Introduction
As an essential part of a welder’s safety gear, knee pads provide crucial protection against sharp objects, flying debris, and hot sparks. A good pair of knee pads can prevent painful knee injuries and ensure you can work comfortably. In this article, we will discuss some of the best knee pads available on the market.
Quick Comparison
Here’s a brief overview of the top welding knee pads:
| Product | Image | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redbacks Advanced Slide In |  |
– Strong impact protection – Super durable – More durable than average pads |
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| Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gel Fit Body |  |
– Gel and foam for comfort – Support the knee well – Best seller |
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| KneePro Ultra Flex III |  |
– Very durable – Hinged Polymer Shell – Don’t swipe up and down |
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| Custom Leathercraft 313 |  |
– Thick felt lining – Heavy-duty leather construction – Can be worn outside |
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| REXBETI Heavy Duty |  |
– Non-standard – Double Thick Gel – Good for lighter jobs |
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The Best Welding Knee Pads with Reviews
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these top-rated knee pads:
1. Redbacks Advanced Slide-On Welded Knee Pads
Advantages:
- Tested to hold up to 550 lbs
- Fits in pocket work pants
- High Impact Design
- Ideal for bent knees
- Waterproof
Shortcomings:
- They can be heavy
- Expensive slide-in design
Overview:
The Redbacks Advanced Slide-On Knee Pads are a popular choice in the UK. Designed to fit into the padded pockets of work pants, they offer a lattice design that can be compressed to fit narrower pockets. These knee pads are made of strong, flexible, and virtually indestructible rubber, providing excellent impact protection. However, they may not be suitable for preventing punctures from metal shards or molten droplets. While they can become damaged over time if splattered with molten metal, users have reported the pads to be heavy and prone to movement in the pocket. Nevertheless, with their curved fit, washable and waterproof construction, and knee protection cover, these knee pads are a reliable choice.
2. Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gelfit Welder’s Knee Pads
Advantages:
- Very comfortable
- Durable construction
- Comfortable leg straps
- High sidewall for stability
- Distributes pressure
- Puncture resistant
Shortcomings:
- Can dig into your calves while standing
- Not flame retardant
Overview:
The Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gelfit Knee Pads feature a combination of gel and foam to provide impact reduction and pressure distribution on the kneecap. These knee pads come with comfortable leg straps that secure them in place without restricting circulation. With high side walls and a foam outer layer that grips slippery floors, they offer both stability and protection. However, wearing them while standing may lead to damage from sparks and bead splatter. The Toughbuilt knee pads are ergonomically designed to provide lateral stability and receive positive feedback for their sturdiness and fabric covering. Overall, they are a reliable choice for extended wear.
3. KP Industries KneePro Ultra Flex III Knee Braces
Advantages:
- Shoulder straps for knee space
- Hinges with steel rivets
- Elastic buckle for adjustment
- Non-standard design
- Very durable
Shortcomings:
- Caution: Slippery
- Need to wear with pants
Overview:
The KP Industries KneePro Ultra Flex III Knee Braces feature a hard polymer shell with a 5/8″ high-density foam pad. These knee pads have grip belts and quick clips for easy adjustment, allowing them to flex with your knees. The riveted hinges and elastic straps positioned above and below the knee provide comfortable movement and prevent pinching. While the closed-cell foam padding may collect moisture, some users appreciate the durability of this design. The KP Industries KneePro Ultra Flex III Knee Pads offer excellent protection against slippery floors and are suitable for heavy-duty use.
4. CLC Custom Leathercraft 313 Heavy Duty Welded Leather Knee Pads
Advantages:
- Thick leather strap
- Extra heavy sutures
- Classic leather design
- All-day comfort
- Wide coverage
- Flame retardant
Shortcomings:
- Leather strap can be hard
- Requires frequent adjustment
Overview:
The CLC Custom Leathercraft 313 Heavy Duty Leather Knee Pads feature two layers of waterproof felt padding and adjustable leather shoulder straps. These knee pads offer a durable and riveted construction. The thick leather straps may require some breaking in for optimal comfort. While the size might seem small to some users, ordering a larger size can solve this issue. The CLC Custom Leathercraft 313 Knee Pads have a classic design and are well-known for their resilience against welding spatter and sparks.
5. REXBETI Heavy Duty Knee Pads
Advantages:
- Ergonomic design
- Includes 4 extension straps
- Reinforcement stitches for durability
- Wide stretchable shoulder straps
- No trace front cover
Shortcomings:
- Elastic band not suitable for thin legs
- Some movement on the kneecap
Overview:
The REXBETI Heavy Duty Welding Knee Pads are designed with double thick gel and a high-density foam pad for maximum comfort. They provide ergonomic support and stability with their thigh support and wide stretchable shoulder straps. The heavy-duty PVC casing ensures durability and resistance to sparks and flying objects. However, the elastic band may not fit well on thin legs, and some users have reported movement on the kneecap. REXBETI Heavy Duty Knee Pads are a well-rounded option with thoughtful design features.
Conclusion
When it comes to protecting your knees, investing in high-quality knee pads is essential. The Redbacks Advanced Slide-In, Toughbuilt KP-G3 Gel Fit Body, KneePro Ultra Flex III, CLC Custom Leathercraft 313, and REXBETI Heavy Duty Knee Pads offer exceptional protection and comfort. Choose the knee pads that best suit your needs and enjoy a safer welding experience.
About the author:
Jeff Grill is a welding enthusiast hailing from Long Island, a stretch of land that spans from the shores of Manhattan to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. With a passion for welding since a young age, Jeff has acquired extensive experience working with various metals, which is evident from the scars on his body.