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Anyone who has ever knelt on a hard surface knows how quickly it can become uncomfortable, even downright painful. A quality pair of knee pads can make all the difference, but with dozens of models on the market, it’s easy to grab a pair that disappoints.
To find out which ones are truly worth it, we did what the Bob Vila team often does with tools and home appliances: we put some of the best-selling options to the test. One model stood out: the Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III Knee Pads. These pads earned top marks in our hands-on tests thanks to their hard, rugged shell and EVA foam padding that offered excellent protection without sacrificing comfort.
Read on for the key factors to consider when choosing a pair, and see which models made our list of the best knee pads for DIYers, gardeners, and construction pros.
- BEST OVERALL: Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III KneePro Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: NoCry GelGuard Pro Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR FLOORING: ProKnee AP16 ⅝-Inch Foam All-Purpose Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR CONSTRUCTION: Milwaukee Stabilizer Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ALL-PURPOSE: ToughBuilt GelFit Rocker Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR THE HEAT: Bodyprox Thick Sponge Anti-Slip Protective Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR THE COLD: Thunderbolt Cushioned Knee Pads
↓ Jump to Review
Knee Pads Comparison
| Product | Type | Material | Additional Features |
| Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III KneePro Knee Pads | Shell caps | Foam and plastic | Built-in gel pack, elastic strap with adjustable speed clip closure |
| NoCry GelGuard Pro Knee Pads | Padding caps | EVA foam and gel cushion | Adjustable strap |
| ProKnee AP16 ⅝-Inch Foam All-Purpose Knee Pads | Cap and foam | Polyurethane foam | Ergonomic, adjustable, shock absorptive |
| Milwaukee Stabilizer Knee Pads | Hard caps | Plastic shell, gel-foam interior pad | Thigh strap, hinged |
| ToughBuilt GelFit Rocker Knee Pads | Shell caps | Plastic shell, fabric interior with foam and gel support | Interchangeable SnapShells |
| Bodyprox Thick Sponge Anti-Slip Protective Knee Pads | Padding caps | Polyester, rubber, nylon, spandex, EVA foam | None |
| Thunderbolt Cushioned Knee Pads | Shell caps | Neoprene, PVC, ballistic nylon | Adjustable straps, extension straps |
Our Top Picks
We’ve rounded up some of the most highly rated knee pads, ranging from construction-friendly options to more casual ones better-suited to other tasks, such as gardening. Have a look to find the pair that’s right for the projects you have in mind.
Best Overall
Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III KneePro Knee Pads
What We Like
- Robust knee protection
- Surprisingly comfortable fit
- Hinged joint for better mobility
- Lightweight and no slipping
What We Don’t Like
- May trap heat in warm weather
Specs
- Type: Shell caps
- Material: Foam and plastic
- Additional features: Built-in gel pack, elastic strap with adjustable speed clip closure
Our Ratings
| Comfort and Fit | 4.8/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.7/5 |
When we unboxed Sellstrom’s Ultra Flex III knee pads, they initially looked clunky and awkward, but once we strapped them on, they were very comfortable. We liked that they protected not just the kneecap but also the sides of the knee and right above the knee as well.
Their hinged joints made frequent kneeling and standing easy and comfortable, and they kept the hard shells from digging into the thighs. The dense inner foam padding delivered all-day pressure relief and absorbed shocks from bumps.
Best of all, the Sellstrom knee pads don’t slip or need adjustment during the work day. They stayed put while we wore them, so our hands were always free to work on our projects.
Although they may look cumbersome, they weigh just about a pound each. During testing, we forgot we were wearing knee pads not long after we strapped them on. The only downside—and it’s a minor one—is that sweat tends to collect under the pads on a hot day. But that’s typical with just about any knee pad, and we’ll happily put up with that to protect our knees comfortably.
What our tester says: “These knee pads were so comfortable. They didn’t bind or slide down, and I loved the way they protected the sides of my knees as well as my kneecap.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews writer and tester
Get the Sellstrom knee pads at Amazon and Lowe’s.
Best Bang For The Buck
NoCry GelGuard Pro Knee Pads
What We Like
- Excellent knee cushioning
- Heavy-duty build
- Great for landscaping projects
What We Don’t Like
- Straps tend to slide down
Specs
- Type: Padding caps
- Material: EVA
- Additional features: Adjustable strap
Our Ratings
| Comfort and Fit | 5/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.7/5 |
There’s no need to spend a lot to protect your knees. NoCry’s GelGuard Pro gardening knee pads are a top pick for those seeking multipurpose pads that offer all-day cushioning and reliable knee protection. Built from heavy-duty materials, they feature military-grade rivets and multiple layers of EVA foam padding with a gel cushion core. The protective cap, made from patented thermoplastic rubber, includes a raised bottom lip that helps limit rolling and adds stability on uneven terrain. Best of all, they’re affordable.
We found they offered excellent knee padding and protection. They were especially helpful during prolonged use on rough or hard surfaces. However, putting them on can be a bit tedious, and the pads tend to slide down during movement, which can become frustrating over time. The maximum thigh strap width of 26 inches may also be limiting for some users. With that in mind, these kneepads are likely best suited as garden kneelers or for projects like landscape work or chores that require moving between multiple locations, during which the added protection outweighs the inconvenience of readjustment.
Get the NoCry knee pads at Amazon or NoCry.
Best For Flooring
ProKnee AP16 ⅝-Inch Foam All-Purpose Knee Pads
What We Like
- Dense PU padding for ultimate comfort
- Large flat panel design
- Quick-release buckles
- They work well as flooring knee pads
What We Don’t Like
- No side-knee protection
Specs
- Type: Cap and foam
- Material: Polyurethane foam
- Additional features: Ergonomic, adjustable, shock absorptive
Our Ratings
| Comfort and Fit | 5/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.7/5 |
The ProKnee AP16 knee pads don’t look like they’d be very comfortable, but nothing is further from the truth. They have a large flat panel and dense polyurethane PU padding that almost made it feel as though we were kneeling on a bed rather than on a hard floor or the ground.
They feature double straps and durable, quick-release buckles. Once we adjusted the straps to fit, they were quick to put on and take off. A significant benefit of buckles is that they don’t gather lint and debris, something that Velcro-style closures are prone to and which makes them hold their grip less well over time.
These are not all-purpose knee pads—they don’t offer side-knee protection, and the porous foam inner cover is unsuitable for working in dirt or soil. They come at a premium price, but if you’re looking for comfort when installing hardwood or tiling floors, this is the pair of knee pads you want.
What our tester says: “These knee pads really protected my knees when I had to kneel for extended periods. The dense foam was so comfortable, even after hours of laying strips of hardwood.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews and tester
Get the ProKnee knee pads at Amazon or Walmart.
Best For Construction
Milwaukee Stabilizer Knee Pads
What We Like
- Designed to accommodate constant movement
- Adjustable thigh strap is easy to use
- Drop-hinge connection
- Stable flat-cap design
What We Don’t Like
- We wish the padding were thicker
Specs
- Type: Hard caps
- Material: Plastic shell, gel-foam interior pad
- Additional features: Thigh strap, hinged
Our Ratings
| Comfort and Fit | 4.8/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 4.7/5 |
We’re big Milwaukee fans. This well-known brand is consistently turning out high-end power tools and now, they’re delivering on knee pads for construction pros and serious DIYers. Their Stabilizer knee pads are designed for constant movement, kneeling and even squatting without binding.
We really liked the added thigh strap, which was easy to adjust to fit. It held the entire knee pad in place and kept it from sliding down. When you’re working in the field, you can’t keep stopping to pull slipped knee pads up or you won’t get anything done.
The Stabilizers feature a drop-hinge that connects the knee protector to the thigh strap, and we found it both comfortable and convenient. When we kneeled down, the flat cap on the knee pad provided a stable surface, and we were able to easily move from side to side without the cap rolling as it can with rounded caps.
The only thing we’d change is the foam padding. It’s nice and soft, but we’d like a little more (maybe twice as much) if we’re going to be on a project where we’re on our knees for hours.
Get the Milwaukee knee pads at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Tool Up.
More Great Options
While we didn’t personally test the following knee pads, they made our shortlist for quality materials, ergonomic design, and high customer satisfaction.
Best All-Purpose
ToughBuilt GelFit Rocker Knee Pads
What We Like
- Gel pad for kneeling
- Outer shells snap on and off
- Good knee pads for construction work
What We Don’t Like
- Elastic straps lack adjustability
Specs
- Type: Shell caps
- Material: Plastic shell, fabric interior with foam and gel support
- Additional features: Interchangeable SnapShells
The GelFit Rocker knee pads from ToughBuilt are safe on various surfaces, and we think they’re worth considering thanks to their versatility. If you plan on working in the garden one day and on flooring projects the next, these pads will be up for it all. They feature nonmarking heavy-duty poly shields, so wearers needn’t worry that they will scratch floors, tiles, and other delicate surfaces. We like that the manufacturer uses both gel and other padding to ensure they are comfortable when kneeling for long periods. These pads’ high sidewalls protect wearers from twisting their knees, too.
The pads are fitted with EVA elastic leg straps and sturdy buckles that should keep them firmly in place, so no endless distraction from the pads slipping and sliding around when moving. The straps are flexible, though, so they won’t cut off circulation. They feature abrasion-resistant fabric, rounded design for mobility, and shatter-resistant plastic. We would suggest the ToughBuilt knee pads for enthusiastic DIYers and landscapers.
Get the ToughBuilt knee pads at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
Best for the Heat
Bodyprox Thick Sponge Anti-Slip Protective Knee Pads
What We Like
- Affordable price point
- Breathable fabric encourages airflow
- Easy slip-on design
- Comfortable foam knee pads
What We Don’t Like
- Padded areas can flatten over time
Specs
- Type: Padding caps
- Material: Polyester, rubber, nylon, spandex, EVA foam
- Additional features: None
One of our common complaints is the lack of breathability in many types of knee pads around those hard-working joints, as it can result in a buildup of sweat, leading to uncomfortable working conditions. Designed as a breathable woven sleeve, this protective knee pad from Bodyprox helps allow air to circulate while still providing adequate padding.
Available in two sizes, these pads slide on and off easily and have no hard shells to restrict movement, allowing users the freedom to bend and move as they wish during a variety of activities in the garden, on the volleyball court, or at the skate park. We like these pads for multipurpose use, but if you need a quick-on/quick-off pair, you might want to look for pads with buckles.
Get the Bodyprox knee pads on Amazon.
Best for the Cold
Thunderbolt Cushioned Knee Pads
What We Like
- Suitable for most user sizes
- Durable nonslip shell
- Great construction knee pads
What We Don’t Like
- Can shift when bending knees
Specs
- Type: Shell caps
- Material: Neoprene, PVC, ballistic nylon
- Additional features: Adjustable straps, extension straps
Cold weather is no friend to arthritis and old injuries. These Thunderbolt knee pads’ neoprene, ballistic nylon, and PVC construction provide all-day comfort for folks working in colder temperatures. We’re very aware that cold, hard surfaces like concrete, tile, and marble can sap body heat and leave you feeling chilled. Whether the projects you plan on working on include roofing, landscaping, or household maintenance, the Thunderbolt’s durable construction is ideal for various surfaces, including floors and tiles.
The pads weigh less than 2 pounds, boast an ergonomic design, and include adjustable straps that keep the knee pads comfortably in place, even over bulky pants and other winter wear. The Thunderbolt knee pads are equipped with an above-the-knee strap that offers extra support for the quadriceps and patella, too. We’d keep these knee pads around for laying tile or flooring in cold weather.
Get the Thunderbolt knee pads on Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Knee Pads
| Products tested | 4 |
| Time spent testing | 2 weeks |
| Tests performed | 4 |
| Price range | $40 to $110 |
When choosing knee pads for our lineup, we researched over 30 different pairs before selecting seven for our list. Of those, we chose four for hands-on testing. We included products with the most sought-after features. We selected both hard-shell and padded-cap knee pads with a range of additional features such as nonslip outer layers, extra straps to fit a wider range of user sizes, as well as foam padding and gel inserts for additional comfort. Many of these knee pads also use elastic straps to make them easy to slip on and off.
In actual testing, we wore each set of knee pads for a minimum of 1 hour per day during a 2-week testing period. We climbed, kneeled, and squatted to see whether they slipped down or were uncomfortable in any way. We tried out the pads on several surfaces, including outdoor lawn and soil, concrete and brick surfaces, and underlayment as well.
In addition, we inspected the knee pads at the end of the testing phase to see whether they were still in good condition. Using a rubric, we awarded points to each product during these inspections and tests. After testing, we tallied the points to determine our top pick and to categorize the other knee pads according to their best use.
| Product | Comfort and Fit | Durability | Value | ||
| Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III KneePro Knee Pads | 4.8/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 | ||
| NoCry GelGuard Pro Knee Pads | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 | ||
| ProKnee AP16 ⅝-Inch Foam All-Purpose Knee Pads | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.7/5 | ||
| Milwaukee Stabilizer Knee Pads | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 |
What to Consider When Choosing Knee Pads
When choosing the best knee pads, consider the right combination of comfort and function, the level of protection needed, and the type and duration of projects.
Types of Knee Pads
Knee pads are essential for various tasks at home and work. Roofers, landscapers, floor fitters, and athletes are just some of the professionals who regularly wear knee pads.
Whether users are gardening, waxing hardwood floors, working on a car, or frequently kneeling for any other activity, knee pads can ease the pressure on the joints and patellar region, prevent injury, and maximize efficiency. When shopping for a pair of knee pads, consider the environment in which they’ll be worn.
Padding Caps
Knee pads with padding caps (sometimes referred to as soft caps) are usually comprised of foam materials that offer flexible protection. A padding cap provides comfort and mobility for jobs on smooth or somewhat soft surfaces, such as in the garden or on carpeting. Often, soft-cap knee pads are preferred for around-the-house projects because of their lightweight design and comfort. Padding caps offer the widest point of knee-to-surface contact, so they aren’t ideal for projects that involve a ton of on-the-ground movement, especially side-to-side motions. But they’re a good choice to limit fatigue felt from long bouts of continuous kneeling.
Shell Caps
Best for use on rough surfaces, such as on roofs or construction sites, knee pads with shell caps have exterior surface shells usually made of rugged plastic or carbon fiber. They’re ideal for more demanding projects that require mobility because they give the freedom to move and slide around while providing reliable protection and stability. They’re usually held in place with either elastic sleeves or loop straps.
Hex Pads
Hex-pad knee pads have honeycomb designs that provide a more secure fit while delivering maximum mobility and comfort. Hex pads are constructed with foam materials that ensure shock absorption, so many people choose to wear them when they play sports such as volleyball, basketball, and weight lifting. These pads also serve as compression knee pads in rehabilitation therapy. Hex pads are breathable, sweat wicking, and laundering-friendly. They’re primarily designed for athletes, so they aren’t ideal for projects that require kneeling for long periods.
Fit
If you plan to switch frequently between standing and kneeling while wearing the knee pads, adjustable straps will allow them to be tightened as needed. Many models are designed with straps that are located both above and below the knee.
Straps on knee pads are commonly made from Velcro or elastic, although some straps are made from plastic or metal fasteners. Velcro increases the range of adjustability but can sometimes be uncomfortable and a hassle to fasten properly. When correctly adjusted, elastic straps can be very comfortable. Still, elastic stretches over time, so they may need early or frequent replacement. Fasteners provide both fit and longevity but may scratch surfaces or become hot.
Cushioning Material and Thickness
Knee pads are available with various cushioning materials, the most common of which are gel, foam, and rubber. Sport-related activities require impact-resistant padding to prevent injury during falls, while around-the-house projects and some workplace activities warrant padding designed to protect knees for sanding a deck or kneeling for long periods.
If a project includes flooring installation, automotive work, or other work that requires up-and-down movements, be sure to take that into account.
Those who often work outdoors in hot or cold climates may prefer more breathable knee pads made from woven fabrics that encourage airflow around the knees while also providing padded support. Some materials are also better suited for cooler or warmer temperatures. For example, neoprene soft-cap knee pads are breathable, while thicker layers of padding tend to act as thermal insulators on cold days.
FAQs
Lightweight knee pads may be hardly noticeable, while more heavy-duty types may initially feel (and look) a bit awkward. But the pros of protection from strains and stress outweigh the cons of the slight awkwardness. Here are a few common questions you may have as you research the best knee pads for work and other needs.
Knee pads stabilize and protect the knees while the user works on hard and uneven surfaces. They accomplish this by absorbing pressure, as well as shock, should someone fall unexpectedly.
Knee pads can be worn over pants or with shorts. Depending on the fastening mechanism, you’ll either slide the pads into place or secure them with adjustable straps. Two important considerations are to ensure that the knee pads fit securely and that they will remain in place while changing positions.
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, but in most cases, soap and water can be used to hand-wash knee pads to remove dirt and sweat. It’s advised not to put them into a washing machine, and submerging the pads in water should be avoided unless recommended by the manufacturer. To prevent mildew, be sure to allow the pads to air-dry before storing.
It depends on what you’re looking for. Gel offers better cushioning while foam is lighter and more breathable.
They should fit snugly enough not to slip down but not snugly enough to cut off circulation.
Choose models with adjustable straps, a thigh strap, or a non-slip lining.
Position the protective cap directly over your kneecap and then adjust the straps to keep it there.
Measure the circumference of your leg above and below the knee and check the manufacturer’s chart for the correct sizing.
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction, DIY tools, and home appliances. She started writing for BobVila.com in 2016 and covers a range of topics, including construction methods, code compliance, tool use, and the latest news in the housing and real estate industries.
Additional research provided by Alisa Martin.
