Endura MT500 D3O Ghost knee pads review

Endura’s MT500 D3O Ghost knee pads weigh a mere 304g (per pair, large/extra-large), while getting an EN1612-1 protection certification. They'll set you back £89.99.

Using D3O’s Ghost insert with a hexagonal design, the pads are intended to be flexible with a ‘barely there’ feel designed for all-day riding.

Three additional neoprene padded sections – on the pads’ outside edge – provide additional protection.

The front-facing panel uses a ripstop material, while the mesh backing is designed to be breathable and sweat-wicking.

Both the elasticated top and bottom openings have a silicone gripper pattern to help the pads stay in place.

Three sizes are available: small/medium, medium/large and large/extra-large.

Endura MT500 D3O Ghost knee pads performance

With sizing on the small side, my average-sized legs just managed to squeeze into the biggest large/extra-large size. Their sporty cut may mean they're too small for bigger riders.

If you’re fortunate enough that they fit, thanks to their floppy, malleable and elasticated design, comfort levels are exemplary; they contour the shape of your legs perfectly.

Bending, flexing and moving in sync with your knees, there are no comfort-reducing pinch points or hot spots across the pads’ whole construction.

Thanks to the compressive feel, they stay glued in place regardless of whether you’re pedalling or descending, without sagging, lifting or twisting. The fact they remain constantly in contact with your skin helps here, too.

However, internally, they’re not the softest or smoothest. The D3O Ghost pads' angles can be felt through the backing fabric. But, while noticeable, it doesn’t impact overall comfort.

Knee protection is wide and relatively long given their 304g weight, but I’d prefer it if they extended further down the shin.

The external neoprene side protectors are good, but I’d like to see them on the inside too. The number of times your knees contact the bike while you ride is hopefully higher than the number of times you crash, indicating there’s a greater need for internal rather than external pads.

The pads are reasonably airy, thankfully, given their design.

Endura MT500 D3O Ghost knee pads bottom line

Impressively comfortable, these leg-hugging knee pads offer great all-day performance, whether you’re pedalling or descending.

Minimalistic by design, there’s little extra you’d want and not much that could improve performance. Irregular sizing might limit some riders from wearing them, however.