Elbow pads are an essential piece of protective gear for any mountain biker, regardless of their level of experience. These pads are designed to protect the elbows from impacts, scratches, and bruises that can occur during falls or accidents. Mountain biking can be a thrilling and adventurous sport, but it comes with its own set of risks. Therefore, we recommend wearing elbow pads to stay safe while exploring the trails.

The Benefits Of Protecting Your Elbows

The benefits of wearing protective pads are numerous. Firstly, they offer protection from impact injuries. Falling and colliding with rocks, trees, or other objects on the trails could be just one wrong move away. In such situations, the elbows are often the first point of contact, and a hard impact can cause serious injuries. Elbow pads act as a barrier between the elbow and the hard surface, distributing the force of the impact and reducing the risk of injury. This is especially important for riders who engage in higher-speed riding, where the risk of impact injuries is much higher.

Another benefit of elbow pads is that they protect the skin from scratches and abrasions. If you do fall, your skin can get easily scraped and bruised by the rough terrain. Elbow pads act as a shield, preventing direct contact between the skin and the ground. This can help prevent minor injuries that can lead to infections and other complications. According to Dr. Jeffrey Halbrecht, skin abrasions are one of the most common injuries while mountain biking, you can read about it here. Any extra protection on extremities can help to prevent the uncomfortable road rash we have all experienced at one time or another.

Different Types Of Elbow Pads

There are several types of elbow pads available in the market, each designed for a specific purpose. The most common types of elbow protection are low profile / slim or more bulky higher protection pads. The low profile pads are suitable for riders who prefer a lightweight and comfortable option. The bulkier pads offer maximum protection from impacts and side protection. They are ideal for riders who engage in aggressive or high-speed riding.

The Best Pads For You

When choosing elbow pads, it is important to consider factors such as fit, comfort, and durability. Elbow pads should fit snugly around the elbow without restricting movement or causing discomfort. They should also be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of mountain biking. Durability is particularly important for riders who engage in frequent or intense riding. The pads will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear so durability is key.

In conclusion, wearing elbow pads while mountain biking is essential for staying safe and avoiding injuries. Elbow pads offer protection from impact injuries and scratches, allowing riders to enjoy the trails with peace of mind.

We strongly recommend the Ninja Speed King Elbow Pads – they are lightweight, breathable protective gear that you’ll actually want to wear. These pads provide the impact and abrasion protection you need, with the next-level comfort. Let’s face it, the best pads are the ones you’ll actually wear, and with the Speed King pads, you’ll never leave home with bare elbows again.

If you’re looking for more protection, the Ninja Hooligan Elbow Pads – they are flexible, with certified protective pads that are ready to party (on your elbows, that is). These pads are designed to mold to your unique shape, so you’ll get the perfect fit every time. And with adjustable straps and a pre-articulated design, you’ll be able to dial in the fit to your exact specifications. Plus, the added side protection will give you peace of mind on those gnarly trails.

When choosing riding protection, riders should consider factors such as fit, comfort, and durability to ensure the best protection possible. If you are in the market for some new protective gear, be sure to check out Ninja’s helmets and pads. The Hooligan and Speed King pads are both great choices to give you some piece of mind while out on the trails!