Find the Best Knee Protection for Skateboarding, BMX, and Extreme Sports

Rekd Knee Pads have become one of the most popular and highly-rated knee pad brands amongst skateboarders, BMX riders, rollerbladers and extreme sports enthusiasts. With a focus on maximum protection, comfort and flexibility, Rekd aims to provide hardcore knee security without restricting your movement or weighing you down.

But with so many options, materials and designs to choose from, it can be tricky to find the right type of Rekd knee pads for your sport or activity. This in-depth buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect pair.

What Are Rekd Knee Pads?

Founded in 2005 by a group of skateboarders, Rekd is a UK-based company dedicated entirely to manufacturing high-performance knee and elbow pads. They rose to popularity in the skating world due to their clever blend of hardcore protective materials with a flexible, low-profile fit.

While their pads are designed with skaters in mind, Rekd soon realized their products worked equally well for inline skating, BMX, mountain biking, scooting, roller derby and other extreme rolling sports. They offer an extensive range including everything from basic slimline pads to heavy-duty tactical options.

All Rekd pads feature an ergonomic design shaped to wrap around your joints for seamless flexibility and movement. Their proprietary Rekd G-Form padding is dual-density, meaning it stays soft and flexible when cruising but instantly hardens on impact to absorb and deflect energy.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Suitable for Skateboarding?

Rekd knee pads are absolutely ideal for skateboarding of all kinds, from street and park riding to vert and bowls. Their pads offer hardcore impact protection while staying comfortable and “invisible” under your clothing.

Many of their pads use Rekd’s SlymFit design, which is slim and contoured to let you maneuver freely and get low with no resistance. The tapered shape also avoids the “mushrooming” problem common with bulkier pads.

For street skaters, they offer more discreet pads like the Rekd Ultra Slim Knee Pads that can slip under skinny jeans or trousers. For heavy impact vert, bowl and downhill riders, the Rekd Tactical Pads have a rugged knee shield and secure neoprene strap system.

Can Rekd Knee Pads Be Used for Biking or BMX?

While designed with skaters in mind, Rekd knee pads work brilliantly for BMX riding, mountain biking, dirt jumping and other cycling sports. The flexible fit allows your knee joint full freedom of movement for pedaling while protecting against crashes and bumps.

Many riders opt for the classic Rekd Classic Knee Pads for cruising, street or park riding. They offer solid protection with a neoprene sleeve for extra flexibility.

For more rugged trail or downhill riding, the heavy shock-absorbing design of the Rekd X-Pert Knee Pads helps prevent injury on high-speed crashes and impacts with branches or rocks.

What Materials Are Used in Rekd Knee Pads?

Rekd uses an innovative combination of advanced impact-absorbing compounds and flexible fabric materials in their pads. Here are some of the key materials to look for:

• Rekd G-Form Padding – Their proprietary dual-density impact foam instantly hardens on impact to disperse energy then softens for flexibility.
• Polyethylene (PE) Shells – Hard shell PE caps on some pads offer even greater shock absorption.
• Neoprene Fabric – Provides stretch and mobility as well as comfort and temperature regulation.
• Lycra Fabric Sleeves – Super flexible Lycra allows freedom of movement and keeps the pads in place.
• Moisture-Wicking Lining – Lined with fabric that draws sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
• Anti-Slip Silicone Grippers – Inner silicone strips prevent sliding and keep the pads anchored in place.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Adjustable for Different Sizes?

Most Rekd pads are adjustable to some degree with an open neoprene sleeve design secured by a Velcro strap. This single-strap system allows you to fine tune the tightness and position for comfort.

However, some pads like the Ultra Slim use a fixed slip-on sleeve design. So it helps to consult the Rekd size chart and measure your leg circumference to determine your ideal fit.

Rekd categorizes their sizing from XS to XL based on knee circumference, and offers helpful measuring instructions on their site. While adjustable, choosing the right general size for your leg will ensure the best, most secure fit.

Where Can I Buy Rekd Knee Pads?

You can easily buy Rekd pads both direct and from authorized retailers:

• Direct from Rekd – Order online at the Rekd Store for the full product range with flat rate global shipping.
• Authorized Retailers – Find select Rekd pads at popular skate and extreme sports retailers like SkateHut, SourceBMX, Grindhouse and more.
• Amazon – Search Rekd on Amazon to find certain models and great deals on older seasons’ colors.
• eBay – Score brand new or used Rekd pads at discounted prices on eBay auctions.

Wherever you choose to buy from, ensure the retailer is authorized to avoid counterfeits andensure you are covered by Rekd’s warranty.

What Sizes Are Available for Rekd Knee Pads?

Rekd offers their pads in a wide range of sizes spanning from XS for younger riders up to XXL for larger frames. Here is a breakdown of their sizing options:

• XS – Fits knee circumferences of 8″ – 13″ (20cm – 33cm)
• Small – Fits knee circumferences of 12″ – 15″ (30cm – 38cm)
• Medium – Fits knee circumferences of 14″ – 17″ (35cm – 43cm)
• Large – Fits knee circumferences of 16″ – 19″ (41cm – 48cm)
• XL – Fits knee circumferences of 18″ – 21″ (45cm – 53cm)
• XXL – Fits knee circumferences exceeding 20″ (51cm)

Measure your knee circumference according to Rekd’s guide to find your ideal size. Pads like the SlymFit offer more flexibility, while the Tactical design requires a more precise knee measurement for proper coverage and protection.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Comfortable for Extended Use?

Rekd pads are designed to be extremely comfortable, even for all-day use. Here are some of the comfort-boosting features:

• Cushioned four-way stretch neoprene or Lycra offers flexibility and prevents chafing or irritation.
• Lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics keep you cool and dry.
• Silicone gripper strips on the interior ensure the pads stay in place without sliding or bunching.
• Pre-curved anatomical shaping matches the natural knee form, eliminating pinching or restriction.
• Low-profile ergonomic designs don’t limit your range of motion or mobility.
• Adjustable Velcro straps evenly distribute pressure and support without cutting off circulation.

Testers report Rekd pads allow all-day skating, riding, or working on your knees without any discomfort or compromise of movement. For longest comfort, look for Rekd’s NeoFlex or Premium neoprene fabrics.

Do Rekd Knee Pads Provide Protection Against High-Impact Falls?

Rekd pads offer top-tier impact and fall protection thanks to their patented G-Form reactive padding technology. Here’s how they protect against big hits:

• G-Form pads instantly harden on impact, absorbing and diverting maximum energy to reduce transmitted force through the knee joint.
• Hard shell polyethylene caps on pads like the Pro-Tect and Tactical models provide an additional shield against direct impact forces.
• An ergonomic design with extended coverage over the knee cap, sides and tendons protects all areas from blunt trauma.
• Neoprene or Lycra sleeves anchor the pads firmly in place so they can’t shift or twist on big impacts.
• A non-slip interior lining keeps the pads from sliding down, maintaining protection through extreme crashes and falls.
• Slim profiles with tapered edges eliminate gaps in protection and avoid painful pinching from awkward falls.

For the highest impact scenarios like vert, downhill racing, dirt jumps or ramps, opt for Rekd’s thickest G-Form pads like the Saver 3M model.

How Durable Are Rekd Knee Pads?

Rekd pads employ rugged materials engineered to handle repeated hardcore use and last season after season. Here are the key durability factors:

• Heavy-duty triple-layer reinforced G-Form padding retains its protective properties through wear and tear.
• Tough exterior shells resist abrasion, punctures and damage from repeated slides and crashes.
• Durable closures like industrial Velcro straps withstand tearing or breakage even when wet and dirty.
• Flexible neoprene sleeves maintain elasticity and wick moisture to avoid degradation and cracking over time.
• Sturdy stitching throughout anchors padding shells and straps in place – no loose threads or unravelling.
• Washable designs stand up to cleaning after muddy sessions to extend longevity.

Rekd offers a 12 month warranty against defects, but many riders report getting 2+ years of hard use from pads like the Saver 3M and Tactical models. Proper care also boosts the lifespan of Rekd pads.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Lightweight?

Rekd prioritizes keeping their pads as lightweight as possible while still delivering rugged protection. Features that enhance the lightweight design include:

• Streamlined, low-profile shaping with minimal bulk and excess material.
• Ventilated moisture-wicking fabric strips that increase breathability while minimizing weight.
• Perforated neoprene and mesh Lycra sleeve materials that reduce overall mass.
• Thin yet high-strength G-Form padding compounds that cushion without adding density.
• Featherlight PE shield shells on select pads for heavy protection with minimal added weight.
• Elastic straps and binding engineered not to over-compress padding and restrict movement.
• Contoured ergonomic shaping designed to move seamlessly with the body in motion.

The result is knee pads that mold to your joint and allow effortless mobility as if you’re wearing nothing at all – some Rekd pads weigh less than 5oz per pad!

Do Rekd Knee Pads Have a Slip-On or Strap-Based Design?

Rekd offers both slip-on and strap-secured pad designs to suit different users and sports:

• Slip-On Sleeves like the Ultra Slim Pads use a fixed neoprene sleeve with silicone grippers to hold them in place. This allows a discreet fit under clothing.
• Single Strap Pads like the Saver 3M use an adjustable neoprene sleeve with a single top Velcro strap for a secure grip.
• Multi-Strap Support on pads like the Tactical employs adjustable top and bottom straps to fully anchor the pad against falls.

Slip-on sleeves allow quick on-off and unrestricted motion for skating or BMXing. But straps provide the most stable and customized fit for rigorous activity like downhill mountain biking or roller derby.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Suitable for Beginners?

Rekd pads are a smart choice for beginners due to their flexibility, comfort and ease of use. Benefits for new riders include:

• Lightweight, streamlined pads that allow natural movement without restricting your progress.
• Adjustable straps and stretch fabrics that ensure a secure, personalized fit as you learn.
• Breathable, moisture-wicking materials that keep you comfortable for extended practice sessions.
• Hard shell shin protection on some models to shield developing skills and confidence.
• Gradual break-in time lets pads mold to your shape without pressure points as you advance.
• Cool styling in basic colors to avoid looking overly specialized when starting out.
• Budget-friendly pricing on entry-level pads like the Saver Series and Urban Knee Guards.

Rekd pads give beginners protection and support without inhibiting their progress as they build skills. Experienced riders also appreciate Rekd quality and value.

Can Rekd Knee Pads Be Used for Rollerblading or Inline Skating?

Rekd pads work extremely well for inline skating and rollerblading. Their ergonomic design allows free striding motion as you skate while still keeping knees, elbows and hips protected if you fall.

Key benefits of using Rekd pads for blading include:

• Secure fit with silicone anti-slip grippers to prevent pads sliding as you skate.
• Streamlined shaping that won’t catch or obstruct strides as you pick up speed.
• Neoprene Lycra sleeves that move naturally with bends and crossover steps for agility.
• Lightweight low-profile construction for speed and maneuverability on your skates.
• Heavy sweat-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry skating hard.
• Strong side shields and extended coverage to protect against lateral falls.

Fans suggest the lightweight Rekd Saver 3M for aggressive street skating, while the Rekd Classic covers all bases for recreational bladers.

Are Rekd Knee Pads Washable or Easy to Clean?

Rekd pads are designed to be fully washable so you can keep them fresh season after season.

Most pads feature moisture-wicking sweat-resistant linings and durable fully-stitched construction that can withstand regular machine washing without damage.

For best results, wash Rekd pads on cold and line dry them after each heavy use. Avoid hot temperatures or tumble drying that could compromise adhesives or fabrics over time.

You can also easily spot clean Rekd pads by hand with warm water and a mild detergent. Allow them to fully air dry before your next session.

Some riders find regularly using disinfectant spray on the linings helps minimize odors and bacterial buildup from heavy sweating. This keeps the pads fresher for longer.

How Does the Rekd Knee Pads Design Ensure a Secure Fit?

Rekd pads incorporate several clever design elements to lock them firmly in place for maximum safety and mobility:

• Elastic Binding provides 360 degree stretch around the legs to hold pads tight in motion.
• Silicone Gripper Strips on the interior ensure a non-slip grip against bare skin.
• Neoprene Support Sleeves conform closely to your knee shape for a second-skin fit.
• Velcro Straps let you fully adjust and customize the tightness and position.
• Pre-Curved Shaping contours to the natural knee form rather than resisting it.
• Moisture-Wicking Lining prevents perspiration buildup that could allow slippage.
• Anatomical Designs eliminate gaps in protection coverage as you move.

Rekd’s innovative designs set the benchmark for stability and allow hardcore use with zero adjustment or repositioning required.

Do Rekd Knee Pads Meet Safety Certification Standards?

All Rekd pads meet or exceed industry safety standards including CE certification and conformity with CPSC guidelines.

Specific safety features include:

• CE EN-14120 certified impact protection material (G-Form padding).
• Tested construction to handle over 6000 high-force impacts without bottoming out.
• Exterior shells that meet CPSC guidelines for laceration and abrasion protection.
• Heavy metals testing on dyes and fabrics to ensure Oeko-Tex safety compliance.
• Responsible PVC manufacturing process to minimize health risks of EDC plasticizers.

When buying, look for the CE mark on Rekd packaging to ensure the pads meet all required protective standards for commercial sale in Europe and the USA.

How Do Rekd Knee Pads Compare to Other Brands?

Rekd pads stand out from competitors like ProTec and 187 Killer Pads in a few key ways:

• Superior Impact Absorption – Next-level G-Form foam technology sets Rekd apart in absorbing high impacts.
• Unrestricted Mobility – More flexible and lower profile shaping prevents movement restriction.
• Versatile Mix & Match Lines – Allows building customized protection setups for your needs.
• Streamlined Ergonomic Designs – Contoured construction matches natural joint shapes and motion.
• Cool Styling – Fashion-inspired colors and patterns popular with new generations of riders.
• Affordable Pricing – Very competitive pricing, especially for technology and quality.

While brands like ProTec offer good classic pads, Rekd’s innovation keeps their protection on the cutting edge for today’s action sports.

Are There Reviews or Testimonials for Rekd Knee Pads?

As a top extreme sports brand, Rekd pads are extensively reviewed across websites, videos, magazines and forums. They maintain a 4+ star average rating at major retailers.

Here is a sample of the praise Rekd pads earn from users:

• “Took a 20mph crash straight onto concrete – walked away unscathed thanks to these savers!”
• “So comfortable I forget I’m even wearing pads when skating bowls all day”.
• “These Rekd knee pads saved my knees after a downhill bike crash that easily could have hospitalized me”.
• “Knees feel so free in these pads I can execute tricks I’ve never landed before. Game changer!”

The combination of hardcore protective capability along with flexibility and comfort is what makes Rekd a standout choice with action sports enthusiasts.

What is the Price Range of Rekd Knee Pads?

Rekd pads range from around $20 up to $100 depending on the technology and protection level you require.

Entry-level pads like the Urban Knee Guards start at $20 – ideal for newbies.

Mid-range all-rounders like the Classic and Saver pads cost $30 to $60.

High-performance pads with upgrades like G-Form and caps run from $60 to $100, such as the Saver 3M and Pro-Tect.

Buying direct from Rekd provides the most competitive pricing, along with regular discounts and sales.

For those on a tight budget, Rekd’s quality pads offer excellent value at lower price points to keep you protected. Paying more gets you features for extreme applications.

In Summary

Rekd’s innovative blend of hardcore shock protection and flexibility represents the future for knee and elbow pads. Their pads let you attack rugged terrain and big air without sacrificing freedom of motion.

Targeted designs excel for popular sports like skateboarding, BMXing, mountain biking and inline skating. But Rekd’s armor works great for any activity where falls are part of pushing your limits.

Understand your needs in terms of impact protection, comfort, adjustability and profile to select the ideal Rekd pads for your sport. Reviewing user experiences helps match expectations to Rekd’s different product lines and price points.

Once you strap on your new Rekds, you can ride harder with the confidence that stylish, lightweight safety wraps around your joints. Meet every jump, jam, or downhill with the peace of mind that some of the best protection in the business shields your body from harm.