Protect your knees from impact and give yourself a more comfortable surface for kneeling while you’re at the range or on the job with internal or external knee pads. Many tactical pants have pockets for knee pad inserts – including 5.11 Tactical Pants, Taclite Pro Pants, and police and military uniform pants – which makes protection more comfortable and convenient.
Tactical pants labeled “knee pad ready” have pockets designed to hold internal knee pads. While every pair is different, these pants typically include an opening for the pads on the pant leg, with hook-and-loop fasteners to keep the pads secure. Follow these five steps to insert your knee pads into these openings:
Here are a few features to look for when you buy internal knee pads:
External knee pads go outside your pants, and some people find them more convenient because they’re easy to remove when you’re on the go. While every pair of external knee pads has its own variations, most feature two adjustable straps – one above the knee and one below it – that fasten with hook-and-loop closures or something similar. Follow these steps to properly secure external knee pads with two straps:
Here are some features to look for if you choose external knee pads:
Always remove your internal knee pads before you wash your pants – they’re not made to go through the washing machine or dryer.
Make sure your knee pad pockets are closed before you wash your pants, too – especially if they fasten with hook-and-loop closures, which can wear down during the laundering process.
Here are some more tips on how to care for your external knee pads:
Use our tips to get the most out of your knee pads and tactical pants. Properly wearing and storing your knee pads helps ensure they last longer and perform more effectively so you can ALWAYS BE READY.