The Raid Knee Guard from Troy Lee Designs is the ultimate gravity-proof protection! 😎

The big question: does all that protection come at the cost of comfort? 🤔

Brand: Troy Lee Designs
Product: Raid Knee Guard
Price: £129.99
From: Troy Lee Designs UK
Tested by: Aran Francis

Knee pads? No way I ride without them! 😎

But the problem: a lot of pads are uncomfortable, they slip or rub 😬

The most annoying thing: when the pads slowly slide down your shin and end up like leg warmers 😤

The most frustrating thing: when the pads slowly slide down the leg and end up like leg warmers 😤

A small note: sometimes the strap catches on your pants, could be less bulky to avoid this 🤏

Sizing tip: since they’re tight, if you’re on the edge of a size, go one size up 🏋️‍♂️

Another issue: the Fitlock system that holds the pad behind the knee sometimes bunches up and feels weird 😅
Fix: pull the bottom of the pad down your leg instead of tugging from the top

First time trying: D3O-based ‘gravity’ pads from Troy Lee Designs 💪
Protection is solid: covers the front of the knee well and extends down the top third of the shin, with tight bottoms keeping coverage consistent no matter your leg angle

Side protection: there’s foam on the sides, usually enough for bumps against the frame 🚲

Important point: protection for the top of the knee. Many pads stop short here, but the Raid wraps D3O perfectly with an extra layer of foam above the knee ✨

I’m a huge fan of all the D3O products I’ve tried so far! 😎

Even though there are softer materials, D3O strikes an excellent balance between comfort and protection. ✨

Secure fit: if a crash happens, the pads stay in place, unlike some that slide off during a fall 😤

Lightweight: the pads aren’t heavy, and D3O molds to your knee, adding extra comfort 💪

Even on long rides: designed for hardcore downhill, yet comfy enough for longer sessions sometimes 🚲

Small note: towards the end of long rides, the pads press a bit on the front of the knee when wearing pants 😅
The fix: wear shorts, especially with how awesome they look 😎

Tip: knee pad fit is very personal, try them on before buying if you ride for long sessions 🏋️‍♂️

For regular riding: a great set, and if comfort is your main goal, Troy Lee’s Stage pads might be better.

Bottom line:
I’ve crashed plenty riding with the Raids, and my knees have been fully protected every time 💥

Cons: the price is a bit steep, around £130 💸
But: D3O is excellent, knee coverage is complete, and protection is comprehensive ✨