Tested: iXS Trigger Knee Guard

The iXS Trigger Knee guards have treated us very well during the testing period and yes, they’ve even hit the ground. From deserts to mountains, we have had these pads in all conditions and they have not failed in comfort or protection. They look great as well, with coverage that helps to minimize the shorts to knee pad gap that we have seen with other pads. Very notably, these pads stay in place without pinching or bunching up.

Strengths

Comfort and breathability

Pedalability

Level of protection

Design and features that matter, none that don’t

Stay in place very well when pedaling, riding and crashing

More protection than other pads that can pedal all day

Weaknesses

A little warmer than some lighter pads we’ve used

Subtle, but noticeable sound when pedaling

Highlights

Great protection for trail riding, enduro and light DH.

Excellent strap placement for keeping the pads in place without any chafing

Anti Friction fabric on the inside of the knee cups to keep your knees comfy even when pedaling for hours

Great coverage for safety and minimizing that gap between shorts and pads when pedaling

Sturdy construction that should withstand the tests of trail and time.

Good looks all around

Asymmetrical design ensures a great fit and comfort

Machine washable outers (simply remove the protective pad) *follow washing instructions

Sizes: S-XXL

MSRP: $139 USD

On The Trail

Right off the blocks we were a little concerned these pads might feel more like OG PRO-TEC pads than the light weight trail pads we are currently accustomed to. Those thoughts were quickly dispelled as we put them on and started out on the trail. The pads were immediately comfortable and moved nicely with us as we pedaled. Even after pedaling for a couple of hours, the pads were still in place and comfortable. They can virtually be forgotten when riding, which is a pretty high compliment for protective gear.

The one decent crash we had during the test period proved the worthiness of the protection as well. After landing firmly on the right pad and hitting both knees on the roll out there was no notable pain or damage to the skin. The pads stayed in place throughout the incident and allowed us to get right back on the trail without a worry. A quick rinse to get the dirt off the pads after that and they were good as new.

Things That Could Be Improved

The only little gripe we have with the pads is that there is a subtle noise that is produced when pedaling. It is likely the sound of the fabric stretching and moving over the knee cup. It is not loud and if we weren’t paying specific attention to the pads we might not notice it. But since we were paying attention to them it is worth mentioning.

Long Term Durability

The construction of these pads is top notch. We have been riding (and crashing) them for 4 months and they still look as good as they did the day they arrived. They don’t stink, the stitching is holding up perfectly and the fabrics are holding strong as well. There is no reason that these pads wouldn’t exceed expectations for durability and longevity.

What's The Bottom Line?

These pads are excellent. We will happily be riding in them well beyond the testing period. They have become a regular part of our riding wardrobe along with a helmet and a pair of gloves. If we’re getting on the bike we’re putting on the iXS Trigger Knee guards.

Visit bike.ixs.com for more details.

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About The Reviewer

Matt Fisher - Age: 38 // Years Riding: 24 // Height: 6’0" (1.82m) // Weight: 190lbs (86.1kg)

Matt discovered mountain biking in 8th grade. It was a welcome escape from becoming an overweight, TV-addicted adolescent statistic. After a long, slow climb through the downhill racing ranks as fitness and skills improved, he landed in the Pro class and was able to make a go of it for 8+ years, winning some local and regional races and qualifying to race as pack-fill in the World Cup Series. In addition to a lifetime of riding and racing bikes, he has worked his entire career in the bike industry, starting as a shop rat sweeping floors at age 15. From there he has held jobs as a mechanic, salesperson, sales manager, global warranty manager, tech manual writer, demo team manager and more. Now he is a trail rider who doesn’t turn pedals against the clock very often, instead choosing to spend his time seeking out new trails and adventures wherever he happens to be. He'll never give up on going fast and playing in the margins.

Photos by Marc Bergreen / Bergreen Photography