One product that caught our eye at EUROBIKE was the new Amplifi MKII knee pad, of course there are now a bewildering array of knee pads on the market, but these are the first we have seen that aim to help reduce ‘drawer’ injuries to the ligaments inside the knee (where the knee rolls forward over the lower leg). Knowing firsthand how frustrating ACL injuries can be, we were keen to check out the new pads.

The new MKII Knee Pros are the new flagship knee pads from Amplifi and feature some great new features
The new MKII Knee Pros are the new flagship knee pads from Amplifi and feature some great new features

The MKII Knee Pro builds on the original MKII Knee, but instead of only using their Armourgel material in the pad itself, they have used it to create lateral stabilizers down the side of the knee. Using the material in tension rather than compression means that the material should help stabilize the knee when quickly overextended, but should not interfere with the normal pedalling movement.

A dimpled Ceraspace coating on the pad itself has been developed with Schoeller, providing a super low friction coating for easy sliding on roots and rock
A dimpled Ceraspace coating on the pad itself has been developed with Schoeller, providing a super low friction coating for easy sliding on roots and rock

The pads also feature a new ultra low friction coating, allowing the pads to slide over rocks and roots in the case of a big crash. The new coating, Ceraspace, has been developed with Schoeller and has a very high abrasion resistance to keep the pads in one piece, even after repeated impacts. The pads feature a breathable mesh back and have adjustable straps on the top and the bottom, combined with a silicone no-slip hem.

The lower power webbing and silicone coating should provide a close and secure fit.
The lower power webbing and silicone coating should provide a close and secure fit.
The new pads have an EN 1621 1:2012- Level 2 rating, which basically means they are very protective
The new pads have an EN 1621 1:2012- Level 2 rating, which basically means your knees are very safe
The new MKII knee pro pads features Armourgel stabilizers, to provide lateral stability in tension instead of compression
The new MKII knee pro pads features Armourgel stabilizers, to provide lateral stability in tension instead of compression
Amplifi's products have already impressed us, winning the D.IA 2014 award
Amplifi’s products have already impressed us, winning a Design & Innovation Award 2015

At this point Amplifi are just gearing up for production, and the pads will retail for €125. We have always been impressed with the Amplifi range so are looking forward to testing out these pads. If they are comfortable, the added layer of protection can only be a good thing!

For more information check out the Amplifi website

Words and photos: Trev Worsey


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