Finding the best knee pads for your riding requirements can make all the difference. If they’re too bulky, too sweaty or too annoying to fit and remove, there’s a far greater chance that you’ll decide not to wear them on each ride. And we all know what that usually means…
Thankfully there are a lot of great options out there. Modern knee pads are getting slimmer and more flexible, and they offer better breathability too. The end result is a set of protective armour that you’re less likely to think about while riding, up until the point that you need that protection to help shield your knees from an untimely impact with a tree or rock.
Here we take a look at one of the best knee pad options on the market; the Leatt AirFlex Pro.
Leatt AirFlex Pro Knee Pads
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large & XX-Large
- Price: $179 AUD
The Leatt AirFlex Pro is one of the more minimalist options out there when it comes to knee pads. They feature a lightweight tube-style construction that’s free of any external straps or Velcro. Instead, elasticated cuffs and silicone grippers help to keep them snug and secure. The fact that they come in five different sizes means it’s easier to get the right fit too.
The other key component is the AirFlex protection cap. Made from high-strength impact gel, it utilises a pre-curved profile that helps it to articulate around the knee joint so as to move with you while you’re pedalling. Additionally, it features a tessellated pattern that allows for a high degree of airflow, reducing sweat build up.
Leatt complements the AirFlex armour with several more panels of padding around each side of the knee and over the top of it. The result is a surprising amount of protection for what is quite a lightweight and flexible garment.
Aiding ventilation is a large cutout at the back of the knee. The entire back panel is made from an open eyelet mesh fabric called MoistureCool that helps to wick away any sweat buildup.
Leatt AirFlex Pro Elbow Pads
- Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, X-Large & XX-Large
- Price: $179 AUD
Leatt utilises exactly the same technology and materials for the AirFlex Pro elbow pads. These also use a tube-style construction, lightweight MoistureCool mesh fabrics and the excellent AirFlex impact gel protection plate.
Elbow pads are an item we find ourselves reaching for less often compared to knee pads, but the AirFlex Pro makes it such an unobtrusive experience that we’re more likely to don these before heading out the door. Combined with the AirFlex Pro knee pads, this is a seriously comfortable, flexible and breathable set up that is an excellent choice for trail riders and enduro racers who appreciate the added protection without the bulk.
