A biodegradable level-2 protector? That’s what ION claim about their new ARCON LT knee pads. But the real question is: how well do they perform? Do they provide enough protection? And, most importantly, can you throw them in the washing machine without shredding them in pieces? We’ve put the new ION ARCON LT knee pads through the wringer to find out.
ION have been making protectors for some time now. Founded in 2004, the German manufacturer initially made a name for itself with protective gear for watersports. But in 2012, they also took to the trails, and now, in 2024, they released their latest creation: the ION ARCON LT, a heavy-duty knee pad with a Level 2 impact rating, made in Europe.
The sleeve are combined with the RE ZRO pads which, according to the manufacturer, covers 15% more surface area and is fully biodegradable. We didn’t have time to test that claim ourselves, but we did consider throwing the pads onto the compost heap as a long-term experiment. However, we weren’t keen on waiting three to five years – which is how long the manufacturer states it will take for the knee pad to break down.
Who should take a closer look at the ION ARCON LT knee pads?
The new ION ARCON LT is aimed primarily at enduro, trail, and downhill riders. In all three disciplines, the ARCON LT performed admirably, both when pedalling and while sitting comfortably on the chairlift. The large coverage area makes you feel as if you were pulling a sock over your leg, and the same goes for the look. To keep the pads securely in place, ION rely on an elastic band with anti-slip silicone print at both the top and bottom. However, since there’s no Velcro or other adjustable fastenings, it’s crucial to get the right size when buying. The ION ARCON LT is available in four sizes, S to XL. Once you’ve found the right size, the fit is excellent, and the pads feel like a second skin.
After a hot, sweaty summer ride or a wet, mid-autumn muckfest, you can throw the knee pads into the washing machine. However, be sure to remove the pad insert first, as this isn’t machine-washable.
The ION ARCON LT knee pad on the trail
The ARCON LT have a snug fit and, despite covering the knees and a large part of the shins, feel as if you weren’t wearing anything on your knees. Plus, the pads stay firmly in place on long climbs, without forming annoying creases at the back of the knee. This makes the ARCON LT a reliable companion for long days in the saddle, where the pads proved to be comfortable over extended periods without chafing.
Although the ARCON LT’s slip-on design lacks ventilation holes at the back of the knee, the material is breathable enough that you won’t feel the need to take them off in between descents.
During a crash in the La Bresse bike park in France, Robin experienced first-hand how the ION ARCON LT knee pads stayed in place and provided reliable protection, preventing knee damage while remaining intact – impressive!
Conclusions about the ION ARCON LT
The ION ARCON LT knee pads offer reliable and comfortable protection for trail, enduro, and downhill riders. Thanks to the breathable material, they’re just as suited for long rides as they are for challenging bike park sessions. The slip-on design ensures a secure fit without compromising protection. The knee pads offer generous coverage and are biodegradable – a bonus for eco-conscious riders, though we weren’t able to verify this in our test.
Tops
- Excellent fit, stays in place while riding
- Very comfortable, even on long tours
- Generous protection for the knee and shin
Flops
- -
For more information, visit the ION website.
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of E-MOUNTAINBIKE, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more.
Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Mike Hunger
