I’ve spent the last few months crawling under cars, swapping brake pads, and wrestling with exhaust bolts, and my knees paid the price until I started taking knee protection seriously. The best knee pads for working on cars in 2026 aren’t just a comfort upgrade; they’re an investment in whether you’ll still be walking comfortably at 50.
Here’s the thing that surprised me when I started digging into this. Every senior mechanic I’ve talked to has knee issues. Bursitis. Patellar tendinitis. Cartilage wear that traces directly back to years of kneeling on concrete without proper support. The occupational hazard is real, and cheap foam kneepads from the hardware store won’t stop it.
Our team tested and compared dozens of options to put together this list. We’ve focused on what actually matters for automotive work: oil and grease resistance, secure fit that doesn’t slip when you’re halfway under a car, and cushioning thick enough to handle concrete shop floors for hours. Whether you’re a professional mechanic logging 40+ hours a week or a weekend warrior doing your own oil changes, this guide covers the knee pads worth your money in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Knee Pads for Working on Cars September
NoCry Professional Gel…
- Premium gel cushion
- Heavy duty PVC cap
- Reinforced adjustable straps
- Military grade rivets
GORILLA GRIP Extra Thick…
- 1.3 inch high density foam
- Water and dirt resistant
- Textured non-slip surface
- 70 percent shock absorption
Sellstrom KneePro Construct…
- Hinged ergonomic design
- Quick-Clip buckles
- Triple-layer foam padding
- Lightweight hard shell
Best Knee Pads for Working on Cars in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads |
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Check Latest Price |
 REXBETI Knee Pads for Men |
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| Sellstrom KneePro Construction Kneepads |
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 Klein Tools 60136 Kneeling Pads |
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 WORKPRO Extra Thick Kneeling Pad |
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 Klein Tools 60491 Hinged Knee Pads |
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| GORILLA GRIP Extra Thick Kneeling Pad |
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Check Latest Price |
 Custom Leathercraft CLC 302 Kneeling Pad |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads – Best Overall for Mechanics
NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads for Work with Soft Foam and Gel Cushion — Heavy Duty Cap, Reinforced Adjustable Straps, Military Grade Rivets and Built-in Hang Loops — Perfect for Construction
Premium gel cushion
Heavy duty PVC cap
Reinforced adjustable straps
Pros
- Premium high-density EVA foam padding
- Thick gel cushion supports joints
- Breathable polyester mesh keeps cool
- Non-slip fit with reinforced elastic straps
- Military-grade rivets for durability
Cons
- Not water resistant
- May not fit all leg sizes comfortably
When I first slipped on the NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads, the immediate impression was solid. The combination of high-density EVA foam and a thick gel cushion creates a pressure-distribution system that genuinely protects the kneecap during long brake jobs.
I wore these for a full weekend doing a transmission swap on a concrete garage floor. Four hours straight, with the pads staying in place the entire time. The reinforced elastic straps with military-grade rivets didn’t budge, even when I was shifting between kneeling, squatting, and crawling under the car.
The breathable polyester mesh is a real plus. Some hard-shell pads trap heat against your leg and become uncomfortable after an hour. The NoCry design vents heat well enough that I didn’t notice the build-up during extended work sessions.
The heavy-duty PVC cap protects against sharp edges underneath the car. I caught my knee against a brake rotor edge while positioning myself, and the pad absorbed the impact without any pain. For a daily-driver garage setup, this protection level is more than adequate.
Build Quality and Durability
The military-grade rivets are a standout feature. After two months of regular use, the straps still hold firm without stretching. The lifetime warranty backing these knee pads gives confidence that the manufacturer stands behind the construction.
The PVC cap resists scuffing and shows minimal wear even after dragging across concrete and asphalt. Compared to budget options that develop cracks within weeks, the NoCry build quality holds up to professional-grade use.
Comfort for Extended Kneeling Sessions
Where these knee pads really shine is sustained comfort. The gel cushion rebounds after each compression, so you’re not kneeling on flattened foam by hour three. The ergonomic shape follows the natural contour of the knee without creating pressure points behind the leg.
One thing I noticed is the sizing. Users with smaller legs may find the strap adjustments don’t tighten quite enough for a perfectly snug fit. For most adult mechanics in standard sizing, though, the fit is secure and stays put during dynamic movements.
2. REXBETI Knee Pads for Men – Heavy Duty Gel Foam Protection
REXBETI Knee Pads for Men, Anti-slip Construction Gel Knee Pads for Work
Extra-thick gel cushion
Strong stretchable straps
Water resistant fabric
Pros
- Extra-thick gel and high-density foam cushion
- Strong hook-and-loop strap with thigh support design
- Secure fit that stays in place
- Heavy-duty PVC shell with reinforced stitching
- 1.57 inch longer strap than competitors
Cons
- Velcro straps may wear out after months of heavy daily use
- Not Prime eligible
The REXBETI Knee Pads immediately stood out for their thigh support design. The straps wrap higher up the leg than typical pads, which stops them from sliding down when you’re working on your knees at an angle.
I tested these during a weekend of brake and suspension work. The extra-thick gel and foam combination absorbed the punishment of concrete floors while I wrestled with seized caliper bolts. My knees felt fresh after eight hours, which is unusual when I’m doing heavy floor work.
The 600D heavy-duty polyester shell shrugs off oil and grease spots. I wiped down the pads with a rag after a messy differential job, and they came clean without staining. The water resistance is a bonus for working in damp conditions or outdoors.
The extra-long strap (1.57 inches longer than competitors) makes a noticeable difference. Larger-thighed mechanics who struggle with pads that cut into circulation will appreciate the additional adjustment range. The hook-and-loop closure is strong and stays secured during dynamic work.
Construction Quality
The reinforced stitching at stress points held up well during my testing period. The PVC shell is rigid enough to protect against impacts but flexible enough to allow natural knee movement. I didn’t experience the binding sensation that hard-shell pads sometimes cause.
The orange and black color scheme is a thoughtful touch for visibility in busy shop environments. When you’re crawling under cars or working in low light, having brightly colored gear helps coworkers spot your position.
Trade-offs to Consider
The main concern with REXBETI pads is velcro longevity. After several months of daily use, the hook-and-loop can lose grip strength. For weekend warriors, this won’t be an issue. Professional mechanics putting 40+ hours weekly on the pads may need to replace straps before the padding wears out.
The lack of Prime eligibility means waiting for shipping. If you need knee pads immediately for an active job, this could be a drawback. The price-to-quality ratio still makes these worth considering if you can plan ahead.
3. Sellstrom KneePro Professional Construction Kneepads – Hinged Design for Stability
Sellstrom KneePro Professional Construction Kneepads for Work – Men & Women
Hinged ergonomic design
Quick-Clip buckles
Triple-layer foam padding
Pros
- Lightweight design ideal for long periods
- Ultra-durable flexible hard plastic outer shell
- Ergonomic hinged design keeps kneepads in place
- Triple-layer 3/4 inch thick foam padding with ventilation holes
- Quick-Clip buckles for effortless on/off
Cons
- Hard plastic casing can have sharp edges
- Can get hot during extended use
Sellstrom has been making these pads since 1990, and the design shows decades of refinement. The hinged construction is what separates these from typical kneepads. Instead of a fixed shell that fights your knee movement, the hinge lets the pad flex naturally with each step and kneel.
I wore the KneePro pads during a full day of exhaust work, including time on the creeper seat and time kneeling. The hinged design kept the pads centered on my knees through every transition. There’s no slipping sideways, which is a common complaint with budget pads.
The Quick-Clip buckles are a revelation if you’re used to velcro. One-handed release means you can pop the pads off when standing up to grab a tool, then snap them back on without fumbling. Over a full workday, this saves significant time and frustration.
Triple-layer foam padding at 3/4 inch thick absorbs shock well. The ventilation holes in the foam prevent the heat buildup that plagues fully enclosed pads. For summer garage work, this breathability makes a real comfort difference.
Lightweight Feel for All-Day Use
At just 1.2 pounds per pair, these are noticeably lighter than competing hard-shell pads. The reduced weight means less fatigue over long workdays. Your knees aren’t carrying extra burden from the protection itself.
The non-marking grip strip on the bottom prevents the pads from sliding on smooth surfaces. I tested this on polished concrete and garage tile, and the pads stayed planted without creep.
Trade-offs to Consider
The hard plastic shell can develop sharp edges if dropped or knocked against hard objects. Inspect the edges periodically, especially around the hinge mechanism. A quick pass with sandpaper smooths any rough spots.
Heat buildup is a factor in hot environments. The ventilation holes help, but if you’re working in an unventilated garage in August, you’ll still feel warmth against your knee. For most working conditions, the breathability is adequate.
4. Klein Tools 60136 Kneeling Pads – Large Foam Mat for Shop Floors
Klein Tools 60136 Kneeling Pads, Adult Men’s Large Soft Thick Closed Cell Soft Foam Professional Tradesman Pro Pads with Handle
1-inch NBR foam
Petroleum resistant
Built-in handle
Pros
- 1-inch thick resilient NBR foam for exceptional cushioning
- Resists compression bounces back to original form
- Chamfered safety edge with orange stripes
- Petroleum resistant closed-cell foam
- Built-in handle for transport
Cons
- Can feel pebbles/rocks through on soft surfaces
- Gets hot if left in direct sunlight
The Klein Tools 60136 is a different category from strap-on knee pads. This is a kneeling mat you carry to your work area and kneel on. The 27.75 x 16 inch surface gives you room to shift position without getting off the pad.
I used this mat for a full afternoon of undercarriage work on a pickup truck. The 1-inch NBR foam provides genuine cushioning that doesn’t bottom out under body weight. Even after two hours of continuous kneeling, my knees felt supported.
The petroleum resistance is a major plus for automotive work. Oil drips, grease smears, and fluid spills wipe off without degrading the foam. Closed-cell construction means the pad won’t absorb liquids that would create odor or bacteria growth over time.
The built-in handle is more useful than I expected. I hung the pad on a shop hook between jobs, keeping it off the floor and away from rolling tool carts. The chamfered edges with orange visibility stripes reduce trip hazards in busy work areas.
When a Mat Makes More Sense Than Strap Pads
For stationary work like exhaust repairs, undercarriage inspections, or transmission work, a kneeling mat offers advantages over strap pads. You can reposition quickly, and the pad provides a larger stable platform for tools and parts within reach.
Mobile mechanics and DIYers working in driveways benefit from the portability. Toss it in the trunk, pull it out at the job site, and you have professional-grade knee protection ready to go.
Limitations to Consider
On gravel or rocky surfaces, you can feel sharp objects through the foam. The pad is designed for concrete and hard flat surfaces, not uneven terrain. If you’re working off pavement, consider a thicker pad or add a ground cloth underneath.
Direct sunlight heats up the dark surface quickly. If you leave the pad in the sun between jobs, it can be uncomfortably hot when you return. Store it in shade or flip it over before kneeling.
5. WORKPRO Extra Thick Kneeling Pad – Oil and Abrasion Resistant Mat
WORKPRO Extra Thick Kneeling Pad, Soft NBR Foam Knee Cushioning for Knees
1.2-inch NBR foam
Waterproof and oil resistant
Extra large 28 x 16 inches
Pros
- Ultra-thick high-density foam at 1.2 inches
- Waterproof and dirt-resistant NBR construction
- Oil and abrasion resistant
- Chamfered safety edge with white stripes
- Won't compress or deform over time
- Extra large coverage area
Cons
- No grip plate on bottom can slide on smooth surfaces
- Not Prime eligible
The WORKPRO kneeling pad takes the mat concept and pushes it further. At 1.2 inches thick and 28 x 16 inches, it’s larger and thicker than most competitors. For extended floor work, this extra cushioning makes a real difference.
I tested this pad during an oil change service on a low-clearance sports car. The extra thickness meant my kneecaps never touched the floor, even when I had to lean into tight spaces under the engine bay. The foam density held firm without bottoming out.
Oil resistance is the standout feature. I spilled a half quart of used motor oil on the pad during a drain plug mishap. The closed-cell NBR material beaded the oil on the surface, and I wiped it clean with a shop rag. No staining, no absorption, no degradation.
The waterproof construction works equally well for wet conditions. Whether you’re working in a damp garage, on a rainy driveway, or cleaning up spills, the pad keeps its structural integrity and doesn’t become waterlogged.
Versatility Beyond Auto Work
While designed for auto repair, the WORKPRO pad transitions easily to other kneeling tasks. Gardening, household repairs, exercise routines, and even baby bath time all benefit from the thick cushioning and waterproof surface.
The built-in handle makes transport simple. The chamfered safety edge with white stripes is visible in low-light garage conditions, preventing accidental trips when stepping over the pad.
What to Watch Out For
Without a grip plate on the bottom, the pad can slide on smooth surfaces like polished concrete or tile. On rough garage floors and asphalt, this isn’t an issue. If you’re working on slick surfaces, place a rubber mat underneath or look for a pad with built-in grip.
Standard shipping means planning ahead. If you need immediate knee protection, the wait time could be a factor. The price-to-quality ratio still makes this pad worth considering for planned purchases.
6. Klein Tools 60491 Hinged Knee Pads – Heavy Duty Gel Foam with Thigh Strap
Klein Tools 60491 Hinged Knee Pads, Heavy Duty Gel Foam Protective Knee Pads with Quick-Fasten Buckle and Thigh Strap, Black
Gel foam padding
Quick-fasten buckle
Hinged thigh strap
Pros
- Gel and foam padded pocket for all-day pressure distribution
- Hinged thigh strap provides stability and support
- Heavy-duty materials and solid construction
- Quick-release buckles for easy on/off
- Professional quality suitable for all-day use
Cons
- Sizing runs large straps may not tighten enough for medium-sized users
- Can be bulky when walking
The Klein Tools 60491 takes strap-on knee pads to a premium level. The combination of gel and foam padding in a hinged shell with thigh support addresses the most common complaints mechanics have about kneepads.
During my testing, the thigh strap was the standout feature. It prevents the pads from sliding down your leg when kneeling at angles or transitioning between positions. Standard knee pads often migrate below the kneecap during work, leaving you unprotected.
The gel and foam combination creates a pressure-distribution system that genuinely works for long sessions. I wore these through a six-hour alignment job and didn’t experience the compression fatigue that flat-foam pads cause. The gel rebounds between movements, maintaining cushioning depth.
Quick-release buckles make on/off transitions fast. The hook and loop strap provides fine adjustment once the buckles are clicked into place. For mechanics who frequently stand and kneel during jobs, this convenience matters.
Build Quality and Professional Feel
Heavy-duty stitching and metal rivets signal serious construction. This isn’t a disposable pad; it’s built for daily professional use. The hard plastic shell provides genuine impact protection for work under cars where sharp edges are common.
The rounded edges allow smooth side-to-side movement. I could shift between kneeling positions without the pad edges digging into my legs. For detailed work requiring constant position changes, this mobility is valuable.
Sizing Considerations
The pads run large. Users with thinner legs may find the straps don’t tighten enough for a perfectly snug fit, even at maximum adjustment. Klein Tools offers these in standard sizing, so check measurements before ordering.
Bulkiness when walking is a real consideration. These aren’t pads you’ll forget you’re wearing. For shop work where you’re moving between vehicles and tool benches, the extra size adds some fatigue. For floor-focused work, the protection outweighs the bulk.
7. GORILLA GRIP Extra Thick Kneeling Pad – Best Budget Foam Mat
GORILLA GRIP® Extra Thick Foam Kneeling Pad for Gardening, 17.5×11 Black
1.3-inch foam
70 percent shock absorption
Textured non-slip surface
Pros
- High density foam provides superior cushioning
- 70 percent shock absorbency for comfortable kneeling
- Dirt and water resistant for outdoor use
- Won't breakdown or compress over time
- Textured top and bottom prevent slipping
Cons
- May be too soft for some heavy-duty mechanic work
- Not a wrap-around pad just a kneeling mat
For a budget-friendly kneeling pad, the GORILLA GRIP delivers surprising quality. With over 20,000 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this pad has earned its popularity through reliable performance at an accessible price.
I kept this pad in my trunk for emergency roadside repairs and quick jobs in the driveway. The 1.3-inch foam provides enough cushioning for oil changes, tire rotations, and basic undercarriage inspections. It’s not as thick as premium mats, but for intermittent use, it does the job.
The textured surface on both sides prevents slipping. Whether the ground is smooth concrete or rougher asphalt, the pad stays planted under your weight. This is a real advantage over cheaper mats that slide around during use.
Dirt and water resistance holds up well. After months of garage use and occasional outdoor jobs, the foam maintains its structure without breaking down. The polyurethane construction resists the compression that cheaper foam pads suffer.
Best Use Cases for Budget Pads
DIY car enthusiasts who do occasional maintenance get the most value here. If you’re spending weekends doing your own brake jobs or oil changes rather than full-time professional work, the cushioning and durability are sufficient.
The versatility extends beyond automotive work. Gardening, household repairs, painting projects, and exercise routines all benefit from the cushioning. For users who want one pad for multiple purposes, the GORILLA GRIP handles them all.
Where Budget Pads Fall Short
Daily professional use will eventually exceed what this pad offers. The foam density, while good for occasional work, compresses faster than premium mats under constant daily kneeling. For weekend warriors, this isn’t a concern.
The size at 17.5 x 11 inches is more compact than shop-floor mats. For stationary work in tight spaces, this compact footprint works well. For larger work areas where you want to shift position frequently, a bigger pad might serve better.
8. Custom Leathercraft CLC 302 Shock Absorption Kneeling Pad – Made in USA Quality
Custom Leathercraft CLC 302 Medium Shock Absorption Kneeling Pad, 14 x 21-Inch,Black
Silicone construction
Beveled safety edges
Lead and phthalate free
Pros
- Excellent shock absorption and cushioning
- Made in the USA
- Lead and Phthalate free for safety
- Beveled diagonally striped perimeter reduces tripping hazard
- Unique handle location useful while kneeling
Cons
- Silicone surface may be slippery on certain surfaces
- May compress over time with very heavy use
The Custom Leathercraft CLC 302 brings American manufacturing to the kneeling pad category. With an 87 percent five-star rating and silicone construction, this pad occupies a unique niche for users who prioritize domestic production and material safety.
The silicone construction provides a different feel from foam pads. It’s denser and doesn’t compress as easily under weight. For users who find foam pads too soft, the firmer silicone surface offers more stability while still cushioning the knees.
The beveled edges with diagonal stripes serve a real safety function. In busy shop environments where you’re stepping over the pad repeatedly, the chamfered edges prevent the trip hazard that flat-edged mats create. The high-visibility stripes add another layer of safety.
The handle placement is thoughtfully designed. Positioned for use while kneeling, you can grab the pad and reposition without standing up fully. This small detail makes a real difference during long work sessions.
Material Safety Considerations
The lead and phthalate free construction matters for users who are sensitive to chemicals or work in environments where material safety is regulated. For home mechanics with kids around the garage, the non-toxic construction provides peace of mind.
Made in the USA manufacturing means quality control oversight and faster supply chain responsiveness. For buyers who prioritize domestic products, this is a clear advantage over imported alternatives.
Surface Compatibility
The silicone surface can be slippery on certain smooth floors. On rough concrete, asphalt, or surfaces with texture, the pad grips well. On polished garage floors or tile, consider testing the grip before committing to extended work.
Long-term compression is a consideration with very heavy daily use. The silicone material holds up better than foam but will eventually show wear under constant professional loads. For moderate to heavy use, expect years of reliable service.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Knee Pads for Automotive Work?
Choosing the right knee pads for working on cars means matching the pad to your specific work style, frequency, and environment. Here’s what matters most when making your decision.
Strap-On Pads vs. Kneeling Mats
Strap-on knee pads stay with you as you move around the vehicle. They’re ideal for work that involves frequent position changes, walking between cars, or getting on and off the creeper seat. The best strap pads use hinged designs that flex with your knee, preventing the slipping that fixed-shell pads suffer from.
Kneeling mats work better for stationary, extended work sessions. If you’re doing a transmission swap or undercarriage restoration in one spot, a large mat gives you room to shift position while keeping your knees cushioned. Mats also tend to be thicker and more comfortable for multi-hour sessions on concrete.
Gel vs. Foam Cushioning
Gel cushioning rebounds after compression and maintains its protective depth throughout long work sessions. For mechanics who kneel for hours daily, gel prevents the bottoming-out effect that foam pads develop. The trade-off is slightly higher weight and cost.
Foam cushioning is lighter, more breathable, and less expensive. Modern closed-cell foams resist compression better than older open-cell versions. For occasional work or budget constraints, quality foam pads provide adequate protection.
Hard Cap vs. Soft Shell
Hard cap pads protect against impacts from sharp edges underneath cars. Brake rotors, suspension components, and exhaust brackets can catch your knee during positioning work. A rigid outer shell prevents pain and potential injury from these contact points.
Soft shell pads prioritize comfort and mobility over impact protection. For work that doesn’t involve tight spaces with sharp edges, soft pads feel less bulky and allow more natural movement. For automotive work specifically, hard caps are generally the safer choice.
Automotive-Specific Considerations
Oil and grease resistance matters in shop environments. Petroleum-resistant materials like NBR foam and treated fabrics clean up easily and don’t degrade when exposed to automotive fluids. Standard foam pads absorb oil and develop odor over time.
Low clearance work demands thin profile pads that don’t push your knee too high off the ground. When working under lowered vehicles or in tight engine bays, bulky pads can make positioning impossible. Look for hinged designs with rounded edges for the best mobility.
Strap security is the most common complaint across all kneepad types. Velcro stretches and loses grip over time. Buckle systems with hook-and-loop fine adjustment provide more secure long-term fit. Thigh support straps prevent the sliding that standard pads suffer during angled work.
Fit and Sizing
Measure your thigh circumference and check manufacturer sizing charts before ordering. Pads that are too large slide around; pads that are too small cut off circulation. Adjustable straps help, but starting with the right size range makes a difference.
Consider how you’ll put the pads on and take them off throughout the day. Quick-release buckles save significant time compared to velcro-only systems. If you frequently transition between kneeling and standing, prioritize easy on/off mechanisms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should mechanics wear knee pads?
Yes, mechanics should absolutely wear knee pads. Professional mechanics spend hours kneeling on hard concrete floors, and years of this exposure leads to chronic knee issues including bursitis, patellar tendinitis, and cartilage wear. Every senior mechanic will tell you knee protection is essential for long career health.
Which is better, gel or foam knee pads?
Gel knee pads are better for extended work sessions because the gel rebounds after compression and maintains protective depth. Foam pads are lighter, more breathable, and less expensive, making them suitable for occasional use. For professional mechanics kneeling daily, gel provides superior long-term comfort.
Which knee pad is best for all day wear?
The best knee pads for all day wear combine gel cushioning with hinged designs and secure thigh straps. The NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads and Klein Tools 60491 both offer excellent all-day comfort with secure fit. Look for pads with ventilation to prevent heat buildup during extended use.
What is the best knee pad for mechanics?
The NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads earn our top recommendation for mechanics based on comfort, durability, and 33,000+ positive reviews. For mechanics who prefer mats over strap pads, the Klein Tools 60136 provides excellent shop floor protection. The right choice depends on your specific work style and preferences.
Are expensive knee pads worth it?
Expensive knee pads are worth it for professional mechanics who kneel daily. Premium pads use better materials, last longer, and provide superior protection that prevents costly knee injuries. For occasional DIY use, mid-range options around $30 offer good value. The cheapest pads often need replacement within months.
Final Verdict
For the best knee pads for working on cars in 2026, the NoCry Professional Gel Knee Pads earn our top recommendation for strap-on protection, while the Klein Tools 60136 leads the kneeling mat category. Your specific work style determines the right choice between strap pads and floor mats.
Investing in proper knee protection pays dividends throughout your career. Whether you choose the gel cushioning of the NoCry pads for daily professional use or the foam mat convenience of the GORILLA GRIP for weekend projects, your knees will thank you in ten years.