The best tactical knee pads can mean the difference between training injuries and much-improved comfort. That’s a wide gap, and that’s why this topic requires a bit of explanation. The use of knee pads may seem overkill for some users, but you’d be surprised how much that variable changes over time and as conditions worsen. Not having knee pads when you need them makes life suck.
But yes, it’s a market segment that doesn’t appeal to everyone overtly. As you get older, what you thought you could do with your knees, like the quick dives to catch a ball, or to take a shot tend to get harder to do. The last thing you want in a legitimate tactical shooting scenario is a lack of mobility due to a preventable injury.
There is this thing with knee pads too, which means you really have to look at the right products: that is most commercial-style knee pads are not suitable for the specific needs of most tactical users.
Additionally, any knee pads are better than no knee pads if you are actually planning to use them. Good knee pads can be a vital part of a bug-out bag or a good addition to your car trunk or behind your truck seat.
This article will attempt to help you navigate the ins and outs of the somewhat convoluted tactical knee pad market and eventually get you to the point where you can confidently pick a set of the best tactical knee pads for your use case.
Who Needs Knee Pads
The one who needs knee pads the most is the person who for years has been using their knees in competitive sports or work/profession without the use of knee pads. These sets of knees are invariably damaged when compared to those who do not use their knees as part of a daily or recreational experience. This is true even though you won’t feel knee pain for years in some instances.
That said, anyone can find utility in knee pads, especially when training. Having pads with you in case of an SHTF scenario or a TEOTWAWKI (The end of the world as we know it) will be helpful, but their best utility is getting you ready to handle tactical scenarios to stay in good condition while learning and experiencing the skills that will be needed in times like that.
Note: that this article is not JUST for the people who think that such apocalyptic events are a foregone conclusion. Normal users can find excellent utility in knee pads, especially during tactical training classes and other tactical events.
Men or women can easily find a use for knee pads.
Do I need hardshell pads?
If you can get them and justify the use of them despite their added bulk and weight means you will have a much-improved experience in the worst conditions, though a soft knee pad is better than no knee pad.
If you are in a scenario where you will need to avoid cuts on your knees or for when you are in very poor conditions, such as the aftermath of a major event (like a bombing, earthquake or hurricane, etc.) the added protection against sharp objects will be a very good thing to have.
Built-in pockets
Many pants have built-in pads for knee pad inserts. These are useful for softer ground and for occasional use or for daily wear. They are certainly a much more generous comfort accessory than normal pants and can be used for many things, but they are not nearly the protection offered by dedicated knee pads.
For daily use
Unless you are in law enforcement, military in training drills, etc., or a first responder, there is likely no reason to have daily wear tactical knee pads. Many professions require commercial knee pads and that can be an important addition to your everyday wear.
A lot of blue-collar professions basically need to use pads throughout the day. Having a pair of the best knee pads available in the trunk of your car or your everyday carry bag can be a great choice though, even if you don’t plan on using them daily.
How long will they last?
Most knee pads, even the best in the market won’t outlast hard daily use for more than a year or two. Truly heavily used tactical knee pads might only last 3 months for some hardcore users that are up and down in the dirt and rocks often.
Those who are just planning and use them occasionally for a tactical training class or from out of their trunk can expect to have a pair last the better part of 6-7 years with proper care and cleaning after harder uses.
Given the relatively low expense of the tactical knee pad, it is an obvious choice to buy, even if it is a totally discretionary budget line item for most people as they don’t see the day-to-day benefits of the humble knee pad.
Here is a list of our favorite tactical knee pads. It’s hard to select the best tactical knee pad because each of these offerings is exceptional at some level or even on multiple levels. Have a look and let us know what you think.
8 Best Tactical Knee Pads
1. Taclite Pro
Features
- Compatible with 5.11 Kneepad Ready Pants: Stryke, Taclite Pro, XPRT, TDU, Tactical styles
- Strong, flexible, lightweight and integrated knee contour for mobility
- 6mm thick cushioned neoprene with nylon/polyester jersey backing for easy insertion
- Designed to contour with knee
- Nylon backing for easy insertion
These are simply the thinner inserts that can be used (specifically for 5.11 pants, though some carryover will exist) with pants that have built-in Taclite Pro pockets.
They are a bare minimum generally for tactical use, though they can double up for legitimate tactical conditions while giving a day-to-day pair to use until there is a more specific need.
These are well made and while thin, do offer some basic protections for the knee cap on cement or other smoother surfaces. It can also be used on soft ground for extensive kneeling like you might find on a regular basis (like on carpet or in the garden).
Pros
- Very simple
- Can be used in a couple of brands of tactical pants with minor user modification
- Quality brand
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons
- No real CONS
Why It’s Recommended
These Taclite Pro are entry-level at the very heart of the phrase but do offer a good price point and some protection and can be stacked up with external knee pads.
2. ToughBuilt GelFit
ToughBuilt GelFit Fanatic
$54.99 in stock
Features
- RESISTANT AND DURABLE - Made with the highest standards to ensure durability, withstand harsh work environments, and save time and money on having to constantly buy replacements. Covered by our limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser against defects in material.
- COMFORTABLE GELFIT ™ - Unique gel cushion and foam design embraces the natural shape of the knee and upper shin, maximizing pressure distribution for an extremely comfortable fit. Put them on and leave them on.
- STAY ADJUSTED - Combination elastic/EVA/buckle thigh and calf straps comfortably hold their place without cutting off circulation. Kneepad never rotates off your knee, so no time wasted on having to constantly adjust your equipment.
- MOBILITY - Thigh support keeps the knee ergonomically centered within the kneepad, so your range of motion is not compromised. Our design provides ultimate stability combined with easy side-to-side agility.
- PREMIUM MANUFACTURING - Made with abrasion-resistant 1680D fabric, rugged double-injected shell with non-slip rubber and shatter-resistant plastic. They are heavily textured on contact surfaces, so you feel safe and at ease while on the job.
Tough-built GelFit is definitively NOT in the “tactical” category from a look’s perspective. They are, however, a very tactical choice when it comes to having a pair around the house or in the car.
They are built to a good specification and will work for most normal civilian tasks and will double well for occasional tactical use, though you might get a few looks on the range if you are wearing them.
They are a bit more Civilian than other options on this list. Who cares when it comes to comfort? These are by far the most comfort-oriented build on this list, and with the price, it’s maybe harder to justify buying them until you actually put them on and use them to lay tile or work on your car at home, where they shine.
Pros
- Easy to justify for having around the house
- Exceptionally comfort centric
Cons
- Pricey
- The least “tactical” looking
Why It’s Recommended
Most people can justify having a pair when there are more uses than just a once-a-year tactical training or having in the bug-out bag; ToughBuilt GelFit is unmatched for comfort.
3. Alta Industries
Alta Industries
Features
- Soft coyote flexible cap provides protection and flexibility
- Strong durable Cordura nylon fabric construction
- Thick neoprene recovery foam padding for support
- Tricot liner wicks away moisture and keeps dirt out
- Adjustable to fit most sizes
ALTA practically owns this tactical knee pad market with this offering, as it is as simple as it gets with great durability, tactically minded build and yet, they are very comfortable.
These are the standard for those who legitimately want a low-key look with good performance and comfort. The Alta Contour offers good sharp object protection and a slippery knee pad surface for enhanced movement on the ground.
Pros
- The simplest choice for those who want a proven tactical knee pad
Cons
- No real CONS
Why It’s Recommended
Alta is the industry standard because of its harmony of comfort, durability, and looks.
4. BLACKHAWK
Features
- 600 denier Nylon shell
- Injection-molded flex cap design
- Closed-cell foam padding provides excellent shock resistance and little or no moisture retention
- Allows maximum flexibility for ease of movement and comfort
- Minimizes gap between bottom of cap and Nylon carrier when flexed
Depending on the color you choose, for the money, Blackhawk is probably the most versatile small profile pad on this list and is perfectly suited from the looks of the product to the specific design for any tactical scenario.
At the price, it’s an easy to justify purchase too, even if you rarely use them. Long-lasting build quality and the top brand name make a difference here.
Pros
- Simple
- Straightforward and proven
- Small profile
- Small price
Cons
- No real CONS
Why It’s Recommended
Blackhawk has a long-lasting build, with a proven design and it’s not a huge thing dangling off your knee cap.
5. NoCry Professional
NoCry
$29.99 in stock
2 used from $29.16
Features
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION. The high density soft EVA foam padding conforms to your knees, making you feel like you're kneeling on pillows. The thick gel layer cradles your joints. The breathable 600D polyester mesh keeps you cool and comfortable.
- ADJUSTABLE ELASTIC STRAPS. The military grade rivets and strong, heavy-duty straps make each knee protector extra stable by evenly distributing pressure. This keeps your gel knee pads for gardening and construction safe and secure.
- SUPERIOR PROTECTION. The flexible heavy duty cap combines lightweight design with the superb durability that a pair of work knee pads for men and women need. Use them as gardening knee pads, flooring knee pads or if you have sensitive knees.
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS. The neoprene straps, 1000D reinforced nylon thread, military grade rivets, and non-skid PVC cap on your heavy duty knee pads are made for heavy use. Use them as carpenters knee pads or knee pads for women that DIY.
- SECURE & COMFORTABLE FIT. The NoCry knee pad strap system makes it easy to secure your kneepads. Just adjust the straps, secure the buckles and criss-cross them at the back for extra support. That’s why our gel knee pads are the top pro pads.
NoCry is another consumer-grade kneepad that is easy to justify to have around the house, which will double as a tactical knee pad.
The “rubbery” textured surface means you will need to accommodate for the sticky factor on the ground that could cost you some precious seconds in moving if you don’t practice.
That is what makes them good for day-to-day use though, so if you have the experience with them to understand how to use them, you will be fine.
Pros
- The company is constantly improving the design with real user feedback
- Decent trial terms/money-back guarantee
- Priced right
- Multi-use from a form and a functional perspective
Cons
- Not a true tactical knee pad
Why It’s Recommended
NoCry has a lot of features that make them desirable, and that may mean you actually buy them instead of passing on a tactical knee pad that will come in handy, and whose benefits only truly manifest after you use them a few times.
6. Bodyprox
Bodyprox
$15.99 in stock
Features
- 1 Pair Kneepads (Left and right), Unisex design, two sizes available. Polyester 45%/ Rubber 25%/ EVA 30%.
- Your Safety is Our Priority-made of high-density strengthen foam, good elasticity, breathable fabric keeps skin dry, and more comfortable.
- Ergonomic design, super lightweight, provides freedom of movement. An ideal knee protector for outdoor sports.
- Protect and Prevent knee injuries during exercise. Keep warm, prevention and reduction of stiff muscles and joints. Effectively impact proof, increase blood circulation.
- Great Grip, Non-Slip Feature! Easily put the knee pads on and forget that you had them on! That’s how comfortable it is whilst in use. No constant re-adjustment needed as it firmly hugs the knee!
BodyProx is the best under your pants, incognito knee pads on the list. Their comfort level and close-fitting, non-noticeable build means you will get, at minimum, some protection on your knees without having to also look the part.
Pros
- Super easy to conceal
- Very comfortable
- Don’t slip down
- Can be used in conjunction with other pads if absolutely needed
Cons
- Not made for long term hard use, even though they will last a while if worn daily without rigorous usage
Why It’s Recommended
BodyProx has a top-quality comfort level with an ability to hide under clothing, for those who want the advantages of knee pads but don’t want to look the part.
7. ALTA Contour
ALTA Contour
Features
- Extra flexible with sectional foam padding
- Finished brushed tricot liner wicks away moisture and keeps out dirt and debris
- Non-Slip Rubber Strip on back to hold comfortably in place
- Offered with the Original AltaLok Easy On/Off Fastening System
- Adjustable to fit most sizes
The Alta Contours are substantially similar to an earlier list item by the same company (ALTA), and they are equally as good at leading the market for the dedicated tactical knee pad.
These are among the best tactical knee pads on the market given the specific build details that cater to a dedicated tactical use case. The price is right, the creature comforts are right, even if they aren’t as low-key as some other offerings, they still perform admirably.
Pros
- Well built
- Made for the specific use case of tactical operational scenarios
- They don’t slip out of place due to the rubber piece on the back of the pad
- Good adjustability
Cons
- A bit over the top for some users who want to be more low-key
Why It’s Recommended
The Alta Contours offers great harmony between comfort, durability, features, and price.
8. ZAPT
Features
| Binding | Misc. |
| Brand | ZAPT |
| Color | Coyote Brown |
| EAN | 0762640839661 |
| EAN List | EAN List Element: 0762640839661 |
| Label | ZAPT |
| Manufacturer | ZAPT |
| MPN | 762640839661 |
| Package Dimensions | Height: 315; Length: 1441; Weight: 218; Width: 1126 |
| Part Number | 762640839661 |
| Product Group | Sports |
| Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
| Publisher | ZAPT |
| Size | L36 |
| Studio | ZAPT |
| Title | ZAPT Tactical Pants with Knee Pads Airsoft Camping Hiking Hunting BDU Ripstop Combat Pants 13 Kinds Army Camo Uniform Military Trousers (Coyote Brown, L36) |
| UPC | 762640839661 |
| UPC List | UPC List Element: 762640839661 |
NOTE: We reviewed these pants in the Best Tactical Pants Article which you can find under the tactical gear category. They are every bit applicable for their excellent knee inserts built into the pants.
If you are a little overweight and would consider yourself more of a tactical wannabe (no offense meant), do not buy the Zapt pants. Although available in larger sizes they are designed for rigorous use and although there are bigger sizes it doesn’t mean they can handle proper use.
For many users, these pants will see over the top. The additional functionality is excellent and these have been designed for the tactically skilled individual.
Pros
- Made ready for the impending Zombie Apocalypse
- Built-in kneepads
- Pockets on the lower leg
- The good price point for quality
Cons
- A little too over the top for some
Why It’s Recommended
Highly tactical yet highly functional, Zapt pants are designed for the toughest of tough. The built-in knee pads save the hassle of finding additional knee pads.
Bottom Line
The tactical knee pad you need is something you may not even realize exists. Most people who use tactical knee pads now never considered themselves candidates for the accessory.
But when you use them for one hard training, or around the house for a little while; getting used to them, you will be sold on their utility and importance for normal activities as well as hardcore, extreme conditions you might be able to envision.
The best tactical knee pads are those which fit your use case – for some that will be the weekend sports player who can justify the purchase because of a rugby or basketball or volleyball league, that can also justify having them in the house or in the car for tactical purposes.
It may be a law enforcement officer that can play the part on a day-to-day basis that opts for a more specific tactical design. Either way, your use case dictates which design is best for you – with all of these choices having a credible build and many uses.
We are confident that among these choices you will be able to find your favorite pair, even if you are still on the fence. Consider trialing one with a money-back guarantee or taking full advantage of the Amazon ecosystem for returns.
Check out all the other tactical gear articles put together by the expert team at Guns & Safety Reviews below;
The Review
Best Tactical Knee Pads
Choosing the best tactical knee pads is made easier with these detailed reviews!
Review Breakdown
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Tactlite Pro
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ToughBuilt GelFit Fanatic
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Alta Industries
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BLACKHAWK
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NoCry
-
Bodyprox
-
ALTA Contour
-
ZAPT
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