Hey Guys, Chris from Ti-GO here!

If you've ever watched your kid hurtle down the driveway on a balance bike at warp speed, you’ve probably had that oh no moment—the one where you realise they have no brakes, no fear, and zero sense of self-preservation.

And that’s why kids’ knee and elbow pads are a must-have for every parent who values intact bones and minimal trips to A&E. 🚑

But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best knee and elbow pads for kids? Do you go for camo designs, MTB-specific pads, or an all-in-one bundle, sleeve or strap types? And is it normal for your child to insist that wearing protective gear is “so uncool” while simultaneously believing they’re a pro BMX rider? (Spoiler: Yes, it is.)

Let’s break it all down—from beginner riders to advanced MTB and BMX shredders, scooters, and balance bikes—so you can get the right gear, avoid tantrums, and keep your little daredevil rolling safely.

Read some of our reviews we have included at the end of the page too!

Why Do Kids Need Knee and Elbow Pads?

You might be wondering: Does my child actually need knee and elbow pads for cycling?

Short answer: Yes.

Longer answer: Yes, unless you enjoy watching them crash at full speed and then dramatically insist their life is over because of a tiny scratch.

Knee and elbow pads reduce the risk of serious scrapes, bruises, and fractures—which means fewer tears, fewer plasters, and fewer moments where you have to say, “I told you so.”

For beginner riders, they provide confidence and protection, while for advanced BMX and MTB riders, they’re essential for tackling bigger jumps, ramps, and trails.

Choosing the Best Knee and Elbow Pads for Kids

Beginner Riders: Balance Bikes, Scooters & First Pedal Bikes

Ah, the beginner phase—where kids either ride like they were born on two wheels or spend most of their time falling sideways in slow motion.

For young riders on balance bikes, scooters, or their first proper bike, the best knee and elbow pads for kids should be:

✅ Lightweight (because kids complain about everything being “too heavy”)
✅ Flexible (so they can still move naturally)
✅ Comfortable (or they’ll refuse to wear them)

A great option for beginners is the Ti-GO Starter Set - offering knee pads and elbow pads in a super soft sleeve design without feeling too bulky. Perfect for protecting them while they wobble their way to cycling greatness. These are easily slipped on or off and customer reviews show kids even forget they have them on on the sleepy car ride home!

💡 Ti-GO Tip: If your child also rides a scooter, look for a kids’ knee pads and elbow pads set that works for multiple activities - because let’s be real, you don’t need more random gear cluttering up your house.

Intermediate Riders: BMX, Skatepark & Street Riding

Once kids gain confidence (and start launching themselves off curbs for fun), it’s time for an upgrade.

For BMX and skatepark riders, you’ll want knee and elbow pads kids won’t grow out of too quickly—something like the Ti-GO Camo Pads Bundle, designed for more impact protection but still breathable and comfy.

What to look for:
✔️ Extra padding for high-impact landings
✔️ Secure Silicone lining to stop pads slipping mid-trick
✔️ Breathable for reduced discomfort and sweat wicking.

💡 Parenting Hack: If your younger child refuses to wear their pads because they’re “uncool,” tell them all the pro BMX riders wear them - which is technically true and might just work.

Advanced Riders: MTB, Downhill & Dirt Trails

If your child is hitting the trails, attempting downhill MTB, or riding like they’re in the X Games, it’s time to level up their protective gear.

For mountain biking, you need:
🔥 Kids MTB knee and elbow pads that stay in place on bumpy terrain

🔥 Knee and elbow pads kids can rely on for rocky trails

🔥 Best elbow and knee pads for kids with shock absorption

The Ti-GO MTB Pads Bundle is a brilliant option for advanced riders—it offers more protection for rough trails but still allows them to pedal comfortably.

💡 Pro Tip: If your child is riding seriously tough MTB trails, consider adding mountain bike body armour to protect their back and shoulders too.

Keeping Kids Comfortable (So They Actually Wear Their Pads!)

Here’s the thing—even the best kids’ knee and elbow pads won’t work if your child refuses to wear them.

To avoid the classic “but they’re uncomfortable” excuse, follow these tips:
✔️ Get the right size – Too tight = discomfort. Too loose = pointless.
✔️ Choose breathable materials – So they don’t feel like they’re in a mini sauna.
✔️ Let them pick the design – Camo? Black? Rainbow? If they love how it looks, they’re more likely to wear it.

And if all else fails? Bribery. A little post-ride ice cream can work wonders. 🍦

Final Thoughts: Protect Now, Ride Fearlessly Later

At the end of the day, kids are going to fall. They’re going to scrape their knees, scuff their elbows, and come running to you with the most dramatic reaction possible.

But with the right knee and elbow pads for kids, those crashes will be less painful, less scary, and way less likely to end in tears.

Whether your child is just starting on a balance bike, tearing up the BMX park, or shredding an MTB trail, investing in high-quality protective gear means they can ride with confidence - and you can relax (a little bit).

We strive to bring your child the most fit for purpose pads we possibly can, we favour the sleeve design over strap design for comfort and staying where they should be!

To check out our full range of tried and tested Kids Knee and Elbow Pads click HERE!

Now, go suit up your little daredevil and let them enjoy the ride safely! 🚴‍♂️💨

Don’t forget to use the code BLOG5 for a little discount on us 🧡