Courtesy of the NTOA
Tested by a Florida police officer
Overall Results:
Design ........................................................ 5
Performance ................................................... 5
Ease of Use ................................................... 5
Size ........................................... One size fits all
Quality ....................................................... 5
Durability .................................................... 4
Storage ....................................................... 4
Versatility ................................................... 5
Convenience ................................................... N/A
Application ................................................... 5
Comfort ....................................................... 5
Cleaning/Maintenance .......................................... 5
Accuracy: ................................….................... N/A
OVERALL ....................................................... 4.8
The NK45 Centurion Neoprene Knee Pad is made for use in SWAT and corrections applications. It features shock-absorbing 10mm foam and a second layer of polyurethane foam, covered by a durable nylon laminated neoprene outer layer. Large Velcro closures on the top and bottom straps provide a very secure fit. The NK45 is extremely flexible and fits comfortably under or over clothing, making it ideal for long-term wear.
My initial impression of the NK45 was good but I was a bit skeptical of the neoprene outer layer’'s durability when rubbed on a roadway or a rough surface. However the knee pads looked to be of excellent construction and the neoprene did provide a tactical advantage of not making any noise during a stealth/methodical entry. The thick foam padding looked very comfortable.
The very first thing you notice when you put on the NK45 pads is the strong Velcro closures. Once fastened, they will not come apart during any movement. The next thing you notice is the comfort. The combination of foams and neoprene cup the knee nicely.
During several hours of operations that I spent on my knees both stationary and moving on concrete and asphalt I found the NK45 neoprene did not rip or tear. I did notice that after a couple months of use on rough surfaces the stitching did begin to fray slightly.
Comfort is the key and the NK45 has it. After about a month of use I noticed to my chagrin the knee pads had small little tags indicating “right” and “left.” I am sure I wore these pads on the wrong legs at times but they were so comfortable I never noticed. Regardless of the proper side I found that I could stay on my knees using the NK45 without any problems. The backs of the pads are generously cupped and that provides good stability for movement both upright and kneeling. During a several-hour walking manhunt operation, I never had to adjust the NK45''s fit or positioning. Overall I found Hatch Corp.’'s NK45 Centurion is an excellent choice for the tactical advantage.
For more information on Hatch NK45 Centurion Neoprene Knee Pads, visit www.hatch-corp.com.