IXS Flow Knee Pads Review
In this IXS Flow knee pads review, I will go into their features and what it’s like to live and ride with them. But in short, I can tell you that I’m impressed with their comfort. Although I haven’t actually had to “use”them yet, I’m confident in their capability of protecting my bony joints.
Why I Bought The IXS Flow Knee Pads
I’ve had the same Fox Launch knee pads for several years now. They are heavy-duty hard plastic pads that cover my entire shins and knees. I have been thankful for buying them several times, especially when sliding down a gravel track on my knees and getting up without a scratch.
I recently moved house, and although I still strap on my Fox Launch knee pads for bike park days, I wanted something lighter for local pedals around the mountains.
This is where the IXS Flow knee pads come in.
IXS Flow Knee Pads Review - First Impressions
I saw these knee pads at the IXS stand at the Pass’Portes du Soleil bike show in Morzine at the beginning of summer 2023. The first thing I noticed when trying them on was how easy they were to put on. There is no fuss, and a velcro strap at the top quickly secures them. Security is enhanced by silicone strips at each end too.
The next thing I was impressed by was their comfort. They feel plush without feeling bulky or too insulated. You soon forget they are there, and don’t restrict your movement when pedaling.
Protection
The IXS Flow Knee pads’ protection comes from their X-Matter center caps. This stuff is a flexible but protective covering that goes over and around your kneecaps. It is what’s called an open-cell compound made of malleable viscoelastic polymer. The main advantage of X-Matter is that it enhances comfort by forming around your knees while providing multi-impact protection.
I am fortunate not to have had to use the protection yet. But, after close inspection and the feeling of wearing them gives me confidence they’ll do the job just fine.
Another thing I like about them is that they stay put, even on long bumpy descents. There is no movement at all, so you know the protective parts shall remain in the correct place if you crash.
IXS Flow Knee Pads Review - Verdict
Wearing knee pads gives me confidence, and slipping them on before a ride is part of my routine, just as much as putting my helmet on.
Check out my review of the Fox Proframe Full-Face Mountain Bike Helmet
Unless it is a scorching day, I will still use my Fox Launch pads for more gnarly rides and in the bike park. But the IXS Flow knee pads will come out of my kit bag for pedals and fitness rides with fun off-road descents.
The IXS Flows are not the ultimate lightweight knee pads, but they strike a good balance between protection and comfort. They feel great and are reasonably breathable. The knee cup provides good coverage around the parts of the knee that usually hit the ground first.
On top of all this, their low profile means they are packable. Therefore, I can stuff them into my backpack for the sweaty ride home or in my travel bag for away days much more easily than my chunky Fox Launch knee pads.
