Review

Team Tested: Alpinestars Paragon Knee Protector Review

09.09.2014
by

As the front wheel started to drift out mid-corner on the scorched loose marbles of the Nevada Desert, I knew I was going down! It was time to see how the new Alpinestars Paragon knee protectors would handle the sharp rocks that were rapidly approaching.

Knee protectors have come a long way over the last few years, gone are the days where you had to strap your pads to your pack while climbing, we now have soft pads that offer excellent protection, while being comfortable enough to be worn all day. At the Interbike demoday, held in the Nevada Desert, Alpinestars were demoing there new range of protection, and as it was a very hot and humid day, I was keen to check out their new Paragon Pad. A simple, minimal pad that promised good protection in a cool and comfortable design. Priced at only $39.95 they were certainly attractively priced.

The new Paragon pad is designed with elasticated cuffs and silicone printing to prevent slippage. During the hot test in the desert the pads were very comfortable and secure.
The new Paragon pad is designed with elasticated cuffs and silicone printing to prevent slippage. During the hot test in the desert the pads were very comfortable and secure.
The protective elements of the pads are perforated and secured in mesh pocket for excellent breathability and core Cooling. The rear of the pad is mesh and worked well to keep the pad cool in use.
The protective elements of the pads are perforated and secured in mesh pocket for excellent breathability and core cooling. The rear of the pad is mesh and worked well to keep the pad cool in use.

The Paragon pads are constructed out of CE rated polyurethane, and are a little thicker than some of the other ultra-minimal pads currently on the market, so should offer a little more protection. The pad has no adjustment or velcro closures so it is important that they fit correctly. They are however, available in four sizes and if they do fit well the minimal design becomes a bonus when it comes to breath-ability and comfort.

The CE rated pad material is pre-shaped, designed to fit close to the knee in various riding positions.
The CE rated pad material is pre-shaped, designed to fit close to the knee in various riding positions.
The pads feature strategically positioned rip-stop fabric reinforcements for abrasion resistance and added durability.
The pads feature strategically positioned rip-stop fabric reinforcements for abrasion resistance and added durability.
There is no need to low-ride these pads for the climbs, you will forget you are wearing them.
There is no need to low-ride these pads for the climbs, you will forget you are wearing them.
In a hot and humid test in the desert the pads remained secure with no slippage, and were lights and comfortable.
In a hot and humid test in the desert the pads remained secure with no slippage, and were light and comfortable.

Bottom line

The essential criteria for a good knee pad is that it first must be comfortable enough to wear all day and second offer good protection. The Alpinestars Paragon pad meets those requirements offering good protection, wrapped up in a light, comfortable and affordable package. We were really impressed with the pads comfort during hot and dusty rides in the desert, the silcone pads kept them securely in place, and they shrugged off one crash onto the sharp rock with ease without pulling down. For sure, thicker pads will offer more protection in a big crash, but for trail riding where you just want minimal, comfortable protection while riding with your mates the Paragons are highly recommended. The flat stitching and materials used seemed very high quality for the price, we will report back on the pads durability after a few more months of hard riding.

For more information about the new Alpinestars range, check out their website.

Words: Trev Worsey Photos: Robin Schmitt

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