Knee protection in bunker pants

[Guest]

I get very sore after crawling on my knees, even in turnout gear. What do you folks use in your turnout gear to be "knee pain free"?

[btrotta]

I have the Globe pants with the pads built in to the knees. They're a knee-saver. I couldn't imagine having to crawl around without them.

The nice part is that if you do a lot of crawling and wear the knee out ... they're easily replaceable. They're held in with velcro and snaps on each corner.

When my pants are finally due for a full replacement I'm requesting another pair. If they're going with something cheaper at the time, I'll gladly make up the difference.

If you can afford 'em go get them. Your knees will love you for it.

[CharlieRFDPres]

Knee Comfort

Go to any local building / hardware store and get a set of roofers knee pads, available in wide variety of materails. I started with a real cheap pair of thin foam ones, and even those cheap ones were great relief, now have some gel filled ones that are even better, takes pressure off and increases protection too!!!
Definately one of the nicest things you can do cheaply to increase your comfort.





Be careful out there, protect yourself, your buddy, then the rest of the world. God Bless all of our fallen brothers.

[Quigger]

I'm only an explorer but I had dislocated both of my knees. So for drill i wear knee braces. They are cheap and they give extra support to your knees.

[distchief60b]

NFPA 1971, 2000 Edition requires doulbe layers of thermal and vapor barrier in critical areas such as the knees, elbows and across the back of the shoulders. This is due to these areas being more subject to compression burns.

If you need additional padding you can specify additional layers in the liner system. Also, most manufacturers offer "Padded Reinforced Knees". These can be permanent or removable.

So there are other options in addition to the knee pads. The problem with them is if you forget them....or get in a hurry and leave them at the station.... The built in ones gaurantee that the additional padding will always be available.

[RyanEMVFD]

i've always used a pair of volleyball knee pads i bought from walmart. they are a kevlar mix velcro strap knee pads. i leave them in my boots so i remember to put them on. they've been a life saver since i started wearing them.

[fireflyer]

If you can get them, get the turnout pants with the channeled knee pads, it is like crawling around on a pillow. Soooo nice if you are used to the regular bunker pants. You can get them if you are patient on ebay, they come up now and then and are affordable. Since those types are newer you can purchase gear that is still viable and ready for service. Otherwise a set of volleyball knee pads works great, just buy several types and try them out in drill and leave them in your boots so they stay with your gear. Good luck!