Leatt Airflex 3DF Knee Pads – Review
Looking for some all-day knee protection at the lighter end of the spectrum? These Airflex 3DF Knee Guards from Leatt tick the boxes for weight and comfort.
– Super slim and lightweight
– Weight 105 grams each
– Armourgel ultra slim impact absorbing gel
– MoistureCool wicking fabric
– CE certified for impact protection EN1621-1
– 3 size options s/m, l/xl, xxl
– RRP £75.99
Leatt are probably most well known for their neck braces often seen being used by downhill and motorcross riders. Their success in this area has a lot to do with their expertise, testing and constant research. This practice appears to have continued in their more recent ventures into some quality looking protection and hydration systems. I have been pedalling around wearing the 3DF Airflex Knee Guards for a few months now and they have fast become my first choice for most of my riding.
When I was first handed the 3DF Airflex Knee Guards, the first thing I noticed was the feel of the rubber that makes up the protective part of these guards. It is flexible but returns to its normal position slowly much like the rubber on sticky tyres. The 3DF technology means that the molecules in the rubber lock together on impact to absorb the shock. Despite how thin it is (6mm) the feel of the pad gives confidence that it will shake off most knocks and bumps. Leatt say that these pads exceed the impact tests carried out for their CE certification.
The rubber is shaped to comfortably cup the knee and has a silicone pattern on the inside to aid keeping the pad in place. Doing the rest of the supporting work is Moisturecool, a fast wicking fabric which Leatt use in many of their armour products. The top of the pads also have 2 silicone bands to keep the pads in place. I’ve ridden some long loops during some of our warmer spring days and been able to forget I’ve been wearing pads.
So far these pads have only had to shake of a few minor knocks and although I want to give you the fullest review I can, the line is drawn at throwing myself off my bike at high speeds into piles of rocks and gravel. That’s not to say of course, it won’t happen by accident! Having got a few knee pad options in my kit bag, these seem to be the ones I continue to reach for to ride all but the scariest of trails. Despite the l/xl being marginally on the big side for me it’s not been a problem as the shape of these knee guards (left and right specific) keeps them in place. Due to their light weight and comfort I can fit and forget them, and just get on with enjoying the ride.
Words – Andrew Denham
Photos – Tom Laws