It’s a common error to fasten the top strap first on kneepads but if you read Killer187’s instructions (or anyone else’s) you’ll see that tightening the bottom strap first is key for keeping pad position while skating and preventing them from sliding off when landing on them. This is likely how you got your off center hit and thread damage. This is also why the lower strap doubles back and allows for better tightening leverage. The top strap on kneepads really only needs to be snug enough to keep them from flapping forward. You’ll also notice that you can crank that lower strap pretty good before it causes any discomfort. This allows a less tight top strap which great enhances mobility and comfort. The lack of excess neoprene on the back Velcro straps is a feature: way less bulk when closing the knee joint tightly. The lack of a true lame is also a feature that keeps the top of the pad hugging your knee, even after many hours of wear…. they’ll never be floppy. Yet they don’t significantly inhibit movement or comfort even when walking around with straight knees. Of course, they’re designed to have the most comfort (and function) with a bent knee. They’re pricey to be sure, but they’re comfortable and oh so protective for those of us rediscovering skating in our 50s. Also great for allowing your knees to last into your 50s! Awesome to see all these pads so carefully compared and in action. Your reviews strongly influenced my purchases many months ago and saved me tons of time and money, thank you!
I am telling you, these PRO 187 Killer pads have changed my life. I just got back into skating 6 months ago after 20 years of absence. I had Boneless knee pads...kept hurting my left knee...even when normal sliding (in Bonless'es defense, they are 20+ year old pads). My wife decided to get these pads for Christmas for me...I was highly skeptical...being 52...maybe I am just getting too old for this stuff. WELL, after my first slide, I was completely shocked that I didn't feel my knee--at all! After many slides since, it is a miracle of modern engineering how these 187's work. It is almost like the way they are designed to absorb the brunt force of a slide into other areas around the knee instead of the knee itself. Hope that makes sense. SO WORTH IT. #washingtonwheelspark #Sk8StGeorge
Nice. Be sure to check out the ProDesigned stuff too. They are very popular with roller derby chicks and older skateboarders. Here is California, all the old school guys use ProDesigned elbow pads.
Would you say these pads would be fine for bmx? I watched your review and saw that you said they aren't the most comfortable when your leg is straight so that was a bit of a concern for me.
Good question. Sizing is confusing. Most manufacturers want you to measure below-the-knee and above-the-knee. I have big thighs and small calves. So, if I go with the below-the-knee measurement, I end up with pads that are too small. So, I learned to only measure above my knee, and get that size.
It’s a common error to fasten the top strap first on kneepads but if you read Killer187’s instructions (or anyone else’s) you’ll see that tightening the bottom strap first is key for keeping pad position while skating and preventing them from sliding off when landing on them. This is likely how you got your off center hit and thread damage. This is also why the lower strap doubles back and allows for better tightening leverage. The top strap on kneepads really only needs to be snug enough to keep them from flapping forward. You’ll also notice that you can crank that lower strap pretty good before it causes any discomfort. This allows a less tight top strap which great enhances mobility and comfort.
The lack of excess neoprene on the back Velcro straps is a feature: way less bulk when closing the knee joint tightly.
The lack of a true lame is also a feature that keeps the top of the pad hugging your knee, even after many hours of wear…. they’ll never be floppy. Yet they don’t significantly inhibit movement or comfort even when walking around with straight knees. Of course, they’re designed to have the most comfort (and function) with a bent knee.
They’re pricey to be sure, but they’re comfortable and oh so protective for those of us rediscovering skating in our 50s. Also great for allowing your knees to last into your 50s!
Awesome to see all these pads so carefully compared and in action. Your reviews strongly influenced my purchases many months ago and saved me tons of time and money, thank you!
I am telling you, these PRO 187 Killer pads have changed my life. I just got back into skating 6 months ago after 20 years of absence. I had Boneless knee pads...kept hurting my left knee...even when normal sliding (in Bonless'es defense, they are 20+ year old pads). My wife decided to get these pads for Christmas for me...I was highly skeptical...being 52...maybe I am just getting too old for this stuff. WELL, after my first slide, I was completely shocked that I didn't feel my knee--at all! After many slides since, it is a miracle of modern engineering how these 187's work. It is almost like the way they are designed to absorb the brunt force of a slide into other areas around the knee instead of the knee itself. Hope that makes sense. SO WORTH IT. #washingtonwheelspark #Sk8StGeorge
Nice. Be sure to check out the ProDesigned stuff too. They are very popular with roller derby chicks and older skateboarders. Here is California, all the old school guys use ProDesigned elbow pads.
Very useful review thank you!
Thanks. Glad you liked it.
Very comprehensive review
Thank you. I tried to be quite detailed and create what I wish others had made.
Would you say these pads would be fine for bmx? I watched your review and saw that you said they aren't the most comfortable when your leg is straight so that was a bit of a concern for me.
I think they would be quite uncomfotable for BMX since your knees are constantly bending. You want a very flexible pad for BMX.
Hello, thank you a lot for this complete review! Do you find them more comfortable over time?
I don't ride them that much. I mainly use the ProTec pads now.
What about the sizing? Did you go size up because you put it on top of pants or XL is your actual size?
Good question. Sizing is confusing. Most manufacturers want you to measure below-the-knee and above-the-knee.
I have big thighs and small calves. So, if I go with the below-the-knee measurement, I end up with pads that are too small.
So, I learned to only measure above my knee, and get that size.
Thx a lot
You're welcome.
Protec better than 187? I'm unsure between the two
Personally, I like ProTec better. But, I know tons of great skaters who still use 187 pads. So, it's really personaly preference.
😮❤
Glad you liked it.