I know knee caps might sound like something your mom only made you wear when you were rollerblading.
But believe it or not, the knee pads are a handy investment as an adult, with all kinds of diverse purposes.
See, our knees are a crucial component of our body, carrying much of our body weight while providing support.
Now, on the off chance your occupation expects you to invest a great deal of energy bowing on hard surfaces, then it's prudent you give genuine thought to the soundness of your knees.
Often, we see mechanics, gardeners, floor installers, bikers, and numerous tradespeople harming their knees for neglecting safety.
And as we all know, knee injuries are never good, and knee pain can make your life a living hell.
The good news is, experts agree the best knee caps can play a crucial role in promoting the safety of your knees.
Their heavy-duty construction protects your knees from all kinds of pressures, while the soft inner lining offers the utmost comfort.
More importantly, most of the knee pads offer a universal fit and are easy to wear, so you’ll have no issue in using them.
But with plenty of options in the market, it can be a challenge to narrow to a specific option.
This is why we’ve compiled this review guide to help with the selection process.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick!
Product | Materials | Weight | Dimension | BUY NOW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
PVC, EVA foam, neoprene | 1.21 Oz | 10 x 9 x 4.38 inches | ||
Thermoplastic Rubber + Neoprene+Gel Cushion Foam+600D Polyester | 2.2 Lbs | 11.3 x 8.3 x 5.4 inches | ||
EVA padded material & rock-hard polypropylene | - | 11.42 x 7.48 x 3.94 inches | ||
Other Great Recommendations | ||||
Synthetic & Hard Plastic | 12.8 Oz | - | ||
Plastic, nylon & Foam | 1.6 Lbs | Beginners | ||
Washable Neoprene | 10.4 Oz | 7.3 x 7.2 x 3.5 inches | ||
Top 6 Knee Caps In The Market For The Money
NoCry Professional Knee Pads
For the daily engages, the NoCry Professional knee pads are my go-to pair of knee pads.
They're a reliable option you may count on to offer reliable safety and protection.
Also, the model seems to tick all the boxes for the ideal knee pads, including a sturdy build, gel cushioning for protection and heavy-duty construction.
Features and Benefits
Design
NoCry Knee Pads employ a smart design, something allowing you to the knee all day long with the least amount of fatigue.
The design makes the NoCry an intriguing option for those on professions requiring them to be on their knees for long hours, such as floor installers, and gardeners.
Safety
The biggest benefit of a knee pad is the provision of safety, and the NoCry seems to excel in this department.
For starters, the sturdy poly shield protection protects your knees against the cuts and scrapes, allowing you to kneel even in the roughest terrains with confidence.
Despite the sturdiness, the poly shield is scratch-resistant, so it won't damage your floor. However, the cap is a bit slippery and may prove a challenge to use on the extremely smooth and slippery surfaces.
The gel inserts, on the other hand, mold to your knee, offering all the protection you need for your job. Unlike the traditional foam, which tends to deflate, the gel inserts remain soft and readily absorbs the exterior pressures.
Adjustable
For proper fit, NoCry uses two elastic and adjustable straps.
The straps, alongside the slip-buckle clips, are a great feature keeping the knee cap in place and snuggly around your knees.
The elastic buckles hold the cap well in place, so you don't have to go through the inconvenience of repositioning them now and then.
Besides the snug fit, the buckles are skin-friendly, and won't irritate your skin, even after an extended period of work.
Double Stitching
To add to the strength and durability of the knee cap, the manufacture uses double stitching technology.
So, yes, you don’t have to worry about the knee cap tearing or ripping.
More importantly, the knee cap can stand up to regular use for years to come.
Convenient
The dual buckling system conveniently snaps around your legs with the least effort, allowing you to get to work with minimal downtime.
Pros
- Comfy
- Sturdy
- Flexible
- Durable
Cons
- Not waterproof
Check NoCry Professional Knee Pads Price on Amazon
Carib Gear Pro Knee Pads - Best for Work
Carib Gear Pro Knee Pads are a value purchase because they include a host of other handy working accessories such as sunglasses and gloves.
The knee pads are designed with comfort and functionality in mind.
They’re a must-have option for anyone who participates in the rigorous and heavy-duty tasks, especially those requiring long periods of kneeling.
Features and Benefits
Design
It hard not to notice the Carib Gear Pro; the knee cap has a spectacular color design with the vibrant yellow strips accentuating the dark-themed knee pad.
But away from aesthetics, these knee pads are built for all kinds of work.
They're durable and comfortable, too.
The ergonomic and lightweight design combines with the flexibility to offer the freedom of movement, while at the same time keeping your knees safe from the external pressures.
Comfort
The foam-encased gel core, and the padded outer moulds to your knee for all-day comfort and customized fit.
The gel core design conforms to the shape of your knees, thus offering a snug and reliable fit.
And as we mentioned, this model is equally lightweight and flexible, so it easily offers optimal freedom of movement and effective impact-resistance.
Safety
The heavy-duty shield on the outer surface of the knee cap protects your knees against the sharp and heavy objects.
To prevent slippage, the shield comes with a non-slip grip surface, which could come in handy, especially when working on the wet surfaces.
Besides a non-slip performance, another benefit of the Carib over the NoCry is the water and oil resistance properties. These knee caps won’t allow any fluid to seep in them, so the Carib are a great option for working on the wet surfaces.
At the same time, the gel cushioning does more providing a cozy place for your knees to rest but also a means to absorb the impact, vibrations, and shocks of the demanding tasks.
Fit
For the perfect fit, a Velcro adjustment feature eliminates the "roll down" effect, saving you from the inconvenience of having to readjust your knee cap when while working constantly.
Also, the knee cap incorporates an extra pair of 10” strap, which again goes a long way to enhance fit and ease of use on the knee cap.
Accessories
The selling point of the Carib Knee Cap is probably the fact it comes with a host of accessories.
The leather work gloves will let you hold objects without worrying about the safety of your hands, while the anti-fog, anti-glare and scratch-resistant glasses will protect your eyes from the flying debris.
Pros
- Plenty of accessories
- Water-resistant
- Durable
- Non-slip
- Chic
Cons
- Tad expensive
Check Carib Gear Pro Knee Pads Price on Amazon
JBM Kids & Adults Knee Cap - Best for Skating
The JMB Kids & Adult Knee Cap is yet another handy set suited for skateboarding purposes, though it can also be used for other needs.
Like the Carib Gear, it’s yet another value-added purchase because aside from the knee cap, it also comes with two elbow caps and a pair of wrist guards.
Features and Benefits
Design
The JMB is available in multiple colors, so, it’s easy to choose products best matching your outdoor attire, or even showcase your personality.
More importantly, however, the overall design of the set is built with comfort and performance in mind.
The individual components on the set are designed with all the desirable properties of the ideal knee cap, including sturdy material construction, padding for comfort and lightness.
Comfort
The entire padding system and the guards are designed from PP and PE breathable materials, which we’ve found to be delicate and breathable enough for incredible comfort.
The materials are also skin-friendly, meaning when in use, you’re likely to experience any skin rashes.
The EVA padded material also has moisture-wicking properties, so you're less likely to have your knees feeling moist because of the sweat build up.
Safety
The front section of this knee pad is covered with heavy-duty PP materials preventing your knees against harms.
Of course, the material doesn’t match the strength of PVC of NoCry, but it still does offer decent support and safety.
It keeps your knees away from harm, and this includes protection against the sharp objects.
At the same time, the material has shock-absorbing properties, meaning it can take in all the external pressures.
No-Slip
The honeycomb design of the outer layer protects the legs against the impacts on the hard floor.
More importantly, it prevents slippage by ensuring the pad stays put and eliminates the "Pull down" effect.
Fit
JMB has the adaptability of size since it's available in a multitude of sizes.
Adaptability is further manifested through the knee pad versatility as it can be used in different games such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, and much more.
Accessories
A value-added purchase, the JMB comes with several handy accessories such as wrist guards and elbow guards.
The entire set is designed to provide you with a safe solution for all your activities.
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Value for money
Cons
- Not quite heavy duty
Check JBM Kids & Adults Knee Cap Price on Amazon
Mongoose Bmx Bike Gel Knee and Elbow Pad Set - Best for Biking
The mongoose BMX Set is designed for the small riders.
It’s built with features to promote easy and safe bike riding.
The set of represents fantastic value, as the level of technology is far greater than what their price tag indicates.
Features and Benefits
Design
First off, the pads are stylish, one of the reasons they appeal to the kids and teens.
They look cool, and you kids won’t complain of how “lame” they look.
The sleek black outer shell and subtle orange spots make the pads quite chic, and your kid won't mind wearing this when they hop onto their bikes.
More importantly, however, they're designed for performance and have every feature to support a safe and reliable bike riding experience.
Comfort
The interior gel on this knee pad moulds to the shape of your kid’s feet, so it’s easy to achieve a snug fit.
The gel also makes wearing the pad substantially comfortable, another feature encouraging your young ones to wear the gear.
Safety
The outer shell is reliably constructed for strength and protection.
It's sturdy and will protect your kid's knees from the scrapes and bruises should they take a stumble.
Their shell is particularly a handy option for those with daredevil kids because, with the level of strength, you can always feel at ease when they go for a ride.
Another crucial safety element is shock-absorbing gel. Even if you get shocked, the gel will lessen the impact, meaning your kid will experience significantly less suffering.
Breathable
The Mongoose BMX Knee Cap comes with a breathable mesh to keep your young one’s knees and elbow healthy.
Remember, extra sweat creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, but the breathable mesh will save them from this, and the nauseating odors.
Adjustable
The pads are easy to put on and take-offs, thanks to the Velcro straps.
The straps are completely adjustable, so it becomes easy for your kid to put on the knee cap, strap for proper fit, and achieve a comfortable wearing experience.
Accessory Set
The Mongoose BMX Set, like its name suggests, is a true multi-sport knee cap design. It even incorporates an elbow cap to protect your kid’s elbows when they take a tumble.
Pros
- Reliable
- Breathable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Velcro straps are cheaply made
Check Mongoose Bmx Bike Gel Knee and Elbow Pad Set Price on Amazon
187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads
The 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads are among the most durable and comfortable knee pads in the market.
They come with desirable features including reliable cushioning, safety, and don't impede movement in any way.
Though they’re a bit expensive, they’re worth every penny.
Features and Benefits
Design
The 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads are the probably the slimmest knee pads in the market, and this helps at improving their overall mobility.
However, some users claim the pad tends to run small, so it's always a good idea to pick a size higher up.
They’re also available in multiple colors, so users can be creative and express their individuality.
Material Construction
The fabrics on the 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads are made from ballistic nylon with industrial stitching for durability.
The material also has a seamless finish, so you don’t have to worry about the seams or stitches digging into your flesh when skateboarding or cycling.
Comfort
The 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads is designed with ergonomics in mind as it sits comfortably around your knees.
It provides enhanced mobility as it's easy to flex.
The interior foam, on the other hand, offer superior cushioning, without restricting the knee motion.
Safety
On the surface on the knee pad, you’ll find sturdy molded plastic that provides a protective shield against injuries upon impact.
The molded plastic is also excellent for sliding, so an ideal option for those working on the hard surfaces.
The superior foam on the interior works hard to absorb the shock and impacts of the external surfaces. So, with the 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads, you can be assured the suffering on your knee will be toned down by the foam.
Convenient
The 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads are generally easy to use.
The ergonomic design conforms to the shape of your knee, while the adjustable Velcro straps help users to achieve a snug fit.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable
Cons
- Sizing is a bit off
Check 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pads Price on Amazon
Troxell USA - Best for Gardening
Last on our list is the Troxell USA, a handy knee pad for the gardening enthusiasts.
It offers remarkable comfort and support for the knees, thanks to the superior and soft neoprene material.
Features and Benefits
Design
Though primarily designed for gardening use, the Troxell USA is quite fashionable, and can even be worn with shorts.
It also has quite a diverse application in the sense that it can be worn for various purposes, including protection, support, and simply knee comfort.
Material Construction
The neoprene construction is durable and sturdy.
The material construction ensures the knee pad doesn’t break easily or fall apart.
St the same time, it's possible to wear the knee pad for several seasons without the need to replace it.
Comfort
Speaking of comfort, this knee pad is a joy to wear.
The washable neoprene is ultra-soft and will let you wear it hours on end without any feeling of discomfort or soreness.
Safety
Safety of Troxell USA cannot be compared to that of other knee pads on our list.
The safety element is a bit lean, especially considering the material construction.
While it will not protect you against the heavy impact, it will shield you against the scrapes, dirt, and low impact shocks.
Convenient
The design of the Troxell USA offers more support and a better fit.
The Velcro strap ensures the knee cap fits you snugly, and it doesn't move around.
Pros
- Machine Washable
- Durable
- Comfortable
Cons
- Not heavy duty
Check Troxell USA Price on Amazon
Best Knee Cap Buying Guide
Knee caps greatly vary in their style and design, which ultimately might affect their performance and purpose.
To help you make the right decision for you, we’ve compiled a detailed guide to help you with the selection process.
But before then, let’s look at the common types of knee caps and their purpose;
Hard-Cap Knee Pads
The hard-cap knee pads are suited for those working on the softer surfaces like carpets or grass.
They help the user slide around more and swivel.
However, they’re not suitable for the hard surfaces since they tend to slide a little too much.
Curved Soft Caps
The curved soft caps normally have a rubber cap that helps users to move side to side.
Unlike the hard caps, they don’t move around too much, and they’re good for hard surfaces, especially for flooring tasks.
Ideally, they’re suited for those who are going to be stationary for most of the time they’ll be working.
Flat-Cap Knee Pads
The flat-caps are the most common version of the pads in the market.
They offer contact across the entire surface of the pad, meaning they're best suited for the stationary purpose.
With these pads, it's easy to knee on both the hard and soft surface for extended periods without fatigue or pain.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Knee Cap
Fit
The key to finding the right pair of knee cap is knowing your sizing needs.
Fit determines comfort and how easy it is to wear the caps.
So, when selecting a knee cap, always choose one offering a snug fit.
Padding
Next in line is the padding, or rather cushioning.
The best knee cap should offer sufficient padding material to protect your knee against the external pressures.
The padding should also help to promote comfort on your knees.
And depending on the type of work, you should also consider the knee caps with an interior lining that wicks away the sweat from the knees.
Build Quality and Design
The overall build quality of a knee cap should be reliable and sturdy.
It should be made from the highest quality materials to guarantee performance.
Of course, there's no best material for the knee cap, as it all depends on your activity.
For instance, the material for the best knee cap for mountain biking greatly varies to that of the best knee cap for volleyball or basketball.
Either way, whatever knee cap you choose, ensure it has the best qualities regarding the material construction.
Style
Sure, style is not a critical component in knee caps, but for occupations such as playing basketball or volleyball, you might consider a stylish knee cap.
However, aesthetics should not come at the expense of comfort, the safety of performance.
Adjustable Straps
There’s no one knee cap offering the all-perfect size as is, so, always consider those with adjustable straps.
These knee caps will let you tighten or loosen them to provide a snug fit.
Conclusion
The best knee caps are an incredible option for keeping your knees safe.
Most of them have a hardy outer shield keeping the knee from harm’s way and an interior gel for absorbing shock.
At the same time, the knee caps feature a soft gel material that cushions your knee and provides a cozy environment.
Now, depending on our work, you can pick a knee cap from the above list, and hopefully, it will improve your overall lifestyle.
Current Best Selling Knee Pads!
FAQs:
Can I use knee caps in the roughest terrains?
Yes, you can use the caps to kneel in the rough terrains. Ensure the knee caps are durable and can resist pressure from the small stones and sharp objects in the landscape. A good knee cap should have double stitching to prevent tear and wear when in use.
Can I wear a knee cap the entire day?
If you are wearing it for medical reasons, you’ll need to follow what your doctor advises. However, if you are wearing it for a sport, you can remove it anytime and let your knee relax. Removing the caps ensures breathability and hence no build-up of pressure around your knees.
How does a knee cap work?
Since they bend and straighten, you’ll find them protecting your knee cap from injury. It protects the knee joint, and muscles. Follow the instructions in the package to ensure your knee cap fits well.
Are the knee caps easy to clean?
Yes, knee caps come from smooth fabric, and some have a plastic cover. This means you’ll need to wipe them and use them quicker. Also, the ones with clothing are easy to wash and dry.