These snug knee pads use D3O – a soft foam that stiffens instantly under impact – and an anti-puncture-wound insert to keep you protected. They’re held in place by a Lycra sleeve and a horsehoe shape at the top of the padding that locates it neatly above your kneecap.
While not uncomfortable, it took us some time to get used to the odd feel of this padding, though it does help keep the pad in place. The rubber grippers on the inside of the upper seam could be improved though, because the thick seam reduces their effectiveness.
The Lycra sleeve didn’t bunch up much behind the knee, but the whole pad did have a tendency to move, requiring adjustment while riding. We’d prefer to see more material above the knee to help avoid this, along with a securing strap. For those who like to climb sans pads, they can be slid down your leg easily and pulled up once at the top of the hill.