Expanding upon the existing Trail range, Rapha has teamed with RHEON Labs to create a new Knee Pad, harnessing active polymer tech in a pedal-friendly package.

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Rapha now offers trail orientate knee protection that promises to be super lightweight and pedal-friendly in a package that offers Level 2, Type B protection (apparently the highest level of protection provided by any pair of lightweight pads). That's thanks to the brand's collaboration with RHEON Labs.

The pad makes use of RHEON Labs' patented pad geometries to create a pad that's light, airy and flexible when in motion, says Rapha. Under impact, however, it's designed to densify to dissipate energy. It's built using an active polymer that's usually flexible, unless under impact where the pad concentrates more material into the impact zone. 

At the front of the pad, an outer layer is made using SuperFabric, a durable ceramic polymer that's said to reduce friction, adding tear resistance, stopping riders from snagging on obstacles. Then, there's a high-stretch main fabric to allow for knee articulation and there's a leg gripper that sits high on the thigh.

The Knee Pads are designed for all-day riding, during any ride, and made to work in tandem with the brand's existing Trail Pants, Trail Shorts, and Trail Liner Bib Shorts.

Rapha's new Knee Pads will set you back £80.

• www.rapha.cc

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