The SixSixOne Evo knee guards have had an overhaul for 2012, but continue to use the malleable, protective properties of d3o. The main change is that there’s now only one Velcro strap at the top to help keep them in place.
Despite our initial concerns, the new design seems to work well most of the time, though when you get really sweaty, you may need to tug the pads back up and into place. Just like with the previous versions, pedalling movement is free and unhindered.
The large cutouts at the rear still cause the pads to fold and spread slightly when the knee is fully flexed. With no lower strap though, they don’t bunch up, which is good, and the cutouts promote better airflow, which is great. Coverage around the knee is good too.
This article was originally published in Mountain Biking UK magazine.