Knee Pads

Hard Shell vs. Soft Foam – What do I need?

The days of bulky plastic ramps on your knees are largely over. Today, we distinguish between two main types:

Soft Pads (Viscoelastic Foam)

The Standard. Materials like SAS-TEC or D3O are soft and flexible while riding but harden instantly upon impact to absorb energy.
Pros: Extremely comfortable, fit under skinny jeans, breathable.
Best for: Street, Park, and Dirt.

Hard Shell / Hard Cap

The Vert Specialist. Pads with a hard plastic cap sewn on top.
Pros: The plastic allows you to "slide" out of a crash on concrete (knee slide), reducing strain on the joint.
Best for: Bowl, Vert, and riders who wear shorts.

How to find the right size?

Knee pads must sit tight. If they slide down during a crash, they are useless. To measure correctly:

• Measure: Use a tape measure around your leg, approx. 10cm above the kneecap (lower thigh) and 10cm below (calf).
• The Fit: The neoprene sleeve should feel snug like a second skin but must not cut off blood circulation.
• Tip: If you are between sizes, usually go for the larger one, as neoprene doesn't stretch much.

Care Instructions: No more stinky pads!

Protective gear absorbs sweat and will smell over time. Good news: Most modern pads are washable.

• Removable Foam: If your pad has a removable insert, take it out before washing! The foam acts like a sponge and takes days to dry.
• Hand Wash / Gentle Cycle: Wash at max. 30°C.
• Air Dry: Never put pads in the tumble dryer! The heat destroys the elastic neoprene and the impact foam.