The Fox Launch D3O knee pads are an excellent option in the knee guard market, offering stellar protection and comfort for relatively little cash. Although they can compete with the best knee pads, attributes such as ventilation and build quality leave a little to be desired – and double check the size guide before buying as you might need to size up.
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Fox Launch D3O Knee Pads – Technical details
Fox has designed the Launch D3O to offer good protection with a focus on value. Housing a CE-certified D3O insert is a slip-on sock with extra foam pads that sit around the non-Newtonian insert. The pad uses a pair of Velcro straps and the neoprene build has perforations to promote airflow.
The pad meets EN16121-1 level 1 certification and comes in three sizes to fit thighs from 36.8cm up to 44.5cm. But other than that, that really is it, this is one simple pair of pads.
Fox Launch D3O Knee Pads – Performance
While the size guide matches that of the Scott Grenade Evo Zip Knee that worked well for me, the Launch D3O sizes up a little slimmer in reality. It’s not been a big issue in the grand scheme of things but if you measure in at the upper end of your usual size, according to Fox’s size guide, it’s well worth considering opting for going larger. Regardless, despite its mass of padding and the D3O insert, it’s a fairly slim pad. Pictured here in medium, it’s fitted under all the trousers I’ve used during testing.
Although the fit was closer than I expected, comfort was far beyond what the price tag might suggest. Recently, I’ve struggled to get on properly with burlier knee pads, especially those that use the more budget-friendly and less refined D3O insert. Such pads tend to rub me pretty severely but this is where the Launch D3O surprised me. Although it’s tight at the top and bottom, the pad doesn’t rub or become uncomfortable. I’ve managed to put in big days without any issues whatsoever.
Pad security is also commendable. Where two velcro straps and silicone strips may be overkill, the combination works. During long days and rattly descents, the pad has stayed in place.
Making its comfort even more impressive is the level of protection the pad offers because of course, there’s not just the D3O insert. While that provides good coverage, the stiff foam pads around the insert increase protection further and improve confidence on the bike. These orbital pads are cleverly placed over bony parts of the knee, to fend off direct impacts.
The Launch D3O isn’t quite as sophisticated as some premium options – there are compromises. First off, it’s a warm pad. Although its main construction is perforated and the insert does have some holes cut into it, airflow isn’t the greatest. It’s also not the most durable pad around. When sliding it off of sweaty knees, it’s become a bit more of a task, and having done so several times, on the right pad, a seam has begun to break.
Another niggle comes in the fact that the D3O insert isn’t removable and that means that the pad is hand-wash-only. D3O recommends that its protectors be removed from any pads before machine-washing. This is a minor downside that I find acceptable for the asking price.
Fox Launch D3O Knee Pads – Verdict
Where this pad certainly isn’t without a couple of niggles, it’s all made up for with its friendly asking price of £85. Its comfort surpasses that of pads north of £100 and with the protection it offers, it’s a great value product.
I backed this pad with the Scott Grenade Evo Zip Knee Guard I mentioned before and, when I tested that, I praised it for its comfort. However, the Launch D3O is head-to-head in terms of comfort. A zip and a super-malleable D3O insert mean the £110 Grenade Evo Zip is a better pad in general.
At £90, Endura’s MT500 Hard Shell knee pad is similar but gets a hard shell, which will reduce abrasion over hard surfaces. It’s built around a one-piece slip-one sock and benefits from a D3O insert and gets foam surrounding it. Its fit is just a little more generous.
The Fox Launch D3O Knee Pad does exactly what it says on the tin – it provides excellent performance while balancing good value. It’s very comfortable, making comprehensive protection accessible and easy to live with over long rides. It’s not perfect, however, as its fit is a little slimmer than expected and it can get warm but if you can take the hit on those points, you won’t be disappointed.
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Product purpose:
Build extra:
Pre-curved ergonomic fit
Slip-on fit with hook and loop adjuster
Perforated neoprene offers comfort and breathability
Certifications
EN1621-1 level 1 CE Certification
Product construction
Product construction extra:
Product performance
Product performance extra:
Product durability
Product durability extra:
Product comfort
Product comfort extra:
product value
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