What is D3O foam and how does it work. How does D3O compare to other protective materials. Where is D3O foam used in protective gear. What are the key benefits of D3O for impact protection. How effective is D3O at absorbing and dissipating impact forces. Can D3O maintain its protective properties after multiple impacts. Why is D3O becoming increasingly popular in safety equipment.
Understanding D3O Foam: The Science Behind Advanced Impact Protection
D3O foam represents a significant advancement in impact protection technology. This innovative material exhibits unique properties that set it apart from traditional protective foams. But what exactly is D3O and how does it work?
D3O is a patented soft and flexible material that undergoes a remarkable transformation upon impact. In its normal state, D3O remains pliable and conformable. However, when subjected to sudden force or impact, the material instantly stiffens to absorb and dissipate energy.
The science behind D3O involves non-Newtonian fluid dynamics. At a molecular level, the material contains free-flowing molecules that can move easily under normal conditions. When impacted, these molecules lock together, creating a temporary rigid structure that spreads impact forces over a wider area. This reduces the peak force transmitted to the wearer.
Key Features of D3O Foam:
- Soft and flexible in normal use
- Instantly stiffens upon impact
- Reverts to flexible state after impact
- Effectively absorbs and dissipates shock
- Lightweight compared to traditional protective materials
How does D3O compare to standard foam padding? While traditional foams rely solely on compression to absorb impacts, D3O’s unique molecular structure allows it to both compress and stiffen. This dual-action mechanism provides superior energy dissipation in a thinner, more flexible form factor.
Applications of D3O Technology: From Motorcycles to Industrial Safety
D3O’s versatile properties have led to its adoption across a wide range of industries and applications. Where is D3O foam commonly used in protective gear?
The motorcycle industry was one of the first to embrace D3O technology. Motorcycle jackets, pants, gloves, and boots now frequently incorporate D3O padding to protect riders from impacts and abrasions during accidents. The material’s flexibility allows for comfortable, form-fitting gear that doesn’t compromise mobility.
In the sports sector, D3O has found applications in everything from football helmets to ski racing suits. Its ability to provide high-level protection without bulk makes it ideal for athletes who need unrestricted movement.
The industrial safety market has also recognized the benefits of D3O. Work gloves featuring D3O padding offer enhanced protection for workers in industries like construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing. The material’s shock-absorbing properties help reduce the risk of hand injuries from impacts, pinches, and vibrations.
Other Common Applications of D3O:
- Military and law enforcement protective gear
- Smartphone and electronics cases
- Extreme sports equipment (skateboarding, mountain biking, etc.)
- Medical devices and prosthetics
- Automotive safety systems
Is D3O limited to soft goods and apparel? While many applications involve flexible padding, D3O technology has also been incorporated into rigid protective elements. For example, some motorcycle helmets now feature D3O liners to enhance impact absorption.
The Advantages of D3O: Why It’s Revolutionizing Personal Protection
D3O technology offers several key benefits that have contributed to its growing popularity in the field of personal protection. What are the primary advantages of D3O for impact protection?
One of the most significant benefits is D3O’s ability to provide high-level protection without sacrificing comfort or mobility. Unlike rigid protective elements, D3O remains flexible during normal use, allowing for a full range of motion. This makes it ideal for applications where freedom of movement is crucial.
Another advantage is D3O’s excellent weight-to-protection ratio. The material offers superior impact absorption compared to traditional foams of similar thickness. This allows for the creation of lighter, less bulky protective gear without compromising safety.
Key Benefits of D3O:
- Enhanced comfort and flexibility
- Superior impact protection
- Lightweight design
- Reusable after impacts
- Customizable for specific applications
How does D3O contribute to improved ergonomics in protective gear? The material’s flexibility and form-fitting nature allow for more anatomically correct designs. This can lead to better overall comfort and reduced fatigue for users, particularly in industrial settings where protective equipment is worn for extended periods.
D3O Performance: Analyzing Impact Protection Effectiveness
The effectiveness of D3O in absorbing and dissipating impact forces has been the subject of extensive testing and research. How well does D3O perform compared to traditional protective materials?
According to data provided by MCR Safety, a manufacturer of personal protective equipment, D3O technology demonstrates significant improvements in impact protection. Their testing shows that D3O offers 54% better back-of-hand impact dissipation and 46% better finger impact dissipation compared to similar materials.
One of the most impressive aspects of D3O’s performance is its ability to maintain protective properties after multiple impacts. Tests have shown that D3O can retain up to 77% of its impact protection integrity even after repeated strikes. This durability ensures consistent protection throughout the lifespan of the protective gear.
D3O Performance Metrics:
- 54% improvement in back-of-hand impact protection
- 46% improvement in finger impact protection
- Up to 77% retention of protective properties after multiple impacts
Do these performance improvements translate to real-world protection? While laboratory tests provide valuable data, anecdotal evidence from users across various industries suggests that D3O-equipped gear offers noticeably enhanced protection and comfort compared to traditional alternatives.
D3O in Industrial Safety: Protecting Workers in Hazardous Environments
The industrial sector has increasingly turned to D3O technology to enhance worker safety in high-risk environments. How is D3O being incorporated into industrial safety equipment?
One of the primary applications is in protective gloves for industries such as manufacturing, construction, and oil and gas. D3O padding is used to reinforce critical areas like the back of the hand, knuckles, and fingertips. This provides workers with enhanced protection against impacts, pinches, and crushing injuries without sacrificing the dexterity needed to perform intricate tasks.
MCR Safety, a leading manufacturer of personal protective equipment, has developed a line of ForceFlex® gloves featuring D3O technology. These gloves offer superior back-of-hand protection compared to standard TPR (thermoplastic rubber) designs, making them particularly suitable for industries where hand injuries are a significant concern.
Features of D3O-Enhanced Industrial Gloves:
- Enhanced impact dissipation on the back of the hand
- Improved finger protection
- Maintained dexterity for precise tasks
- Comfortable fit for extended wear
- Durability to withstand harsh working conditions
Why are industrial safety managers increasingly choosing D3O-equipped gear? The combination of superior protection, improved comfort, and maintained worker productivity makes D3O an attractive option for companies looking to enhance their safety programs without sacrificing efficiency.
The Future of D3O: Innovations and Emerging Applications
As D3O technology continues to evolve, researchers and manufacturers are exploring new applications and improvements. What does the future hold for D3O and similar smart materials?
One area of development is the creation of even more specialized D3O formulations tailored to specific industries and applications. By fine-tuning the material’s properties, manufacturers can create protective solutions that offer optimal performance for particular types of impacts or environmental conditions.
Another promising direction is the integration of D3O with other advanced materials and technologies. For example, combining D3O with cut-resistant fibers could result in gloves that offer comprehensive protection against multiple hazards.
Potential Future Applications of D3O:
- Advanced sports equipment with integrated impact sensors
- Automotive safety systems with adaptive impact protection
- Aerospace applications for improved crew and passenger safety
- Enhanced personal protective equipment for law enforcement and military
- Smart wearables with integrated D3O protection
Will D3O technology expand beyond impact protection? While impact absorption remains its primary function, researchers are exploring ways to incorporate additional properties into D3O-like materials, such as improved thermal regulation or electromagnetic shielding.
Choosing D3O-Enhanced Products: What to Look for in Protective Gear
With the increasing availability of D3O-equipped protective gear, consumers and safety managers have more options than ever. How can you select the right D3O products for your needs?
When evaluating D3O-enhanced gear, it’s essential to consider the specific application and potential hazards. Different products may incorporate D3O in various ways, targeting protection for particular body areas or types of impacts. For industrial applications, look for gear that meets relevant safety standards and certifications.
Fit and comfort are crucial factors, as even the most advanced protective material won’t be effective if the gear is uncomfortable or restricts movement. Many D3O products are designed to be form-fitting and flexible, but it’s still important to try on equipment when possible to ensure a proper fit.
Key Considerations When Choosing D3O Products:
- Intended use and potential hazards
- Compliance with relevant safety standards
- Fit and comfort
- Durability and maintenance requirements
- Integration with other protective features
Are there any drawbacks to D3O technology? While D3O offers numerous advantages, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. In some high-impact scenarios, traditional rigid protectors may still be necessary. Additionally, D3O products may be more expensive than conventional alternatives, though the enhanced protection and durability often justify the investment.
As D3O technology continues to advance and find new applications, it’s clear that this innovative material is reshaping the landscape of personal protection. From motorcycle gear to industrial safety equipment, D3O’s unique properties offer a compelling combination of comfort, flexibility, and impact absorption. As research progresses and new formulations are developed, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for this remarkable smart material in the years to come.
MCR Safety – D3O® ; Impact Protection
Trusted by leading global brands in motorcycle, sport and defense sectors. D3O® delivers high-performing protective glove solutions that provide enhanced comfort and ergonomic design without any compromise on worker ability to perform tasks. D3O® in gloves offers user enhanced protection with its high quality shock absorbing technology! For the most hazardous conditions, where back-of-hand injuries are a definitive concern, workers choose D3O®!
SEE FEATURED PRODUCTS
The D3O® high-shock absorbing properties out-performs similar materials weighing more; allowing for full flexibility and range of motion. Testing endorses:
- 54% better Back-of- hand impact dissipation and protection
- 46% better Finger impact dissipation and protection
- Tests show that with repeated impacts, D3O® maintains up to 77% of its impact protection integrity for continued protection.
Patented D3O® material stiffens upon an impact to dissipate the impact energy and reduce force transmitted to the wearer. Immediately returning to a soft flexible state after impact. The soft and flexible material maintains the dexterity you need yet absorbs and dissipates impact energy like no other product on the market.
We’re the first to offer D3O® technology protection in the palm and back of hand in multitask gloves. As one user told us:
“I need padding all around due to working around and holding iron weighing anywhere from 500 to a 1,000 pounds”.
Well, that user is just one of many taking advantage of D3O® Impact Protection!
Latest Products that Feature D3O®
MCR Safety is proud to expand the ForceFlex® line of multitask gloves. By collaborating with Oil and Gas leaders, we’ve used D3O technology in designing our most innovative back-of-hand protected glove.
The FF2930 D3O® Forceflex® packs a punch with impact dissipation not seen by standard TPR gloves.
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Predator® Mechanics Work Gloves
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Best MTB knee pads 2023 | Top-rated pads for mountain biking
❚ The products mentioned in this article are selected or reviewed independently by our journalists. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission, but this never influences our opinion.
After a helmet, a pair of the best mountain bike knee pads is probably the wisest protection to use. That’s because your knees are generally one of the first – and most painful – parts of the body to hit the ground in a crash.
As a moving part, your knees are also vital to protect, and wearing pads is one of the best ways to keep you on your bike, rather than resting on the couch.
Knee pads vary wildly, though. Some are super-lightweight sleeves, more for scuff protection than big hits, while others wouldn’t look out of place on a motocross bike.
As such, the padding can vary from simple Kevlar-wrapped foam and high-tech materials that are malleable until hit and then seemingly magically harden up, to hard-plastic skid plates covering impact-absorbing materials.
Fit is vital. A baggy, loose feel may aid comfort, but it can lead to the pad moving in a crash, decreasing the protection it offers. Some designs rely on a long upper sock with a silicone gripper to keep them in place, while others have Velcro straps so you can cinch them down over your thighs and calves.
The trade-off for more security and protection tends to be less comfort and breathability. Unless you want to whip off your shoes at the top and bottom of every climb, your pads are likely to stay on throughout your ride. As such, you need a pair that don’t chafe on long climbs or get too sweaty when the sun comes out.
We’ve taken the pads in this list on both short spins and longer cross-country rides to find out which pads go unnoticed on longer rides, and which get the sweatiest.
While protection is vital, if pads don’t feel good you’re less likely to wear them, so comfort has taken equal precedence in our reviews.
If you’re in the market for protection, we also have lists bringing together the best mountain bike helmets and the best MTB elbow pads.
Best knee pads for mountain biking 2023 as reviewed by our expert testers
Sweet Protection knee pads
5.0 out of 5 star rating
The Sweet Protection pads are some of our favourites.Andy Lloyd / Immediate Media
- Price: £90 / $100 / €100 as tested
- Protection: SAS-TEC knee cup
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black
The Sweet Protection knee pads have quickly become our favourite pads out on the trails, thanks to their great comfort, secure fit and coverage.
The pads sat just right on our tester’s legs. The stretchy sleeve has thick neoprene panels that help the pads hold their shape, even with bent knees.
At the bottom and top is a fabric with a rubbery backing. Paired with a single Velcro strap up top, the pads stay resolutely in place.
There is a thin stretchy panel and perforated fabric behind the knee to stop things from getting too sweaty. The pads warm up quickly but they do dry pretty fast, so wearing them for a multi-day trip shouldn’t be an issue.
For protection, the pads use SAS-TEC knee cups, which harden on impact, a bit like D3O. While there might not be enough protection for downhill riding, these are some of the best trail pads available.
- Read our full Sweet Protection knee pads review
7iDP Project knee pads
4.5 out of 5 star rating
“>The 7iDP Projects are pricey, but they are packed with features.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £110 / $120 / AU$220 as tested
- Protection: Extra protection around the outside of the knee
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black
While expensive, the 7iDP Project knee pads are feature-packed, justifying the price.
The pad itself, which is protected by an exterior skid plate, is extensively shaped around the knee, so feels odd when you’re putting it on, but great once there. It encases the sides of your knee, so while these pads don’t have the most protection real-estate on test, the padding is exactly where it needs to be.
The sleeve is made from a compressive knit material that’s exceptionally comfortable on all-day rides, and a rear cut-out boosts comfort further.
These are rock-solid in use, with upper and lower silicone strips, and a unique double Velcro strap system.
We’ve found the core material stiffens in the cold, softening once some body warmth gets in. For pads with plenty of front protection, a bit extra at the sides wouldn’t go amiss.
- Read our full 7iDP Project knee pads review
Endura MT500 Hard Shell
4.5 out of 5 star rating
The MT500 Hard Shell pads use an impact-reactive D3O insert.Endura
- Price: £80 / $115 as tested
- Protection: Plastic shells and D3O insert
- Sizes: S/M, M/L, L/XL
- Colour: Black
While they might not be the lightest pads, there’s no getting away from how protective and comfortable the Endura MT500 Hard Shell knee pads are.
The pads use a combination of D3O inserts behind hard plastic shells. This padding is attached to a sleeve that extends above the knee for plenty of coverage. There is also some PU foam padding to protect the side of the knee.
To stay in place, the pads have silicone grippers and broad Velcro straps at the top of the sleeves. There is a second strap around the top of your calf muscle, which enables you to tailor the fit of the pads further. We found this means the pads didn’t slip down or bunch behind your knee and remained comfy even on long rides.
The pads do get a bit warm, but that’s no surprise given the protection on offer.
- Read our full Endura MT500 Hard Shell knee pads review
Fox Enduro D3O
4.5 out of 5 star rating
“>The Fox Enduro D3O knee guards offer exactly what we’re after.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £75 / $85 / AU$140 / €85 as tested
- Protection: D3O insert
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black, Grey Vintage
Despite the ‘Enduro’ tag, we feel these are slightly more trail-bike orientated because with a relatively simple D3O pad, they don’t offer as much protection as some other knee pads. However, they’ve won favour with a number of our testers thanks to their exceptional comfort and relatively keen pricing.
While the pad isn’t the most pre-shaped, the sleeve onto which it’s built hugs your leg closely, pulling the pad in and keeping it securely in place. With a snug fit and minimal rubbing, we’ve been happy keeping these on during all-day epics.
To help keep the air flowing, the rear section of the pad is perforated. The sock extends high up the thigh, where a silicone gripper holds it in place.
At the bottom, the elasticated hem is tight enough to boost security without causing discomfort.
The pad itself is fairly long, extending low enough to stop most debris flipped up by the front tyre from leaving a mark on your shin.
The Enduros are lightweight, knee-warmer-style pads, so we wouldn’t take them on the chunkiest of enduro rides, but for riders looking for all-day comfort with plenty of protection and ventilation, these come out top dog.
- Read our full Fox Enduro D3O Knee Guards review
Rapha Trail
4.5 out of 5 star rating
Rapha’s Trail knee pads strike a great balance between comfort, coverage and protection.
Andy Lloyd / Our Media
- Price: £80 / $110 / AU$140 / €95 as tested
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black
Rapha has hit the ground running with its debut knee pads. These are extremely comfortable and have good coverage and protection.
The feel of the material is similar to a set of knee warmers in that they are made from a very soft and stretchy fabric. There’s a silicone print on the inside too, to ensure they stay in place, which we can attest they do.
The padding is made in collaboration with RHEON Labs from an ‘active polymer’ and is soft and malleable but hardens on impact.
The knee pads didn’t disappoint when pedalling, despite having a reassuring bulk and they fit well under most mountain biking shorts. We’d be happy to pedal in these all day and they would stay perfectly in place while giving you peace of mind.
The knee pads aren’t as breathable as some other options on the market, but for the comfort and coverage they provide, it’s a small penalty.
- Read our full Rapha Trail knee pads review
Troy Lee Designs Raid
4.5 out of 5 star rating
Troy Lee Designs’ Raid knee pads aren’t light, but do have plenty of padding.Steve Behr / Immediate Media
- Price: £110 / $115 / AU$220 as tested
- Weight: 423g
The Troy Lee Designs Raid pads are some of the most protective pads here. Substantial D3O padding covers a large part of the knee area and extends reassuringly far down the shin.
Foam pads add protection along both sides of the knee, as well as just above the kneecap, making them feel very safe on dicey terrain.
Despite this, the fit is extremely comfortable, whether standing up straight or pedalling for long rides, and this feedback is echoed by several testers.
They stay up exceptionally well thanks to a pre-curved knee cup and a strap that sits above (not below) the thickest part of the calf. The Velcro strap above the knee allows the tightness to be tailored to the rider and stops it from moving around.
They’re not light, and they’re a bit warm, but given the level of protection on offer, we think this is easy to forgive. They’re comfortable enough for long rides and protective enough for gnarly bike park laps on the black run.
If you’re after big-terrain security without the comfort penalty, they have the versatility to justify the price tag.
What to look for in MTB knee pads
Velcro straps
Being able to tighten things down with a Velcro strap adds security, but also weight, warmth and faff. If you want the best protection, though, Velcro-secured pads are likely a good option.
Behind the knee
The area behind the knee is often where pads cause the most skin irritation. Thinner, more breathable materials tend to bunch and chafe less. Some pads have a cut-out here, which may add cost but can definitely help with comfort.
Articulated or not?
Your knees bend thousands of times during a ride and your pads need to be able to move with them. Soft pads articulate easily, but harder designs may have cut-outs to help them flex as you pedal.
Side protection
While the front-of-knee protection is most obvious, some designs have extra padding on the sides. This can really help when you bang your knee on the top tube!
Shin protection
Pads extend differing lengths down your shin – the deeper they go, the more protection they offer, but also more warmth and potentially more discomfort too, if the pad itself isn’t particularly flexible.
Bliss ARG Minimalist
4.0 out of 5 star rating
“>The Bliss ARG Minimalists are certainly not minimal in length.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £70 / AU$90 as tested
- Protection: Super Shock Absorbing ARG
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black/Blue
The ARG Minimalists feature some of the longest pads we’ve seen. With the top of the sleeve extending well under some liner shorts, these stay in place nicely and feel unrestrictive.
The thin, stretchy sleeve is topped and bottomed by elasticated hems with a dotted silicone strip. It has a thin, leg-warmer-style construction, with a slightly more perforated material behind the knee, which we didn’t find bunched during riding.
The big blue pad is pre-formed to fit the shape of the knee, and while there’s plenty of space inside, we didn’t find it flared out or lacked security. We’ve witnessed some big crashes with these pads, where they’ve done their job well.
The Lycra sleeve means the fit is snug, but it extends a long way down the leg, so we needed to pull the pads up high to prevent the lower hem from being loose around the calf.
- Read our full Bliss ARG Minimalist review
Fox Enduro Pro D3O
4.0 out of 5 star rating
The Pro D30 pads provide enough coverage for fast-paced trail riding.
- Price: £95 as tested
- Protection: D3O foam
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colour: Black
The Fox Enduro Pro D3O pads offer great comfort once on, with the D3O insert wrapping well around the knee, though we found they needed warming up on cooler days.
A slip-on design is used for the Lycra sleeve, with an even tension pulling the insert close to the knee, making for a slim silhouette that should fit beneath most riding pants.
Silicone embroidered onto the sleeve on the openings keeps the pads from falling down.
While the CE Level-1 rated protection doesn’t give the same peace of mind as burlier pads, they remained comfortable for long days in the saddle.
- Read our full Fox Enduro Pro D3O review
G-Form Pro Rugged
4.0 out of 5 star rating
They might be light, but they do wrap fairly far around the knee.
Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £100 / $80 as tested
- Protection: Impact-absorbing SmartFlex pads
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colour: Black
G-Form’s pads use a D3O-like material that hardens on impact to offer plenty of protection, along with comfort-giving flexibility.
The pads’ contoured shape shows through the hardwearing outer material, while the inner sleeve is medium-thickness Lycra, which is very soft against the skin.
For lighter-weight pads, the Pro Ruggeds wrap fairly far around the knee, as well as higher and lower than some. They stay in place well, with silicone dimpling around the lower hem and a strip up top too, backed by a Velcro strap. This attaches at the rear of the leg, which isn’t as intuitive as securing at the front.
The thicker material at the front of the sleeve adds warmth over similar-looking pads, but it’s not hot enough to cause issues on longer rides.
While pricey, the quality makes them feel worth it.
- Read our full G-Form Pro Rugged Knee Guard review
iXS Carve Evo+
4.0 out of 5 star rating
These iXS knee guards have removable pads for easy washing.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £90 / $115 / €100 as tested
- Protection: Xmatter protection foam
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
- Colour: Camel, Grey
These are some of the bulkiest pads we’ve tested, with plenty of protection and a secure fit making them feel very safe.
The flip side is that there’s noticeable bunching behind the knee.
You can remove the pad itself for washing, and it’s shaped nicely to fit the knee and flexible enough to prevent any digging in. There’s extra padding above and to the side too. The iXS pads are held securely in place by straps at the top and bottom, which have plenty of adjustment.
While the sleeve isn’t the tallest, a thin silicone strip holds it in place. It’s largely made from a thick yet stretchy material that’s warm, but there’s perforated fabric at the back for ventilation. These pads are hot, but that’s acceptable given the protection offered, even if it does make them best suited to shorter sessions.
Leatt 3DF 6.0
4.0 out of 5 star rating
“>The 3DF pads might be bulky but they remained comfortable on all but the longest of rides.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £87 / $100 / AU$154 / €100 as tested
- Protection: 3DF
- Sizes: S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Fuel/Black, White/Black, Black
The 3DF pads surprised us because, despite their bulky protection, they remained comfortable on all but the longest of rides (where a sleeve-style lighter pad always wins out).
A one-piece main pad is backed up by a pair of harder, yet still flexible, outer skid panels, as well as impact-foam side protection that extends up to the lower thigh. The sleeve extends fairly far up the leg and has both a silicone strip and a Velcro strap to keep it in place. Lower down, there’s a simple elasticated hem to hold things up.
The interior material feels good against the skin, and the medium-sized cutaway at the back means there’s no bunching and minimal flaring to contend with.
They’re fairly big, so are warm, but we found they worked better for longer rides than some more protective pads.
- Read our full Leatt 3DF 6.0 Knee Guards review
Pearl Izumi Elevate
4.0 out of 5 star rating
The D3O pad is quite long and there is high-density foam on top, too.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £120 / $125 / AU$230 as tested
- Protection: D3O viscoelastic LP1 pads
- Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Colour: Black
The Pearl Izumi Elevate Knee Guards combine fairly high levels of protection with a lightweight-feeling design that’s very comfy in use, but at a high price.
The D3O pad is quite long, and extends far around the knee, with the outermost section backed up by further high-density foam on top. It’s visible through the mesh front, and ventilation is as good as you’d expect from looking at it. This is enhanced by mesh fabric at the rear and a large cut-out behind the knee.
The rest of the sleeve is very light, and extends high up and low down the leg, with a silicone gripper for security. There’s a touch of excess material at the top of the knee, and you need to pull them up high to get the best fit.
Our only real complaint, price aside, is that the open sleeve through which the D3O insert can be removed can catch on your feet as you put the pads on.
- Read our full Pearl Izumi Elevate Knee Guard review
POC Joint VPD System
4.0 out of 5 star rating
“>POC’s Joint VPD System knee pads offer CE level-2 rated protection and are designed to be light and flexible for trail riding.Andy Lloyd / OurMedia
- Price: £140 / $150 / AU$225 / €160 as tested
- Protection: POC VPD insert
- Sizes: S, M, L
- Colour: Black
Although pricey, POC’s Joint VPD System knee pads proved incredibly comfortable and offer a good level of protection.
The pads rely on POC’s VPD (visco-elastic polymer dough) insert. This is designed to remain flexible when in use but hardens on impact. There are three different layers of the material, which POC says not only helps absorb any energy in an impact, but also makes them highly breathable.
They’re not the longest knee pads going in terms of coverage but they fit well and come in at a decent weight, too, at 372g.
They remained comfortable on long rides and you can pedal comfortably, almost forgetting you’re wearing them.
- Read our full POC Joint VPD System knee pads review
Troy Lee Designs Stage
4.0 out of 5 star rating
Troy Lee Designs’ Stage knee guards use D3O protection, which is nicely shaped around the knee.Russell Burton / Immediate Media
- Price: £90 / $89 / AU$158 / €90 as tested
- Protection: D3O
- Sizes: XS / S, M / L, XL / XXL
- Colour: Black
Troy Lee Designs’ Stage knee guards performed well and are a comfortable and highly breathable option.
They articulate particularly well when pedalling and fit well underneath trousers or shorts.
You can feel the edge of the D3O insert on your shin when your leg is fully extended, though, but we only really noticed it on longer rides. The coverage is decent but they don’t have quite the same levels of protection as other options, as they only have a CE Level 1 rating.
We also found they’ve held up well after two years of riding, proving a durable option.
As well as not providing the same levels of protection, there are only three sizes, which we’d recommend trying before you buy.
- Read our full Troy Lee Designs Stage knee guards review
Authors
Rob Weaver is BikeRadar’s technical editor-in-chief. Rob manages all of the testing here at BikeRadar and across our magazines, Mountain Biking UK and Cycling Plus. Rob first graced the pages of MBUK back in 2001 when working as a freelance writer and went on to start testing bikes for the title in 2007.
In 2010 he joined the team full-time and has been keeping a close eye on all things test-related ever since. Rob’s expansive knowledge of bikes comes courtesy of his passion for racing. He cut his teeth racing cross-country mountain bikes in the early 90s before finding his feet in downhill. After many years competing on the UK national circuit (including a year attempting to race UCI DH World Cups), Rob realised his know-how and passion for bike setup, tech and writing clearly outweighed his racing ability. A degree in sports technology and decades of riding experience all help to give Rob a thorough understanding of what’s needed to create a great bike or product. While Rob’s a mountain biker at heart and never happier than when he’s sliding down a Welsh hillside, he’s more than happy to put the miles in on the road or gravel bike, too.
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D3O🚩 material for back and knee protection. Protective inserts for motorcycle jackets and gear
Time flies without us noticing, and with them the latest technologies burst into life.
Today we will talk about how the invention of the ultra-durable and practical D3O material has influenced the modification of protective equipment and cases for mobile devices in just a few years. The latest products with amazing elastic properties are increasingly appearing on the market.
History and prospects
D3O is a promising material with a characteristic orange color that was patented in 2002-2004, but became known to the public about 5 years ago. The inventor of D3O is snowboarder Richard Palmer, who saw the unique properties of liquid substances, in which the viscosity depends on the speed of the flow, and then created something new. The aim of its development was to find a material that could be used as protective equipment for winter sports. To create a new durable material, Mr. Palmer turned a gel-like polymer substance into a state of elastic foam, which can not only retain its shape, but also become a solid defense at the moment of extreme impact.
The D3O invention had huge commercial potential and Richard didn’t miss his chance. After a successful test drive of equipment with unique properties at the 2006 Winter Olympics by the combined ski teams of the USA and Canada, in 2008 three new varieties of D3O were improved, after which testing moved into the stage of active commercial operation.
Well, after a few years, goods began to appear for a wide range of consumers: protective equipment for various sports and motorcyclists, shoes, electronics accessories, medicine. We should not miss the fact that the high quality of the material was noticed by the police and the military, for which bulletproof vests and other elements of protective equipment were developed.
Physical properties and benefits of D3O
So, the main advantage of the elastic polymer “di-tri-o” similar to chewing gum is that it retains its flexibility even until aggressive physical impact is applied to it .
There are a number of videos on the Internet that clearly demonstrate the effective protective properties of the material. D3O takes any given shape, you can cover a part of the body with it, and then try to make a strong blow with a hammer or other blunt object and not get any damage at all! A sharp impact does not deform D3O, but more importantly, the shock wave is completely distributed over a significant surface area, or in other words, it is damped by this streamlined material. The protective effect is achieved even with a relatively thin layer of D3O. This is the secret of protecting living tissues, joints and bones of a person. The combination of elastic “gum” with other materials does not hinder the movements of the athlete, and for military and security structures improves the quality of bulletproof vests and other equipment. In the future, we should expect the appearance of molecular armor.
Products that you can buy today
On the official website of the D3O material, you can find many well-known world brands of sports and motorcycle equipment, which are not only their partners, but also offer their own product options with various protective inserts.
Among these manufacturers it is worth noting: Knox, Icon, Acerbis, Triumph, KTM, Klim . It is most convenient to search for products on a large American platform ]]>Amazon.com]]>, since there are not only traditionally low prices and high service, but also the largest range of goods.
Moose Racing Monarch Pass Motorcycle Jacket
High density nylon (HDWB) waterproof nylon jacket. There are reflective logo patches to make the rider more visible in low visibility conditions. Ventilation openings for thermoregulation are provided in the right places. Thanks to D3O inserts, the rider receives protection in the elbows, back, and shoulders. The jacket meets the level 2 protection standard (D3O EVO PRO CE Level 2). Also, there are waterproof pockets with ZIP-locks, a detachable lining with an additional heat-insulating clasp as a vest. The cost of such a comfortable motorcycle jacket ]]>by Amazon – $440]]>, but an even lower price was seen in the American online market ]]> Revzilla.
com – $400]]>.
Icon 1000 Chapter Jacket
Another motorcycle jacket from another manufacturer, which is worth talking about, because it has incorporated all the protective capabilities of D3O. While this jacket is a very durable solution, it turned out to be quite light, soft and comfortable, it does not hinder movement while riding a bike and has good ventilation. Replaceable elbow pads and shoulder pads are D3O CE certified, while the back has D3O Viper protection in the form of a removable protector. The product received three color options – black, gray and brown. On the black jacket, reddish patches on the arms are especially noticeable, as well as inserts in the zip-locks of the side and front pockets and other fasteners. This model is perhaps the most stylish. The cost of the American motorcycle jacket ]]>Icon 1000 Chapter Jacket on Amazon is $600]]>.
]]>Buy Icon 1000 Chapter Jacket on Amazon for $600.
]]>
Icon Brigand D 3 O Viper CE Certified Textile Motorcycle Over Jacket Street Vest
Brigand D3O Viper – Sleeveless motorcycle vest model made of durable textile from the same Icon manufacturer. There is a removable back protector based on the D3O Viper Back Protector. The layer is securely hidden and invisible, does not cause discomfort. The motorcycle vest has plastic and metal zippers, convenient pockets, side straps for a precise fit to the biker’s figure, as well as suede shoulder pads designed to increase wear resistance. A durable vest can be worn over another jacket. ]]>The Brigand D3O Viper is priced at $120 on Amazon]]>.
]]>Buy Brigand Viper Vest on Amazon for $120]]>
Icon D30 Armor Replacement Part – Elbow 2706-0159
Not be sure to own a motorcycle vest or jacket of a well-known brand in order to get a solid equipment with D3O.
Buying a replacement set of Icon’s thin and light polymer protective inserts allows you to modify your own biker clothing to feel more confident on the road. It is worth noting that this kit is not sold in the CIS, so you can safely order it ]]>on Amazon for only $20]]>.
]]>Buy Elbow D3O Replacement Protector Kit 2706-0159 on Amazon for $20]]> 25$ .
]]>Buy Iron D3O Back Back Protector for Biker Jacket or Vest at Amazon for $25]]>
Demon Snow Flex-Force X D30 Top Body Armor
9 0002 For lovers of extreme sports , in particular winter, you can find many samples of protective equipment with D3O inserts. Among them, it is worth noting new clothing for snowboarders, which is still poorly represented on the CIS market. The Demon Snow Flex-Force X is a lightweight and flexible jacket with protective protectors in all critical areas (shoulders, elbows, chest). Stylish and comfortable armor fastens at the front with a zip.
]]> Buy Demon Snow Flex-Force X D30 Top Body Armor on Amazon for $149.95 ]]>
Brands Demon Snow and Icon on Amazon also offer other pieces of comfortable equipment for athletes: gloves, knee pads, elbow pads , vests, shorts with protectors of the pelvic bones.
Tech31 D3O Impact Band Case for iPhone
Smartphone cases are a good niche in which the D3O protective material has also found its way. Tech31 produces a wide range of protective cases (bumpers) for phones using D3O. You can not be afraid to accidentally drop a digital gadget in such a transparent case – the screen will not crack, there will be no internal damage to the microcircuits. A thin D3O polymer layer is located along the inner contour of the side face of the bumper. The only exceptions are cutouts in the area of control buttons, connectors, camera and flash for convenience and functionality. At the moment of an accidental fall on the floor or other surface, the load is distributed over the entire area of the protective circuit and the expensive smartphone does not receive any damage.
The average cost of a bumper for a modern communicator is $20-30, despite the fact that a number of stylish designs are presented for many popular device lines. For example, on Amazon you can buy a transparent protective case ]]>Tech31 D3O Impact Band for iPhone for only $27]]>.
Total
The D3O material demonstrates phenomenal possibilities, which, obviously, will only improve in the future. Already today, protective properties are presented in a series of equipment for athletes and motorcyclists, as well as in accessories for portable electronics. There is no doubt that these products will delight their owners for a long time!
Trainers Ailaifa D30-4 foam – Trainers 7kmopt
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