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The Best Knee Pads for Flooring Professionals and Installers

Fact checked by Andrew Carnegie

Are you one of the professional flooring installers at present? If your answer is yes then you are probably one of those who are wondering how to make their jobs as comfortable as possible. Please keep in mind that working on the flooring industry might cause you to kneel on flooring materials the entire day.

It can be uncomfortable, not to mention, painful at times, whether you are kneeling on soft or hard surfaces. If you do not want to hurt your knees when doing your flooring projects then you may one to invest in the best knee pads for flooring.

best knee pads for flooring installers

With a good pair of knee pads designed for flooring, you will find each project exciting, instead of tiring. By wearing this item, you can avoid those instances when your knees get hurt and injured because they are unprotected and lack support.

You will not be in the same league as those who eventually developed bad and injured knees because of insufficient protection. You will have peace of mind knowing that before proceeding to work, you were able to put on the required protective gear. This is a good thing for flooring jobs that make your knees vulnerable to harm.

When shopping for top-rated knee pads for tiling and flooring, several factors should come into play. You need to find one that can offer you the protection, security, and comfort that construction-like projects, like roofing, require. Fortunately, it is no longer that confusing and hard to find a good pair of top-rated knee pads for flooring with this article around.

Here, we present 10 of the most protective and dependable knee pads for tile work and flooring that can help you get your job done without causing damage to your knees. All these choices are also comfortable enough to wear even for extended work hours.

Top 1

NoCry Knee Pad

NoCry-Professional-Heavy-duty-Knee-Pad

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Top 2

ToughBuilt Knee Pads

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Top 3

Thunderbolt Knee Pad

Thunderbolt-Knee-Pad-for-Work

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Top-Rated Knee Pad for Flooring Reviews of 2023

1. NoCry Professional Heavy-duty Knee Pad

NoCry-Professional-Heavy-duty-Knee-Pad

The NoCry Professional Heavy-duty Knee Pad is also one of the most decent knee pads accessible in the market at present. Priced reasonably, you will fall in love with its heavy duty built and the many useful and amazing features that come with it. With these knee pads for flooring around, working for hours while being on your knees will no longer lead to tons of knee pain and discomfort.

What these floor outer shell layers knee pads can give you, instead, are hours of comfort and protection when you are on the worksite. The flexibility of this knee pad from NoCry Professional is also instantly noticeable. It is so flexible in the sense that it is useful either at home or at work. When used in the workplace, it also seems to handle all sorts of environments and jobs.

You can use it if you are someone who works on hardwood and concrete floors, construction projects, carpet and flooring installations, gardening, stocking shelves, and welding, among many others.

I also find it remarkable with its easy-to-adjust structure. With the ease of adjustments, expect these NoCry Professional products to give you a secure, comfy, and tight fit. It is ergonomically designed, thereby ensuring that the knee pads will fit snugly and remain in place the entire day.

I am so impressed with the quick-release buckle clips built into the knee pads as it increases the likelihood of it being fast and easy to take off and put on. The combination of sturdy EVA foam padding and soft gel core also provides proper cushioning for your knees for several hours.

Furthermore, this NoCry Professional has a strong and thick poly shield designed to protect your knees from scrapes and cuts regardless of the surfaces and terrain that you are working on.

One disadvantage, though, is that its grommets are prone to falling out easily.
What We Like
  • Allows you to work for hours without discomfort
  • Secure, comfy, and tight fit guaranteed
  • Easy-to-adjust structure
  • Boasts of quick-release buckle clips, thereby promoting a hassle-free process of taking off and putting it on
  • Strong and thick poly shield construction
What We Don’t Like
  • The built-in grommets are vulnerable to falling out
With the strength and durability of these NoCry Professional knee pads for flooring, I can make sure that it is the perfect solution if what you are looking for is to protect your knees in an adequate manner, which promotes heavy duty and prolonged use.

2. ToughBuilt Support Stabilization Knee Pads

Comfortable and supportive—these are the two words that top-tier describe this pair of professional knee pads for flooring! Made of gel and foam, the paddings take the natural shape of my knees and shins and, as a result, distribute the pressure more evenly. They also support my thighs, which keeps my knees centered when kneeling.  

These tiling knee pads’ non-slip rubbers keep my knees in place and prevent blisters from friction. Their designs are meant to slightly lift my shins from the ground, removing the pressure on my ankles. Plus, these construction knee pads boast comfortable elastic bands, EVA, and buckles that don’t restrict movements and blood flow.  

As they come with shatter-resistant plastic shells, the cushions are shielded against abrasive surfaces for better longevity. Also, these gel knee pads for flooring do not get compressed easily! Despite kneeling for long hours, I’m surprised that they remain as soft as pillows. Hence, I don’t have to buy new ones so often!  

I do wish the knee pads were a little less bulky, however. Weighing at 2.6 pounds, these knee protections can feel a bit too large or heavy. Other than that, I can’t see any flaw with this product.  
What We Like
  • Keeps the wearer’s knees centered when kneeling
  • Has non-slip rubbers to prevent the knee pads from sliding and causing blisters
  • Stays in place without restricting movement or blood flow
  • Can last long under harsh conditions
  • Do not get compressed easily
What We Don’t Like
  • The elastic band rubs the back of my legs
Thanks to these floor installer knee pads, I never lose my balance or hurt my knees, thighs, or ankles! More importantly, they are designed with durable materials so that the cushioning effect does not diminish even when used daily.

3. Thunderbolt Knee Pad for Work

Thunderbolt-Knee-Pad-for-Work

This Thunderbolt Knee Pad for Work also deserves a lot of attention considering the way they function well. One thing that this pair of flooring, carpenter, and roofing knee pads can do is to support all the areas and parts surrounding your knees. It is even equipped with a soft gel core designed to support your patellar and quadriceps tendon.

I am also glad to see a non-slip shield in this knee pad that keeps not only your knees but also your clothes protected. The presence of this shield also ensures that the knee pads will not hard the flooring material, whether the surface is soft or hard. Apart from the built-in Velcro straps, it also features extension straps around 7 inches.

You can use these extension straps if you are one of those whose legs are larger and wider than the average. This means that the straps are fully adjustable. Aside from that, they also have the benefit of closing and opening up effortlessly. With that, you can lower your risk of getting all tied up when you take off the knee pad.

It also makes use of neoprene and nylon materials that help provide a means of long-lasting support by securely holding the parts and pieces together. The way this knee pad is built also works in avoiding abrasions to surfaces while giving protection from debris, glass, screws, and nails.

It is ergonomically designed plus it takes pride in its well-reinforced stitching that makes it built as long-lasting as possible.

One thing I dislike about this knee pad, though, is that it seems to be bulkier compared to other knee pads in the market.
What We Like
  • Offers support and protection to all parts and areas surrounding your knees
  • Fully adjustable straps, make your knees stay in place
  • Comes with extension straps to make it fit several users
  • Ergonomically designed
  • Uses neoprene and nylon materials that help offer long-lasting support
What We Don’t Like
  • Bulkier compared to other knee pads
The moderate pricing of this knee pad for flooring is also one of its biggest advantages, making it a sound investment for those searching for high-quality knee pads containing all remarkable features that make the product fully prepared for work and fun.

4. CE’ CERDR Professional Work Knee Pad

CE'-CERDR-Professional-Work-Knee-Pad

If your job requires you to spend a lot of time on your knees then you need to give these vital parts of your body sufficient protection – and this is something that you can enjoy from CE’ CERDR Professional Work Knee Pad. This professional work knee pad is created sturdily while also having a built that allows it to guard your knees even when used during the harshest conditions.

One advantage of this knee pad is that it does not only work for flooring. It also does incredibly well in guarding your knees when doing other jobs like gardening, plumbing, painting, construction, and cleaning. Another benefit of these knee pads is that it only uses a combination of strong nylon thread, double stitching, and neoprene material.

With all these components combined, I can make sure that it can resist tears and rips to assure you of reliable and long-term use. I like how these knee pads fit users, whether man or woman, too. It is mainly because of the versatile neoprene straps, which you can adjust the straps to fit knees of various sizes and circumference.

With that, you can rest assured that its fit is not only snug, comfort, and secure but also non-slip. I am happy to say that these knee pads feature EVA foam padding, a couple of shell layers of it, to be exact, thereby making your knees comfortable each time you kneel. I am so satisfied with the thickness of its gel cushion, too.

It is because this cushion is shock-absorbent, giving sufficient protection and preventing as much fatigue as possible. I like how skid-proof and abrasion-resistant the PVC caps are. These help prevent scrapes and cuts regardless of your work surface or terrain.

However, I am not so fond of the slight hardness that you might feel from the material, although this only happens at first uses and before breaking it in.
What We Like
  • Guards your knees in extreme and harsh situations
  • Shock-absorbent cushion, preventing pain and fatigue in the knees
  • The gel cushion is thick enough for better protection and comfort
  • Adjustable straps with versatile neoprene straps
  • Non-slip and snug fit guaranteed
  • Can resist tears, rips, and abrasion
What We Don’t Like
  • Slightly hard at first
After breaking it in, you will be greeted with the ultimate solution to protect your knees as it is truly give comfort sense while boasting of a snug fit and sturdy and secure structure.

5. NoCry Roofing and Flooring Knee Pad

NoCry Roofing and Flooring Knee Pad

One fantastic choice for the most trusted knee pads for hardwood flooring and tiling jobs is the NoCry Roofing and Flooring Knee Pad. It has one shining quality – and that is its versatility. It is so versatile and multifunctional that allows you to use it almost anywhere, aside from all forms of tiling and flooring jobs.

I discovered that it also seems to function well when used to handle roofing materials and in construction sites, kitchen, garage, and garden. The way this knee pad is built is also impressive. It is long-lasting and sturdy, thanks to the strong 600d polyester fabric chosen by manufacturers for its construction.

The anti-skid leather material paired with the dependable slip buckles of this knee pad also helps ensure that you will not experience problems lasting the entire day doing a job as tough and demanding as flooring. It sports a flat-front design, which makes it all the more compatible with roofing materials as well as other equipment used in construction.

Another advantage of these knee pads is that it has a low risk of rolling or slipping each time you move around or shift your weight. It has a strip made of soft leather, which will never mark nor scratch sensitive surfaces, such as thin laminate and bamboo flooring materials.

I am also very delighted with the thick foam pad featured by these products as it works in softening the pressure and stress that your knee caps have to endure while moving around. It also has a couple of adjustable neoprene straps designed to provide a means of firm hold on the knee pads so they stay in place even if you move.

Another benefit is these pair of knee pads for flooring conveniently fit the majority of knee sizes. It is quick and easy to clean, too, as this just involves hand-washing it with warm water and mild soap.

However, one issue I discovered upon using this knee pad is the lack of breathability.
What We Like
  • Can withstand tough and demanding jobs, like flooring, roofing, and construction
  • Equipped with a soft leather strip to prevent sensitive flooring surfaces from marking and scratching
  • Provides a firm and secure hold, allowing it to stay in place
  • Fit most sizes
  • Quick and easy to clean
What We Don’t Like
  • Seems to be lacking in terms of breathability
To conclude, this amazing pair of knee pads from NoCry can be the answer to your need for knee protection as it remains snug, offers adequate padding for protection, and is known to be comfortable and non-skid.

6. Milescraft 1603 KneeBlades Knee Pad

Milescraft-1603-KneeBlades-Knee-Pad

I am also happy that I came across the Milescraft 1603 KneeBlades Knee Pad because it has several nice qualities and fantastic features that help ensure that your knees will not be in bad shape in the long run due to being exposed to heavy work, like flooring.

What is great about these knee pads is that it can seem to handle all jobs, not just flooring, that require you to kneel or stay in place with your knees. It even comes with a 3-wheel mobile base, which boasts of a complete 360-degree turning capability. This is possible even if you do not lift yourself away from the floor.

The fact that it has a roller design, which is near the ground is also a big advantage as it lessens stress and pressure that might affect your back. It is multifunctional in the sense that by just pushing a button, you can transform it from a knee blade into a pad.

I am so glad that it has a tapered gel pad because I discovered how effective it is in displacing your weight evenly. Furthermore, this pad works great in lessening the pressure and stress your knees experienced. I like how these products perfectly fit your knee’s natural shape and contours.

With that, your comfort will surely be guaranteed. Another thing that leaves a positive impression on the users of this knee pad is its hook and loop attachment. This specific attachment can comfortably secure the blades with minimal pressure and tension on your knee.

The fact that it has a hook and loop setting also promotes ease in putting on and removing it. It also makes use of a lightweight and sturdy nylon material, which plays a huge role in making it withstand even the most demanding and toughest jobs and projects.

A big disadvantage, though, is the location of the straps as I noticed that it seems to sit slightly higher than usual.
What We Like
  • Ensures that your knees will never experience pressure and tension
  • Boasts of a hook and loop attachment for ease of wearing and removal
  • Sturdy nylon material used, allowing it to endure harsh jobs
  • Evenly displaces weight, thanks to its tapered gel pad
  • 3-wheel mobile base built into the pad, 360 degree turning and stay in place feature
What We Don’t Like
  • The straps seem to sit higher than usual
Overall, this knee pad from Milescraft is what you need, especially if you are after some of the most impressive qualities, like mobility, flexibility, balance, and protection.

7. ProKnee AP16 1-inch Foam Knee Pad

ProKnee-AP16-1-inch-Foam-Knee-Pad

The ProKnee AP16 1-inch Foam Knee Pad also deserves positive reviews and your attention because of how impressive it is when it comes to guarding your knees against harm. One thing that impresses me about these foam knee pads is its all-purpose and versatile design.

It is designed to work in almost all forms of harsh and demanding jobs, flooring, roofing, and construction work included. This serves as a proof of how tough and rugged the overall built is, enduring whatever harsh elements a specific work environment has. It has a one-size-fits-all structure, giving all prospective users the chance to wear it.

I am also pleased with its 3-ply and non-skid structure because this contributes it making the knee pads as safe and secure to wear as possible. In terms of comfort, this specific ProKnee knee pad will not disappoint. It is because it has a built-in live hinge and slotted low frame that ensure that it will fit your knees like a glove conveniently.

I can also say that it can deliver a high level of flexibility because of perimeter ribbing. This specific feature maximizes the flexibility of the knee pads even if you are in an extreme kneeling position. Furthermore, this knee pad is deserving of anyone’s attention because of its flat bottom design and pocket shape. Keep in mind that this specific structure plays a huge role in stabilizing the joints in your knees.

With that stabilization, there is a hundred percent assurance of its ability to lessen knee pain and joint wear out.

However, I dislike the price of this knee pad because it is higher than other dependable and protective knee pads out there.
What We Like
  • Can stabilize the joints in your knees
  • Prevents knee pain by protecting it from all dangerous work environments
  • Boasts of its one-size-fits-all design
  • Promotes a high level of flexibility
  • Can withstand harsh and demanding jobs
What We Don’t Like
  • Quite expensive
Overall, the ProKnee AP16 1-inch Foam Knee Pad is a great product to invest in, especially for flooring professionals and installers who want to protect their knees using knee pads that supports a great balance of function, form, and fit.

8. DEWALT DG5224 Heavy-duty Flooring Knee Pad

DEWALT-DG5224-Heavy-duty-Flooring-Knee-Pad

The next heavy duty knee pads for flooring that I wish to suggest is the DEWALT DG5224. I noticed that even if it only features a simple design, it still has plenty of nice features that make it work for the benefit of the wearer. One fantastic feature it carries is the neoprene fabric liner.

This specific lining is created in a way that allows your knees to remain with comfort. It also has a closed-cell foam padding at the center that contributes to removing the pressure from your knees. I like the heavy duty and strong build of these Dewalt knee pads.

Some of the things that make it strong and sturdy are the PVC outer shell layer and the heavy duty, double-layer poly fabric. With these strong features, the knee pads can endure hard surfaces as well as abrasive materials. The fact that it makes use of PVC in creating the outer shell is also a big advantage.

It makes it non-abrasive, thereby preventing your knees or other things it comes in contact with from getting hurt or damaged. It also has adjustable straps designed to provide a means of great fitting with the knee pads, depending on your comfort. Furthermore, it can handle long hours of wear, thanks to its ergonomic style that promotes comfort.

It also takes pride in its slip-buckle fastening system, which is a big help in making the adjustable straps and the fit work as you wish for. The knee pad is also created to offer scuff protection when you are working on flooring materials, such as hardwood.

One flaw, though, is that unlike other knee pads, this one from DEWALT needs constant readjustments.
What We Like
  • Built to be heavy duty with hard outer shell layers, allowing it to endure all sorts of environments
  • The comfort neoprene fabric liner in the interiors
  • Non-abrasive structure
  • Boasts of its ergonomic style
  • Can handle all flooring materials with the scuff protection it has
What We Don’t Like
  • Requires constant readjustments
If you consider all the capabilities and features showcased by this flooring knee pad, the DEWALT DG5224 is a wise addition to your safety gears with its ability to protect you while preventing all sorts of damage not only to you but also to the projects you decide to work on.

9. Crain 197 Comfort Knee Pad

Crain-197-Comfort-Knee-Pad

I am also delighted to introduce the Crain 197 Comfort Knee Pad because I discovered how it functions incredibly as far as knee protection is concerned. Apart from working effectively when it comes to knee protection, it also seems to be a fantastic choice for knee kicking. This means that it is made to stay in place all the time.

It comes in a cool and elegant color, motivating you to wear it every time you are at work. You will be able to carry it confidently knowing that it looks good apart from supplying you with your desired amount of protection. It also offers amazing flexibility when used in jobs that require you to go up and down constantly.

I can vouch for the high comfort level that these knee pads can provide. I believe that it is because of its excellent conformity to the shape of the wearer’s knee right from the box. The added Velcro straps also offer a strong advantage in the sense that they are made to be heavy duty.

With these straps around, these knee pads make sure to stay in place, thereby assuring you of no discomfort and pain. This also contributes to it being wearable for at least 8 hours a day without making you feel uncomfortable or causing fatigue. The straps are extra-wide, too, which helps prevent pinching.

That is possible even if you are wearing a pair of shorts. I also believe that the neoprene material used in structuring these knee pad straps is extremely durable, so it is highly likely that it will last for a long time. It is machine-washable, too, so cleaning it up is hassle-free.

One complaint I have, though, is its tendency to build up grit when used on hard surfaces.
What We Like
  • Works effectively in protecting your knees
  • Can be worn for at least 8 hours daily without feeling uncomfortable
  • Extremely durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to clean since you can wash it in the machine
  • Comes with straps that help make the knee pads stay in place
What We Don’t Like
  • Prone to building up grit and dirt
Still, no one can deny how good and functional the Crain 197 Comfort Knee Pad is, especially in supplying your knees with more than enough protection from pain, discomfort, and injuries when completing flooring projects.

RFG Gear Professional Flooring Construction Knee Pad (Outdated)

RFG-Gear-Professional-Flooring-Construction-Knee-Pad

The last recommendation in this article is the Professional Flooring Construction Knee Pad offered by RFG Gear. It is a safety gear that deserves your time and attention, especially if you want your choice to prioritize not only the safety and health of your knees but also your comfort while doing a job as tough as flooring and construction.

One incredible thing promised by this RFG Gear knee pad is a contoured gel cushion. With this nice feature, you can wear it in comfort the entire day while also ensuring that you can move around without hassle. No matter what movement you decide to do, the cushioning of these knee pads will support you.

I also like the triple straps and non-slip style showcased by this knee pad. With this specific design way, I can assure most users that this knee pad will remain in its correct place and position using up to three straps. It is also professionally and rigidly structured, so you can rest assured that it will not break down sooner than expected.

It also has a lower chance of marring the surface where you are working. I am also happy with the stretch straps on the upper part of the knee pads as I noticed how these can offer extra support on your knees. I am also pleased to say that this knee pad is equipped with small tool loops.

These loops work effectively in holding lightweight tools, such as the ones you are using in the workplace, securely. You can expect these items to remain in place regardless of your position and movement.

This means whether you are kneeling or standing, your tools and the knee pads will remain in their correct place.

However, it is prone to sliding down your legs, especially when worn for an extended period.
What We Like
  • Does a good job in protecting and supporting your knees to stay in place
  • Features small tool loops designed to hold your tools and accessories
  • Can withstand the challenges in tough and challenging jobs
  • Rigid and durable structure
  • Features adjustable straps
What We Don’t Like
  • Prone to sliding down your legs
To conclude, this knee pad from RFG Gear is one of the most satisfying and functional safety gear that a professional in the flooring and construction industry can use, given how comfortable, easy to use, reliable, durable, and protective it is.

Thunderbolt Construction and Flooring Knee Pad (Outdated)

Thunderbolt-Construction-and-Flooring-Knee-Pad

If you are looking for a highly versatile form of protection then choosing this construction and flooring knee pad from Thunderbolt will surely give you ultimate satisfaction. I am so impressed with the rugged and non-slip power shield built into this safety gear.

It is because this shield can prevent damage to both your knees and clothing when you are working. It also prevents abrasions to surfaces while guarding your knees against glass, debris, screws, and nails each time you are trying to complete a job. I also find pleasure in the overall durability of this flooring knee pad.

It is sturdy enough with the help of its upgraded and strong materials and its well-reinforced stitching. The overall structure of this knee pad is a combination of well-engineered PVC, strong ballistic nylon, and highly breathable neoprene materials. With such a combination of materials, your comfort and protection will surely be prioritized.

These knee pads for flooring are also built to be ergonomic, delivering additional support and comfort even to the tendons below and over your knee. I can make sure that this knee pad will fit every user out there. It is because of its adjustable fastening system and the 7-inch extension straps included for free.

This promotes a snug and secure fit 24 hours every day. You will not also have problems wearing it and removing it from your knees.

However, the upper straps are a bit small for tall people.
What We Like
  • Rugged and non-slip power shield built into its structure
  • Uses well-engineered PVC and strong ballistic nylon in its construction
  • Breathable, so wearing it for long hours will not be a problem
  • Provides support and comfort up to your tendons
  • Boasts of an adjustable straps
What We Don’t Like
  • Tall users might find the upper straps a bit small for them
Overall, this is an outstanding pair of knee pads offered by Thunderbolt, which does not disappoint as it can genuinely protect your knees as you are hoping for.

What is a Knee Pad for Flooring

best knee pads for tiling

If you are a contractor specializing in flooring then your work usually requires that you spend the better part of the workday on your knees on hard surfaces. You may have also known how much damage you are doing to your knees because of it.

Fortunately, there are pieces of safety equipment that do not only make your work easier but protect your knees from gaining any more permanent damage. These are work knee pads. Work knee pads are very different from the ones used in sports.

For one thing, the main function of knee pads for sports is to minimize the amount of impact damage due to falls. The ones who usually wear these safety gear are those who like extreme sports like skateboarding, BMX racing, and others. These kinds of knee pads do provide a bit of cushioning but not as much as provided by work knee pads.

On the other hand, work knee pads, especially those used for flooring, aim to provide cushioning and support for the knees. It does so by providing a shell layer of dense yet soft foam padding.

This plastic foam padding acts as a barrier between the hard floor surface and your knees. This can support your knees so that you can work for hours on end without causing these parts of your body undue strain.

How Does It Work

As mentioned earlier, work knee pads for flooring professionals provide cushioning and support for your knees when you are working on the floor. If you are going to kneel on the floor surface directly with no padding whatsoever, you can only do so for around twenty to thirty minutes before the pain gets too overwhelming.

If you use work knee pads, your work will not only become a whole lot much comfort but you can also prolong the health of your knees. There are so many flooring professionals nowadays who regret not using knee pads when they were still younger.

Now that their knees are shot, even standing up for an extended period has become torturous for their knees. Today, you can see them wearing knee pads just so they will not cause any more damage and can continue working.

Types of Knee Pads for Flooring

knee pads for flooring work

Several types of knee pads for flooring work emerge in the market. You can choose one among them based on their unique set of pros and cons. Also, you need to learn about each type of knee pads so you can choose the one that fits your needs almost perfectly.

Hard-Cap Knee Pad – If you often work on soft surfaces like carpet then hard-cap knee pads will be the top-rated choice for you. Because of the hard outer shell layer, you can slip and slide over the surface with ease.

However, if you will also be working on hard surfaces, this choice of knee pads might not be the best as it will be quite uncomfortable. It is because you will be slipping and sliding uncontrollably.

Curved Soft Cap – This specific type provides you with a soft rubber cap that will offer enough stability while still allowing you to move around freely when needed. The curved soft cap knee pads are the most popular choices as you can use them to work on any kind of surface, whether hard or soft.

They are the most suitable when you will be working on a single spot for hours on end. These knee pads are ideal in case you are working on installing hardwood flooring. It is because they are soft enough that they will not scuff up the finish of the wood.

Flat-Cap Knee Pad – This knee pad is the most common variant that you will find in hardware and construction supply stores. It can provide a huge area of contact with the floor surface so you can stay in place of one position longer without feeling any discomfort.

With the help of this safety gear, you can work on hard or soft surfaces for a long time without worrying about your knees feeling any kind of pain or discomfort. This is great in case you are working on stone outdoor flooring.

Knee Pad Inserts for Work Pants – These refer to knee pads designed to be inserted inside the knee compartments of work pants. These inserts make your everyday common work pants a whole lot much comfort to use, especially if you will be working mostly on floorings.

These are convenient because they do not have to be strapped around your leg. They stay in place when they are already inside their proper compartments. However, they do come with a couple of drawbacks, one of which is that they usually do not provide quite as much cushioning as actual knee pads.

With that, expect them to be ideal for light flooring work only. If you are a contractor who deals in different kinds of flooring surfaces, not just on the carpet and synthetic turf, then choose the kind of knee pads that suits your work and can help you.

Why Do You Need a Flooring Knee Pad

Making flooring knee pads a part of your regular safety gear and equipment can surely do you a lot of good things. The following are just some of them that serve as reasons why flooring knee pads are essential:

It helps keep your knee joint healthy – Young, inexperienced contractors will usually scoff at the idea of using knee pads when working on flooring. They might not feel it now but they are doing a lot of damage on their knees just by kneeling on the floor surface for hours on end.

Needless to say, staying on a kneeling position for an hour or so is punishing on the knees. Ask experienced flooring contractors about their opinion on work knee pads and they will all tell you that they would have used them earlier in their careers if they could.

Some of the signs of shot knees include:

  • Not being able to extend the leg fully
  • Difficulty standing still or moving up and down the stairs
  • Cracking and popping of the knee joint when squatting
  • Difficulty jumping

If you observe that you have most or all of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor, or better yet, go straight to an orthopedic doctor so you can get a clearer diagnosis and treatment.

Not to sound scary but contractors who concentrate mostly on flooring and roofing are usually the most common candidates for knee replacement surgeries. That said, it is better to take good care of your knees while you still have full use of them.

It makes the work a whole lot easier – Kneeling directly on the hard floor surface can be quite uncomfortable, so you will find yourself standing up to stretch your legs quite often. This means that it will take you a long time to finish your tasks.

On the other hand, if you are wearing knee pads, you are just kneeling on a slab of dense foam. Because the more you feel comfort sense, the more you efficiently work. If you no longer feel the need to stand up from time to time to stretch, you can finish your tasks at record time.

Buying Guide

knee pads for flooring professionals

If you are in the market for a new pair or a couple of pairs of work knee pads, you need to know what qualities to look for. Even though these items are not that expensive, it is still a good idea to shop around so that you can get your money’s worth.

To give you an idea on what to look for, here are the common things that can be found in the top-tier knee pads for flooring installers:

Shock Absorbing – There will be times when you will not be able to brace yourself before you kneel on the floor. When those times come, you need to be able to rely on your knee pads to absorb most of the impact force.

Furthermore, if you will be laying down carpet and you are using a carpet kicker, your knee pads should be able to absorb the impact of the blows.

Reasonably priced – Since you will be using the knee pads every day, you should invest a bit of money into them. Do keep in mind that you will be using the knee pads for your job, and it will also prevent you from getting seriously injured.

Apart from that, they will prevent your knees from gradually deteriorating, so it is not too much to ask to pay extra for quality and performance. However, take note that just because a certain brand is more expensive than another, then that does not automatically mean that it is better.

It is top-tier to do a bit of online research. Look for customer reviews about the pricey knee pads and search for the one that has the most positive customer reviews.

Durability – It is always better to buy knee pads that can last for a very long time but is a bit on the expensive side, rather than get a cheap one that you need to replace every week or so because it always seems to deteriorate.

Other than customer reviews, another indicator of the durability of work knee pads is the warranty provided by the company. If the warranty is quite long and it covers a lot of details, like damage to the straps, foam padding deterioration, and others then the item is most likely durable.

A good pair of work knee pads should last at least six months of constant use. If it can last up to a year, the better.

Size and Adjustability – Most knee pads brands come in just one size but have many adjustment options to make them fit most people. Some brands also have separate sizes for men and women.

The straps that wrap around your leg should be adjustable enough that they can make the knee pads fit snug. If even at the smallest adjustment, the knee pads are still able to twist about, then it is too big for you.

A good pair of knee pads will never slide down or twist when you are working upon wearing and adjusting the fit. You will need both of your hands when you are working on installing flooring, so you should not be bothered to be constantly pulling your knee pads back into position.

Non-skid – The pair of knee pads that you buy should have an outer shell layer that is non-slip so that you are not slipping and sliding all over the floor surface you are working on. This might seem like a funny situation when you think about it but it is pretty dangerous, especially when you are working with sharp tools.

Furthermore, slipping and sliding can damage the finish of the flooring you are working on.

Provides Enough Cushioning – You need to know what kinds of materials are used in the making of your knee pads. This will tell you if they can support your weight and knees when layered.

The pressure coming from the floor surface should be evenly distributed around your knee and not just on a small single point. Ideally, it should seem like you are not even kneeling on a hard surface at all.

Flexible – Although work knee pads are not supposed to be quite as flexible as the ones used by athletes, they still need to have enough flexibility to let you move around when you are working on your knees. When you are doing a test fit, make sure that you can still bend your legs a bit.

Surface Use – Some knee pads for flooring work well on different surfaces while others are well-suited for soft surfaces like carpet or turf. You can also find those that are good for concrete and tiles.

If you will be working on hardwood, the knee pads should not scuff up the surface of the wood. Figure out what kinds of flooring surfaces you will be working on most of the time and then get a pair of knee pads that can take on that kind of surface.

Fastener Type – Some brands use hook-and-loop (commonly known by the brand-name Velcro) while others use plastic Snap-On buckles. You should find the one that is easy for you to put on.

This will eliminate the hassle every time you put them on before getting to work. Also, the fasteners should be strong enough that you do not have to worry about them coming undone while you are working.

Washable – If you are looking for convenience, look for machine-washable knee pads. These are the ones that you can toss straight into the washing machine with your other dirty laundry without fear of getting damaged whatsoever. Some brands just need to be wiped down with a damp rag while others are strictly hand wash only.

Weight – If you are looking for a pair of knee pads that have ample knee support, you can bet that they will be on the heavier side of the matrix. On the other hand, the lighter ones might not provide enough support, especially for heavy-set persons. You need to find a happy medium between weight and amount of cushioning to fit your particular needs.

Waterproof – There might be times when you have to work on a wet floor surface or outdoor flooring. If that is the case, your knee pads should be up to the task. When it was mentioned earlier that knee pads should be “waterproof”, it just means that the knee pad’s foam padding will not deteriorate when it gets wet.

Warranty – If a brand has a lot of confidence in their product, it shows in the kind of warranty that comes with it. For instance, a brand that comes with a one-year guarantee is already head and shoulder above the competition because most of them only offer six-month warranties reasonably.

Care and Maintenance

Ideally, you need to have more than just one pair of work knee pads, especially if you specialize in installing and fixing flooring materials. This allows you to switch between pairs during the workweek so that no single pair will get worn out and damaged.

In terms of washing, most brands of knee pads are not machine-washable, especially the ones with thick padding. However, it is still most suitable to consult with the washing instructions attached to the knee pads for the most suitable way to clean them.

If you want to play it safe, you can wash your knee pads in a basin of lukewarm water with a bit of mild detergent. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away all the dirt that has accumulated and then rinse thoroughly under the tap.

Do not machine dry the knee pads. Just hang them up to air dry under the sun. Be careful not to expose the knee pads to the sun for too long or else, the foam padding will get brittle.

If you will be storing your knee pads for an extended period, wrap them up in a plastic bag to prevent dust from settling on them and then store them in a cool, dry place to prevent the growth of mold.

Frequently Asked Questions

EDC-FAQs

What are the most popular flooring knee pad brands?

Confused over which best knee pads for flooring to invest in? Then look for brands that continue to earn great reviews from the public because of the level of protection, support, comfort, and durability they offer to those needing knee pads.

Some of the brands that earned the trust of many due to the quality of their knee pads are NoCry, Thunderbolt, DEWALT, Crain, Milescraft, ProKnee, and RFG Gear.

Is it possible to wear out work knee pads?

The padding, which is usually made of synthetic foam, gel, or other soft materials, will eventually break down and compress. When you feel that the support of the padding is starting to wane, you need to replace them as soon as you can.

Do work knee pads come in different sizes?

It depends on the manufacturer. Most brands of knee pads are one-size-fits-all but some also have different offerings for men and women. Knee pads come with several straps for adjustments, so you can just tinker with them until you find the right fit for you.

Should I size up or down for knee pads?

Note that the floor layer knee pads featured above are available in one-size-fits-all. However, if you come across knee pad manufacturers that provide size charts, it is most useful to assume that their products vary in sizing conventions.

In these cases, knee pad brands indicate two measurements on the table: One for the thigh and the other one for the calf. Other manufacturers provide size charts for above the knee and calf. For those who are in-between sizes, choose the circumference closest to the measurement of your thighs or above the knee.

Either way, the important thing to remember is that the knee pads for concrete should feel snug. Moreover, they should not cut off blood circulation or inhibit your movement, as many Reddit users correctly pointed out.

Are white or black knee pads better?

Just imagine using knee pads for cleaning floors. All the dust, mud, or grime will stick to them! For this reason, black is better since it hides the dirt well. With white knee pads, you will have to wash them more often and, sometimes, even bleach them to restore their looks. However, harsh cleaning products can diminish their quality.

How long should knee pads for flooring last?

Ordinary inserts for pants can last up to one year with moderate use. In contrast, gel construction, plumbing, and carpet laying knee pads with hard plastic shells can remain in good condition over two years.

Are there latex-free options for knee pads?

Lots of people have latex allergies and if you are one of them, you do not have to worry. Most brands of knee pads do not use latex in their products. They use synthetic plastics like polyurethane or ethylene-vinyl acetate foam as the base of their padding.

These materials are hypoallergenic so knee pads that contain them will not trigger any sort of reaction in people with latex allergies.

Can knee pads help with knee pain?

No, and they are not designed to do so. Knee pads only provide cushioning for when you need to work on your knees. They provide a soft barrier between your knees and the hard floor. When you stand up, the knee pads provide next to nothing in terms of support. They can only prevent knee pain from happening but cannot alleviate it.

It is beneficial to wear knee pads early on in your career as a flooring installer. You might think that only sissies need to use padded knee pads at first but you will regret it a couple of years later when you are nursing shot knees, making you unable to work as hard as you used to be.

If you are suffering from knee pain then you should check with an orthopedic doctor for possible treatments. If needed, ask your doctor if he/she can prescribe a knee brace for you. Knee pads do not work the same way as medical-grade knee braces, so do not use them interchangeably.

Are knee pads comfortable?

If the knee pads that you currently have do not give comfort feeling then it is probably time that you replace it. Knee pads are supposed to provide you with comfort while you are working on your knees. These pieces of equipment provide you with padding to protect your knees from hard surfaces, preventing painful knee problems from showing up in the future.

If you are using knee pads, they should have enough cushioning that you will not even mind working on your knees for hours because they receive the proper support.

How tight do knee pads need to be?

Once you wear your knee pads, note that they should not be so loose that they tend to twist or slip off every couple of minutes. The straps should not also be so tight that they get a bit painful and cut off circulation in your lower leg. It should just be tight enough that they will not move around and stay in place.

How to use the knee pads for flooring?

Using work knee pads is pretty straightforward. Some brands are so easy to understand that they do not even come with instructions. You just place the knee pads over your knee, grab one strap end and hook it around the hoop in the other end.

You then pull on the straps to tighten the fit around your knee. Once you have tightened the straps enough, secure it using the included belt buckle or hook-and-loop strips (popularly known as Velcro). Do the same with the other straps and consequently on the other knee pad.

How to care & wash?

Work knee pads are meant to be abused, which is why they need very little maintenance. The real reason why you need to clean them regularly is primarily so they do not feel icky when you wear them.

Ideally, you should wash your work knee pads after every workday. However, if you do not have the time or energy to launder them every day, you can just do it on the weekend. Check the washing instructions of your particular knee pads so you will know if it is machine washable or not.

If it so happens that your knee pads can be thrown into the washing machine then great. Just throw it in with the rest of your laundry. If not, you just need a small basin containing lukewarm water containing mild detergent.

Just scrub at the dirt using a soft-bristled brush. Rinse under running water until all the bubbles are gone. Let it hang outside to dry.

What is the warranty?

Most brands of work knee pads, including those that are considered heavy duty, get at least a 30-day money money-back guarantee. Most of the time, these money-back guarantees only cover factory defects but you can also find others that come with satisfaction-guarantees.

This means if you are not satisfied with how the knee pads perform, you can get a refund of your purchase, no questions asked. It is best to get the knee pads that come with satisfaction guarantees or have warranties against factory defects that last longer than six months.

These are the ones that have superior manufacturing quality. It shows at just how much confidence they have that their product will not give up even after a year or two has passed.

Where to buy?

You can usually find one or two different brands of work knee pads in your local hardware and construction supply stores. However, if you want to get more choices and lower costs, you can go online shopping for them.

If you choose to go the online route, you will find hundreds of different retail stores and more than a thousand different brands to choose from. Even if you do not have that much in terms of a budget for new knee pads, you will surely find one that is priced competitively.

Conclusion

The best knee pads for flooring can indeed lessen the pain, discomfort, and risk of working on jobs that require you to move around and kneel too much. However, you can’t just pick any of these knee pads without figuring out if they can withstand the kind of job that you have.

Whether you plan to use it for a short time or an extended period, it helps to go for one, which is truly protective and comfortable. Go for a longer-lasting one, especially if you plan to be in the business of flooring and construction for a long time.

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