Tactical Knee Pads and Elbow Pads
Tactical Knee Pads: How to Choose
Tactical knee pads protect your joints when you have to shoot from a kneeling position, crawl, or work for a long time on a hard surface. The protection you choose determines whether you can move freely after several hours on stones, concrete, or frozen ground. The choice usually comes down to two questions: how the pads will be attached and whether you need elbow protection in addition to knee protection.
Strap-On or Insert Knee Pads for Pants
Strap-on military knee pads have a plastic cap with a soft lining and are worn over your pants. They are fastened with elastic hook-and-loop straps that adjust to your leg, and some models have quick-release buckles. This kind of protection can be taken off when you don't need it and worn with any outfit.
Insert knee pads for pants are EVA-based pads that go into special pockets at the knees. They have no straps, so they don't squeeze your leg, but they only fit pants or uniforms with knee pad pockets. So before buying, check whether your pants have such pockets.
Knee Pads Only or a Set with Elbow Pads
If you mostly work from a kneeling position, knee pads alone are enough. But if you have to shoot while prone, lean on your elbows, or crawl, you will also need tactical elbow pads. A set of knee pads and elbow pads is convenient because both pairs are the same color and made in the same style. Sets come in strap-on versions and insert versions that go into the uniform's pockets.
Choose the color to match your uniform: coyote, olive, multicam, pixel, or black. For some models, the color is selected on the product page.
For full protection, it is also worth getting a helmet with a cover, protective glasses, and tactical earmuffs, and you can find the rest among other products in the protective gear category.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I insert knee pads into pants?
The insert pad goes into the pocket at the knee of your pants, and insert elbow pads go into the sleeve pockets of your uniform. Before putting on the pants, make sure the pad lies flat and is not bent. Without such a pocket, insert knee pads will not stay in place.
Can strap-on knee pads be worn over any pants?
Yes, strap-on models are worn over clothing and adjusted with hook-and-loop straps. Tighten them so that the cap doesn't shift while you move, but doesn't squeeze your leg either.
How do I care for tactical knee pads?
After use, clean sand and dirt off the hook-and-loop fasteners, otherwise they hold worse. Wash the fabric parts by hand and let them air dry, away from heaters.













