How to Put Knee Pads in Work Trousers: A Practical Guide for Tradespeople

Whether you’re tiling floors, fitting kitchens, laying blocks, or wiring sockets, you know just how much strain your knees can take during a day’s work. That’s why knee pads are one of the most important accessories you can add to your workwear trousers—but only if they’re fitted correctly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to put knee pads into work trousers properly, what to look out for, and which products make the job more comfortable from the moment you kneel down.

👉 Browse our full collection of workwear trousers at Tradeworx

 

Why Use Knee Pads?

Kneeling for extended periods can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and long-term injuries. Knee pads help:

  • Reduce pressure on joints

  • Prevent bruising and inflammation

  • Protect from rough or uneven surfaces

  • Extend the life of your trousers

But to get the full benefit, it’s important to pair them with trousers designed to hold them securely in place.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Insert Knee Pads Into Work Trousers

Most modern workwear trousers from brands like Snickers, Blåkläder, and Portwest are designed with built-in knee pad pockets. Here’s how to use them effectively:

1. Choose Compatible Knee Pads

Start with a good-quality pair of pads designed specifically for your trousers. For example:

Snickers 9110 Craftsmen Knee Pads – Ideal for professionals working on their knees frequently. These offer great cushioning and conform to your knee shape over time.

Snickers 9112 Lite Craftsmen Knee Pads – A lightweight alternative with flexibility and comfort, great for summer months or lighter work.

2. Locate the Knee Pad Pocket

Most work trousers have external top-loading or internal bottom-loading pockets on the knees. You’ll usually find a flap secured by Velcro or a zip.

3. Insert the Knee Pads

Slide the knee pad into the pocket. Make sure:

  • The pad is aligned with your kneecap when you're kneeling

  • The textured or contoured side (if applicable) is facing outwards

  • The pad is not folded or bunched up

Take a moment to kneel and test the positioning. If it feels off-centre or too low, adjust it accordingly.

4. Secure the Pocket

Ensure the flap is fastened tightly to keep the pad in place throughout your shift.

 

Which Workwear Trousers Are Best for Knee Pads?

At Tradeworx, we stock a range of trousers built for tradespeople who need durable knee protection. Look for features like:

  • Cordura®-reinforced knee pockets

  • Top-loading access for easy adjustment

  • Multiple pad height positions to match different body types

👉 Explore our full range of compatible workwear trousers

Pairing your trousers with Snickers kneepads like the 9110 or 9112 will give you the ultimate combo of flexibility and protection.

 

Top Tips for Comfort & Longevity

  • Don’t leave your pads in during washing – Remove them before laundering your trousers to prevent wear or warping.

  • Replace when worn out – Knee pads don’t last forever. Replace them if they flatten or lose their bounce.

  • Test the fit regularly – As your trousers wear or stretch, check that the pads still sit correctly over the knees.

 

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to insert and position knee pads in your workwear trousers can make a real difference to your comfort and joint health on the job. Whether you’re laying flooring, installing pipework, or just spending time on your knees, investing in the right gear—and using it properly—will help you work smarter and stay pain-free.

At Tradeworx, we offer everything you need to stay protected on site—from Snickers Craftsmen Knee Pads to rugged workwear trousers from industry-leading brands.

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