Statistics show that knee, ankle, wrist, and ACL injuries, bruises, sprains, and fractures are the most common types of injuries associated with snowboarding. The risk is higher for beginners, while their severity increases with the expertise level.
The good news is that for snowboarders, most knee injuries are preventable by wearing the best knee pads for snowboarding. But the most challenging part is finding a pair of knee pads that will give you ultimate protection while ensuring comfort and flexibility. That’s because there is a flood of options available in the market.
Luckily, we have done all the donkey work for you. Here is a compilation of a comprehensive list of the top 10 knee pads for snowboarding. On the end of that, we have included an in-depth buyer’s guide to inform your purchase.
See Also: Top 10 Best Knee Pads for Plumbers
Editors Top Picks & Comparison
| Product | Materials | |
| Best Overall | POC, Joint VPD System Knee Pads | VPD padding and high-tenacity polyamide |
| Runners Up | Demon Hyper X D30 V3 Mountain Bike Knee pad | Perforated neoprene, front panel Kevlar, and D30 foam |
| Also Good | Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts for Snowboards | Top-grade spandex and nylon |
| Budget Friendly | Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads | Mix of rubber and polyester |
Reviews of Top 10 Best Knee Pads for Snowboarding
Below I’ll walk you through each of our top picks of the best knee pads for snowboarding. Besides highlighting the key features of each of our favorite picks, I have gone ahead to include the pros and cons of each option.
By the end of this review, I hope you’ll have found something to add to your cart.
1. POC, Joint VPD System Knee Pads
The POC Joint VPD System Knee Pads win the top spot as the best knee pads for snowboarding for all the right reasons. They are a multipurpose pair of knee pads that you can use for biking, snowboarding, and more. What’s more, these knee pads are ideal for snowboarders of all expertise levels. They are super light that sometimes you forget you’re wearing them. You can flaunt all types of snowboarding stances flawlessly in them.
These knee pads are also highly flexible, thanks to the POC material. They’ll take the shape of your knees to ensure high mobility and comfort. The outer layer is made from top-of-the-class polyamide, which hardens upon impact to protect you from injuries. This material is also durable and scratch-resistant. It will last for many years to come. The inner layer is well-padded to cushion your knees against any shock.
Another noteworthy feature is its high ventilation system within each knee pad’s layer to keep you dry and comfortable even in the heat of the game. The knee pads are also fitted with a rubber lining that prevents them from slipping. However, most users noted that these knee pads often run small. Thus, consider ordering one size up.
Pros
- Flexible for optimum mobility
- A ventilation system is incorporated in each of the knee pad’s layers for adequate air circulation
- It has a scratch-resistant outer layer to prevent wear and tear
- Well-padded with a hard outer shell that absorbs any impact from falls
- It has a rubber lining that holds the knee pads in place
Cons
- The price is a little on the higher side
2. Demon Hyper X D30 V3 Mountain Bike Knee pad
Did you know that neoprene is the most breathable material used in making knee pads? Similarly, the Demon Hyper X Knee Pads are one of the most highly breathable options we have in the market today. They are made with perforated neoprene, allowing maximum aeration to prevent overheating, keeping you dry and cool.
On top of that, the knee pad’s front panel is made with Kevlar, which is resistant to abrasion. The knee pads will last for years. The knee pads also have a D30 foam which absorbs all shock on impact, protecting your knees from any injuries.
Although these knee pads are heavy-duty and designed for high-impact sports such as snowboarding and mountain biking, they are super comfortable and gentle on the knees. They’re well-padded both on the inside and the outside. Plus, the dual trapping system allows you to adjust the knee pads for a snug fit easily.
The Demon Knee Pads come in five size options, including small, medium, large, X-large, and XX-large. Always ensure you have the proper knee measurements before making a purchase. And if your knee measurements range between two sizes, choose a size up since the knee pad sizes mostly tend to run small.
Pros
- Highly breathable, thanks to the perforated neoprene
- Made with a scratch-resistant top shell for optimum durability
- Padded on the inside and the sides for optimum comfort
- It has a dual Velcro strapping system for easy adjustability
- Available in a wide range of sizes
Cons
- The sizes tend to run small
3. Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts for Snowboards
How about an all-inclusive protection gear to simultaneously protect all the injury hot spots on the legs?
The Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts are a must-have protection gear for all snowboarders. The shorts are designed with extra cushioning on the hips, thighs, rear, and tail bone area to protect you from the impact of falls.
You can wear them for all high-impact games such as skateboarding, snowboarding, mountain biking, cycling, skating, and more.
These shorts are not only stable but also highly flexible to ensure comfort to the wearer. They are carefully made from top-grade spandex and nylon, which are highly breathable materials that allow proper air ventilation.
The material is also quick drying to prevent storing any sweat. The shorts are also made to take the shape of your body, including your waist, to ensure a custom and comfortable fit.
What’s more, these shorts are heat and scratch resistant to last for many seasons. The materials used are also flexible. They’ll bend with your body to give you unlimited freedom of movement.
Another feature that makes these pads one of the best-padded shorts for snowboarding is that they are skin-friendly. They’re gentle on the skin and will cause no itching.
Pros
- Light and flexible for ultimate comfort
- Designed to adjust to offer a snug fit to bodies of all types
- Well-padded on thighs, rear, and tailbone area for adequate cushioning against any impact due to falls
- Made of breathable material to keep you cool even in intense games
- Versatile and are ideal for use in most high impact activities
Cons
- It could have been more long-lasting
4. Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads
Here’s yet another excellent product by Bodyprox. The Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads are unisex and are available in two size options, small/medium and large.
The knee pads are ergonomically designed to take the shape of your knee. They are also super light and flexible for easy mobility. They are made from a mix of rubber and polyester and are latex-free to prevent any skin allergies.
Thanks to the excellent non-slip feature and incredible grip, the knee pads will stay in place regardless of the intensity of your game. You don’t have to stop to adjust them in the middle of your sport.
Additionally, the Bodyprox Knee Pads are designed to ensure maximum protection. They have a high-density foam that cushions your knees from impact and any injuries. The materials used are also highly breathable. Your skin will remain dry throughout your sport. They’ll also help to keep you warm during the cold and chilly weather.
Also, note that the knee pads are well made from durable materials that will withstand high-impact activities.
Pros
- Have an impressive grip and non-slip feature to keep the knee pads in place throughout the game
- Made of flexible fabrics to allow unlimited movement
- Well-padded to ensure protection against falls
- Latex-free to prevent skin allergies
- Comfortable to wear for hours
Cons
- Initially, they may feel a little too tight and uncomfortable but breaks-in after a few wears
5. Mcdavid 6440 Hex Knee Pads
Are you want to spice up your snowboarding protection gear with some brightly colored knee pads? The Mcdavid 6440 Hex Knee Pads are a great pick. These come in seven color options, including pink, blue, and white.
Additionally, it comes in a broad range of colors, ranging from X-small to XX-large and youths. There is a size for everybody, including youths and petite players.
Boasting top-of-the-line Hex technology, these knee pads offer unmatched durability, protection, and confidence. They are versatile and can be used on the shin, elbow, or knees. The closed-cell foam cushioning comes in handy in protecting injuries in case of a collision or falls.
Another standout feature is their moisture management ability. The knee pads are well ventilated and quick drying. They’ll keep you dry during a sweaty, intense game but will still dry quickly should you get wet from contact with the snow.
Are your knee pads dirty after heavy or continuous use? Simply toss them into the washing machine and dry them in an instant using your drier. Plus, the pull-on closure system ensures your knee pads fit snuggly and won’t slip.
Pros
- Highly versatile pair of knee pads ideal for use on elbows, knees, or shin
- Breathable to keep you dry and keep odors at bay
- Provides excellent cushioning, which reduces muscle cramping and fatigue
- It comes in a variety of colors to choose each players preferences
- Available in several sizes to fit players of all sizes
Cons
- It could have been more long-lasting
6. Bodyprox Volleyball Knee Pads for Junior Youth, 1 Pair Unisex
Have your kids shown interest in snowboarding? Consider getting the Bodyprox Volleyball Knee Pads for Junior Youths.
These are unisex and highly versatile knee pads, specially made for kids and youths ages 8 to 18. It comes in two sizes, small and large. The small size is ideal for kids aged 8 to 13, while the large size is perfect for those aged 13 to 18 years old.
Your kids and teens can wear them when playing volleyball, football, basketball, badminton, cycling, snowboarding, skiing, and any other high-impact sport.
Thanks to their ergonomic design, these knee pads are made to adjust to your kids’ high energy and quick knee movements. They are flexible to allow easy movement and extremely lightweight that your kids will barely notice the weight.
Additionally, these knee pads have a pull-on closure system and are made from a non-slip material. They will stay in place even in wet weather. The material is also sturdy and durable to stand the test of time. It is also highly ventilated to keep your kid dry and comfortable.
Another feature that makes this one of the best snowboarding knee pads is its tested and proven protection capabilities. The knee pads are fortified with top-quality foam to cushion the knees against injuries.
Pros
- Made from a sturdy anti-slip material that doesn’t slide in wet weather
- Highly versatile and are ideal for all high impact activities, including skiing, cycling, snowboarding, and more
- Ergonomically designed to allow optimum flexibility in highly active kids and youths
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Made from highly breathable material to keep your kids dry and comfortable
Cons
- Not very durable with heavy use
7. Venum Kontact Lycra/ Gel Knee Pads
If you’re looking for most comfortable and protective snowboard knee pads that feels good as they look, then the Venum Kontact Lycra Knee Pads are a great choice. They are available in seven color options and come in medium and large sizes to fit players of all sizes.
These knee pads are easy to wear thanks to the pull-on closure type and will stay in place throughout any high-impact sport. They are also sleek, slim, and attractive. And thanks to the all-round padding, the knee pads provide excellent impact absorption capabilities to protect your knees against any injuries.
The inner side of the pads has a terry-loop fabric that is not only comfortable but also well ventilated. There is also an air circulation vent for an even better aeration to keep you dry through your sport.
The only negative I noticed with these knee pads is that they tend to lose their aesthetics over time. On the bright side, they’re long-lasting and will offer your knees the needed protection for a long time.
Pros
- Excellent impact absorption ensuring maximum protection to the knees
- Easy to wear thanks to the pull on closure system
- Slim and sleek
- Made of breathable material for optimum heat management
- Comfortable and will stay in place throughout the game
Cons
- Loses their beauty over time
8. Bucwild Sports Knee Pads
Following closely is another versatile product by Bucwild, perfect for players of all ages, including youths, teens, and adults. The Bucwild Sports Knee Pads come in six color options and six sizes.
It is made from sturdy and top-quality spandex/polyester material to withstand all high-impact sports. They are tested and proven to be safe for baseball, football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, snowboarding, and more.
With an ultra-thick EVA foam padding at 10mm, the Bucwild Sports Knee pads are some of the thickest options out there. The extra padding ensures excellent protection against the impact on contact.
However, despite the thick padding, the material is also highly flexible and doesn’t inhibit the mobility of the knees. It is also breathable, with a sweat-absorbing interior to keep you dry. The aeration is also excellent in heat management.
But a feature that makes the Bucwild Sports Knee Pads outshine the rest is the size accuracy. The sizes of most other options that we came across during our research mostly ran small. However, with Bucwild, all the knee pads are true to size. Simply measure your mid-thigh circumference and match it to the given size chart for a snuggly fitting pair of knee pads.
What’s more, if your pair of knee pads do not fit as advertised, the manufacturer will exchange them with the accurate size at no extra cost.
Pros
- Thick 10mm EVA foam padding for excellent cushioning against impact
- Have an anti-slip band, so they stay in place
- Made from flexible materials for unrestricted movement during sports
- Well ventilated to keep you dry
- The knee pads are proper to size charts
Cons
- It could have been more durable
9. Triple Eight Undercover Snow Knee Pads
The Triple Eight Undercover Snow Knee Pads are specifically made to weather the snow and cold weather, making them some of the best knee pads for snowboarding.
They are sleek and slim and are ideal for use by kids and adults alike. The slim design allows easy layering, especially during cold weather. These knee pads are available in three sizes for adults, youths, and kids.
What’s more, they are made from neoprene material which is well-aerated, making them breathable and sweat-wicking to keep you and your kids cool and dry.
Thanks to the EVA foam padding, the knee pads will cushion your knees against high impact and any injuries. The adjustable hook and loop closure system also ensure easy adjustability for a secure and snug fit.
These knee pads are also stretchable and flexible. They take the shape of your knees while ensuring great flexibility when skiing or snowboarding. Each pair is unisex and is ideal for both men and women. However, the cost is a little higher than that of most other options in this review.
Pros
- Well-padded for adequate cushioning
- Lightweight and easy to wear
- Adjustable to ensure an accurate fit
- Breathable and comfortable
Cons
- The Velcro straps could have been longer for greater customization
- The grip and anti-slid capabilities could have been better
10. Burton Basic Knee Pad
We’ll wrap up this review with another of the best snowboard knee pads by Burton. The Burton Basic Knee Pads is a low-profile option in black and four sizes ranging from X-Small to X-Large.
It is made from Ethylene Vinyl Acetate low-profile knee pad, making it flexible for easy movement. The knee pads are also lightweight, with a weight of a mere 6.38 ounces. That’s even though they are well-padded with EVA foam that absorbs any impact from a fall or contact.
Thanks to the pull-on closure system, the knee pads are easy to wear, and the anti-slip pad keeps them in place to avoid slipping when wet. They are also well-aerated to keep you dry and comfortable all day long. The materials used do not cause any itching or irritation on the skin.
The Burton Knee Pads are also versatile and ideal for use by snowboarders of all expertise levels, including beginners and experts alike. You can as well wear them either under or on top of your snow pants.
Pros
- Comfortable enough to wear for hours
- Ideal for snowboarders of all expertise levels
- Lightweight and their fit is true to size chart
- The knee pads stay in place, even in the chilly and wet weather
- The material is breathable to prevent overheating
Cons
- Padding could have been thicker
You may also like: Do you need knee pads for snowboarding
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Knee Pads for Snowboarding
There are many factors you must have in mind when shopping for a knee pad. Let me break it down for you.
Comfort
Comfort is, without a doubt, a top consideration when choosing the best knee pads for snowboarding. You want one that offers a snug fit without being too tight to hurt your feet. If the knee pads are too tight, they’ll not only be uncomfortable but also inhibits motion. Thus, choose a flexible and soft knee pad that moves with the body.
Also, ensure that your choice of knee pads is made of quick-drying and breathable material to keep you dry throughout your sport. What’s more, go for ergonomically shaped knee pads that will take the shape of your knee for ultimate comfort and mobility.
Protection
Knee pads are designed primarily for protection purposes. But the level of protection you need will depend on your interests, experience, and snowboarding style.
If you are a beginner or love to snowboard in the rails, go for snowboarding kneepads that are well padded to ensure ultimate protection against falls.
However, if you are seasoned in snowboarding, thinner knee pads may be your best pick. They’re not only sleek and more comfortable but will also provide the needed protection against occasional falls.
Size and Fit
The importance of choosing an accurate size and fit of knee pads cannot be underestimated. Loosely fitting knee pads Even if your knee pads are well padded, if you fall, they’ll not provide adequate cushioning.
On the other hand, if the knee pads are too tight, they are uncomfortable and will hinder mobility. Thus, ensure you’re getting an accurate size for your knees. Measure the circumference of your knees before purchasing to ensure you pick the best pick.
Materials
The best knee pads for snowboarding should be made with utmost comfort and easy mobility in mind. Thus, the material used should be both lightweight and flexible to allow easy movement.
The padding should be soft on the inside yet high-density. That way, it will offer the needed protection while ensuring enough safety to your feet. Most knee pads are either made from leather, suede, or plastics.
Durability
It can be tempting to choose the cheapest knee pads available on the market to save some bucks. But that may be a costly mistake. Cheap, in the long run, is often expensive. That’s because affordable products are usually made from inferior materials that will barely last. You’ll need to keep on replacing your knee pads now and then.
Instead, choose a pair of knee pads that gives you maximum value for your money. They should be made from top-quality material that is comfortable but still functional. Preferably, the knee pads should be from tough materials that will weather the cold conditions and will last for many years to come.
Some of the best knee pads are made with scratch-resistant material that will withstand occasional scratches, slips, and falls. Thus, it is best to read online reviews of the product before purchasing to see what other buyers have to say about its durability.
Breathability
Other than protection, your knee pads also come in handy in keeping you warm during the cold winter weather. However, ensure your choice of knee pads balance between warmth and breathability.
The best knee pads for snowboarding should be made from breathable material. It should also be quick drying. A well-aerated knee pad will prevent overheating and will quickly wick away any sweat or trapped moisture.
If you are searching for a pair of knee pads with excellent aeration, go for those made with neoprene. Neoprene provides exceptional breathability to keep you dry and warm.
How to stop your knee pads from getting hurt when Snowboarding?
- Adjust the fit: Make sure your knee pads fit snugly and are not too loose. This will prevent them from sliding down or shifting during activity.
- Use straps: Many knee pads have adjustable straps that can be tightened for a secure fit. Make sure to adjust these straps for a snug fit that keeps the pads in place.
- Wear long pants: Wearing long pants over your knee pads can help prevent the pads from rubbing against your skin and causing irritation or injury.
- Take breaks: Snowboarding can be a high-impact activity, so take regular breaks to give your knees a rest and prevent injury.
- Use knee pads specifically designed for snowboarding: Look for knee pads that are designed specifically for snowboarding and have additional padding and protection for the knee joint.
- Use other protection such as a knee brace or sleeves.
- Always use proper form and technique while snowboarding to reduce the risk of knee injuries.
Why do my knees hurt when I snowboard?
Your knees may hurt while snowboarding due to several factors, including:
- Overuse: Snowboarding can be a high-impact sport, putting a lot of stress on your knees. Overuse can lead to pain and inflammation in the joints.
- Improper technique: If you are not using proper technique when snowboarding, it can put extra stress on your knees and lead to pain.
- Weak muscles: If the muscles in your legs, particularly your quadriceps and hamstrings, are weak, they may not be able to support your knees properly, leading to pain.
- Previous injury: If you have had a previous knee injury, it may be exacerbated by the repetitive motions of snowboarding.
- Cold weather: Cold weather can cause the muscles and joints to stiffen, making them more susceptible to injury and pain.
Consulting a doctor or physical therapist can help you identify the specific cause of your knee pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Normal Knee Pads For Snowboarding?
Although normal knee pads are made to cushion your knees against falls, they may not be the best for snowboarding. That’s because snowboarding is done in freezing weather.
Thus, the best knee pads for snowboarding should be made from heavy-duty yet breathable material with thick and soft padding to withstand the cold weather while ensuring comfort and keeping you warm.
However, a few multipurpose options are ideal for snowboarding, trekking, skiing, and other cold-weather sports. You’d only need to ensure they are comfortable, well-padded, and highly breathable.
How to Measure the Knee Pad Size?
Having an accurate measure of your knee pads is paramount in ensuring ultimate comfort and protection. Luckily, getting your knee pad size is an easy process that takes less than a minute to complete.
With your legs straight, wrap a tape measure around the center part of your knee. Repeat the same process on the top and bottom part of your knee, where the knee pad will rest. Add an extra 0.5 inches to ensure maximum mobility.
Most manufacturers will usually include a size chart to guide your purchase. That’s why you must take an accurate measurement of knee circumference to get a properly fitting knee pad.
When taking the measurements, ensure your knees are either covered by very light pans, better yet, none.
How Tightly Do Knee Pads Need To Be?
The golden rule is to choose knee pads that offer a snug fit without being too tight to cause any pain or discomfort. Although new knee pads may feel a little too tight, they usually loosen with time to offer a comfy fit.
However, ensure that your choice of knee pads isn’t too tight that it causes too much pain or discomfort. It may inhibit knee movement and may even injure, pinch, or chafe your skin.
Also, choose knee pads with a rubber lining that will prevent them from sliding when wet.
Why Do My Knees Hurt After Snowboarding?
There are two main reasons why your knees may hurt after snowboarding. First, snowboarding is a high-intensity game.
Players need to ensure they have adequate strength training because weak muscles and ligaments cause knee pain after the game. But stretching the next day after snowboarding helps promote faster recovery from sore muscles.
The other leading cause of knee pain after snowboarding is poor posture. As a beginner, be keen to maintain the correct posture when riding. A wider stance with bent knees ensures better stability and is gentler on your knees.
What Are The Most Common Injuries In Snowboarding?
A beginner snowboarder is prone to numerous falls before they can master the art of snowboarding. The most common injuries are bruises, ankle, thumb, head, knee, and wrist injuries. But the wrist fractures are generally more common than knee injuries.
The good news? The rate of these injuries can be decreased by up to 43% by wearing protective gear such as knee pads, helmets, elbow pads, and wrist guards.
Do you need elbow pads for snowboarding?
It is not necessary to wear elbow pads while snowboarding, but they can provide extra protection from falls and collisions. It ultimately depends on personal preference and level of risk tolerance.
Is it necessary to wear helmets when snowboarding?
Yes, it is highly recommended to wear a helmet when snowboarding. Helmets protect the head and brain in case of falls or collisions, which can frequently occur while snowboarding. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of severe injury or death.
Closing Thoughts
The best knee pads should be breathable, comfortable, flexible, yet well-padded to offer maximum protection. Above, we’ve taken you through our top ten picks.
Still unsure of what option works best for you? Please go through our buyer’s guide for a breakdown of all features you need to consider when choosing knee pads for snowboarding.
Our favorite pick is the POC Joint VPD System Knee Pads. These are scratch-resistant, flexible, durable, and highly breathable to keep you dry and cool. Additionally, the knee pads are fitted with a rubber lining to prevent them from slipping when wet.
What’s your favorite pick? Please feel free to share in the comment section below.
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