Crawling, kneeling, squatting, and bending can take a toll on your knees, especially if you usually kneel on hard surfaces. To help you protect them and banish knee pain, we’ve pulled together a list of the 9 best knee pads worth your money in 2021.
Whether you frequently garden, work in construction, play contact sports, or otherwise spend a good amount of time kneeling, it’s paramount to keep your knees well-supported, safe, comfortable, and cushioned. Without proper cushioning, your knees are at a greater risk of getting injured or developing osteoarthritis, bursitis, and other chronic joint conditions that can cause intense discomfort, and interfere with your performance and quality of life.
The best knee pads are built for maximum protection, long-term wear, and unobstructed mobility while fitting comfortably. Whereas heavy-duty pads are often designed for work, most kneelers are perfect for gardening, cleaning, and random DIY projects. We invite you to check out our in-depth buying guide for nifty tips on how to pick the perfect pair of knee pads for your protection needs.
1: REXBETI Gel Knee Pads
Knee Pads for Work, Construction Gel Knee Pads Tools by REXBETI, Heavy...
- REXBETI New Version Ultimate Double Gel- REXBETI are constantly improving all aspects of knee pads, and in 2020, we have made the following new upgrades: we have upgraded the pads with double thick gel and high density foam cushion; Thigh support non-slip design with new high elastic strap; More extension straps; Reinforced stitching; Heavy duty PVC shell with new strong materials
- REXBETI New Version Ultimate Double Gel- REXBETI are constantly improving all aspects of knee pads, and in 2020, we have made the following new upgrades: we have upgraded the pads with double thick gel and high density foam cushion; Thigh support non-slip design with new high elastic strap; More extension straps; Reinforced stitching; Heavy duty PVC shell with new strong materials
- Ergonomic Design- We have upgraded the thigh support non-slip strap with new high elastic materials keeps knee pads snugly in place fit for all-day comfort. Heavy duty PVC shell can prevent hidden dangers from the stone, nails, glass shards when gardening, cleaning and construction work
- Double Thick Gel and High Density Foam Cushion provides double comfort and protection, helps reduce the pressure on the kneecaps from floors, masonry, housekeeping, carpet installations and any heavy work
- Extra 4 Extension Straps- We have increased 2 more extension straps, you will receive 4 straps in package and each strap is 7 inch long. With easy-to-use adjustable straps, our knee pads can meet every sizes and can quick and easy to put on and take off
- Reinforced Stitching and Heavy-Duty materials last for a long time use and provides you the ability to work on any hard surface.REXBETI knee pads are a real asset and give your knees full protection
Highlights:
- Ergonomic Design: The thigh support non-slip strap is upgraded with new high elastic materials, keeping knee pads snugly in place fit for all-day comfort. Heavy-duty PVC shell can prevent hidden dangers from the stone, nails, glass shards when gardening, cleaning and construction work
- Double Thick Gel and High-Density Foam Cushion provides double comfort and protection, helps reduce the pressure on the kneecaps from floors, masonry, housekeeping, carpet installations, and any heavy work
- Reinforced Stitching and Heavy-Duty materials last for long-time use and provide you the ability to work on any hard surface. REXBETI knee pads are a real asset and give your knees full protection
Review:
Our top pick is the Gel Knee Pads by REXBETI. These are the best knee pads for professionals who require heavy-duty protection and all-day comfort. Coming in a set of two, they are quite a versatile pair as these stretchable knee pads are suitable for an array of applications, including construction work, gardening, and cleaning, just to name a few.
Alongside the durable PVC shell, the model sports a thick, stretchy anti-slip strap system with elastic material to make sure the knee pads stay securely in place during rigorous work. The hook-&-loop strap wraps around the knee and the thigh for a custom, snug fit. Customers rave about the gel cushioning with high-density foam padding inside, plus thick thigh support.
As if that isn’t great enough, the professional-grade pair comes with a lifetime warranty. You’ve got pretty much nothing to lose by investing in these three-layered knee pads from a highly trusted brand!
2: Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gelfit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pads
Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gelfit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pads - Ergonomic Fit
- RESISTANT AND DURABLE: Made with the highest standards to ensure durability, withstand harsh work environments, and save time and money on having to constantly buy replacements. Covered by our limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser against defects in material.
- RESISTANT AND DURABLE: Made with the highest standards to ensure durability, withstand harsh work environments, and save time and money on having to constantly buy replacements. Covered by our limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser against defects in material.
- COMFORTABLE GELFITTM: Unique gel cushion and foam design embraces the natural shape of the knee and upper shin, maximizing pressure distribution for an extremely comfortable fit. Put them on and leave them on.
- STAY ADJUSTED: Combination elastic/EVA/buckle thigh and calf straps comfortably hold their place without cutting off circulation. Kneepad never rotates off your knee, so no time wasted on having to constantly adjust your equipment.
- MOBILITY: Thigh support keeps the knee ergonomically centered within the kneepad, so your range of motion is not compromised. Our design provides ultimate stability combined with easy side-to-side agility.
- PREMIUM MANUFACTURING: Made with abrasion-resistant 1680D fabric, rugged double-injected shell with non-slip rubber and shatter-resistant plastic. They are heavily textured on contact surfaces, so you feel safe and at ease while on the job.
Highlights:
- Superior Comfort: Construction features comfortable GelFit gel-cushion and foam design with abrasion-resistant 1680D fabric, so it’s built to Last.
- Ergonomic Fit: Pro EVA elastic leg straps comfortably hold their place without cutting off circulation.
- Versatile Protection: High sidewall greatly reduces twisting off of the knee. Protective Knee Pads with Anti-slip maximizes pressure distribution for all-day comfort and the perfect knee pad for every job
Review:
If you’re looking for outstanding knee protection coupled with superior thigh support, then Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gelfit is your safest bet. With an abrasion-resistant exterior built, extra-comfortable foam design, and more features than competitors, this model has a ton to offer to make kneeling, crawling, and other tasks easier on your knees.
Instead of just focusing on comfort and knee cap protection, Toughbuilt went above and beyond to eliminate muscular discomfort and support the thigh with gel-infused cushioning. Users love the high sidewall that keeps the knees from twisting, slipping, or rotating, which is a huge deal for labor-intensive workers who kneel for hours on end.
These pads are designed for optimum stability and ergonomics as they distribute pressure evenly when you move or shift your body. It is more durable, larger, and more protective than most competitors – the best knee pads for nearly every task!
3: NoCry Professional Knee Pads
NoCry Professional Knee Pads with Heavy Duty Foam Padding and Comfortable Gel...
- PREMIUM PROTECTION DESIGNED FOR YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY. The soft gel core and durable EVA foam padding cushion even the more sensitive knees. The heavy-duty thick poly shield protects against cuts or scrapes on any terrain.
- PREMIUM PROTECTION DESIGNED FOR YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY. The soft gel core and durable EVA foam padding cushion even the more sensitive knees. The heavy-duty thick poly shield protects against cuts or scrapes on any terrain.
- ADJUSTABLE STRAPS FOR A FIRM, SECURE AND COMFORTABLE FIT. Forget about slipping, sliding knee pads. The flexible neoprene straps lock your pads in place. The ergonomic design hugs your knee for a superior fit. The quick release slip buckle clips make putting on and taking off your pads fast and easy.
- MADE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEN AND WOMEN. These multi-purpose pads are ideal for working on concrete, linoleum and hardwood floors, construction work, flooring and carpet installations, welding, stocking shelves, tiling the roof, plumbing, remodelling, gardening, cleaning, mechanic work, crawling under the house with your installation tools to fix a wiring problem and more.
- BUILT TOUGH TO WITHSTAND HEAVY USE. Forget sweaty knees: the 600D polyester mesh breathes for all-day comfort. And the heavy-weight nylon thread ensures long-lasting durability. Just add these pads to your safety equipment tool box so you’re never caught without protection.
- UPGRADED METAL RIVETS. Our new rivets took care of the “rivets popping off” problem with the previous model. We updated the design so that they stay in place. However, if you have any issues with the rivets, contact us and we’ll immediately send a replacement unit for free. (No return required.)
Highlights:
- EASY TO ADJUST FOR A TIGHT, SECURE FIT: Flexible neoprene straps and an ergonomic design keep the knee pads snugly in place all day long. Plus, the quick release slip buckle clips make putting on and taking off your pads a snap
- DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND SAFETY: Soft gel core and durable EVA foam padding cushion your knees for hours on end. A heavy-duty thick poly shield protects against cuts or scrapes on any terrain
- USE AT HOME OR ON THE JOB. Ideal for working on concrete and hardwood floors, construction work, flooring and carpet installations, welding, stocking shelves, gardening, cleaning, and more.
Review:
NoCry Professional is an option highly recommended by experts, and it’s not hard to see why these are the best knee pads for work. If you work on your knees and hands all-day, this is a no-brainer choice. With money-back guarantee and hook-and-loop custom strapping, these are knee pads that mean business.
A rugged, no-frill pair, NoCry Professional Knee Pads will be equally protective and comfortable, whether you work on a construction site, garden, or do occasional DIY projects. The 600D polyester mesh construction means they’re breathable for all-day comfort. They incorporate soft gel cushioning, EVA foam padding, and strong double straps for heavy-duty, hassle-free work.
4: Knee Pads for Work by Thunderbolt
Knee Pads for Work by Thunderbolt for Construction, Flooring, Gardening, Cleaning, Tile...
- THUNDERBOLT PLATINUM PRO-DOUBLE GEL: NEW 2021 RELEASE! IMPROVED VERSION!! WE'VE UPGRADED WITH EXTRA THICK DOUBLE GEL! MOST COMFORTABLE extra strong materials and heavy duty reinforced stitching. Made for long lasting comfort and protection. Heavy-duty breathable neoprene, ballistic nylon, and engineered PVC.
- THUNDERBOLT PLATINUM PRO-DOUBLE GEL: NEW 2021 RELEASE! IMPROVED VERSION!! WE'VE UPGRADED WITH EXTRA THICK DOUBLE GEL! MOST COMFORTABLE extra strong materials and heavy duty reinforced stitching. Made for long lasting comfort and protection. Heavy-duty breathable neoprene, ballistic nylon, and engineered PVC.
- HEAVY DUTY NON-SLIP POWERSHIELD designed to protect knees and damage to clothing while preventing abrasions to surfaces. Protects against nails, screws, glass and debris
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN delivers extra comfort and support to patellar tendon below knee and quadriceps above knee. Soft gel core and thick engineered foam core provides superior protection.
- PROFESSIONALS CHOICE for Work, Construction, Concrete, Tile and Wood Flooring Installers, Carpet Installation, HVAC, Gardening, Carpentry, Welding, Stocking Warehouse and Grocery Shelves, Mechanics, Tactical, Roofing, Tiling, and Cleaning
- FULLY ADJUSTABLE Pro fasteners gives secure snug fit for all-day comfort. Quick and easy to put on and take off. Includes free 7" extension straps! Will fit EVERYONE!
Highlights:
- THUNDERBOLT ELITE SERIES III: 2021 New Release. DOUBLE GEL The Original Non-Slip Knee Pad. High-quality construction, upgraded materials, and super reinforced stitching. Made for long-lasting comfort and protection.
- HEAVY-DUTY NON-SLIP THUNDERSHIELD designed to protect knees and damage to clothing while preventing abrasions to surfaces. Protects against nails, screws, glass, and debris.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN delivers extra comfort and support to the patellar tendon below the knee and quadriceps above the knee. Soft gel core and thick engineered foam core provides superior protection.
Review:
Unless you’ve got extremely sensitive kneecaps, this pair of anti-slip knee pads are a perfect choice. Not only are they breathable thanks to neoprene liners and non-marking but also built to last thanks to its super reinforced stitching, upgraded materials, and high-quality construction.
Unlike other knee pads on the market, the 7-inch extension straps on this model wrap securely on the lower thigh. This way, they won’t slip behind your knees, and long straps are convenient for people with thicker than average thighs.
5: K-P Industries KneePro Tactical Ultra Flex III Knee Pad
K-P Industries Knee Pro Ultra Flex III Knee Pads - Black
- PROTECTION - KP industrial knee pads for men Ultra Flex III Safety Kneepads retain flexibility. KP knee pads have a super hard outer plastic shell that’s strong and durable. Our special industrial-grade quality material makes our products softer and more comfortable.
- PROTECTION - KP industrial knee pads for men Ultra Flex III Safety Kneepads retain flexibility. KP knee pads have a super hard outer plastic shell that’s strong and durable. Our special industrial-grade quality material makes our products softer and more comfortable.
- SOFT FOAM PADDING: Our pro knee pads have triple layer foam pads that are 1/2 inch thick. Black knee pads made with closed inner layer cell that offers the ultimate protection and comfort. Thermo-heating technology is used to make the EVA material softer while providing efficient protection.
- VERSATILE USES: protective knee pads are a must-have for many jobs, including construction, flooring, roofing, landscaping, military/tactical, tiling, and HVAC work.
- EASY MOVEMENT - KP knee pads set are constructed with a metal rivet hinge which allows ease movement walking, kneeling, crawling, or squatting. Our tactical knee pads designed with a non-sleepy grip strip hold the ground and can be safely used on any floor or surface.
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN - KP industries knee pads are positioned with woven straps for perfect fit and have a speed adjustable clip for quick attachment. Our unisex knee pads can be worn by adult men and women. The mechanical combination structure allows the product to have a longer lifetime.
Highlights:
- Outstanding Features: 5/8″ high-density closed cell inner foam pad that does not absorb moisture; non-marring grip strip. Hinged with metal rivets so it moves like your knee and stays in place
- No slipping, binding or cutting off your circulation; the tough outer shell is chemical resistant and withstands extreme heat and cold
- Soft elastic woven strap coupled with Speed Clip allows for easy on and off use and adjustment while the pad is on, will not bind behind knee
Review:
The K-P Industries KneePro Tactical Ultra Flex III continues to receive glowing reviews from customers who have enjoyed this professional pair. The first thing you’ll notice right out of the box is the strong and sturdily-built hard plastic exterior shell. They look tough and protect you from all sorts of risks in a working site.
If you work on a surface with shrapnel, nails, and other sharp objects, these are the best knee pads for you. They provide complete protection for the whole knee. What’s more, the clip-on attachment and soft yet elastic woven strap make it easy to put and take them off. The hinged knee pad design allows for total freedom of movement and flexibility you need to get the job done.
6: CLC Custom Leathercraft 361 Ultraflex Non-Skid Kneepads
CLC Custom Leathercraft 361 Ultraflex Non-Skid Kneepads,Grey
- This product is highly durable
- Easy to use
- This product is manufactured in China
- Sure-grip non-marring cap surface
- High density, closed-cell foam inner pad for all-day-comfort
- This product is highly durable
- Easy to use
- This product is manufactured in China
- Sure-grip non-marring cap surface
- High density, closed-cell foam inner pad for all-day-comfort
- Super thick, high density closed cell foam
- Soft, flexible outer shell protects and grips most surfaces without scratching or scuffing
- Super-accordion, Ultraflex construction for comfort and protection
Highlights:
- This product is highly durable and easy to use with sure-grip non-marring cap surface; Ultraflex’s super-accordion construction for comfort and protection
- Super thick, high density closed cell foam for all-day comfort
- Soft, flexible outer shell protects and grips most surfaces without scratching or scuffing
Review:
CLC Custom Leathercraft is an equipment company that most people don’t know a whole lot about; they’re more of a generic brand that hasn’t muscled up enough clout to take on major players like DeWalt or NoCry. Still, their anti-skid knee pads are something to write home about.
First, this is an extremely durable yet affordable option, a perfect choice for contractors who want to purchase in bulk. CLC used ultra-thick, high-density closed-cell foam cushioning that makes this pair great for anyone who spends hours on their hands and knees. With the super-accordion design, they grip pliably to most surfaces without scuffing or scratching. They are easy to clean with soapy water.
7: McDavid Elastic Compression Knee Sleeve with Gel Pad
McDavid Elastic Compression Knee Sleeve with Gel Pad. 4-Way Elastic Brace with...
- BEST FOR - Support and pain relief associated with Arthritis (Arthiritis), Bursitis, Tendonitis and other knee related pain.
- TOP QUALITY - 4-way stretch elastic material engineered for increased compression and fit without heat retention
- BEST FOR - Support and pain relief associated with Arthritis (Arthiritis), Bursitis, Tendonitis and other knee related pain.
- TOP QUALITY - 4-way stretch elastic material engineered for increased compression and fit without heat retention
- SUPPORT - Engineered Elastic has a targeted and purposeful pattern area for advanced support. Reinforced with spring steel stays for added support and lateral movement
- COMFORT - Gel buttress targets soft tissue and patella support
- IMPORTANT SIZING – Our products are made to fit snug and tight. If you are in between 2 sizes, always chose the larger of the two.
Highlights:
- BEST FOR – Support and pain relief associated with Arthritis (osteoarthritis), Bursitis, Tendonitis, and other knee-related pain.
- TOP QUALITY – 4-way stretch elastic material engineered for increased compression and fit without heat retention
- SUPPORT – Engineered Elastic has a targeted and purposeful pattern area for advanced support. Reinforced with spring steel stays for added support and lateral movement
Review:
If you’re on the market for the best knee pads for arthritis, look no further. A compression sleeve is a great solution for anyone who suffers from tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis, and knee-related injury. And McDavid Elastic Compression Knee Sleeve adds a gel pad for extra protection. They can also be quite useful when playing contact sports like volleyball, basketball, wrestling, and much more.
These beautiful knee sleeves are crafted from nicely-elastic, latex-free 4-way stretch neoprene. Because of this, these pads offer maximum support for the knees and absorb lots of impacts while infusing compression therapy for arthritis. They’re fitted with spring steel for added flexibility and lateral movement. It’s available in a variety of sizes, from small to x-large; customers have noted that the fit is true to size.
8: DEWALT DG5204 Professional Kneepads
DEWALT DG5204 Professional Kneepads with Layered Gel and Neoprene Fabric Liner
- DURABLE KNEEPADS: Ballistic poly material provides long lasting strength on this professional heavy duty kneepads.
- EASY REPOSITIONING: These durable kneepads feature an upper tab for easy respositioning on the knee, slip-buckle fastener system with adjustable straps, large, adjustable neoprene straps.
- DURABLE KNEEPADS: Ballistic poly material provides long lasting strength on this professional heavy duty kneepads.
- EASY REPOSITIONING: These durable kneepads feature an upper tab for easy respositioning on the knee, slip-buckle fastener system with adjustable straps, large, adjustable neoprene straps.
- GEL TECHNOLOGY: Layered over thick, close-cell foam padding surrounds knees for ultimate support and comfort in these professional kneepads.
- NON-SKID KNEEPADS: Heavy duty caps on these kneepads are designed for stability and wear.
- MULTI-SURFACE: These durable kneepads are designed for cement, brick, and all flooring surfaces.
Highlights:
- DURABLE KNEE PADS: Ballistic poly material provides long-lasting strength on these professional heavy-duty knee pads.
- EASY REPOSITIONING: These durable knee pads feature an upper tab for easy repositioning on the knee, slip-buckle fastener system with adjustable straps, large, adjustable neoprene straps.
- GEL TECHNOLOGY & NON-SKID KNEEPADS: Layered over thick, closed-cell foam padding surrounds knees for ultimate support and comfort in these professional kneepads. Heavy-duty caps on these kneepads are designed for stability and wear.
Review:
Most knee pads worth their salt claim to offer maximum protection on most even surfaces and smooth floors. To show that these are truly the best knee pads for construction, DeWalt promises that the DG5204 supports and protects your knees on virtually any terrain or surface. That’s why DG5204 comes highly rated for roofers.
These superior rockers boast heavy-duty caps that cover the entire knees, preventing sharp objects from injuring them. They feature gel technology molded over closed-cell EVA foam cushioning so that your knees stay protected and comfortable at all times. It can’t get better than this!
9: Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Knee Pads
Tradesman Pro Knee Pads Klein Tools 55629
- Five layers of impact resistant material for protection and comfort
- For comfort: an inner fabric layer of neoprene, an over-sized impact-absorbing gel layer, a molded polyurethane foam layer
- For protection: a super-tough 600d outer fabric layer, a protective outer shell with stabilizing non-slip surface
- Five layers of impact resistant material for protection and comfort
- For comfort: an inner fabric layer of neoprene, an over-sized impact-absorbing gel layer, a molded polyurethane foam layer
- For protection: a super-tough 600d outer fabric layer, a protective outer shell with stabilizing non-slip surface
- Single strap doesn't bunch behind your leg
- Quick-fasten buckle
Highlights:
- Five layers of impact resistant material for protection and comfort with quick-fasten buckle and a single strap that won’t bunch behind your knees
- For comfort: an inner fabric layer of neoprene, an over-sized impact-absorbing gel layer, a molded polyurethane foam layer
- For protection: a super-tough 600d outer fabric layer, a protective outer shell with stabilizing non-slip surface
Review:
Let’s get one thing straight: yes, Klein Tools Tradesman Pro Knee Pads are fairly pricey. But these are truly the best knee pads for heavy-duty tasks. The design, while simple, is quite impressive with 5 layers of impact-resisting material. The outer layer is made of ultra-tough 600D fabric and a hard shell with an anti-skid surface.
The inner neoprene layer, molded foam layer, and a large shock-absorbing gel cushioning provide unmatched comfort. These are knee pads you can use comfortably for hours and hours while laying bricks, battering concrete, and whatnot. The super-thick caps on these knee pads make sure that your knees are raised well above mud, sludge, cement mix, and other potentially dangerous chemicals on the site.
Buying Guide for the Best Knee Pads
Knees can take a beating if you spend long hours kneeling, leading to unwelcome knee pain, aches, and even injury. A good pair of well-cushioned knee pads is your first line of protection, helping offset the risk of experiencing debilitating conditions like arthritis, chronic bursitis, and more. They are non-negotiable for athletes who play high-impact sports like football, lacrosse, basketball, wrestling, and rugby.
Wearing the best knee pads is also invaluable if your line of work is labor-intensive and involves a great deal of kneeling, squatting, or crouching. Here, think carpenters, floor fitters, tilers, plumbers, masons, joiners, garden landscapers, electricians, and roofers. Even if you already own a pair or two, you’ll have to replace them at some point due to repeated use and normal wear.
8 Tips on How to Pick the Best Knee Pads This Year
Truth is, not all knee pads on the market are created the same. Besides, they’re available in many different styles, materials, and prices. Here are the most important tips and key considerations you need to keep in mind to find a truly reliable pair of the best knee pads.
(1) Do Your Homework
Like pretty much everything else, it’s crucially important to understand what you’re looking for prior to shopping. Doing proper due diligence can go a long way to finding the best knee pads possible. After all, we are bombarded by false advertising and enticing promotions every day, so much so that they can easily distract us from knowing what a product has to offer.
Spend some time to dig into potential products, know exactly what it’s that you require, and how much you’re willing to spend. Do you need a knee pad built on versatility or something that focuses on protection? Are fit and comfort important to you?
Get recommendations from your colleagues, friends, and other people you trust. Your first outlet should probably be your foreman, fellow gardener, or coach. Your next best bet is to go through our favorites.
Armed with deep knowledge and solid advice, you can now narrow down your search to only 5 or fewer candidates. From here, you can take other factors into consideration to pinpoint the best pair for your specific needs.
(2) Consider the Different Styles Available
Knee pads come in a variety of different styles to choose from, and some are better suited to your needs than others. Before shopping for the right one, it’s imperative that you consider the type of surface you work on most frequently, how long you spend on your knees, and how much movement is involved.
Let’s find out more about the common styles of knee pads:
a) Flat-cap knee pads: As the name suggests, these are flat pads which are often fairly large in size and the entire surface comes into contact with the ground. They are great for plumbing, gardening, digging, and other tasks that can be performed from one station. This is a very common style, often preferred by mechanics, plumbers, gardeners, and other people who do work that needs stationary kneeling.
Pros
- They are widely available online and in most brick-and-mortar outlets at favorable prices
- The best flat-cap knee pads are incredibly stable and supportive for longer periods as they offer the widest contact point, dispersing pressure across the entire surface
- They are an excellent choice if your projects involve little or no moving around
Cons
- They don’t offer much in the way of flexibility
- Fit can be tricky, and some can fall off when you stand up
- Not ideal if you move around too much
To this end, the best knee pads for all-day use will likely be a flat-cap style. That’s because they enable you to kneel on soft or hard surfaces for hours on end without experiencing significant discomfort or pain.
b) Shell-cap knee pads: These are shaped, as you may have already suspected, like a shell, encasing your knee caps for maximum protection. Inside the shell, you’ll find dense cushioning materials like carbon fiber, rubber, gel, or plastic.
Pros
- Shell caps are quite comfortable as they conform to the shape of your knee cap, perfect for orthotic personalization.
- Their elastic strap and cap materials guarantee an ergonomic fit without causing any inconvenience or obstruction.
- They have a wider range of motion, allowing you to move around without much hassle
Cons
- They wear down quickly
c) Curved soft knee caps: These are soft, rubbery shell caps that help you kneel or crawl on both slippery and hard surfaces. They perform equally well on both soft and hard surfaces but are more ideal for the latter.
Pros
- They won’t damage finished work such as joinery, masonwork, grouting, tiling, and so forth
- They are versatile, delivering excellent protection on both soft and hard surfaces
- Most of them feature rubber padding that helps prevent slipping and sliding on wet or slippery surfaces
- They are great for installing hardwood and laminate flooring
Cons
- They are not ideal for work in which you will be moving around too much
- May wear out quickly if used on rough surfaces
d) Hard-cap knee pads: These are hard shell caps that work well if you will be kneeling on soft surfaces like AstroTurf, grass, carpets, soil, and so on. When you kneel on a soft surface, the hard outer shell of these knee caps helps you swivel and balance over the floor.
Pros
- They are an ideal choice for those who work on soft surfaces
- These knee caps provide the right amount of balance for hours of comfortable work
Cons
- They are not recommended for people who work on hard surfaces
- Not as effective in terms of cushioning as soft shell caps
e) Hex knee pads: Hex knee caps are another highly popular style of knee pads for work and among sportspeople. They are typically constructed of shock-absorbing foam materials like PU and EVA cushions.
Pros
- They conform better to the structure and shape of your knee and leg
- An excellent option for those looking for optimum flexibility and comfort
- They offer maximum impact absorption.
Cons
- With this specific style, you won’t be able to kneel on hard surfaces for long without experiencing discomfort or pain.
(3) Select Knee Pads According to your Line of Work/Purpose
You can use knee pads for an array of purposes and in many situations. Although work knee pads come to mind first, they can also be used for biking, skateboarding, gardening, and playing sports like basketball, volleyball, netball, or lacrosse.
Depending on how you plan to use them, some models may work better for your environment than others. By design, all styles feature a well-padded interior while the exterior plates often vary from model to model. If you’re after a heavy-duty option, make sure it’s made from a firm material like polyester; softer models are usually constructed from supple materials such as leather.
Choose the right exterior plate material to match what you do:
Gardening or landscaping – If you enjoy gardening as a pastime, you probably need an affordable, softer & waterproof version suitable for kneeling on soil or muddy grass. However, if you do commercial landscaping and work with rocky soils on most times, the best knee pads with harder, sturdier plates will suffice.
Flooring – Laminate, and wood are fairly delicate materials that can be marred or dented by hard knee caps. Stick to leather knee pads because they are poised to gentle on these soft surfaces.
Hardscaping – Pavers, roofers, and other professionals who perform hardscaping tasks should get firm-plated knee pads, preferably ones with exteriors made from heavy-gauge polyester. Models that are pimpled, ridged, or grooved are bound to provide shock-absorption you need on a hard surface.
Crawling-intensive services – Mechanics, painters, plumbers, and other professionals who crawl on uncarpeted and uneven surfaces will find knee pads with sturdy plates to be more their style. The firm plate will provide you with the necessary protection as you crawl on unfinished concrete floors, attics, and other spaces.
Sporting activities – Basketball, volleyball, and other sports where you need to protect your knees from high-impact jumps will require soft-cap knee pads with an elastic material to stay in place.
(4) Consider the Material Construction
The type of material used on the exterior plate will tell you which knee pad style is best for your line of work. But don’t overlook the materials used to make other components of the knee pad. These parts are usually constructed from a blend of synthetic materials to preserve the longevity and keep the knee pad secured in place.
Wrap: The best knee pads are typically wrapped with an elastic or flexible material, preferably synthetic fabric like spandex, lycra, latex, or neoprene. They ensure the knee pad fits snugly as well as keep inner layers tightly in place.
Padding: This is the heart and soul of the knee pad because it’s the interior cushioning that comes into contact with the knee. Generally, the padding comprises soft compact foam materials like dense fiber, gel, or memory EVA foam.
(5) What’s the Ideal Fastening Mechanism?
Knee pads feature different kinds of fasteners, including hook-&-loop fasteners, Velcro, and regular straps. Some of these fasteners have metal components while others sport plastic or fabric construction. Most players prefer Velcro straps made from tightly knit polyester, nylon, or other industrial-grade synthetic fabrics.
(6) Does it Fit?
Fit is one of the most crucial aspects you need to consider when choosing the best knee pads. First off, you need to make sure that you find the perfect fit. You can do so by measuring your leg at the knee region, and use the sizing chart to select the right fit.
Don’t forget to take a second look at the flexible material used and how well the fastening mechanism helps the knee pad wrap around your leg. Remember, it’s not just about how the kneeler fits around your knee; an improper fit can put you at an increased risk of getting injured and hamper your performance.
(7) How Much Should the Best Knee Pads Cost?
As with every gear, knee pads prices vary a lot depending on the materials used, style, and of course, the brand. Still, you should expect to pay anywhere from $15 to upward of $50.
The most affordable models will set you back between $15 and $20, and often have limited coverage and a modest amount of padding. They don’t protect much else apart from the joint area.
If you’re looking for something in the mid-range or thereabout, be ready to shell out between $20 and $30. These mid-range options cover from the knee joint to the lower thigh and typically use gel for cushioning.
Those looking to splurge on a high-end pair will have to be content with a $40+ price point. The best knee pads are found in this range, featuring elaborate features, exquisite hinges, and articulations that include neoprene straps. Most of them flaunt commercial-grade, all-weather polyester construction.
(8) Consider the Length and Weight of the Knee Pad
The best knee pads are neither too light nor too heavy. One that’s too heavy will weigh down your knee and may even put you at a greater risk of injury. On the other hand, knee pads that are too light may not be sturdy or tough enough to withstand constant use and wear.
