The 11 Best Knee Pads of 2023
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Keep comfortable on the job with these reliable knee pad picks.
The Spruce / David Hattan
Fact checked by Emily Estep
The best knee pads offer comfort, support, and protection. If your job or personal project requires you to spend long hours on your knees, knee pads are more of a necessity than a luxury. Whether you're laying down tiles or cleaning up a concrete patio, you want a trusty pair that will sufficiently protect your knees.
To track down the best knee pads, you should keep a few factors in mind. “Consider a hard, durable outer shell, soft padding inside for the knees, and a secure way to strap them that doesn’t restrict movement or cut off circulation,” says Clay Reed, a licensed general engineering contractor and owner of Stellar Sidewalks and Aaxis Construction.
Scouring the knee pad market online, we've selected the top picks for your consideration, weighing factors such as fit, durability, and adjustability to help you choose a pair to work comfortably.
Best Overall: NoCry Professional Knee Pads for Work
What We Like
Foam padding and gel cushion offer knee support
Breathable but durable fabric component
Closure features military-grade metal rivets
What We Don’t Like
Elastic bands may stretch over time
Some reports of sliding
We designated the NoCry Professional Knee Pads for Work as our top choice because they offer comfort, durability, and motion range at a reasonable price point. These are built to last in the most trying conditions while providing top-notch support. They will serve you well for everything from gardening to flooring, so you can keep them around for a versatile range of work.
The high-density EVA foam padding supports your knees, while the thick gel cushion offers comfort for your joints. This combination is ideal because foam might lose shape over time, but the gel can return to its original form without trouble. The shell is also durable, featuring breathable 600D polyester mesh with 1000D reinforced nylon thread and a TPR hard cap. The buckle closure also has military-grade metal rivets and adjustable neoprene straps for a secure fit that’s still comfortable to move around in.
You'll want to note a few things before you go ahead and buy these knee pads. Because they’re made with an elastic material, the bands may be prone to stretching over time. We also read reports of the pads sliding down for some users.
Price at time of publish: $35
Shell material: 600D polyester mesh and PVC cap | Interior material: EVA foam and gel | Fastener: Elastic strap
Best Budget: NoCry Gardening and Cleaning Foam Knee Pads
What We Like
Lightweight
Soft and cushioned for comfort
Waterproof shell
Affordable cost
What We Don’t Like
Can lose shape over time
Sensitive to heat
If you’re on a tight budget but want protection while kneeling, these standard hook-and-loop foam knee pads from NoCry make for a sound, cost-effective investment. You can choose from a one-strap or two-strap pair, but the two-strap design will offer more security so that your knee pads don’t shuffle around. When it comes to cushioning, these lightweight knee pads feature 0.8 inches of EVA foam. Not only are they soft enough to provide comfort and resist scratching surfaces, but they also have a waterproof outer layer so that you don't have to worry about ruining them on wet surfaces.
Do note that because these feature a soft shell, they’re more geared toward light work and shouldn’t be used in a professional capacity. Specifically, EVA foam can lose its shape over time and is sensitive to heat.
Price at time of publish: $13
Shell material: EVA foam | Interior material: EVA foam | Fastener: Hook and loop
Best for Flooring: Rexbeti Knee Pads
What We Like
Thick gel and high-density foam interior for comfort
Waterproof shells
Comes with bonus straps for extension
What We Don’t Like
Elastic may stretch over time
Some reports of weak stitching
When you install flooring, you want a pair of reliable knee pads that will keep you comfortable as you support your body weight on a hard surface for long hours. The Rexbeti Knee Pads feature cushioning with thick gel and high-density foam for lasting comfort. Plus, if you're working near tacks and nails, the waterproof PVC shells offer reliable protection. With the two sets of stretchy hook-and-loop straps, there's also thigh support to center your knees and secure your fit. In case you need a little extra strap length, the set features four bonus 7-inch extension straps.
You'll want to note the strap fit over time, as elastic tends to stretch. Another thing to be mindful of is stitching—while these knee pads feature reinforced stitching, we read some reports of weak stitching prone to unraveling.
Price at time of publish: $28
Shell material: PVC plastic | Interior material: Foam and gel | Fastener: Hook and loop
Best for Roofing: Sellstrom UltraFlex III KneePro Knee Pads
What We Like
Durable plastic shells
Non-marking grip strips
Triple-layered, closed-cell foam is comfortable
Easy to secure with speed clips
What We Don’t Like
Plastic can get warm
Metal rivets may pinch side of knees
Kneeling on shingles and hard roof tiles can take a toll on your knees, and supporting your body weight directly beneath the sun can be an especially tiring endeavor. The Sellstrom UltraFlex III KneePro Knee Pads are built to last through all of your kneeling, crawling, and squatting, featuring durable plastic outer shells that protect you from sharp roofing materials. As you work from a great height, the non-marking grip strips also help you stabilize your position. And, of course, the padding consists of triple-layered, closed-cell foam that will feel comfortable against the knees as it resists moisture and shock. To attach these knee pads, you simply need to secure them with their elastic woven straps and speed clips.
Note that the shell may get a little warm, as it’s made from plastic. The metal rivet hinges, which improve your range of motion, may also pinch at the knees.
Price at time of publish: $36
Shell material: Plastic | Interior material: Closed-cell foam | Fastener: Speed clips
Best Heavy-Duty: ToughBuilt Heavy Duty Non-Marring GelFit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pads
What We Like
Extra durable with abrasion-resistant fabric and shatter-resistant plastic shell
Elastic, buckle, and EVA strap system allows for comfortable, secure fit
Non-marring knee pads good for inclines or delicate surfaces
What We Don’t Like
Expensive
Heavy
Whether you’re working around sharp twigs, uneven rock, or some other type of harsh environment, you can benefit from a reliable set of heavy-duty knee pads that keep you safe and comfortable. The ToughBuilt Heavy Duty Non-Marring Gelfit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pad set is an investment. It features abrasion-resistant 1680D fabric with a double-injected shell with non-slip rubber and shatter-resistant plastic for rough conditions — the grippy rubber, which distinguishes this from the original ToughBuilt Heavy Duty Knee Pads, is especially helpful for inclined or delicate surfaces. For lasting comfort, the cushion features both gel and foam to hug your knees and upper shins, and the design makes it so you have a good range of motion. The elastic and buckle thigh and calf straps also allow for a secure fit — plus, there's EVA foam so that the straps stay in place comfortably.
While these knee pads are more expensive than mid-range knee pads, you're paying more to save yourself from the hassle of constant replacements. Do note that they're pretty bulky, weighing nearly 3 pounds.
Price at time of publish: $60
Shell material: 1680D fabric, rubber, and plastic | Interior material: Gel and foam | Fastener: Hook and loop and buckles
Best for Carpeting: Roberts Hard Cap Knee Pads
What We Like
Allows you to swivel and slide on carpet
Affordable cost
One-size-fits-most design
What We Don’t Like
May not feel as supportive on cement or hardwood
Foam may lose shape over time
When you’re installing carpet, a set of hard-cap knee pads can come in handy, as they allow you to swivel and slide. The Roberts Hard Cap Knee Pads for Carpet Installation are a go-to pair for laying down carpets. Relatively affordable, it features large plastic caps that let you glide and skateboard-style foam pads for comfort. Its one-size-fits-most design will also accommodate most knee sizes, featuring adjustable hook-and-loop straps.
Keep in mind that while these knee pads may be comfortable for carpet work, their plastic shell may feel less supportive on cement or hardwood. With a foam interior, also note that the cushioning may lose its shape over time, which means that you may need to go through the trouble of buying another pair.
Price at time of publish: $14
Shell material: Plastic | Interior material: Foam | Fastener: Velcro
Best for Gardening: WorkPro Garden Knee Pads
What We Like
Shell material is tear- and abrasion-resistant
Clips on to secure with ease
Easy-to-clean material
Affordable
What We Don’t Like
Not great for heavy duty work
May run small
With tasks such as planting and weeding, gardening can require lots of kneeling. Typically, knee support in the garden comes in the form of a kneeler pad, but you can also use knee pads so that you don’t have to carry around a kneeler whenever you work in a new spot. For keeping garden chores comfortable, we like the WorkPro Garden Knee Pads. These inexpensive knee pads combine both lightweight and sturdiness, featuring a tear- and abrasion-resistant 300D Oxford fabric with a soft EVA foam liner. Whether you’re working on soft grass or a gravel landscape, you can rest assured that they keep you comfortable.
These knee pads come with double flexible straps and easy-to-release slip clips for a secure fit. These are also easy to clean; you can wash off dirt and grime with soap and water. Because they're made from fabric and foam, these knee pads aren't built for heavy-duty work. Moreover, there have been reports that they run somewhat small.
Price at time of publish: $20
Shell material: 300D Oxford fabric | Interior material: EVA foam | Fastener: Slip-buckle clips
Best for Concrete: Sellstrom Hybrid Ultra Flex III KneePro Knee Pads With Built-In Gel Pack
What We Like
Gel and foam interior for superior comfort
Metal rivet hinges follow your leg movements
Non-marking grip strips good for delicate surfaces
What We Don’t Like
Elastic may stretch over time
Limited breathability
Where the Sellstrom Hybrid differs from Sellstrom’s original knee pad is with its built-in gel packs. Those who work on finishing concrete will need to support their body weight on a hard surface, which will take a toll on the knees. Inside their leak-proof, triple-layer, and closed-cell foam compartments, these feature gel packs that conform to your knee shape for ultimate comfort as you work on concrete. Besides their supportive cushioning, these knee pads are tough enough to endure concrete with their hard plastic shells—that said, they also feature non-marking grip strips if you later use them on more delicate surfaces. For easy movement, they also feature metal rivet hinges that follow your leg movement as you walk or kneel. And last but not least, the snap clips attach easily for a secure fit.
You do want to be mindful of the elastic bands, which can stretch over time. And if you're working on concrete in the heat, note that the all-plastic cap won't be as comfortable as one with at least some breathable mesh fabric.
Price at time of publishing: $47
Shell material: Plastic | Interior material: Foam and gel | Fastener: Snap clips
Best for Thigh Support: ToughBuilt GelFit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pads
What We Like
Gel and foam design distributes pressure for comfort
Straps keep knee centered
Durable shell
What We Don’t Like
Bulky
Straps may need to be modified depending on your leg size
A set of knee pads with thigh support will center your knee, which is to say that you don’t need to worry about your knees shifting out of the knee pads. The ToughBuilt Geltfit Thigh Support Stabilization Knee Pads feature elastic EVA and buckle straps that secure cushioning around the thighs and knees without cutting off circulation. The comfortable gel and foam design also hug the knee, upper shin, and thigh, distributing pressure so that your legs feel comfortable on the job. Along with a comfortable feel, you can also trust that these will last. Whether you’re working on concrete or wood, the knee pads use abrasion-resistant 1680D fabric with a double-injected shell featuring non-slip rubber and shatter-resistant plastic for extra durability.
Note that these are bulky, weighing 2.6 pounds. While they offer excellent protection, they will add extra weight to your equipment kit. Some reports also indicate that the straps may not work for those with big legs, so personal modification may be necessary.
Price at time of publish: $53
Shell material: 1680D fabric, double-injected shell with non-slip rubber, and shatter-resistant plastic | Interior material: Gel and foam | Fastener: Hook and loop, buckles
Best for Tiling: Thunderbolt Knee Pads
What We Like
Comfortable soft gel core and supportive foam interior
Non-slip shield won’t cause abrasions on surface
Includes 7-inch strap extensions
What We Don’t Like
Bulky
Knee pads may slip around knees
Those who spend long hours installing tile can find the process grueling on the knees as they kneel on hard floors all day. Whether you're working on tile laying, grouting, or sealing, support your knees and reduce pressure on them during every step. The Thunderbolt Knee Pads will help you get through tiling jobs with their design for long-lasting comfort. The cushioning consists of a soft gel core with extra thick engineered foam. The shell, on the other hand, is extra durable, featuring breathable neoprene, ballistic nylon, and engineered PVC. Each knee pad also has a non-slip shield that provides traction and protects you from debris — despite their sturdiness, the caps won’t leave abrasions on your newly installed surfaces. The hook-and-loop straps provide a snug fit and keep everything in place, and you even receive free 7-inch strap extensions.
When it comes to considerations, the knee pads are a little bulky, measuring 1.5 pounds. Some users also mention that these tend to slip around the knees.
Price at time of publish: $30
Shell material: Neoprene, nylon, and PVC | Interior material: Gel and foam | Fastener: Hook and loop
Best for Cleaning: Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads
What We Like
Material is breathable while absorbing pressure
Fits snugly on your knees with no necessary adjustments
Won’t leave marks on your surface
What We Don’t Like
Only two sizes available
Pull on design may not accommodate all knee shapes
Made with a pull-on design, the Bodyprox Protective Knee Pads were created with athletes in mind, but their soft, lightweight design is also great for housekeeping. Cleaning can require a lot of bending down and kneeling, whether you’re tackling the floor, oven, or toilet — having support can help you stay productive while remaining comfortable as you reach those hard-to-clean places. These knee pads feature high-density foam to absorb pressure and a breathable, elastic fabric that snugly fits on your knee and provides a decent range of motion. And because they feature a fabric exterior, they won’t leave marks on the surface that you work on.
You do want to keep in mind that their pull-on design might not accommodate all knee shapes, so how snugly they fit can depend on how big your knees are. There are only two sizes available: small/medium and large.
Price at time of publish: $29
Shell material: Polyester | Interior material: EVA Foam | Fastener: Pull-on design
Final Verdict
For a workhorse pair of knee pads that are versatile for a wide range of jobs, our top choice is the NoCry Professional Knee Pads for Work. With foam and gel cushions and a mesh and hard cap shell, this pick effortlessly combines comfort and durability. For light tasks, the NoCry Gardening and Cleaning Foam Knee Pads and WorkPro Garden Knee Pads will provide support without costing a pretty penny.
What to Look For
Fit
The ideal fit for knee pads is snug—neither too tight nor too loose. You don’t want your knee pads to cut off circulation, but you don’t want them to slip and slide as you work. Depending on what your project requires, you’ll generally want them to feel comfortable for both walking and kneeling. Knee pads can have one or two sets of straps. Double-strap knee pads are ideal for more heavy-duty work and provide a secure fit, but single-strap pairs can work for small projects. To keep your knee pads comfortably in place, wear them over your pants instead of directly on your skin.
Comfort
Cushioning material cradles your joints when you’re working on hard surfaces and supports your knees when you kneel on the floor for a long time. Knee pad cushions are typically made with either foam or gel and foam, like the NoCry Professional Knee Pads. Generally, the thicker your knee pads are, the more comfortable they will feel. That said, knee pads that are too thick might be trickier to move in and might not feel breathable.
Adjustability
Unless you have a pair that you pull on, knee pads are typically adjustable so that you can secure the just-right fit for your knees. You want your fit to be snug but still allow for a range of movement when you’re walking. For adjustability, you might have knee pads that use hook and loop straps or elastic ones with buckles—often, you may have some combination of both for a tight, comfortable fit. The Roberts Hard Cap Knee Pads come with two elastic straps that can be adjusted for a customized fit.
Durability
Not all knee pads are built the same. Budget-friendly knee pads tend to be made out of EVA foam, which will help you get the job done but may not last very long. Foam is vulnerable to damage by abrasive surfaces and tends to compress over time. With gel-foam knee pads, the padding reverts to its original shape and is usually covered by fabric, so these knee pads tend to last longer. To prevent your foam or gel-foam interior material from getting damaged, you’ll often have shell layers of rubber, fabric, and/or plastic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are knee pads used for in construction?
Knee pads are one of the most essential pieces of protective equipment in construction. When you’re working on hard surfaces such as outdoor concrete tile, they create a barrier between your knees and the ground, absorbing the impact pressure before it reaches your knees. Moreover, some surfaces may feature debris that can puncture your knees, so having knee pads with hard shells helps you avoid injuries. “Knee pads help prevent cuts, scrapes, and chafing on the knees. Equally as important, they prevent you from kneeling down on and point loading your knee caps and tendons onto rocks and pebbles,” says Clay Reed, a licensed general engineering contractor and owner of Stellar Sidewalks and Aaxis Construction.
How often should I replace my knee pads?
While there’s no set rule on when to replace your knee pads, there are a few tell-tale signs of worn-out knee pads. As they get more wear, your knee pads will look compressed, which means that they’re not providing as much support as you’d need. This is often the case with knee pads that use foam interiors, as foam tends to lose shape over time. If you have elastic straps, they might also stretch out and feel loose when you put them on—in the worst-case scenario, they may even snap off. Other than looking for straps that don’t hold up, Reed also suggests checking for holes in the knee pads.
How should knee pads fit?
Knee pads should fit snugly around your knees, as you want to keep them from sliding around. That said, you also don’t want your knee pads to feel so tight that they restrict your movement or blood flow. This is why you may see many knee pads that come with elastic straps that provide some give with a secure fit. Depending on what your project requires, you’ll generally want them to feel comfortable for both walking and kneeling. You may want to look for lateral rivet hinges for ease of movement.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Stacey Nguyen, a lifestyle writer who specializes in home and garden products. To build this list, she evaluated dozens of products, carefully selecting options based on factors such as comfort, fit, cost, and durability. Expert advice was provided by Clay Reed, a licensed general engineering contractor and owner of Stellar Sidewalks and Aaxis Construction. Working with sidewalks and hardscapes, Reed offered insights on what to look for in a pair of knee pads.
