Review: Enduro MTB Magazine - 100% Teratec Plus

Enduro MTB Magazine has tested the 100% Teratec Plus. Here is what they had to say:

Alongside helmets, knee pads have become an integral part of many riders’ equipment. The market for knee pads is huge and includes everything from slim and super-light models to bulky, heavy-duty protectors. However, most riders tend to roam on their home trails and negotiate climbs under their own steam. For this type of rider, a comfortable lightweight knee pad is the optimal choice – and yet a high level of protection is paramount!

We put 14 lightweight knee pads through the wringer, both in a high-tech laboratory and on various trails around the globe. All models in this test feature either a polyurethane or viscoelastic foam protector. These materials have become increasingly popular over the past few years, because they offer better protection and absorb impact forces more efficiently than conventional hard-shell models. Moreover, the malleable materials ensure a higher level of comfort and can take multiple hits, returning to their original shape after an impact and thus continuing to offer reliable protection.

This is what knee pads are all about

There are more knee pads on the market than stars in the firmament and yet only the best models manage to strike the optimal balance between protection and ventilation while at the same time ensuring a high level of comfort. Needless to say, manufacturing quality and look also play a crucial role.

Is beefier always better? Protection first!

First and foremost, all knee pads in this test meet the EN 1621-1:2012 Standard for motorcycle limb joint impact protection, thus offering a high level of protection. However, there are still differences within the same standard – it includes two different protection levels, which indicate how much residual force may reach the knee with a given impact. Another crucial factor is the size of the protector and the extent to which this encloses the knee to protect it against lateral impacts. Here, protection isn’t just about size and beefiness, but also about the quality of the material of the protector and the fit – a knee pad can only offer a good level of protection if it doesn’t slip during a crash. Some models also have additional layers of simple PU foam sewn into the side, but these don’t add much to the protective qualities of the knee pad.

Comfort is paramount

Comfort should be high on your priority list when choosing a knee pad, especially if you’re planning to spend long days in the saddle. A slight pressure on the shin, a pinch at the back of the knee or light rubbing sensation on the calf might not a be that big of a deal on a short post-work ride, but could potentially transform a fun day out in the mountains into a real suffer fest if you spend many hours pedalling with the knee pads on – especially when you’re on a four-day backcountry expedition with your mates and can already feel the pads chafing your legs after the first few kilometres…

Only a protector that fits well offers protection

With all things protection, a good fit is essential – and knee pads are no exception. Having to pull up a slipping knee pad every two minutes is a real pain and if the pad doesn’t sit where you need it during a crash, shit quickly hits the fan. Needless to say, knee pads should fit well with both short and long trousers. The manufacturers in this test use a few different approaches to make sure their pads stay put: some use a simple slip-on, sock-like sleeve while others rely on a Velcro fastener to secure the pad to the thigh, calf or the back of the knee. Most models feature a rubber or silicone strip on the thigh or calf to prevent it from slipping. This leads to another important criterion: how easy it is to put on and take off the knee pad.

A pleasant climate is key, even on hot summer days

The level of ventilation of a knee pad depends on multiple factors, one of them being the type and thickness of the material. Another is the design of the main sleeve that holds the protector, with some manufacturers relying on an open design at the rear and others covering the hollow of the knee with a thin mesh. Most knee pads in this test rely on vent holes in the protector pad, while some also feature perforations and vents in the sleeve to help ensure a good interior climate.

Of course, manufacturing quality and looks are very important too

Last but not least, knee pads form part of your outfit and, if possible, should match the style of your riding gear. Alongside style, we also take into account other practical aspects such as packability and dimensions. Are the protectors removable or sewn into the sleeve? Moreover, different manufacturers recommend different washing programmes, which can vary greatly from knee pad to knee pad! Regardless of the manufacturer’s recommendations, we always recommend washing knee pads with integrated protectors by hand. Even if the foam or rubber protector doesn’t absorb water, it could be damaged by mechanical stress in a washing machine.

The test field

Our test field consists of 14 knee pads from the most popular brands. Although all models employ similar or, in some cases, even identical protectors, the pads differ significantly in comfort, weight, style and protection.

The lab test results show an average of three readings, one taken at the centre of the kneecap, one below the kneecap, and one side impact. For each pad, you will see the maximum residual force recorded, and the time from impact it was recorded. A pad with a low maximum residual force and long delay should provide better protection than one which delivers a higher amount of force in a shorter time. The weight refers to the size M of each model.

A knee pad that fits like no other in this test field is the 100% Teratec Plus. Thanks to its wide cuff on the thigh, it doesn’t budge a millimetre even in the roughest trail sections. In addition, we found it to be the most comfortable model for pedalling missions. Our undisputed Best Buy Tip!

Read the full review here