping those from trying to fall. The Air's have a strap and more of a design like the TLD's so I don't think you will have that problem. Wonder if they need to break in some? I have found that body/shape type can effect fit.
@@Bike198 Update after a second ride in the G-Form E-Line knee pads -- the first ride was in very cold weather, there was snow on the trails, and I was wearing the knee pads under Fox pants. Second ride -- over 60F and I was wearing shorts, and sweating a good bit more. I think this helped the left knee pad not rub roughly against my knee pit. I had virtually no markings behind the left knee, and the pads for most of the ride were as not in my mindset as hardcover, bulky knee pads can be. I was relieved. That said, I am still not sure I will not return them. I just got a pair of POC VPD Air knee pads in today I'll test out in 2 days from now. They seem strong enough to take on a hard fall or rock impact, so if they perform much better, I may still return the G-Form, even though the G-Form E-Line have redeemed themselves on the 2nd wearing.
I am 41 and Mountain Biked a lot up until my 30s. Then after about a 10 year break, My oldest son has gotten into it. So I am back. And yeah, I am geared out. I am wearing G-Form knee pads and a 661 chest protector. Getting injured sucks and when I hit 40 my body was like you are old now. Looking to update my chest protector to a more comfortable one if you have suggestions. Love the knee pads I am using.
Yeah the joke now is that we don't bounce like we used to. It used to be just get up and brush it off. Now it is...damn...I'm going to miss a week of work!
I have the TLD sleeves. The best! I wear them this time of year to keep warm as well. Just all the things you pointed out. I have to say, during the hottest months, I may pass on an "easy" ride.
For me its a struggle between protection and heat exhaustion on hot humid days. I will skip rlbow pads but my knee pads anf FF helmet are non-negotiable.
I've been riding since the late '80's. When I first started my riding gear was cutoff Levi's, hiking boots and a baseball cap. Now, not only do I wear knee and elbow pads, but hip pads as well. Why wouldn't I? They are no more expensive than regular liners, can't be felt while riding and are invisible under my shorts. I also wear a helmet with removable chin bar. If it is hot out I remove the chin bar, but otherwise ride with it on. I can't see it, it is basically weightless and if I crash my beauty will remain unblemished.
POC vpd 2.0 long knee all day every day. Unfortunately I wear them more now since in had to get stitches in my shin from raking it on my pedal after landing awkwardly. Wasn't wearing them that day smh..
I have Fox Racing Launch D30 knee/shin pads which open at the back so you can put them on when you already have your shoes on. Be careful as I have just looked them up and there is a product of the same name which looks as if it is a slip on. I found it takes away one less thing to do when you drive to ride then don't have to take your shoes off to put the pads on. Got the shin protection version as, before I bought them, I had a significant haematoma from a stone thrown up by pinging off the front tyre which hit my shin when I was travelling quite fast. Imagine throwing a rock at your bony shin at 15 - 20 miles per hour, it hurts. Although I must admit I was quite proud of my bleeding, egg sized swelling "war wound" which I could show to my family and friends when I got back. Even put the photo on my many Whatsapp groups.
Anything to the shin is never fun! Glad to hear it ultimately turned out ok though. Shin guards are a great addition as well. Especially if you are riding flats.
I Have just bought some knee pads for a bike park im going to that wont allow you to ride without knee pads, i never have used knee pads nor have I actually considered knee pads, i never plan on crashing and therefore a half shell helmet is always enough protection dont do stupid shit thats out of your comfort zone 99% of my crashes in the last few years have been slow tip overs with only a couple of real heavy slams, a chest/back protector would be something i would consider when riding places with higher speeds and more built features as broken ribs sucks real bad, hopefully i get on with the kneepads and they find their way into my riding kit more often but dont really plan on pedalling in them
People laugh at me for having "all the gear and no idea". I always laugh and reply "I wear all the gear because I have no idea!". I don't wear protection because I'm good, I wear protection because I crash!
Leatt Airflex Pro Knee Guard; really comfortable and decent protection (CE level 1) And I just bought the Leatt Airflex Stealth Body Protector - CE level 1 for elbow, shoulder, back; and some protection for the chest. Accidents do happen!
Ive done 40+ years trailriding on dirtbikes, the tightest funnest singletrack around. ANY protective gear part I don't wear? That is where the impact will happen, every time. I just got some LEATT knee protection for riding my new Mt E-Bike. Now if it only quit raining in nor cal.
watching this after i dropped a chain on my single speed climbing a gravel road causing me to smash my knee in to gravel laving grooves in my knee. im now in the market for some knee pads though i do have vary fat thighs so i dont know if pads will stay still or not
@BIKE198 of the options that you showed (hard or soft) do you prefer on longer XC rides that you do? Here in Central NC, everything is pretty flat and the average speeds are a lot slower. I did come from a BMX background where we had HUGE hardshells. Currently, not wearing knee pads. With that stated, I did go over some human-built wood obstacles on local trails that were wet and moulded over. Wow. That was not fun at top speed. Went to my knees and was lucky to escape without injury. Will be checking out your links, but would really like some feedback on which you prefer on just general, long (10-20mi) XC rides with what feels like more UP than down. :) Thanks!
I have had great results with the TLD Raid Knee. I really don't even notice they are there. I will be riding the POC's now for testing and they are even lighter. I don't think you can go wrong with either. TLD also makes a Speed Sleeve (bit.ly/365K1Zs) if you are just looking for minimal protection.
i'm ready to pull the trigger for POC knee protection....BUT i'm stuck between vpd air and vpd 2.0... I like vpd 2.0 but what if they'r an overkill for my ride? and if vpd air are pedal friendly but too less protection? daaaaaam...i'm stuck :D classic trail/am/light enduro ride for me....
Ewen, I haven't worn them in awhile. I don't know if I have gotten good at tucking and rolling or what but I rarely hit my elbows anymore. On dedicated shuttle/DH runs I probably still would though.
good review. I race and nobody wears them but after crashing in a race and dealing with an extended recovery, I had to. th-cam.com/video/aNVamcXxLqE/w-d-xo.html
Great video 👍🏻. Trail riding and TLD Speed Sleeve and stage knee pads. Just bought the TLD raid as knee got banged up on a washout when wearing the stage pads and looks like they moved on impact
I just got back into mountainbiking after a 35 year break. I am quickly learning that my health is far more important than my comfort or " cool" factor. I am a 23 year old in a 56 year old body. I push harder than most at my age and need all the protection I can get so I can keep my construction business going. On a side note- When I last rode mountain bikes was between 82-86. Back then we were all riding rigid bikes..no suspension at all. I am amazed at how far MBing has come. I bought a BMC Two Stroke hardtailI. Now I already want a full suspension bike. Lol. I only wish I never quit. I am loving it. It consumes me.
Peace
Dont ride a new top of line e Mt Bike....................the fun factor is way off the charts!
Yup wearing pads since I started riding again. Had some cheapies from Amazon now I'm using fox d30's. I'm 59 so I gotta be able to walk and go to work! Don't skimp on your equipment.
Yep, wear knee pads every ride! Hot or cold, it only took one serious fall where my knees took the brunt of the fall (onto rocks no less) that I realized walking was more important than being part of the "cool kids no kneepads crew". Use the Fox Launch D30's and love them!
Yep, same. Smashed my left knee (right knee and forearms took a hit too, but not even close to how hard my left knee absorbed the blow) into a giant slab of rock. The swelling was unreal. Counting my lucky stars I didn’t fracture the knee. Thanks for the recommendation. I’m too old (39) to keep fvcking around like that.
After a very slow crash on wet slimy granite while wearing cheap knee pads that moved as i hit the deck resulting in 4 inch cut across opening up my kneecap in the middle of a woodland trail on my own, 62 year old at the time and new to mountain biking after years of off road motorbike racing and trail riding ( "it 's only a pushbike ") luckily i carry a decent first aid kit when riding , cleaned it out and had to ride about 5 miles out of where i was to get home and jump then in my car to go to the hospital, drove myself there , the Doctor stitched me up and it took 3 courses of antibiotics to sort it out ,,,first purchase before i even went out again Endura mt500 hardshell pads .... and fox titan elbow guards and now i don't ride without them at all , the crash is the featured video on my youtube ( I just log my rides ) @@Adrian101882
I went for a casual ride by our local lake and ended up riding into an unmarked chain strung a few inches off the ground. I went flying forward and my legs got caught on the handlebars, ended up going to the hospital and both legs were black and blue front and backside. If I had my knee pads on, it would have prevented most of the damage. You are so right about wearing knee pads on every ride.
I was riding my mtb slowly through some puddles and started aqua planning. I fell off so slowly but tore my knee open exposing my left knee cap.
Knee & elbow pads are a must for me now. Great video and advice.
what is aqua planning?
@@goofyahhhamburger Sorry it was a typo. I meant aquaplaning. It’s an issue caused when a layer of water is allowed to build up between tyres and the surface of the ground beneath. At this point, the tyres cannot grip on the surface and this causes a lack of traction which means loss of control, unable to steer, brake or accelerate. That’s how I came off. 😖😩😂
@@imagineso2241 👍
Thankfully I started wearing knee pads after I broke four ribs……. Let me explain…. Been Mtbing for 10 years or more and last 4 years have been pushing my skills to learn more. A fluke accident going over a log skinny with a slip and fall broke my 4 ribs. While recovering I TH-camd my brains out looking for solutions and found your channel about full face helmets and knee pads, you are clear and concise in your videos which I enjoy. After getting back out on the trail. Coming a down pretty steep descent caught a root pretty hard, and you know I went OTB. My knee hit another root, and I suffered no injury, Thank You!
Hate to hear about the previous injury but glad you were able to prevent the last one! Thanks for coming back and sharing your experience!
Ha, I also got into more safety and pads while watching youtube videos with newly broken ribs 😅.
One of the weird things I’ve picked up is the importance of elbow pads. For some reason, about 65 percent of my falls scrape my elbows and leave my knees untouched. Anyone else?
You're not alone, I fall on my elbow/forearm instead of my hands
Forest, I'm the opposite. My elbows rarely get it but my shoulders do a lot. There isn't much I can do about that though.
@@breppe443 smart. Save the wrist
@@Bike198 lightweight moto armour. Not like the old clunky plastic kinds but the new stuff that is more torso-body-suit style is light, breathable and stealthy. Fox in particular.
I am an EMT and have worked a few races, one of the biggest takeaways from these events was how often the racers impacted their elbows and forearms - by far the greatest number of injuries that I helped with.
I wear Fox Launch Knee/Shin guards. I like these because the coverage goes pretty far down the shin. I know the fit is not for everyone, as the Velcro straps may slide down, but thankfully these pads stay on during every ride for me. They have saved me countless times - falls, and the accidental pedal strike to the shin, lol. I will wear them 90% of my rides - even the easy ones a lot of times. Thumbs up to the video recommendations!
Thank you. I wear knee pads when riding my MTB. I use Fox D30 pads that are lightweight and comfortable. I don’t notice them while riding, no matter the distance of the ride. I think knee pads are essential.
Hey! Just want to say I just had a fall as a new rider and had listened to this video and many others warning me about it. I now am about to buy elbow pads(didn't have the money before). I have the shin and knee d30 from fox and the material got really torn up and I'm sore, but I can actually ride in a couple days after I have a rest period.
Thank you, and wanted you to know this video actually helped.
Avoiding sharp pedals to the knees and shins is enough of a reason to wear them…even if you’re not falling. 😅 I wear them always, and have direct types for different rides.
Also a great reason!
Kali Protectives knee pads / shin guards (all in one). They have above the knee velcro straps that also help with quadriceps tendonitis.
Do these have the external honeycomb pattern that allows rocks to poke through? If so, fail.
@@HarryKuloh No, mine are solid.
I was never a pad wearer... until now. A week and a half ago I had a stupid crash in my neighborhood on concrete. My front tire washed out while making a turn on the sidewalk, went down knee and elbow first, there just happened to be a half inch landscaping stone on the sidewalk were I landed and that resulted in a one inch by half inch hole in my knee just below the knee cap. I could literally see into my leg before the blood started. Needless to say, I got online an ordered a set of knee pads once I got myself all bandaged up. Once healed and I can ride again I won't be leaving home without the knee pads
I had one like that as well. They are always on now. Heal up Eric!
I wear a super light knee pad when riding the easier local trails, and the sam hills when riding the more tech downhill oriented jump line trails,,,, and ALWAYS a full face Enduro helmet
G-form E-line.
Funny thing, I was riding yesterday and forgot them first round and 2nd round after putting them on the confidence level went way up!
I’m mostly doing trail riding and am always wearing knee pads. Both for security and confidence. And I have gotten old enough to also appreciate the extra comfory during winter rides.
The pads I use is the POC joint VPD 2.0 Protector due to the soft/flexible foam pads.
pls suggest best knee pad brand
I’m in the process of transitioning from dirt biking to mountain biking. When riding a dirt bike (enduro) we’re basically dressed like medieval knights with all the armor. Then see mountain bikers going down the same trail, faster, wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I’ve been down countless times on a dirt bike and have always walked away. I sold the dirt bike and bought a mountain bike and a helmet. That’s it. My dirt bike gear is just so heavy. Took the new SC Hightower out for the first time this past weekend and almost face planted into a very large rock. I managed to save it but it brought me right back to the “now you’re one of those crazy mountain biker” moments. I’m currently selling all my dirt bike gear on eBay to help finance new mtb gear. Riding without it is just dumb.
It is crazy to me that certain mountain bikers are so resistant to protective gear...especially considering how comfortable they have made it now. Glad to hear you saved it and welcome to the MTB world!
I see this video as I’m nursing a knee injury. I definitely should have been wearing my pads.
Great example of a common opportunity for injury.
I've had horrible knees since I was a kid, probably grew too fast (vertically and in circumference haha). I've started riding again and knee protection was the third thing I bought, after helemt and textile mesh motorcycle jacket to get the d30 armor. My knees are g-form e-line because I wanted a little more shell than what I was seeing, and I can take them off without having to take off my shoes. Stay safe!
like the thinking on this .. just bought my first set of knee and elbow pads.. i'm 62 yrs young.. go hard when I go .. I haven't been on the trail with then yet ... still muddy in Dallas.. trails are starting to dry out and looking forward to first rides to see if I get chaffed.. POC 2.0 long pads .. they feel really tight ... and I purchased a LG .. we'll see.. great advise though.. I'm on board...
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UPDATE 6/20/21..
RODE TRAILS Friday evening.. 5 miles of blue ... Pads were incredible.. no chaffing.!! Didn't even notice them while on the trail... 100% sold !!
Live in New Mexico and want pads to mostly protect against cuts and gnarly punctures from sharp rocks.
Don't have to tell me twice, when you're over 50 like me, a minor fall can take months to recover. Even riding green trails I put on my POC VPD knee and elbow, Bell super 3R MIPS full face, Leatte short sleeve body armor, Five Ten shoes, E-Skate gloves with palm padding and wrist guard.....Impact shorts for hip and thigh is next on my to buy list. 👍 Was on my electric skateboard 2 weeks ago to get some beer at corner store, board slid under me and I landed on side of my hip and femur area, still hurting today.
Had a really bad wreck snowboarding when I was 22, and made sure I wore a helmet every day from there on out. When I got big in to mountain biking, I had no issue padding up. Sometimes it's hot, but it's saved me some major pain on a few occasions.
I think a lot of biking came from the road biking mentality at first. I still see road bikers in my area riding without helmets on because they are "too hot". That is changing over time quickly right now though.
Found your vid too late...dislocated my knee cap on an easy ride when i simply caught a tree with my bars. I have troy lees like your which are super comfy but i only use them at the bike park. You can bet i will use them for now on!
I have done that as well which is why I always wear them now. You don't need them until you do for sure.
Oh man you got me with the knee warmer vs knee protection argument! But it IS warmer, then... and in summer days like now...
Not long ago I got the new Pearl Izumi Elevate knee and elbow pads, they are quite breathable, and I don't get rashes, nor overheat.
they are secure if worn correctly. They are comfy.
they use removable D3O pads, which have many venting holes, and are flexible, and soft, and are about 1cm thick.
Thickness is important too. I have Leatt AirFlex Pro too, but they are too thin, not for gnarly riding, trust me I crash tested them accidentally of course.
Dang wish I had seen this yesterday. First crash today and have a 1 inch gash under left knee from hitting a rock full blast. Couldn’t get up for about five minutes, but I don’t think anything is broken. Already wear wrist guards and elbow pads but won’t ride again without knee pads.
Sorry to hear about the wreck! Some comfortable knee pads will definitely help with that next time. Heal up!
Gravity dropper and those pads here too bro! Worn them ever since. I like the Fox pads that have padding on the sides of knee too. Vital IMHO. Today I took a spill into a rock garden and have bruising on front of right knee wearing pads! A few weeks ago a spill into rocks has a gash in the pad wrapping around the side pads too. I'm now looking at elbow pads and even padded shorts... and maybe slowing down 😂
G-form. I forget I’m wearing them most of the time. Super comfortable.
i'm wearing kneepads as I watch this video, cause I'm wondering whether I can actually ride with these things (POC VPD 2.0 Long). Your video helped, thanks. I've already got a herniated muscle in my shin from a crash so I think I'll have to give these a proper try. If I was wearing these that day I'd have a much nicer looking and feeling leg right now. I'm also getting older and riding harder and more technical trails. Great point about the confidence. I rode a few months back and forgot my gloves. Something so simple and my mindset was completely messed up. I second guessed myself the whole ride, every tech feature I'd grip hard and tense up, not fun.
I wear fox launch D30, I LOVE them
I use the G-Form E-Line knee pads on all my rides even on trail rides. I thought they would be to bulky but they are comfortable. Did not want to buy some for trail and some for park.
It’s great that they are more comfortable now and can pull dual duty. I’ll have to give those a look as well.
I'm using my new Fox Enduro D30 which I just got like 5 days ago. I just got them bcs I know I'm gonna fall in the future so I just decided to wear some protection. I also have elbow guards. My friend broke his wrist by falling with 0 speed so I might as well get something to protect me. I wanna make the risk as low as possible
good explanation, not too log or short
I just ordered the Troy Lee ones you reviewed in another video. What convinced me was to see my friend in the "stupidest" trail go down going over some tree roots and hitting his knee against a rock. He was sore for days. I'm 53 and these "parts" are not manufactured anymore :-)
We don’t bounce like we used to! I think you’ll like the TLD’s. Let me know what you think after a couple of rides.
Why is it that the best production quality channels are so small?? Great video. Keep it up!
I really need to make more videos to grow more. I am recovering from hamstring surgery right now but more are in the works soon.
@@Bike198 hope you get better soon mate. Best of luck!
Thanks!
View recently got my self a MTB, its been probably 12 years since if rode a push bike tbh. I got day one a Leatt Helmet, full finger gloves, Leatt MTB 3.0 Shoes as it says it gives a little ankle protection. I always ride with glasses too. After seeing many videos i recently just ordered POC knee pages and will likely look into some elbow pads too. Hell even if they’re not full on protectors, its better than nothing. I’d image you’d hit your elbows just as much as knees on a fall.
Wear kneepads on every ride, hot or cold, rocky or just plain trails. Snapped my ACL & PCL ligaments in my knee from taking a hit with no pads on and don’t really want to go through that again. You don’t realize the importance of kneepads until it’s too late.
Very true. Glad to hear you recovered and are out riding again.
Personally I value elbow and hand protection more. Knees are much closer to the ground and will not get as hurt. I’ve scrapped my shins more often than I had a nick in my knees.
From most to least hurt here’s my list:
Hands- elbows- head - hip side - shins - back - knees. (Shins from my pedals…)
I use the Fox Enduro D30 because they are very pedal friendly while offering good protection. The only problem is that the rear part tears very easy if you use flat pedals and the pins get stuck in a hole of the net.
I wear leatt 3df 6.0 knee pads and elbow pads, here in scotland. Just incase I hit a bloody big tree .
i got a set of olbow and knee pads and only wear a full face some people think thats overkill but i perfer to keep my face intact if something happens
Just fractured my left patella. Luckily no surgery needed. Knee pads may have prevented this injury. All my future MTB rides will include knee pads.
That sucks about the injury but good about not needing surgery. Heal up!
Great video with your own real world example of how a fall (and OTB) can happen at anytime on any trail really. I just got the new G-Form E-Line knee pads in today after going down a really hardcore rocky descent trail last weekend which a much better rider leading the way and he put his knee pads on for that section. I look forward to trying the new G-Form knee pads riding this weekend. In a side note, my girlfriend on her very first mountain biking ride last month scraped up her knee pretty badly. Right after that she ordered knee pads. If only she had had them from the first ride!
Looking forward to hearing how you like the G-Forms Jason! I am posting my review of the TLD's today and have some 661 and POC's in. Knee pads are definitely one of those items that you don't need...until you do. Hopefully your girlfriend didn't take too hard of a hit!
@@Bike198 Unfortunately from first putting the new E-Line pads on, the left knee pad I could feel rubbing on the back of my knee (knee pit?) area. I could see nothing physically wrong or different with the left kneed pad compared to the right one. I went on a ride anyway and sure enough, had two places rubbed red and slightly raw from the left knee pad. The right knee pad was totally comfortable with no marks. My left quad is slightly larger than my right, and I compensated for that in closing the straps. Did you experience any rubbing initially? Maybe I need to experiment with the straps tighter or looser? Or a break in of a couple more rides still? The issue was so bad I ordered in the meantime Poc VPD Air knee pads (not yet received).
I haven't tried the G-Forms but I haven't had that kind of issue out of the ones I do have. I am testing out the POC VPD System light pads right now and I am having a hard time keeping those from trying to fall. The Air's have a strap and more of a design like the TLD's so I don't think you will have that problem. Wonder if they need to break in some? I have found that body/shape type can effect fit.
@@Bike198 Update after a second ride in the G-Form E-Line knee pads -- the first ride was in very cold weather, there was snow on the trails, and I was wearing the knee pads under Fox pants. Second ride -- over 60F and I was wearing shorts, and sweating a good bit more. I think this helped the left knee pad not rub roughly against my knee pit. I had virtually no markings behind the left knee, and the pads for most of the ride were as not in my mindset as hardcover, bulky knee pads can be. I was relieved. That said, I am still not sure I will not return them. I just got a pair of POC VPD Air knee pads in today I'll test out in 2 days from now. They seem strong enough to take on a hard fall or rock impact, so if they perform much better, I may still return the G-Form, even though the G-Form E-Line have redeemed themselves on the 2nd wearing.
Jason, glad to hear they worked out! Thanks for posting this up. I'll be interested to see what you think of those vs. the POC now.
I am 41 and Mountain Biked a lot up until my 30s. Then after about a 10 year break, My oldest son has gotten into it. So I am back. And yeah, I am geared out. I am wearing G-Form knee pads and a 661 chest protector. Getting injured sucks and when I hit 40 my body was like you are old now. Looking to update my chest protector to a more comfortable one if you have suggestions. Love the knee pads I am using.
Yeah the joke now is that we don't bounce like we used to. It used to be just get up and brush it off. Now it is...damn...I'm going to miss a week of work!
I have the TLD sleeves. The best! I wear them this time of year to keep warm as well. Just all the things you pointed out. I have to say, during the hottest months, I may pass on an "easy" ride.
Scott Soldier 2 Elbow & Knee, Moss Green
👍😀
I regularly wear old Fox Launch Enduro knee and elbow pads whenever it’s not 95 degrees w 99% humidity
For me its a struggle between protection and heat exhaustion on hot humid days. I will skip rlbow pads but my knee pads anf FF helmet are non-negotiable.
I've been riding since the late '80's. When I first started my riding gear was cutoff Levi's, hiking boots and a baseball cap. Now, not only do I wear knee and elbow pads, but hip pads as well. Why wouldn't I? They are no more expensive than regular liners, can't be felt while riding and are invisible under my shorts. I also wear a helmet with removable chin bar. If it is hot out I remove the chin bar, but otherwise ride with it on. I can't see it, it is basically weightless and if I crash my beauty will remain unblemished.
I have thought about wearing those as well. I have taken some hard hits to the hips in the past.
POC vpd 2.0 long knee all day every day. Unfortunately I wear them more now since in had to get stitches in my shin from raking it on my pedal after landing awkwardly. Wasn't wearing them that day smh..
Isn't that the way it always happens? Zero wrecks with them on...the one day they aren't...
Currently riding without, but watching reviews to make an informed choice. I need something pedal friendly.
I wear those Troy Lee ones on almost every ride. They stay put and are comfortable.
@@Bike198 Thank you.
G-Form Pro Rugged. Comfortable and compliant - forget they are on while riding.
Ewan. I have been wanting to try a set of the G-Form pads. I might do that this spring.
I have Fox Racing Launch D30 knee/shin pads which open at the back so you can put them on when you already have your shoes on. Be careful as I have just looked them up and there is a product of the same name which looks as if it is a slip on. I found it takes away one less thing to do when you drive to ride then don't have to take your shoes off to put the pads on. Got the shin protection version as, before I bought them, I had a significant haematoma from a stone thrown up by pinging off the front tyre which hit my shin when I was travelling quite fast. Imagine throwing a rock at your bony shin at 15 - 20 miles per hour, it hurts. Although I must admit I was quite proud of my bleeding, egg sized swelling "war wound" which I could show to my family and friends when I got back. Even put the photo on my many Whatsapp groups.
Anything to the shin is never fun! Glad to hear it ultimately turned out ok though. Shin guards are a great addition as well. Especially if you are riding flats.
those POC ones you have in this video look nice.
There will be a review coming on them soon.
Just ordered a pair of ION K-Traze pads yesterday. Hope they will be firm and comfy.
They are the best ... But you have to size up
g-form pro X2 for its comfort
I always ride with knee pads on, because the 4 times I've ever crashed the first body parts to hit the ground have been my knees.
I'm the same way. Knees hit first every time.
thats a break fall , experience a spun uncontrolled ones, even the head get it
I got knee pads right after my first serious fall
I Have just bought some knee pads for a bike park im going to that wont allow you to ride without knee pads, i never have used knee pads nor have I actually considered knee pads, i never plan on crashing and therefore a half shell helmet is always enough protection dont do stupid shit thats out of your comfort zone 99% of my crashes in the last few years have been slow tip overs with only a couple of real heavy slams, a chest/back protector would be something i would consider when riding places with higher speeds and more built features as broken ribs sucks real bad, hopefully i get on with the kneepads and they find their way into my riding kit more often but dont really plan on pedalling in them
Too expensive in South Africa, got hardware store gloves just cut the the finger tips off for some air
Leatt Dual Axis
People laugh at me for having "all the gear and no idea". I always laugh and reply "I wear all the gear because I have no idea!". I don't wear protection because I'm good, I wear protection because I crash!
Curious why you don't promote elbow pads. I'm heard doctors say elbow injuries are more serious and more common.
Just ordered Knee Pads for the first time. Fox Racing Launch D30. Wanted good coverage and protection if I do go down.
How did they hold out? Looking at buying these
Leatt Airflex Pro Knee Guard; really comfortable and decent protection (CE level 1)
And I just bought the Leatt Airflex Stealth Body Protector - CE level 1 for elbow, shoulder, back; and some protection for the chest.
Accidents do happen!
Ive done 40+ years trailriding on dirtbikes, the tightest funnest singletrack around.
ANY protective gear part I don't wear? That is where the impact will happen, every time.
I just got some LEATT knee protection for riding my new Mt E-Bike.
Now if it only quit raining in nor cal.
Have been on the fence for pads... Did not want to add to much to my gear, but took a freak fall today. Do you want to ride tomorrow or wear pads?
Ride tomorrow for sure. They have saved my knees a ton of times.
I wear LEAT Hybrid kneepads but I cut off the stretchable material that wraps behind my knee because it won't go in my fat thigh hahahahah
Those look like a great set of all day pads as well. I haven't tried them out yet.
watching this after i dropped a chain on my single speed climbing a gravel road causing me to smash my knee in to gravel laving grooves in my knee. im now in the market for some knee pads though i do have vary fat thighs so i dont know if pads will stay still or not
I had really good luck with the Troy Lee pads in the thumbnail. I reviewed them as well in another video.
@BIKE198 of the options that you showed (hard or soft) do you prefer on longer XC rides that you do?
Here in Central NC, everything is pretty flat and the average speeds are a lot slower. I did come from a BMX background where we had HUGE hardshells. Currently, not wearing knee pads.
With that stated, I did go over some human-built wood obstacles on local trails that were wet and moulded over. Wow. That was not fun at top speed. Went to my knees and was lucky to escape without injury.
Will be checking out your links, but would really like some feedback on which you prefer on just general, long (10-20mi) XC rides with what feels like more UP than down. :)
Thanks!
I have had great results with the TLD Raid Knee. I really don't even notice they are there. I will be riding the POC's now for testing and they are even lighter. I don't think you can go wrong with either. TLD also makes a Speed Sleeve (bit.ly/365K1Zs) if you are just looking for minimal protection.
i'm ready to pull the trigger for POC knee protection....BUT i'm stuck between vpd air and vpd 2.0... I like vpd 2.0 but what if they'r an overkill for my ride? and if vpd air are pedal friendly but too less protection? daaaaaam...i'm stuck :D classic trail/am/light enduro ride for me....
Andrea...the 2.0's. I am having problems with the Air's sliding down. They breathe better but move a lot more.
@@Bike198 Sizing?
Please can you do a review on just the Troy lee pads ?
That's in the works Jayden. Subscribe and you should see it within the next month.
Jayden, I just posted the review on the TLD's. th-cam.com/video/7tk3KAbbU3o/w-d-xo.html
no velcro strap is a no -no
Dress for the crash not for the ride!
what are your thoughts about elbow guards?
do you use them regularly? if not when?
thanks
Ewen, I haven't worn them in awhile. I don't know if I have gotten good at tucking and rolling or what but I rarely hit my elbows anymore. On dedicated shuttle/DH runs I probably still would though.
thanks guys
otb is an issue but less so now with a dropper post
fine
Except XC they need lightweight
The real question is witch one is the fucking best of all.
Allen. These have been my favorite so far. th-cam.com/video/7tk3KAbbU3o/w-d-xo.html
I'm not wearing kneepads that might change in the future though
They have gotten a lot more comfortable than they used to be. Winter is a great time to try! Keeps your knees warm.
Still haven't picked them up I should soon
Knee caps, are nearly un-replaceable.
IL,
good review. I race and nobody wears them but after crashing in a race and dealing with an extended recovery, I had to. th-cam.com/video/aNVamcXxLqE/w-d-xo.html
Only fool dont wear protection
It is interesting how much the cycling industry is so hesitant to protection.
Great video 👍🏻. Trail riding and TLD Speed Sleeve and stage knee pads. Just bought the TLD raid as knee got banged up on a washout when wearing the stage pads and looks like they moved on impact