I ordered these because I needed new knee pads and am contemplating a return to derby. I was a little nervous about the size, but not only do they seem to really protect me knees (which I really need), but they did not inhibit my skating at all. I noticed a few other reviewers seemed to have this problem, one even saying they're only good for beginners - not true at all. I played derby for 3 years before taking a 2.5 yr break, and I wish I had these knee pads back then. I've tried out many different kinds of knee pads and these are by far the best. I probably wouldn't have half the knee issues I have now. I did not feel my speed or ability to cross over was inhibited at all during an endurance practice. I also noticed a lot of the girls on the team I practiced with had them, which I thought was fantastic. I would strongly recommend these pads to any level of derby skaters, blockers and jammers alike. Protect your knees!!!

After getting the “STD” of derby (Torn ACL, and Ripped MCL) in my left knee October, I was sure I was never going to be 100% again. That was until I got the 187’s. I am almost back to where I was and that has a lot do with the fact that my knee’s have one of the best knee condom’s out there. It’s like my knee’s have their own little pillow’s to land on and the pain is slowly going away. I love the slip in style it helps keep them puppies in place win doing the bear crawls!!

Great for the beginner but If you are a more experienced skater, go for the low profile pads! I was all about these knee pads when I started skating. I have taken some serious blows to the knee with these on and the ladies are still working up to standard! Now though, since my skating has improve tremendously I think they are too bulky and awkward to skate fast long pace lines or to be super agile against those rock star jammers. Soooo, once again, Great for the beginner but If you are a more experienced skater, go for the low profile pads!

I love my 187s and have been slowly converting as many teammates as possible. Falling is so easy. The difference is ridiculous over Pro-Tecs. Initially I was planning on getting Scabs but tried a pair of them and a pair of 187s and it was clear, the 187s have the most padding by far. It's also nice that they're not slide on so you can take them on and off while wearing your skates. The one downside for me is that they twist and slide when I fall or jump. I'm going to try gaskets to fix this in the future.

I recommend these to everyone who has had a knee injury. I can fall straight down on them and barely feel it. They are a little large and crossovers are a bit trickier, but you get used to it. My only complaint is that they have 2 velcro closures in the back as opposed to the slide on type, and they can pinch the back of your knee. Gaskets would probably solve that, though.