The Swiss brand iXS has been synonymous with highly functional protective clothing for motorcycles and mountain bikes since 1979. We tested the highly acclaimed Flow 2.0 knee pads for you.
Construction
The iXS Flow 2.0 features a sophisticated sock design, complemented by an additional Velcro fastener below the back of the knee. This allows for individual adjustment and ensures that the protector stays reliably in place even on longer rides. Inside, there's a simple, removable protector plate, which is located behind a robust fabric. According to iXS, silicone prints on the front act as stoppers, but we're not sure what exactly they're supposed to do. The cuffs are equipped with elastic bands; the upper one is wider and features additional silicone prints on the inside, which further improves grip. The back is made entirely of mesh material, which not only provides better ventilation but also has an antibacterial treatment, a plus in terms of hygiene.
Protection
When it comes to protection, the Flow 2.0 delivers solid performance. It is Level 1 certified and uses the company's proprietary Xmatter protector plate, which covers the knee and the upper part of the shin. The Xmatter material behaves similarly to well-known PU materials such as D3O or SAS-Tec: It is flexible in its normal state and adapts well to the body's shape, but hardens immediately upon impact. In internal tests, the protective effect is well below the prescribed Level 1 limit of 35 kN; at less than 20 kN, the Flow 2.0 offers a noticeable safety advantage.
Fitting
In practice, the knee pad impresses with its high level of comfort. The soft protector plate fits comfortably around the knee and stays securely in place even during intense rides. The additional Velcro adjustment is particularly helpful for riders with slimmer legs, ensuring the pad fits perfectly. No pressure points or uncomfortable slipping occurred during testing.
Movement
A real plus point of the Flow 2.0 is its freedom of movement. Thanks to its low weight and the 4-way stretch material used, the protector is barely noticeable while riding. Even on longer tours, the protector remains unobtrusive without restricting movement, which is exactly how it should be.
breathability
The breathability of the Flow 2.0 is solidly mid-range. The closed sock design combined with mesh material and vents allows air to circulate, but the front gets noticeably warmer during intense exercise. The back, however, remains pleasantly ventilated. Adequate for summer rides, but not a proven heat specialist.
robustness
In terms of durability, the Flow 2.0 has both good and bad points. The front is equipped with an abrasion-resistant material and offers basic protection against occasional contact with the ground or branches. However, the material is too thin for frequent falls or tough bike park use. The sock material should also be handled with care when putting on and taking off; in our test, an accidental contact with the pedal resulted in minor damage to the mesh area.
