Mountain Bike Knee Pads Black Friday: enduro and BMX discounts

Three points to check on an elbow guard

• The use: for enduro and trail, a thin sleeve that can be worn throughout the ride; for bike parks, downhill or BMX, a more covering model, with side reinforcements or a shell, often held in place by straps.
• The size: it is measured around the bicep and in the middle of the forearm, not at the size of the jersey. Some models display this directly, like the Bluegrass Skinny in 26-29 cm.
• The advertised protection: each manufacturer indicates the certification of the insert and its level on its specification. Compare two elbow guards based on this information rather than their apparent thickness.

Spotting a genuine discount on elbow guards

Before putting two crossed-out prices side by side, make sure to compare the same quantity: some models are sold in pairs, others individually, which the title indicates by "pair," "x2," or a plural, and which the product listing confirms. A single elbow guard at a discounted price may end up being more expensive than a less discounted pair. Also, check the version, adult or child, as several models exist in both sizes, and the generation of the model, which sometimes alters the insert or the fit under the same name. The choice between soft and reinforced, trying them on, and maintenance are detailed throughout the year on the MTB elbow guards page.

Brands of elbow guards

Fuse, a German protective gear brand based in Cologne, offers its Omega elbow guard without straps, using a compression sleeve, featuring a SAS-TEC insert and a front made of Kevlar; it is also available in a child size.

Bluegrass, created as a subsidiary of helmet manufacturer MET, incorporates a D3O insert into the Skinny, a pedaling sleeve, and adds side reinforcements and straps to the Solid D3O for more intense descents.

Fox Racing offers its Launch family in three levels, Launch, Pro, and Elite, and beside that, the Enduro, a lighter micro-lycra sleeve.

POC uses the same VPD material for all its elbow guards, from Oseus and Joint VPD 2.0 for adults to Pocito VPD Air designed for children.

Other protective gear in the operation

Elbow guards are often complemented by knee pads for Black Friday, and the upper body is protected with protection vests. For the eyes, check out the glasses; everything is brought together in the cyclist's protection on sale. Once the sale is over, look for last season's models in the clearance, and the very latest in new arrivals.

Frequently asked questions

When to take advantage of discounts on elbow guards?

The Black Friday takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Vélo-Store applies its Black Friday discounts throughout November, with this Friday being the highlight: a chance to compare elbow guards at your leisure, with arm measurements in hand and quantity verified.

Are elbow guards necessary for enduro?

They are not mandatory, but elbows often touch the ground first when trying to save yourself. A thin and ventilated sleeve is hardly noticeable when climbing and protects on descents: this is the compromise for most enduro riders.

How to measure the size of elbow guards?

Measure the bicep and the middle of the forearm, with the arm relaxed, then refer to the manufacturer’s size chart. If between two sizes, the smaller one fits better, provided you can bend the elbow without any discomfort.

What elbow guards for a child starting out in MTB?

A child version that is lightweight and easy to put on, like the Fuse Omega child or the POC Pocito VPD Air. Size should be chosen based on the child's arm circumference, not their age.

Does a promotion on an elbow guard mean it offers less protection?

No, the deal is about the price, not the design. A model from a previous generation still provides the protection its manufacturer claims; just compare the insert specified on its specs with that of the current version.