Trail Tested: Why the Avision Guardian Knee Pad Works On and Off the Bike
Some gear fades into the background in the best way possible. You don’t have to think about it, adjust it, or wrestle with it mid-ride or mid-dig. That was my experience with the Guardian knee pads from Avision. They’re the kind of pads you forget you’re wearing until they save your knees or your day.
I’ve worn a lot of knee pads over the years, most built for either hardcore descents or casual trail riding. Some fit like armor. Others feel like a glorified compression sleeve. The Guardian sits somewhere different: sturdy enough to protect when you need it, but easy and intuitive in a way that just works, especially when you’re bouncing between riding and trail building.
The Fidlock V-Buckle is a game changer
Let’s start there. If you’ve ever tried wrestling a pair of knee pads over pants, or worse, taking them off halfway through the day when things heat up, you’ll appreciate this detail. The Fidlock V-Buckle lets you quickly snap them on or off without pulling your shoes or wrestling with Velcro. Wearing riding shorts? Jeans? Work pants? Jorts? The design is seamless. I found myself actually using them more, simply because they were so easy to throw on mid-dig or right before a ride.
Built for movement and durability
Out on the trail, bike or Pulaski in hand, the Guardian knee pads strike a solid balance. They’re low profile and stay put, but they don’t feel restrictive. You can crouch to cut a root, hike with a load of tools, then hop on your bike without needing to readjust. The abrasion-resistant outer shell holds up to trail work, and the padding gives peace of mind when navigating loose terrain with sharp tools nearby.
Minimal bulk, maximum function
While other pads make you feel like you’re headed to a wrestling match, these slip into the background. That’s a compliment. From moving rocks to reshaping a berm to dropping into a tech line, the Guardians do their job without screaming for attention.
Final thoughts
Avision says they built the Guardian for those who live for the trail. That includes trail builders. And from what I’ve seen, these knee pads aren’t just for riding days, they’re for dig days, hike-a-bikes, and everything in between. If you’re the type who blends saddle time with shovel time, this might be your new favorite piece of gear.
Avision is one of our partners participating in offering industry discounts to those who sign up for our magazine subscription.
Sean Benesh
Sean is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Trail Builder Mag. He is also the Communications Director for the Northwest Trail Alliance in Portland, Oregon. Sean also spends time in the classroom as a digital media instructor at Warner Pacific University.
Email: sean@trailbuildermag.com
Instagram: @seanbenesh
