While wearing pads may not be a requirement while biking, even expert riders wear certain pieces of protective gear. Avoid bulky pads, as they may hinder your movement. According to the biking professionals at the Vital BMX website, top-rated knee pads feature a slender yet durable design that can fit comfortably under your riding pants.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is one of the most adrenaline-charged forms of off-road riding. The knobby tires of the mountain bike are designed to tackle rough trails that often feature embedded rocks and roots. When learning the basic maneuvering techniques, you will most likely fall off the bike on more than one occasion. Knee and elbow pads will allow you to quickly recover after a high-speed fall. According to the Vital MTB website, top-of-the-line elbow pads are reinforced with Kevlar for increased protection.
BMX
While mountain bikers may prefer to keep their tires on the ground, BMXers spend countless hours perfecting high-flying maneuvers and aerial flips. The compact BMX frame offers increased control during high-speed riding. When bailing from an unsuccessful trick attempt, knee and arm pads will prevent cuts and lacerations as you roll across the riding terrain. In the event of a slideout, knee pads will keep you protected from the sharp edges of the BMX pedals.
Downhill Racing
Both mountain bikers and BMXers participate in high-speed races that take place on carved-out downhill courses. The downhill track generally features hairpin turns and difficult obstacles such as narrow wooden bridges. In most BMX and mountain bike races, competitors will perform risky maneuvers in an attempt to take the lead. Unfortunately, collisions with fellow riders are often commonplace on the racing track. Wear your knee pads and elbow pads --- in addition to the helmet you should wear no matter what kind of biking you're doing --- to prevent serious injuries in the event of a crash.
Street Hazards
Street riding is a prominent discipline of BMX. Street riders prefer urban obstacles such as handrails, grass gaps and planter ledges. One of the key dangers of street riding is the unpredictability of the terrain. Unlike designated parks and courses for BMX riding, pedestrians can easily get in the way as you attempt to ride a street spot. Knee and elbow pads will keep you safe in the event of an accident. Protective pads may also help to prevent fatal injuries during a collision with a moving vehicle.
Member Comments