The Feel D_Strong D3O from Rockrider is aimed at price-conscious mountain bikers who don't want to compromise on proven protection. With its sophisticated design, robust construction, and the use of the renowned D3O material, it aims to impress in the Level 1 knee pad segment.
Construction
The protector follows a classic sock design, complemented by an additional Velcro fastener on the top. This ensures a customizable fit, especially for riders with narrower legs. A wide elastic waistband with silicone prints prevents slipping on the thigh. Rockrider omits a wraparound elastic waistband at the lower end, instead opting for an external elastic band to provide support. In addition to the main D3O protector plate, smaller protective plates are integrated on the sides in the lower area, as well as another on the inner knee. Why a corresponding plate was omitted from the outer knee is a mystery.
Protection
At its core is a well-known standard plate made of D3O material, which is also used by other manufacturers. It meets the requirements of the Level 1 standard. The protection concept is complemented by additional, smaller plates that provide protection on the sides and inside of the knee in the event of side impacts.
Fitting
The slip-on design makes putting the protector on a little tricky. It's a bit fiddly to get the protector in the right position. However, once you've positioned it correctly, it sits comfortably and snugly. The Velcro fastener on the top allows for fine adjustment.
Movement
Despite the additional protector surfaces, comfort remains high. The elastic D3O main plate adapts well to the knee movement, making the protector almost unnoticeable while riding. The Feel D_Strong D3O even handles longer pedal sections without any restrictions.
breathability
In terms of breathability, the protector offers both advantages and disadvantages. While the front section lacks ventilation openings and therefore gets quite warm, the back of the knee is made of perforated material, which ensures good air circulation there.
robustness
Rockrider combines abrasion-resistant materials at the front, while the lower section is designed to glide rather than stop thanks to a lower friction coefficient, which can be useful in the event of a fall. The sides and back are made of stretchy but surprisingly durable Lycra, which leaves a solid impression even with regular use.
Information about D3O
D3O is an innovative shock-absorbing material characterized by a special property: It is soft and flexible in its normal state, but instantly hardens upon sudden force to absorb and disperse the energy of an impact. It then returns to its original flexible state. This so-called non-Newtonian fluid is primarily used where protection while allowing freedom of movement is required – for example, in sports, motorcycle gear, or even military protective equipment.
D3O was developed in the early 2000s by British designer Richard Palmer. The material was brought to market by his company D3O Lab and first gained widespread recognition at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, where it was used in the skiwear of British athletes. Since then, D3O has established itself in numerous areas, including protective clothing, helmets, smartphone cases, and work safety products. The special combination of flexibility and protective effect makes the material unique and versatile to this day.
