Choosing the right knee pads

Unlike four-wheeled vehicles, two-wheeled vehicles do not have a configuration specifically related to the safety of their driver. For the biker, his protection is provided by his equipment. And there are several, each with a specific function: a helmet to protect against possible head injuries, masks to protect eyesight, jackets, back protectors ... And knee protectors to fully protect your knees and shins in the event of an impact or fall. ...

Indeed, while riding a motorcycle, it is very important to protect your joints, especially your knees. The risk of falling can never be ruled out, and the consequences of a fracture can be serious. So, to protect yourself from strong blows and protect your knees, you can no longer wear knee pads and sliders!

Knee pads, motorcycle knee pads

Knee pads are equipment mainly designed to protect the knees of pilots and bikers from possible impacts on a motorcycle. Although brands and models of knee pads on the market vary considerably, there are 4 models of knee pads to choose from:

• Integrated enclosures
• Adjustable knee pads
• Unarticulated knee pads
• Hinged knee pads

Knee pads or built-in knee pads

These types of knee pads integrated shrouds for joint protection. As the name suggests, they are meant to be built into the inside pockets of motorcycle pants. Approved enclosures are offered in two levels: level 1 has an average power of 35 to 50 kN and level 2 has an average power of 20 kN to 35 kN (kilonewton).

It is important to choose seashells with high ability to absorb impact energy. Armor that truly protects the entire knee from the front, sides and top of the shin. A small shell that only covers the patella or the front of the knee can move, shift, or slide in the event of an impact.

Adjustable knee pads

Adaptable knee pads are external protective knee pads that can be worn over biker or urban pants. The shells are then integrated into a knee pad secured with adjustable straps attached behind the knee to keep it in place on the leg.

These knee pads are very practical and can be worn over any pants, motorcycle or not. They can be easily put on and off at any time. And it can be stored in a top case or backpack when you no longer need it.

A great alternative if you don't have motorcycle pants! They offer good protection and maximum comfort outside the bike.

Unarticulated knee pads

Non-articulated knee pads are the simplest so-called “basic” knee pads. consisting of only one shell... They are attached below the knee with one or two straps and should be worn with high stiff boots to protect the lower leg and protective shorts for the thighs and thighs.

And all this under flexible and light pants that will press on the top of the knee pad. These types of knee pads are designed for light enduro use... The protection they offer and their mountings are not suitable for sliding on asphalt or at too high a speed.

Hinged knee pads

Articulated knee pads are knee pads with multiple sheaths qualifying as orthoses... They consist of several sheaths connected together and are secured with three or more straps above and below the knee.

These knee pads are practically a device to help the joint structure and stabilize the body part, and provide the highest level of protection on a motorcycle. Not only are they protect the joint from impact, but they also support it to prevent twisting. They are mostly made of tough materials and have condylar pads inside to prevent irritation, making them comfortable.

Articulated knee pads or orthoses are designed for sports bikers, enduro and motocross enthusiasts. But, of course, city bikers can also adopt them.

Sliders

On a motorcycle, the slider is protective equipment that is placed on the knees. Attaches to trousers or overalls. Sliders, essential equipment for track driving, serve a triple function: they protect the knees, improve trajectory control by allowing the rider to take a larger angle, and provide the driver with extra support when he needs to get up. body or knees touching the ground.

Translated the term “slider” and “to be” made of hard materialThus, the slider allows the rider's body to "slide" on the ground or asphalt in complete safety, without any danger of touching the ground with the knees. This is why we usually find motorcycle sliders on track riders' suits.

You will find several big brands offering sliders in the market: Dainese, Oxford, Bering, Rev'it, Segura, Alpinestars, Rst, etc.