Issue #053, Review - November 24, 2022

ION K Lite – In our 2022 trail knee pad group test

German manufacturer ION has its roots in the water sports sector, where it’s known primarily for wetsuits. However, in 2012 they added an entire bike line to their product range, which includes clothing, accessories and protection. For 2022, the K Lite was redeveloped from the ground up and designed to offer medium impact protection for enduro oriented riding – which makes it a perfect match for this test! A medium strength material lines the side panels of the pads while a thin mesh patch covers the back of the knee.

Click here for an overview: 14 trail knee pads in test

**Weight per pad** 168 g | **Price** € 99.99 | **Certification** Level 1 | **Removable Insert** Yes
**Fastening System** Velcro strap on the thigh end and at the back of the knee
**Lab Test Results** 21 kN at 3.0 ms | Manufacturer’s website

At the front, a sturdy-looking fabric encloses a removable Polyamide/Elastane insert. Moreover, a thin abrasion resistant plastic layer enhances the sliding properties of the pads, preventing them from riding up when you hit the ground. Although the K Lite is Level 1 certified, measuring 21 kN at 3.0 ms it offers the least protection in the entire test field. Tipping the scales at 168 g, it places it in the midfield for weight while the € 99.99 price tag is just above average. The K Lite combines a Velcro strap on the thigh and one in the hollow of the knee.

The Velcro strap at the back of the knee is quite long, making it hard to fasten the pad securely.

The thin PU layer on the front plate is meant to improve the sliding properties of the pads, preventing them from moving in the event of a crash.

A Velcro strap firmly secures the K Lite to the thigh

The sturdy material makes the ION one of the warmest protectors in this test.

The ION K Lite on the trail

The ION K Lite is easy to put on and the Velcro fasteners are pleasantly stiff, allowing you to secure the knee pad firmly to the leg. However, the strap at the back of the knee is quite long, making it hard to tighten it properly. Nevertheless, the ION K Lite doesn’t slip and stays in place in all conditions and terrains. The thin insert ensures excellent flexibility and makes you forget you’re even wearing pads. The thigh end of the sleeve is rather short and extends only a few centimeters above the knee, but the compact dimensions don’t have a negative effect on wearing comfort. That being said, the sturdy material makes it one of the warmest pads in this group test.

Tops

Good fit

Flops

Not the highest protection level
Quite warm

You can find out more about at boards-more.com.

The test field