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the shizzle => equipment => Topic started by: SEDur on September 21, 2013, 06:13:07 pm

Title: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SEDur on September 21, 2013, 06:13:07 pm
Has anyone come across these yet?

http://www.sendclimbing.com/collections/all-products/products/downgrader-strap-on-kneepad (http://www.sendclimbing.com/collections/all-products/products/downgrader-strap-on-kneepad)

Are they worth the neoprene they are made of?

Are they worth the £40 they cost?

Would anyone be interested in a bulk order to save on shipping?

Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: andyd on September 21, 2013, 07:29:27 pm
I think the 5.10 ones are £40 at the Depot if you're not too fussed on which one you use. What's all this about downgrading? I've not heard anything about that before :tumble:
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SEDur on September 21, 2013, 08:02:08 pm
I just got an email back, and they say that shipping from the US is $30.
So if anyone was interested in buying one, let me know.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: krymson on September 22, 2013, 06:52:59 am
I heard the company is based out of Hueco Tanks, which apparently has its share of knee bars. That, plus the fact the company specializes in this one product makes me think the downgrader is probably better than the 5.10 knee pad .
Could be worth it!
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Sasquatch on September 23, 2013, 10:22:21 pm
I've got one, and while I haven't had the chance to try the 5.10 version, I've been impressed with the Send product.  I've always been crap at kneebarring. Always thought they were more trouble than they were worth.  These though are a different story.....
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SEDur on September 24, 2013, 04:04:10 pm
Cheers for that.

Im going to Think about putting an order in next month when I am less broke, to be here in time for Christmas.
PM to get involved.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: i_a_coops on February 07, 2014, 02:41:13 pm
So what was the verdict? Better than 5.10?
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SEDur on February 08, 2014, 01:42:58 pm
I got broke and didn't order the batch. Damn the ta man.

I bumped into a guy at the Tor before it wetted out who had one.

He rated it.

Still on my shopping list for the summer.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 06, 2014, 09:35:05 pm
anyone had the chance to try one of these? The FiveTen one didn't fit me at all...
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on May 06, 2014, 09:57:09 pm
I tried one on and it seemed much better than the 5.10 pad. Easier to get on, doesn't slide as much, and the buckles seemed to hold (unlike the 5.10 velcro!). Its a bit thicker than that 5.10 one and doesn't chafe the back of your knee as much (at least not after my short test), but also seems to have been designed for a wider leg. It fit me well, but I've got moderate width legs I guess. If you've got thin legs then it might be quite baggy just above the knee (the straps will keep it on, but the material might be baggy), but nothing a sock or something underneath won't fix. I'm planning on getting one if its ever back in stock.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Sasquatch on May 06, 2014, 10:18:23 pm
Love mine, but never used a 5.10 pad so can't compare. 

Mine's gotten a fair bit of use now, and I'm starting to see kneebars and scums everywhere. 
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 08, 2014, 09:18:19 pm
Thanks chaps.

I bought the 5.10 version and sent it back when it was first released as I couldn't wear it close enough to the knee (5.10 got confused by this and told me not to wear it over my knee joint) for it to be of any use at the Cornice where I was using it (I also wasn't willing to pay 5.10 £40 and then hack it to the correct shape as per Carlisle Slapper, it'd be like pre-emptively glueing my shoes together).

I've emailed about the Send pad to see when (or if) they'll have any in stock. Ben - if they get in touch do you want to try and save on postage with a joint buy (anyone else)?

I've been lent Stu's third pad so I'll see how that is. The kneebar in question isn't too technical and some padding may simply suffice as it's more of a pain thing. Failing all of the above I may get creative and see if Nat's Mum is better at stitching than Stu's.
 :boxing:
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Doylo on May 08, 2014, 09:27:45 pm
I'd be keen. How much are they?
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on May 08, 2014, 09:43:01 pm
You have a deal.

I might have an old kneepad knocking about somewhere which you can use. Its a chopped up old wetsuit courtesy of gme but does a reasonable job at reducing the pain. Don't stitch any rubber to your leg just yet.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 09, 2014, 12:58:11 pm
I think they're $70 for the full size one and $60 for the mini. I'm not sure how much postage (and potential duty) might impact the final cost.

I've emailed them so we'll see...
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Gus on May 09, 2014, 05:37:41 pm
I managed to get one of the send knee pads. It's well suave!! Definitely recommended, saved my bacon plenty of times in Kalymnos!

I usually keep it in the van so can show it you when I'm at The Foundry next. It fits my tree trunks really well so you might need the girls' (pink) one  :lol:
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 09, 2014, 11:27:23 pm
You should skip leg day more often then.

(http://www.muscleandfitness.com/sites/muscleandfitness.com/files/styles/large/public/Arnold-Legs-Main.jpg?itok=Owow4qw7)
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: standard on May 13, 2014, 08:45:48 am
I had one delivered last month.
Like others, I've not tried the 5.10 version (avoided it due to the slagging off on here), so can't compare.

However, the Send pad is a very nice piece of kit.
It is very nicely manufactured. Reeks of quality.

If you have any particular questions, or want pictures from particular angles that the official website doesn't show, just ask.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: tommytwotone on May 13, 2014, 08:59:33 am
Having tried Dave's 5:10 the other week, found it a touch baggy for my pipecleaner legs but thought the kneepad would be a good addition for offwidthing as well.


Only problem is you'd probably want one for each leg which would get pretty pricey, plus you'd end up looking like (or in my case even more like) a bit of a dick.

Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: slackline on May 13, 2014, 09:19:04 am
Only problem is you'd probably want one for each leg which would get pretty pricey, plus you'd end up looking like (or in my case even more like) a bit of a dick.

If its good enough for Dave Graham it should be good enough for you TTT...

(http://i.imgur.com/No7eXV0.png)

(although he too appears to find them a bit baggy)
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SA Chris on May 13, 2014, 09:26:59 am
I think with his legs even a child's sock would be baggy :)
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: abarro81 on May 13, 2014, 09:44:40 am
Ironically, DG is wearing neither the send nor the 5.10s there. Those rock and resole ones have more low key look to them.  Unfortunately they don't do the non-slip version any more, and they won't post direct to Europe. They are good pads if you can get them and don't mind gaffa tape faff tho
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Sasquatch on May 13, 2014, 04:51:46 pm
Ironically, DG is wearing neither the send nor the 5.10s there.
Despite being a 5.10 athlete :)

Even he knows they're terrible.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: SEDur on May 23, 2014, 07:27:35 pm
I didn't order a set in the end, got pretty broke.

I have only heard good things though...
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 23, 2014, 07:31:50 pm
I didn't order a set in the end, got pretty broke.

I have only heard good things though...

They got back to me saying they were out of stock, which (given that info was in the email I sent) wasn't all too helpful.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: moose on May 23, 2014, 07:51:11 pm
Paul, if you just need a temporary fix, you can borrow my knee pad - it's fairly simple number though - low profile, neoprene with a couple of velcro straps (I think it's actually a caving one).  If you want I'll sling it in my pack for when I next bump into you (current plans are Kilnsey tomorrow, conditions permitting, and Malham on Monday).
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on May 23, 2014, 07:59:03 pm
Ta Moose. I've got Stu's third at the minute so there's no need.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on June 06, 2014, 09:08:35 pm
I've been contacted by the company and they have some more pads in stock now, though this isn't advertised on their website, so I'm about to put an order in. If anyone wants to order one and split the shipping costs just let me know. $70 for the regular sized pad, $60 for the mini, $30 for shipping and import duty.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: miso soup on June 06, 2014, 09:35:09 pm
Presumably named the 'Downgrader' because you have to take off half a grade every time you use it?   :)
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on June 06, 2014, 09:42:00 pm
There's only one proper kneebar on Hubble anyway, so it would still be a personal best! ;D
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: T_B on September 08, 2014, 05:08:24 pm
Has anyone emailed Send Climbing (successfully) recently? I've tried emailing from three separate accounts but my email to info@sendclimbing.com bounce back.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on September 08, 2014, 05:12:28 pm
No, but try heather@

that's the email address that replied to me.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: abarro81 on September 08, 2014, 05:14:40 pm
Ditto. I messaged them on facebook and got a swift response. You thinking of ordering? I'd like to get one so would team up on postage if you want?

On that note - anyone in sheffield got one of the smaller sized ones I could try? Worried that the big one might be too big when in diet mode.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: T_B on September 08, 2014, 05:19:42 pm
Thanks Paul - I'll try Heather@

Alex - yes and yes. I'll let u know if I get a response..
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: tomtom on September 08, 2014, 05:22:33 pm
A famous climber was using one at the Tor the other week and preferred the 5:10 one... apparently the Send one wasnt as secure on the leg and moved about quite a bit..
Just saying... I've never used a knee pad.. except when Shark made me so he'd feel less bad about using two...
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: abarro81 on September 08, 2014, 05:28:55 pm
I've tried it already. I wouldn't wear it for on sighting as too clumpy but got my own for that. Felt like would be good for hard knees. From my brief play was way better than the 5.10s (and spray glue n tape can always be added when required!)

Who didn't like it?
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Ru on September 09, 2014, 02:38:47 pm
Ditto. I messaged them on facebook and got a swift response. You thinking of ordering? I'd like to get one so would team up on postage if you want?

On that note - anyone in sheffield got one of the smaller sized ones I could try? Worried that the big one might be too big when in diet mode.

I'd also be keen to double up on the postage.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on September 09, 2014, 06:15:26 pm
anyone been stung for import duty on bringing these pads in? TBH that (and ruining a finger) put me off buying one originally. It'd be the mini for me.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on September 09, 2014, 06:24:18 pm
anyone been stung for import duty on bringing these pads in? TBH that (and ruining a finger) put me off buying one originally. It'd be the mini for me.

Yeah, when I ordered a few I think import duty amounted to 6.5% (or there abouts) of the cost of the pads. There was also an £8 handling fee. I think I ended having to pay £22 pounds extra when I ordered two normal pads and one mini.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: T_B on September 09, 2014, 10:15:42 pm
Can you remember how long they took to arrive Ben? Ta.

Ru - have PMed you
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: stone on September 12, 2014, 06:19:56 pm
I got one recently and I've just had a card statement showing the full cost including shipping etc after currency change etc as being £62 I think. It didn't seem to take that long to arrive (8 days I think).
Its an indulgence I guess but for me its very comfy for climbing/strutting about in and doesn't slip. Before getting one myself, I tried on Haydn's and also a 5.10. My chubby legs seemed the wrong shape for the 5.10 but I know the 5.10 pad also works well for many people.
I'd be impressed if anyone had a "diet mode" under which which the Send pad no longer fitted. The pad is like a bandage, I think it would wrap equally snuggly around either stick-like or exceedingly plump legs.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: haydn jones on September 13, 2014, 12:28:01 am
Can confirm send pad fits round stick legs :p
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on September 13, 2014, 07:52:24 am
They took two weeks to arrive, T_B.

Regarding fit, I know Monkey Boy has to stuff a sock under his send pad to make it fit (also a good trick to stop 5.10 pads cutting the back of your knee). He didn't seem bothered by this and it didn't sound like it affected performance.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Gus on September 13, 2014, 07:29:45 pm
I've got a send pad and it's the best pad I've tried for my tree trunks!!
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: T_B on September 24, 2014, 02:13:34 pm
For folks info...

I ordered 3 pads, that were shipped in two packages. 1 was delivered after 8 days, the other two have been held onto by Royal Mail (£22.84 duty to pay). So split 3 ways the standard pad has worked out at £65.32 shipped.

I noticed Caff put prices against routes on a recent blog, I'm hoping I get at least one decent flash at Rodellar out of mine ;)
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Bonjoy on September 24, 2014, 03:53:29 pm
One for each knee, but what's the third for??
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: T_B on September 24, 2014, 04:14:33 pm
Shin pads innit
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: i_a_coops on September 24, 2014, 04:16:38 pm
I reckon the Quarryman groove would be a fair bit easier with rubber on your right bicep....  :whistle:
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on June 29, 2015, 09:20:57 pm
I've been contacted by the company and they have some more pads in stock now, though this isn't advertised on their website, so I'm about to put an order in. If anyone wants to order one and split the shipping costs just let me know. $70 for the regular sized pad, $60 for the mini, $30 for shipping and import duty.

Ben, did this all work out easy enough in the end?

I'm thinking of ordering a mini if they have any stock.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: standard on September 12, 2015, 01:50:26 pm
Ironically, DG is wearing neither the send nor the 5.10s there. Those rock and resole ones have more low key look to them.  Unfortunately they don't do the non-slip version any more, and they won't post direct to Europe. They are good pads if you can get them and don't mind gaffa tape faff tho

A shop in Kalymnos (of all places) is selling the rock and resole pads if anyone is after one. 55 euros.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Doylo on October 04, 2015, 11:55:10 am
I've been using the Send pad and the 5.10 pad for a bit now and I actually think the 5.10 pad performs better on most kneebars. The Send is comfier and easier to put on but the rubber's too thick and rigid and on some kneebars just skids off. The 5.10 pad moulds into the rock and sticks better. The Send one will be better for really painful kneebars. If you're prepared to spend one of each is the way to go.
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: a dense loner on October 04, 2015, 12:38:13 pm
Cheers Alex. I'm gonna txt doylo and tell him you've eventually hacked him
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: bendavison on October 04, 2015, 02:10:40 pm

I've been contacted by the company and they have some more pads in stock now, though this isn't advertised on their website, so I'm about to put an order in. If anyone wants to order one and split the shipping costs just let me know. $70 for the regular sized pad, $60 for the mini, $30 for shipping and import duty.

Ben, did this all work out easy enough in the end?

I'm thinking of ordering a mini if they have any stock.

Yep. I can't remember how long delivery took, but I don't remember getting frustrated at the wait.

I had a similar experience to Doylo re thick/stiff rubber on the send. It softens up quite a bit though, and I think the rubber is stickier.


Sent from the place where beasts are made using will power
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: abarro81 on October 04, 2015, 09:25:49 pm
I find the send better than the 5.10 for most knee bars
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: cjsheps on October 04, 2015, 09:40:00 pm
Quote
Sent from the place where beasts are made using will power

The library bathroom?
Title: Re: Send Downgrader Knee Pads
Post by: Paul B on October 04, 2015, 10:10:03 pm
I now have one but I'm out in RRG soon if you can pick these up 'locally' and anyone is in need I may be able to pick one up?
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