MTB Knee Pads

(18 products)

For mountain biking, you should at minimum wear MTB knee pads. They provide crucial protection on and around the knee and extend down to the shin.

Unlike years ago, hard-plastic protection isn't really common. Advancements in materials has allowed more freedom of movement around the knee joint. Better articulation means way more comfort on the bike, especially where a lot of pedalling is required.

They can be worn under MTB pants or with MTB shorts.

Some MTB knee pads use D3O. It's a rate sensitive material that harden on impact then softens to its original state.

Why MTB Knee Pads Are Essential

Mountain biking comes with the risk of crashes, especially on rocky or technical terrain.

MTB knee pads help prevent painful injuries like cuts, bruises, ligament tears, and even fractures.

A quality set of MTB knee pads can be the difference between a minor slide-out and a season-ending injury.

Knowing you're protected gives you the confidence to attack that tricky rock garden or hit a new drop.

MTB riders who wear knee protection are more likely to improve faster too. That's because they feel more protected.

How to Choose the Best MTB Knee Pads

Types of MTB Knee Pads

Enduro knee pads – Offer a balance of protection and pedal-friendliness for all-mountain riders.
Downhill pads – Built for maximum protection with thicker padding and a secure fit for high-speed descents.

Key Features to Look For

Fit and Comfort: Look for pre-curved ergonomic shapes and silicone grippers that keep pads in place without sliding down.
Ventilation: Mesh panels or perforated foam help keep you cool on hot days.
Protection Level: Pads with D3O® or other impact-hardening materials offer excellent protection while remaining flexible when you pedal.
Ease of Use: Some MTB knee pads have hook-and-loop closures so you can put them on or take them off without removing your shoes

Do I really need MTB knee pads?

Yes.

MTB knee pads minimise the chances of cuts, bruises and other injuries. In fact, in Winter they also help keep your knees warm.

And they deliver better knee support. This is especially true when you're riding through rock gardens and tree roots at speed.

As a starting point, consider Fox knee pads.

Are MTB knee pads uncomfortable to ride in?

Yes.

Modern knee pads have very good knee articulation. This means you can pedal without restriction throughout your pedal stroke.

Hard, plastic knee pads will be tougher to pedal in because they don't allow your knee to move as freely. However, these are also not as popular especially with materials like D3O becoming the norm.

What’s the difference between trail and downhill knee pads?

Trail MTB knee pads are lighter, more breathable and offer slightly better knee movement.

DH or Enduro knee pads tend to be thicker and with extra padding on each side of the knee.

How do I choose the right size knee pads?

Measure the circumference of your thigh and largest section of your calf.

Knee pads must be comfortably tight. Otherwise they will slide down your leg with each pedal stroke.

Here is the Fox knee pad sizing guide.

How do I clean MTB knee pads?

Most MTB knee pads can be hand-washed or put in a gentle machine cycle. Always air-dry them and avoid high heat, as this can damage the protective inserts.

Do MTB knee pads also protect shins?

Not completely.

Knee guards can cover the upper part of the shin but not the full shin area.

If you want complete shin protection then consider a designated knee/shin guard.

Are MTB knee pads suitable for beginners?

If you're new to mountain biking and only riding smoother trails, then you may not need them.

We would always advise that you do wear them.

But the chances of an injury on a smoother trail are less than on a technical trail with exposed tree roots and rocks.

Do you wear knee pads over or under pants?

Definitely under.

MTB Pants are designed to accommodate MTB knee pads under them.

MTB Pants like the Fox Ranger or Fox Defend have a loose section of material around the knees.

This section is designed to accommodate the extra bulk of knee pads.

MTB Knee Pads

FiltersFilter & Sort