PodMX K700 Knee Brace

Rating

9.5

Sizes

S-XXL

Colors

Black

What It Is

The K700 is the second knee brace offering from PODMX, a New Zealand-based company that is distributed in the U.S. by Fox Racing. As an off-the-shelf brace, the K700 comes with all of the latest technology that one would expect to find in custom units. The entire frame is constructed out of carbon composite, and it comes with a self-tracking patella cup, four adjustable fitment straps, and an antibacterial liner. The K700 design is centered on PODMX's polymer hinge technology; a synthetic ligament within the hinge intended to follow the natural movement of the knee.

Hits

The first noticeable attribute with the K700 is the minimal weight, which is barely more than a high-end plastic knee cup. The movement of the hinges, thanks to the polymer ligament, is virtually frictionless, and remained so even after several months of use. Fitment is surprisingly accurate for an off-the-shelf product, as long as you have matched the correct size brace to your legs. On the track, you would be hardpressed to even notice the K700s, as their slim design and comfortable padding have little to no obstruction with the motorcycle, even if you are a crazy leg gripper like Swap. Depending on your preferences or past injuries, the braces come with different degree hinge stops to help avoid hyperextension.

Misses

Our biggest gripes we have so far are with the liner and straps. While both serve their functions very well, the adhesive used to secure the various pads and Velcro has failed on numerous occasions. Pads do not necessarily fall off while riding, but they will move around. The straps come with additional pads that are thicker to help spread the load and we believe those pads should just be integrated into the straps instead of using Velcro.

The Verdict

Not often does a product come along that adds confidence to your riding. The K700 offers excellent support, is very light weight, and has almost no obstruction with the bike. While the biggest flaw is the poor liner adhesive, the liner itself is very effective (personally, I know the antibacterial padding works because it usually takes only one or two rides for my stink to permanently attach itself to any one item). While the first PODMX was a good offering and is still available, the K700 surpasses its older brother in most avenues and could even compete with custom braces. To top things off, the fully removable patella cup means the braces could be used for non-moto sports as well.