Buying guide for Best kids' skating knee pads
Skating is a fun activity for kids, but taking a tumble is more or less inevitable, so it's important your child has the right safety gear. Kids' skating knee pads help prevent skinned knees and far more serious knee injuries when your child falls, so they’re a must for any young skater. Knee pads also help give kids the confidence to get up and keep going after a fall.
You'll need to consider a range of factors when choosing a set of kids' skating knee pads, including fastening type, the amount of padding, and the size and quality of the shell.
Considerations
Individual pads vs. set
Decide whether you just want a pair of kids' skating knee pads or you'd like a set that contains other protective gear, too. In addition to the knee pads, sets can also contain wrist guards, elbow pads, and a helmet. It's surprisingly difficult to get a pair of kids' knee pads on their own. Most are part of a set aimed at beginning skaters, which can be frustrating if you already own other protective gear or if your child needs better-quality knee pads. You can find individual pairs of knee pads on the market if you shop around a little.
Shell size
The hard shell on the outside of each knee pad is vital when it comes to protecting a child’s knees. It needs to be large enough to cover the whole kneecap, whether the knee is bent or not. If the shell isn't large enough, the edge will bang into the knee when your child falls, causing discomfort.
Padding
Inside the shell, there needs to be plenty of padding to absorb shock and give your child a soft landing. Although the amount of padding in a kids' skating knee pad is important, the quality of the padding also matters. High-end knee pads contain advanced types of foam that offer better protection than the foam in cheap knee pads.
Features
Fastener: You can choose between knee pads that simply pull on and those that fasten with hook-and-loop straps. Pull-on knee pads can be easier for kids to put on alone, but they are more prone to slipping.
Comfort: Some kids' skate knee pads have a totally seamless interior, which makes them more comfortable to wear and helps avoid chafing.
Color: Although black is the most common color for kids' knee pads, you'll occasionally find pads featuring bright colors or bold prints.
Price
Inexpensive
You can find basic kids' skating knee pads that don’t offer a huge amount of protection for around $10 to $15. They're fine for beginners or occasional casual use.
Mid-range
For more active skaters, you'll need to spend between $20 and $50.
Expensive
If your child is serious about skating, high-end knee pads usually cost between $50 and $100.
Tips
Insist that your child wear knee pads while skating. Some children will resist, but it must be mandatory for the sake of your kid's safety — no knee pads, no skating. Establishing this habit will help them when using other equipment, like hoverboards.
Check the size. Some types of knee pads come in various sizes. Others are one size only and are unlikely to fit all children, so check the measurements first.
Fasten the knee pads correctly. The knee pads need to be fastened securely enough that they won't slip down but not so tightly that they restrict blood flow.
- Teach your child how to put on the knee pads. Your child should be able to reposition and secure the pads if they slip down or need adjusting, especially if your kid is old enough to go skating alone or with friends.
FAQ
Q. How do I clean kids' skating knee pads?
A. The majority of them are machine washable, but washing instructions vary. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before you take the plunge.
Q. Do kids' knee pads fit under clothing?
A. Many highly padded knee pads are too bulky to fit under pants, so they'll need to be worn on top of pants or with shorts or skirts. Some slimmer knee pads will fit under relaxed-fit pants, but they won't offer quite as much protection.
