iXS Carve EVO+ Knee Pads [Rider Review]

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For some riders, knee pads are just as important as a helmet. But, we all know that an uncomfortable knee pad makes for a long ride. IXS makes the Carve Evo+ with comfort in mind and not compromising protection. Our friend, Steven has been running them. See what they think!

Overview

The IXS Carve knee pads saved me from hospitalization, and potentially surgery. The first day I received them, I used them and I'm glad I did. I was only riding my local trails, so I was going to leave them home but I figured I'd wear them to break them in. I'm so happy I decided to where them when I did. Sometimes, the most unexpected things can occur in places where you're normally comfortable and content.

I took a nice fall. I was hitting a good sized gap and lost balance in the air. The first thing to hit the ground was my knee. The bikes weight, and all of my weight landed directly on my right knee. The pads did not come off during hard impact and I know that if I didn't wear them, I'd be out the season. Although I have been out of the sport for a couple of months, I KNOW that I would be out for the entire season without wearing these pads. GET THE CORRECT GEAR!

I haven't been able to ride the last couple of months, but I am healing fine and it's all thanks to these pads. I mean it when I say it was a giant impact for my knee. If you want a knee pad that can take a massive impact and stay on, while saving your knee, I'd get these pads specifically. I bought these because I had heard on other reviews that these will not slip onto your shins during impact. They, in fact, didn't move an inch.

They worked far better than previous pads I've used and I got them on sale. Not to mention that the fabric is strong and they look good as well. There was no tearing, although my spikes pedals came in contact with one, creating a small rip from the pedal spikes. They are also easy to pedal in and are light weight, but are heavy enough. They are flexible when pedaling, but are as hard as a rock when impacted. I use them on trials, as well as bike parks.

Final Thoughts

They are easy to clean, as well, and don't seem to get a nasty smell. They dry fast, and fair well in rough climates. Mud dries, and falls right off. I may buy bigger kneepads for the down hill park, but for now, these ate working great. All though I may get bigger pads, I will continue to use these during trail riding at the local parks. Never again will I ride without knee pads or a helmet. They are a must for the type of riding I do. Overall, I'm very pleased with this product and would buy again. It's worth it! Save your knees!