Guides to Choose the Best Knee Pads

As one of the China’s leading knee pad manufacturers since 2009, we would like to share with you a guidance on how to choose the best knee pads.

Guides on Shell Materials for Knee Pads

The shell material of the pads is closely related to the optimal mix of protection, comfort, and flexibility. It determines the level of protection and its application.  Below are some most popular materials for pads shell materials.

1.1 Polyethylene (PE)

The PE cover for pads usually goes with the inner EVA foam for better comfort, while maintaining the flexibility for motion. PE pads, for its lightweight, durability, impact resistance and flexibility are very popular among the industrial personnel. It covers construction workers, plumbers, and electricians; also the pads with PE shells offer sufficient protection for gardening tasks, where the user needs to kneel on rough terrain without experiencing hard impacts. As a result, PE pads are also commonly referred to as gardening pads; the PE pads, as made from one of the most cost effective materials are also one of the favorites in sports like volleyball or biking.

Although PE is widely used in different fields, it does not mean that it can be used everywhere.  PE pads offer lower impact resistance than PC and less durable in harsh environment. The PE shell could get deformed when the temperature is high.  Also the EVA foam to match the PE pads could become thinner and lose its cushioning effects after extended uses.

1.2 Polycarbonate (PC) 

Polycarbonate is stronger than polyethylene and can bear severer impact forces. As we know, PE pads are suitable for professional and recreational activities. Nay to say, the PC pads, which offer a higher level of impact resistance. Knee pads with PC shells are commonly for tactical and military applications. These military knee pads are becoming a popular choice for police enforcement, and outdoor lovers.

Because of its superior performance in impacts with rocks, branches, and other obstacles, PC pads are a popular choice for outdoor or extreme activities such as mountain biking and skateboarding.

However, PC pads are often heavier than those made from softer and more flexible materials like PE. That many cause fatigue over long period of uses, especially when quick movements are required. And PC is quite rigid. The stiffness might will hinder the natural movement of the knee. So it might not be the best choice for running or couching. Moreover, PC hard shell can produce noise louder than that of PE when it goes against rough surfaces. So it might not work for some hunting and tactical operations. Last but not least, the costs for polycarbonate knee pads could be much more expensive than those made from less durable materials. So it might not be the first choice for casual users, when extreme protect would not be necessary.

1.3 Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) 

TPR is a flexible, robust, and impact-resistant polymer. The TPR pads make a good balance of rigidity and elasticity. With their excellent performance in slip resistance, the pads are ideal for applications where traction is important. It can be one of the best industrial and flooring knee pads for flooring installation or working on smooth, wet, or uneven surfaces. As for its out-standing flexibility and secure gripping performance on surfaces, the TPR pads allow players to move quickly. Thus, they also can be used as sports pads.

Nevertheless, every coin has two sides.  The TPR pads are flexible, but they are not as protective as those hard shell pads like PE or PC. TPR, known as one of the most widely used heat sensitive materials, may not be suitable for construction or welding. Because the knee pads could become less effective or deformed in hot temperatures. TPR pads are relatively more chemical resistant than TPE ones, but they are less chemical resistant to oils, solvents or other chemicals, compared with more rigid materials like PE or PC.

1.4 Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

TPE is a blend of plastic and rubber-like feature. The TPE kne pads cover are flexible, durable and recyclable. It can provide not only shock absorption, but also non-slip surface, suitable for environments with wetness, UV radiation, and high temperatures. The pads are very useful in sports, industrial and construction, gardening and landscaping, medical and orthopedic, tactical and military, and flooring and tiling. Below is a comparison of TPE and TPR knee protectors.  

TPE knee protectors are ideal for applications requiring comfort, flexibility, and mild protection, such as sports, gardening, or light industrial labor.

TPR knee protectors are better suited to heavy-duty applications requiring increased durability, chemical resistance, and impact protection, such as construction, tactical use, or industrial operations.

1.5 Kevlar 

Kevlar is an incredibly strong, lightweight, robust, and cut-resistant and fire-retardant material. Kevlar reinforced knee protectors can endure abrasions and punctures. Meanwhile, they protect users against sharp objects in welding, mining, or metalworking. The knee protectors can also be used for military purpose.

But Kevlar knee protectors also have their own limits. The material is very expensive; its rigidness limits the flexibility; it needs additional padding inside for better cushioning; and the Kevlar knee protectors are not impact resistant,although they excel at resisting punctures and abrasions.

1.6 ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

ABS is a strong plastic with fantastic impact resistance. ABS knee protectors are lightweight, resilient, and widely used in construction, military, and tactical operations against heavy impact. They are designed against high impact and frequent falls, such as skateboarding and roller derby.

Compared with PE knee protectors, the ABS knee protectors can provide stronger protection in high-impact environments and is more durable and less prone to cracking and deformation.  But ABS knee protectors are less affordable and comfortable to wear in flexibility and weight.  

Choose ABS Knee protectors if you need maximum protection, durability, and impact resistance, such as in construction, industrial work, or high-impact sports; choose PE Knee protectors if you prioritize lightweight comfort, flexibility, and affordability, especially for lighter activities like recreational sports or light manual labor.

1.7 EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) 

EVA is a soft, lightweight, shock-absorbing and water-resistant foam to absorb shock. EVA knee protectors are commonly used in sports such as volleyball, wrestling, and skateboarding, as well as gardening and landscaping.

However, in harsh working situations, the soft EVA shell may not provide as much protection as the hard shell knee pads. The EVA knee protectors tend to wear down faster and could lose their protective properties as the foam compresses and breaks down; EVA knee protectors are best for mild-shocks absorbing, but not suitable for heavy impacts or punctures; EVA is heat sensitive. The EVA knee protectors could lose their protective properties in high temperature; Although the eva knee pads are water resistant, the water can lead to discomfort when the pad is used in humid environments. Because the eva knee protectors may become heavier and slippery after getting wet.

1.8 Polyurethane (PU)

Polyurethane is a strong, flexible material with excellent shock absorption and abrasion resistance. Knee protectors with a PU shell are ideal for long-kneeling workers and those recovering from knee injury. As a result, they can be used for both heavy-duty and medicinal purposes.

PU knee protectors wear down faster than ABS or PC; they offer better cushioning but less impact protection; the PU knee pads like EVA knee protectors, TPR knee protectors, TPE knee protectors and PE knee protectors could become soft and lose their shape; The knee protectors made from PU are less chemical resistant than PC knee protectors; and PE knee protectors are often more expensive than PE or EVA knee protectors.

1.9 PVC

PVC, a chemically resistant plastic, is commonly employed in the manufacture of knee pads due to its durability and protection. The chemically resistant PVC knee protectors are ideal for harsh situations such as hard, greasy, or oily surfaces. Knee protectors constructed of PVC are utilized in a variety of professions such as in construction, plumbing, carpentry, and landscaping.

PVC knee protectors are durable, affordable, and resistant to abrasions, making them suitable for light-duty work and general use. However, their stiffness, lack of flexibility, weight, and limited comfort make them less ideal for prolonged or high-impact activities. For those needing greater flexibility, impact absorption, and comfort, materials like EVA, PU, or TPR may be better options. Additionally, the environmental concerns and temperature sensitivity of PVC are important factors to consider, especially for long-term or extreme use.

A Summary on Knee Pads Shell Materials

To sum up, below is a table with different shell materials and applications for reference:

Guides on Lining Materials for Knee Pads

Lining materials for Knee Pads are critical for knee pad production. They have direct contact with the skin or clothing. So the lining should be comfortable, resilient, and sometimes moisture-wicking. Below are some common lining materials for knee pads.

3.1 Knee pads with Neoprene Lining

Neoprene lining is soft, flexible, and durable. Knee pad manufacturers like using it to keep users warm and avoid irritating.

Sports Knee Pads: The neoprene lining for volleyball and basketball knee pads can provide flexibility, moisture resistance, and support in quick movement.

3.2 Knee Pads with Nylon Mesh Lining

Nylon mesh lining is lightweight, breathable and sturdy. A mesh lining can ensure the breathability for staffs working for a long time.

Sports Knee Pads: Nylon mesh lining in athletic knee pads could be perfect in jogging, cycling, or skating.

3.3 Knee Pads with Cotton Lining

Cotton lining is soft, breathable, and natural. It feels good against the skin. Although it absorbs moisture, it may not dry rapidly.

Gardening & Light-Duty Knee Pads: Users prefer cotton linings in tasks like gardening where comfort and softness are more important than moisture-wicking or durability.

Kids’ Knee Pads: Cotton lining is not irritating to the skin. So it would be a better choice for softness and comfort.

3.4 Knee Pads with Polyester Lining

Polyester lining, known for its lightweight, durability and quick drying are widely used in sports knee pads to get rid of moisture.

Polyester can also be used in industrial knee pads for its durability and quick drying in hot working conditions.

3.5 Knee Pads with Gel Lining

The gel lining helps to distribute pressure evenly and increase its performance in cushioning and cooling.

Industrial Knee pads: The lining reduces pressure on the knees and improves comfort for those, who have to kneel for a long time. The knee pads with gel lining are popular among construction workers and tilers.

Some sports knee pads also have gel linings for extra comfort and shock absorption.

3.6 Knee Pads with EVA Foam Lining

EVA foam lining is soft, flexible, and shock-absorbing. The lining can relieve pressure on the knees and meanwhile keep lightweight and sturdy.

EVA foam linings in knee pads are often used for high-impact sports like volleyball, wrestling, and skateboarding; the lining in industrial knee pads can also provide comfort and protection when kneeling for a long time in industry like construction, plumbing, and flooring.

A Summary on Knee Pads Lining Materials

In short, below is a table for reference of lining materials and applications:

The lining materials in knee pads are chosen based on their ability to provide comfort, moisture management, flexibility, and protection, depending on the specific needs of the user.

Conclusion

In short, for maximum protection, we must focus more on shell materials; For comfort and warmth, we may look more at the shell materials for knee pads.  But do remember that the lining materials could lose their comfort and protection with frequent uses over time.  

If you have any doubts of knee pads, contact us freely