5 Best Skateboard Knee Pads for Street, Park & Vert in 2025

Knee pads aren’t only for beginners; they’re your knees best insurance policy. I’ve had my fair share of falls while street skating, hitting ledges, or cruising. That’s why having the right knee pads for skateboarding is a must, no matter your skill level.

Over time, I’ve tried many options — from low-cost pads to trusted brands like Triple Eight and 187 Killer Pads. Some were great. Others? Not worth the hype. So I’ve put together this guide based on real sessions, real impacts, and what actually worked for me.

If you’re looking for comfort, protection, and gear that stays in place during tricks or bail-outs, here are the 5 best skateboard knee pads I recommend.

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5 Best Knee Pads for Skateboarding I Personally Recommend

1. Triple Eight Street Knee Pads

I’ve worn a lot of knee pads over the years, from bulky vert pads to slim street options. But the Triple Eight Street Knee Pads hit that sweet spot between comfort, affordability, and dependable protection. If you’re someone who rides street, hits the local park, or even dabbles in a bit of vert, these offer solid value without breaking the bank.

These pads use high-density contoured EVA foam and impact-resistant polyethylene caps, which means they can take a slam without cracking or shifting out of place. What I really appreciate is the butterfly closing system. I don’t have to yank off my shoes every time I gear up or change spots. It wraps right over my jeans or pants, straps on quickly, and stays put during sessions.

I’ve taken a few nasty bails at moderate speed, and these held up better than I expected for the price. I wouldn’t call them heavy-duty vert pads, but for most street and park skating, they give you that confidence to commit to tricks, especially on ledges, mini ramps, and flatground gaps.

My Experience

The comfort level is high for how slim these pads are. I wore them for 2-hour sessions and didn’t feel the need to adjust them constantly. They’re lightweight, breathable, and don’t give you that stiff robot feel some bulkier pads do. The straps are decent, although I did notice that they can become a little fiddly if not fastened carefully. Also, they tend to run small, so I recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes.

Pros

• Solid protection with EVA foam + hardshell cap
• Lightweight and flexible
• Easy on/off without removing shoes
• Affordable pricing and multiple sizes (XS to L)
• Clean, minimalist look (available in black or gray/white)
• Good for street and casual park

Cons

• Velcro can rub or catch if not aligned well
• The top strap design could be improved for easier setup
  

Should You Buy It?

If you’re looking for one of the best skateboard knee pads that cover the basics without weighing you down, Triple Eight Street Knee Pads are a solid pick. They’re not built like tanks, but for street skaters and park riders who value mobility and decent crash protection, these are more than enough.

2. 187 Killer Pads Fly

As someone who’s recently gotten back into skating, I was on the hunt for a reliable, no-bulk knee pad that wouldn’t slide down mid-session. After reading tons of reviews, I gave the 187 Killer Pads Fly Knee Pad (Grey/White, Medium) a shot, and I’m honestly impressed.

Right out of the box, the quality stood out. These pads don’t just look tough, they are tough. The ballistic nylon and heavy stitching make it feel like they’ll last through hundreds of falls (and I’ve already tested that theory a few times). The sock-style pull-on fit is surprisingly snug, and I love how they contour to my knee. No annoying shifting, no Velcro slipping halfway through a trick.

What really sold me is how streamlined they are. They don’t feel bulky like some of the bigger pads I’ve used before, which means I can move more freely. The padding absorbs impact like a dream. It feels like landing on a cushion when I hit the pavement hard. I’ve taken some nasty falls, and these saved my knees every time.

Pros

• Super comfortable and form-fitting
  
• Doesn’t shift during movement
  
• Great protection even during hard impacts
  
• Looks clean and stylish
  
• Durable build—seams and material feel premium
  

Cons

• Runs a bit small. I have 14” around the knee and Medium just fits, but anyone close to the upper range should size up.
  
• Since it’s a pull-on, you’ll need to put them on before your shoes or gear
  

Overall, I’m glad I invested in these instead of settling for cheap pads again. Whether you’re skating bowls, cruising the streets, or using them for something unconventional like airport ramp work (yes, people do), these are a solid pick. I’ll probably be buying another pair when these finally wear out, though I don’t expect that to happen anytime soon. 

Verdict: Totally worth it. Fits great, protects even better.

3. Triple Eight Saver Series Kneesaver Pads

I picked up the Triple Eight Saver Series Pad Set mainly for the knee pads, since I’ve been getting back into skating and wanted to avoid any bruises or scrapes. I wasn’t expecting much from an all-in-one combo, but the kneesavers surprised me. These things are solid. They’ve already saved me from several nasty falls, and I’m glad I didn’t cheap out.

What I liked right away was how lightweight and breathable the pads are. Despite having a thick EVA foam cushion and a tough polycarbonate shell, they don’t feel bulky at all. I can move freely without that stiff, armored feeling some pads give. Even during longer skate sessions, they didn’t slide down or shift around. The elastic straps are strong, and the hook-and-loop fasteners hold tight, even when I get sweaty. I didn’t have to remove my shoes either; these pads slide on and off easily.

One day, I took a hard fall on rough concrete, and my full body weight went straight to my knees. I braced myself for the impact pain, but surprisingly felt almost nothing. Just a small scuff on the shell, no bruising, no swelling. That was the moment I fully trusted these pads.

Pros

• Solid knee protection with EVA foam + polycarbonate cap
  
• Comfortable and flexible
  
• Stays in place during rides and falls
  
• Easy to put on/off, even with shoes
  
• Lightweight & breathable, didn’t overheat
  

Cons

• Sizing is based on wrist guards, so knee pad fit might slightly vary
  
• If you have larger legs, consider sizing up. Medium fits snugly on m,e but might be tight for others
  

My Recommendation

If you’re a beginner, casual skater, or even getting back into skating like me, these knee saver pads from Triple Eight are more than just “starter gear.” They’re protective, comfortable, and durable enough to handle real impacts. You won’t get premium-level pro features here, but for the price, these are some of the best value knee pads I’ve worn. I’d recommend them if you want reliable safety without spending a fortune.

4. Banzk Knee Pads

The Banzk Adult Knee Pads are one of the most popular skateboard protective gear right now. These pads feature a tough, curved polypropylene (PP) outer shell, backed by breathable EVA foam padding and a thick 600D Oxford fabric cover. They’re designed to absorb shock and protect your knees from falls during skateboarding, biking, and rollerblading. With adjustable elastic straps and velcro closures, they’re made to fit snugly while allowing airflow and sweat resistance.

My Real Experience

I bought the Large (136-185 lbs) set mainly for skateboarding. My main goal was to find something low-cost but decent enough for real outdoor riding, not just soft falls in the driveway. These knee protectors immediately felt well-built and heavier than expected, with a hard front shell that wraps around the knee cap decently.

After a few sessions, including one where I misjudged a curb and hit the ground hard, I can confirm these things take a hit. The curved plastic shell did its job; I felt the impact but walked away without a bruise or scrape. However, they’re not exactly subtle or low-profile. They bulk up around the knees and limit flexibility slightly, but that’s part of the trade-off for better protection.

The elastic straps held up well and didn’t slip once adjusted correctly. I wore them for about an hour and a half per ride, and while not the most breathable pads I’ve tried, I didn’t feel like I was baking inside them either. The interior foam padding feels secure and absorbs some shocks, but isn’t plush or soft, just practical.

Pros

• Shock-absorbent shell: The curved PP shell softens direct knee impacts.
  
• Durable construction: Heavy-duty Oxford fabric feels long-lasting and tough.
  
• Budget-friendly: Under $20, which is rare for pads this solid.
  
• Secure fit: The velcro and elastic combo makes sure they don’t slide mid-ride.
  
• Versatile sizing: Multiple size options for different body types.
  

Cons

• Slightly stiff at first: They restrict knee movement a bit, especially when crouching.
  
• Can leave marks: The straps dig in if you over-tighten or wear them too long.
  
• Not ultra-breathable: Good ventilation, but can get warm on long sessions.
  
• No padding on the sides: They cover the kneecap well but leave the sides a bit exposed.
  

Should You Buy It?

If you’re looking for affordable knee pads for skateboarding or biking that actually work, the Banzk knee pads punch above their price tag. They’re not sleek or ultra-flexible, but they absorb hard hits and give you peace of mind, especially if you’re a beginner or returning skater. Just be ready for a bit of break-in stiffness and bulk.

These aren’t premium pads, but they feel a lot safer than some flimsy no-name brands—and after taking a full fall on concrete without injury, I’d say that alone makes them worth it.

5. JBM Knee Pads 

The JBM protective gear set is a popular all-in-one solution that includes knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards designed for kids and adults engaging in outdoor sports like skateboarding, rollerblading, and biking. However, for this review, I’ll focus solely on the knee pads. Built with soft EVA padding, durable polyester material, and hard plastic caps, these pads aim to absorb impact effectively while providing comfort and stability. Adjustable elastic straps allow for a flexible fit for a wide range of users, particularly those aged 12+ (size large).

My Experience

I tested the JBM knee pads while cruising on my longboard and during a few casual rides on my roller skates. The first thing I noticed was how snug but comfortable they felt right out of the box. The double-secure strap system with both a wrap-around and a Velcro strap gave me confidence that they’d stay in place even during quick turns and sudden stops.

On one ride, I hit a crack in the sidewalk and went down on one knee. The hard shell did its job well, no bruises or scrapes, just some scuff marks on the surface of the pad. Even after multiple uses, the Velcro held up nicely, and the cushioning inside didn’t feel flattened or stiff.

Pros

• Great impact absorption thanks to the EVA padding and solid outer shell.
  
• Comfortable for longer sessions — didn’t cause overheating or chafing.
  
• Reliable Velcro and strap system that keeps the pads securely in place.
  
• Good fit for teens and adults (especially 12+ years with average to lean build).
  
• Decent build quality for the price, and backed by thousands of positive reviews.
  

Cons

• It might be tight for individuals with larger legs.
• Not ideal for professional-level use
• Bulkier than it looks — slightly noticeable under looser pants or jeans.
  

Recommended For

For under $35, the JBM knee pads offer solid protection and comfort, especially for beginners and casual riders. While they come as part of a combo set, the knee pads alone are impressive for their shock absorption, fit, and construction. If you’re getting into skating or want basic but dependable knee protection for your outdoor activities, these are a smart, budget-friendly pick. Just make sure you double-check sizing if you have larger legs, as the fit runs a bit snug.

Should I Wear Knee Pads for Skateboarding?

Absolutely and not just if you’re new. Whether you’re grinding ledges, carving bowls, or learning your first ollie, knee pads are your best defense when things go sideways. I’ve seen too many skaters (including myself) try to tough it out without them, only to end up nursing cracked kneecaps, deep bruises, or worse.

When you’re street skating or riding a park, especially at high speed or over rough concrete, falls don’t give you time to adjust. Knee pads let you slide out of bails without jamming your joints or ripping up your skin. They give you the confidence to commit to tricks because you know your knees won’t take the full hit if you miss.

Even pros wear knee pads during vert sessions and contests. In fact, Tony Hawk, Lizzie Armanto, and many transition skaters swear by high-impact pads because one bad slam on a coping or ramp can mean months off the board.

If you:

• Skate park, bowl, or vert
  
• Are learning new tricks and pushing your limits
  
• Have had previous knee injuries
  
• Or just want to skate longer without soreness
  

…then wearing pads is a no-brainer. The right pair won’t just protect you, they’ll keep you in the game longer.

What Size Skateboard Knee Pads Should I Get?

Sizing matters a lot, too loose and they’ll slide down mid-trick, too tight and you’ll cut off circulation or deal with strap burn.

Most skate knee pads use measurements based on the circumference just above the kneecap (typically around 4 inches above the knee center). Grab a flexible tape measure and check that spot on both legs.

Here’s a general guide (but always check each brand’s sizing chart):

Size	Above Knee Circumference
Small	12 – 14 inches (30 – 36 cm)
Medium	14 – 16 inches (36 – 41 cm)
Large	16 – 18 inches (41 – 46 cm)
X-Large	18 – 20 inches (46 – 51 cm)

If you’re in between sizes, go up one size, especially if you plan to wear pads over pants or if you ride in hot weather where swelling and sweat can make tight pads uncomfortable.

From personal experience, brands like Triple Eight and 187 Killer Pads tend to run small, while sets like Banzk or JBM offer more adjustable room due to their elastic straps and wider coverage.

Also, pull-on sleeves (like the 187 Fly) offer a snugger fit and are less likely to shift, but you’ll need to size more carefully. Velcro-wrap styles offer more flexibility for growth or layering.

Final Thoughts

No matter how long you’ve been skating, the truth is this: falls are part of the game, and the right knee pads can make sure they don’t take you out. I’ve tested a bunch of gear over the years, and the five options I’ve listed here aren’t just based on brand names; they’re based on real slams, real sessions, and what kept me rolling.

Whether you’re hitting street spots, cruising the local park, or dropping into vert, there’s a pair here that’ll match your style, budget, and needs. Go for something slim like the Triple Eight Street Pads if you want mobility. Pick the 187 Fly Pads for comfort that stays put. Or grab a budget-friendly set like Banzk or JBM if you’re just getting started and want solid protection without spending a ton.

At the end of the day, knee pads aren’t just safety gear; they’re confidence builders. Find the pair that fits right, stays in place, and lets you focus on progression.

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