BMX racing is a high-speed and adrenaline-packed sport that involves racing BMX bikes on a track filled with obstacles, jumps, and sharp turns. BMX racing requires quick reflexes, agility, and most importantly, safety gear. Knee pads are one of the most essential safety gear for any BMX racer, as they protect the knees from bruises, scrapes, and even fractures in the event of a crash or a fall.
BMX racing is a sport that requires a lot of physical exertion, balance, and coordination. The tracks are often made of dirt, concrete, or other hard materials that can be unforgiving to the body in case of a fall. BMX racers often perform daring stunts and jumps, which can put their bodies at risk of injury. This is why it is important to have the right safety gear when participating in this sport.
Knee pads play a crucial role in protecting the knees from impact and abrasion during BMX racing. They provide an extra layer of protection to the knees, which are vulnerable to injury in case of a fall or a collision. They are also designed to provide support and stability to the knee joint, which can reduce the risk of sprains and strains.
In this article, we will explore the best knee pads for BMX racing. We will examine the factors that you should consider when choosing knee pads, as well as the top knee pads that are available in the market. We will also provide a personal recommendation based on our research and analysis. So, if you are a BMX racer looking for the best knee pads to enhance your safety on the track, read on!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Knee Pads
When it comes to choosing knee pads for BMX racing, there are several factors that you need to consider to ensure that you get the best protection and comfort. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Material – The material of the knee pad is important as it determines the level of protection and comfort it offers. Look for knee pads that are made of durable materials such as neoprene, nylon, and Kevlar. These materials are strong and can withstand heavy impact, abrasion, and wear and tear. The padding material is also important. Choose knee pads with high-density foam or gel padding, as they offer excellent shock absorption and cushioning.
Size and fit – The size and fit of the knee pad is crucial for optimal protection and comfort. Look for knee pads that are specifically designed for BMX racing, as they offer a snug fit that stays in place during intense movements. Ensure that you measure your knee accurately to get the right size. Knee pads that are too loose or too tight can cause discomfort and reduce the effectiveness of the protection. A properly fitting knee pad should fit snugly around your knee without feeling too tight or restrictive. A loose-fitting knee pad may slip or shift during a fall, which can leave your knee vulnerable to injury.
Level of protection – The level of protection offered by the knee pad depends on the type of BMX racing you do. If you are a beginner or a casual rider, then knee pads with basic protection will suffice. However, if you are an experienced racer who performs complex stunts and jumps, then you need knee pads with advanced protection that cover the entire knee and surrounding areas.
Comfort – Comfort is essential when it comes to knee pads. Look for knee pads that are lightweight, breathable, and flexible, as they allow for ease of movement and maximum comfort. Also, consider knee pads with features such as adjustable straps, moisture-wicking fabric, and ventilation, as they enhance comfort during long rides.
Durability – The material of the knee pads will play a significant role in determining their durability. Hard shell knee pads made from materials such as polypropylene or ABS plastic are more durable than soft shell knee pads made from neoprene or spandex. Look for knee pads made from high-quality materials that can withstand wear and tear over time.
Padding – The padding of the knee pads is also important to consider. Look for knee pads with thick, dense foam padding that will absorb the impact of a fall or crash. The padding should be evenly distributed throughout the knee pad to ensure maximum protection.
Beginner vs. Advanced riders – If you are new to BMX racing, you may want to start with a knee pad that provides basic protection. As you become more advanced, you may want to upgrade to a knee pad that offers more advanced protection.
Full Knee Coverage – Look for knee pads that provide full knee coverage, including the sides and back of the knee. This will ensure that your knee is fully protected in the event of a fall.
Lightweight and Breathable – Knee pads that are lightweight and breathable will be more comfortable to wear for longer periods of time. Look for knee pads made from materials that allow air to circulate, such as mesh or perforated foam.
Adjustability – Look for knee pads that are adjustable to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Some knee pads feature adjustable straps or Velcro closures that allow you to customize the fit.
Moisture-wicking – Knee pads that are designed to wick away moisture will keep you dry and comfortable during intense rides. Look for knee pads made from moisture-wicking materials such as polyester or nylon.
Now, without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the best knee pads for BMX racing.
Best knee pads for BMX racing
Demon Enduro Bike Knee Pads
The Demon Enduro Mountain Bike Knee Pads are an excellent choice for riders who value safety, comfort, and affordability. These pads are designed to fit comfortably under any pant, providing the necessary protection without compromising on style.
One of the standout features of these knee pads is the ventilated neoprene material, which allows for plenty of airflow. This is important for riders who may be sweating during a long day of riding. The breathable material ensures that your knees stay cool and dry, reducing the risk of discomfort or chafing.
In terms of protection, the Demon Enduro Knee Pads boast a 10MM EVA foam cushion and tough Kevlar knee cap cover. These features provide excellent shock absorption, keeping your knees safe during even the most intense rides. The Kevlar knee cap cover is also incredibly durable, prolonging the life of the pads and making them a great investment for riders who want long-lasting protection.
The silicone ‘Anti-Slip’ bands on the top and bottom of the pads are another standout feature. These bands keep the pads securely in place while you’re riding, ensuring that they don’t shift or slide down your legs. This is crucial for riders who need to stay focused and alert during their rides, without worrying about adjusting their knee pads.
Overall, the Demon Enduro Mountain Bike Knee Pads are a great choice for riders who want quality, breathable, and slim knee pads that won’t break the bank. With their ventilated neoprene material, 10MM EVA foam cushion, tough Kevlar knee cap cover, and silicone ‘Anti-Slip’ bands, these knee pads offer top-notch protection and comfort.
G-Form E-Line Knee Pads
As a BMX racer, you need knee pads that provide top-notch protection without compromising your comfort and mobility. The G-Form E-Line Knee Pads are an excellent choice for riders who value flexibility, breathability, and reliable protection.
One of the standout features of the G-Form E-Line Knee Pads is the body-mapped impact absorbing SmartFlex pads. These pads are form-fitting and lightweight, ensuring that they move with your body as you ride. They also harden on impact, providing the necessary protection to keep your knees safe during even the most intense races.
Another feature that sets these knee pads apart is the rugged Armortex hard shell cover. This cover provides additional protection and allows you to slide on hard surfaces without damaging the pads. This is crucial for BMX racers who need to navigate challenging terrain and obstacles.
The G-Form E-Line Knee Pads also boast an active airflow four-layer ventilation system and a technical mesh back for breathability. This ensures that your knees stay cool and dry, reducing the risk of discomfort or chafing during long races. The adjustable fit-strap and flatlock stitching also ensure a customized, comfortable fit that won’t irritate your skin.
These knee pads are CE 1621-1 certified to ensure outstanding protection, giving you peace of mind as you tackle technical terrain and challenging obstacles. The SmartFlex technology provides hinge-like flexibility, allowing uninhibited freedom of motion. The lightweight, low-profile design ensures that these knee pads won’t weigh you down or restrict your movement due to bulk.
Finally, the G-Form E-Line Knee Pads are designed to be waterproof and machine washable, ensuring that they remain in excellent condition even after long days on the saddle. Overall, these knee pads are an excellent choice for BMX racers who want unparalleled fit, next-level protection, comfort, and breathability.
LAUNCH PRO D3O® KNEE GUARD
The LAUNCH PRO D3O Knee Guard is a premium product that offers top-notch protection for BMX racers. This knee guard leverages Fox’s relationship with D3O and combines that technology with a removable hard cap for bulletproof durability and top-tier mountain bike performance.
The D3O CE certified build allows the knee guard to stay flexible for ease of movement and comfort, but upon impact, they instantly harden to dissipate the force of the crash. This means that riders can take risks and challenge their limits while staying safe.
The knee guards feature a breathable, moisture-wicking construction for all-day comfort, making them suitable for long days of BMX racing. The neoprene fabric provides optimal function for the best performance. The perforated neoprene and stretch material make the knee guards flexible and low-profile, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
The LAUNCH PRO D3O Knee Guard offers class-leading coverage and a superior fit. It is lightweight and breathable, meaning you get protection without the bulk or heat of traditional armor. The flexible design molds to your body for the lowest possible profile, improving fit and concentration, so you can focus on the ride.
It is important to note that the product runs small, and riders should reference the sizing chart below. With the LAUNCH PRO D3O Knee Guard, Fox Racing has maintained its position as the innovation leader in the BMX industry by designing and producing gear and apparel for the world’s best riders. Overall, this knee guard is an excellent investment for any BMX racer looking for the ultimate in protection and comfort.
Fox Racing Launch D3O Bike Knee Guard
For BMX racers looking for reliable knee protection, the Fox Racing Launch D3O Bike Knee Guards are worth considering. These knee guards are designed to provide impact-absorbing protection while also offering a comfortable fit. The CE certified D3O insert offers superior protection while the slip-on design makes it easy to put on and take off. The hook and loop adjuster ensures a snug fit and prevents slippage during intense rides.
These knee guards are made with moisture-wicking and breathable materials that help keep riders cool and dry during hot rides. The open mesh design increases airflow and reduces overheating while the perforated neoprene provides additional comfort and breathability. The Fox Racing Launch D3O Knee Guards are also designed to fit tight, so it’s recommended to order one size up if in between sizes.
Overall, these knee guards offer an excellent combination of value and performance, making them a great choice for BMX racers who need reliable knee protection. Fox Racing has a long-standing reputation for designing and producing high-quality motocross gear and apparel for the world’s best riders, and the Launch D3O Knee Guards are no exception. With their slip-on design, non-slip fit, and superior protection, these knee guards are sure to provide riders with the confidence and comfort they need to tackle any terrain.
G-Form Pro-Rugged Knee Pad
For BMX riders looking for the ultimate knee protection, the G-Form Pro-Rugged Knee Pad is a top choice. These knee pads are designed with body-mapped impact absorbing SmartFlex pads that react to absorb the impact and protect your knees from hard hits and crashes. Plus, the Armortex technology adds durability to these pads, making them resistant to tearing or catching on sharp objects on the trails.
The adjustable fit strap provides customized comfort and security, ensuring that the pads stay in place while you ride. Gripper pads on the top and bottom of the sleeve also help distribute pressure and keep the pads in place. And for added comfort, the ventilated mesh back keeps you cool and dry even on hot rides.
G-Form’s revolutionary SmartFlex technology creates uninhibited freedom of motion and delivers the ultimate fit for athletes. Unlike other protective sports gear, SmartFlex ensures that your padding remains moisture-free and lightweight no matter what conditions you’re in. This allows you to move with ease and perform at your best without feeling weighed down or restricted by bulky gear.
The Pro-Rugged Knee Pads are also designed to be low profile, fitting like a second skin and weighing in at less than 2 oz in some cases. This means that you get the protection you need without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Whether you’re hitting the trails or competing in BMX races, the G-Form Pro-Rugged Knee Pad is a reliable choice for ultimate knee protection.
Fox Racing Launch Pro
The Fox Racing Launch Pro knee pads are the perfect addition to any BMX rider’s gear bag. These lightweight, slip-on knee pads are designed to provide ultimate protection and comfort during all mountain and trail riding.
Featuring a combination of perforated neoprene and stretch material, these knee pads offer a multi-fabric construction that keeps you cool, dry, and prevents the pads from slipping down mid-ride. The design is pedal-friendly and won’t hinder your ability to move with ease, even during the most intense rides.
The Launch Pro knee pads utilize D3O technologies that stiffen to absorb and dissipate energy during an impact. This significantly reduces the amount of force transmitted to your body and keeps you protected without the bulk or heat of traditional armor. The flexible design molds to your body for the lowest possible profile, improving fit and concentration so you can focus on the ride.
These knee pads have a superior low-profile fit and offer class-leading coverage for ultimate protection. They are incredibly comfortable, and the flexible design allows for uninhibited freedom of motion. The product runs small, so be sure to reference the sizing chart to ensure the best fit possible.
Overall, the Fox Racing Launch Pro knee pads are a top-of-the-line choice for any BMX rider looking for superior protection, comfort, and performance.
SHINYPRO Knee Pads
If you’re looking for heavy-duty protection during BMX racing, the SHINYPRO Knee Pads are a great option. These knee pads use RZ-LABs brand RZ G1 low-temperature shock-absorbing material, which has passed EN1621-1 LEVEL2 certification. This means that these knee pads provide excellent protection even in extreme temperatures. The pad is soft when not impacted, but it becomes hard upon impact to provide reliable protection.
The SHINYPRO Knee Pads have a hook and loop adjuster for easy donning and use stronger buckles to ensure a secure fit. The hook and loop position has been adjusted to provide a non-slip fit while remaining comfortable to wear. The inside of the knee pad has a gle anti-slip coating to keep the knee pad in place during exercise.
These knee pads use multiple layers of protective pads that are divided into protective and comfort layers. The total thickness of the pads reaches 3/4″, providing ample protection during all kinds of emergencies. The moisture-wicking, open mesh design improves airflow and helps to reduce overheating during hot rides.
The SHINYPRO Knee Pads are suitable for all kinds of racing and skillful outdoor sports, including motorcycle riding, mountain biking, MTB, snowboarding, roller skating, and skateboarding. These knee pads are well-made, and every knee pad you get will be flawless. The manufacturer cherishes every customer’s trust and provides a product that effectively resists the impact of sports while maintaining excellent ventilation.
Dakine Slayer Pro Biking Knee Pads
The Dakine Slayer Pro Biking Knee Pads are the perfect choice for BMX riders looking for a lightweight and low-profile knee protector that doesn’t compromise on protection. These knee pads are CE certified to EU 2016/425 (CRITT protocol VTT-007), providing peace of mind that they meet the highest safety standards.
The Slayer Pro Knee Pads feature dual density DK Impact energy absorbing foam technology, which provides superior protection against impact forces. The Cordura abrasion-resistant outer layer adds durability to the pads, ensuring they can withstand the demands of BMX racing.
The adjustable elastic strap, seamless calf band, and silicone gripper elastic lock the pad in place, so it doesn’t move around while riding. The pre-curved shape and flexible padding create a custom-fit feel, ensuring the pads don’t restrict your movements on the bike. The full-stretch mesh back panels also provide all-day breathability, so you stay cool and comfortable during long rides.
One of the best features of the Slayer Pro Knee Pads is the integrated odor control technology. This helps fight the stink factor, keeping your knee pads smelling fresh and clean after multiple uses.
Overall, the Dakine Slayer Pro Biking Knee Pads are an excellent choice for BMX racers who want a lightweight, low-profile knee protector that provides superior protection against impact forces. With its innovative technology, adjustable fit, and durable design, these knee pads are sure to exceed your expectations.
Knee Guard 3DF 6.0
If you’re looking for a high-performance knee guard for BMX racing, the Knee Guard 3DF 6.0 from Leatt is an excellent choice. This all-in-one knee guard offers top-of-the-line protection with a rating of 20 points in the Leatt protection system. It is CE tested and certified as impact protection and features 3DF ventilated impact foam with hard shell sliders for ultimate protection.
The Knee Guard 3DF 6.0 also provides excellent side impact protection with 3DF AirFit impact foam that hardens upon impact. The pre-curved design ensures a comfortable and secure fit that will stay in place thanks to the new anti-slip calf band and silicone grip lining. The premium comfort is further enhanced by the MoistureCool and AirMesh wicking fabrics that keep you cool and dry during intense riding sessions.
One of the standout features of the Knee Guard 3DF 6.0 is the super perforated and vented Neoprene that promotes airflow, preventing overheating and sweat buildup. This is crucial for riders who need to stay cool and focused during races.
Overall, the Knee Guard 3DF 6.0 is a top-performing knee guard that offers excellent protection, comfort, and breathability. If you’re a serious BMX racer looking for a high-quality knee guard, this product is definitely worth considering.
Triple Eight Kneesaver Knee Pads
If you’re looking for basic but reliable knee pads for BMX racing, the Triple Eight Kneesaver Knee Pads are a great option. These pads are designed to provide ergonomic protection for a range of sports, including skating, biking, roller derby, and more.
The pads are made with shock-absorbing, ventilated EVA foam that allows for cool airflow while limiting perspiration. The high-density, impact-resistant caps are securely attached with reinforced rivets, ensuring that they stay in place during heavy use. The elastic straps are reinforced and wide, with hook and loop connectors for a secure fit that is easy to put on and take off.
These knee pads are designed for all-day comfort and protection. The EVA foam provides excellent cushioning and protection against impacts, while the reinforced straps ensure that the pads stay in place during rigorous activity. The pads are one size fits most, with adjustable straps that can be tightened or loosened as needed.
Overall, the Triple Eight Kneesaver Knee Pads are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable knee protection during BMX racing. They provide excellent protection, are easy to wear, and are built to last. If you’re looking for a basic, no-frills set of knee pads that will get the job done, these are a great option.
Types of Knee Pads for BMX Racing
When it comes to protective gear for BMX racing, knee pads are a crucial component that can mean the difference between a minor scrape and a major injury. There are three main types of knee pads to choose from: hard shell, soft shell, and hybrid.
Hard Shell Knee Pads
Hard shell knee pads feature a hard outer shell that is designed to absorb and distribute impact. They are typically heavier and bulkier than other types of knee pads, but they provide the highest level of protection against serious injuries. They are best suited for BMX racers who perform high-impact tricks and stunts.
Soft Shell Knee Pads
Soft shell knee pads are made of softer, flexible materials like neoprene or spandex. They are lighter and more comfortable than hard shell knee pads, and they offer a greater degree of flexibility and mobility. They are suitable for BMX racers who perform less extreme stunts and tricks.
Hybrid Knee Pads
Hybrid knee pads are a combination of hard and soft shell materials. They feature a hard outer shell for impact protection, and a softer inner layer for comfort and flexibility. They are a good choice for BMX racers who want a balance between protection and mobility.
When choosing knee pads for BMX racing, it is important to consider the type of riding you will be doing, as well as your personal preferences for comfort and mobility. Each type of knee pad has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh these factors carefully to determine which type of knee pad is right for you.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your knee pads. Some knee pads may be machine washable, while others may require hand washing.
- Use mild detergent: Use a mild detergent when washing your knee pads to avoid damaging the materials. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can weaken the materials.
- Air dry: Air dry your knee pads instead of putting them in the dryer, as high heat can damage the materials.
Storage
- Store in a dry, cool place: Store your knee pads in a dry, cool place to prevent mold or mildew growth.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Avoid storing your knee pads in direct sunlight, as UV rays can damage the materials and cause them to deteriorate over time.
Maintenance
- Inspect regularly: Regularly inspect your knee pads for signs of wear and tear, such as holes or tears in the materials.
- Replace when necessary: Replace your knee pads when they show signs of significant wear or damage. Continuing to use worn-out knee pads can put you at risk for injury.
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your knee pads remain in good condition and provide the necessary protection during your BMX races.