Cycling Protection

A properly fitted helmet is essential on every ride. Beyond that, most trail and enduro riders start with knee guards, since knees are a common contact point in a fall, and add elbow guards for rougher terrain, bike parks, and downhill. Build your protection up to match the terrain you ride and how much risk you take on.

Cross-country and mellow trail riders often choose light, flexible knee guards that pedal comfortably. Aggressive trail and enduro riders add elbow guards and more coverage, and bike-park or downhill riders run the most robust pads. Choose coverage and stiffness for the terrain you actually ride.

Hard-shell, or hard-cap, pads use a rigid outer that slides on impact and protects best in high-speed crashes and on rock. Soft-shell pads use flexible foam that pedals more comfortably, breathes better, and feels cooler on long climbs. Many riders keep both and choose by the day's terrain.

Protective guards are designed to reduce the severity of impacts and abrasions, but no pad can guarantee against injury, and they are not a substitute for a helmet or for riding within your limits. Treat them as one part of riding safely, alongside good technique and terrain you're comfortable on.

Guards should fit snug with even compression: no gap at the top cuff, no pinching, and no sliding when you pedal or descend, with the protective section covering the joint in your riding position. Measure your thigh or forearm where the grippers sit, then check the fit seated and standing on the bike. Reference the Size & Fit Guide if you're between sizes.

Yes. Trail-oriented guards are built to pedal in, with articulated, flexible foam, breathable sleeves, and silicone grippers that keep them in place over pad-compatible shorts. Burlier park and downhill pads trade some pedalability for more coverage.

Rinse after muddy rides, hand-wash or use a gentle cold cycle, and air-dry flat away from direct heat to protect the foam and grippers. Avoid high heat and harsh detergents, and inspect the foam, stitching, and grippers regularly, replacing any guard with crushed foam or a torn shell.