Deadbolt are a hidden gem in the protective gear industry. Those who have experienced their pads become loyal fans, refusing to use anything else on their knees. They have cultivated a devoted following that keeps expanding as more individuals discover their pads and learn about the exceptional customer service they provide. Developed for Roller Derby skaters and following the success of the Jammer Elite and Blocker Elite pads, Deadbolt introduced the Grand Slam Knee Pad last year, incorporating vibrant rainbow designs and zebra stripes into the lineup.
This is a brand that understands its audience and what matters to them. More importantly, they listen to feedback and are constantly striving to create the ideal product. Grand Slams had a challenging start when a flaw in the padding's shape was identified. This was a manufacturing error, but Deadbolt swiftly worked to provide replacement padding to all customers and promptly issued an apology. The reaction to the new padding was positive, finally offering a knee pad made for derby skaters that focused on the essentials: Comfort. Protection. Durability. Needless to say, the customer service from Deadbolt has been outstanding from the very beginning, and it's great to see a brand so engaged in the Derby community.
Last year, I finally got my hands on a pair of Grand Slams after hesitating for too long about upgrading my pads and bruising my knees in the meantime. I was seeking a pad that provided substantial protection while allowing freedom of movement for both Derby and Ramp Skating. As an average skater with an average build and above-average clumsiness, it wasn't until I injured my knees that I realized I fall more often than I thought...
Fast forward 12 months, and my Grand Slams are still in great condition with plenty of life remaining. To be honest, apart from a few scratches, they look almost new despite enduring a busy year of bouting and falling at Skate Parks. I was intrigued to learn that Deadbolt had released an updated version based on skater feedback (well done, Deadbolt!). Having skated in them for so long, they have held up well with no issues in the velcro or material stretching and tearing. Most importantly, they do the job when I fall, and my knees remain grateful. The only problem I have is some twisting after a heavy fall, and kneeling on them to stretch has always been a bit challenging as they tend to rock slightly.
Looking Ahead
Last night, I tried out the new version and decided it was time to brighten up my gear with some
RAINBOWS!
Everyone loves rainbows.
The first thing I observed was that the profile is much lower, yet the pad feels just as soft and cushioned as before. One of our skaters at Skate Hut once said that Deadbolts felt like 'falling on clouds,' and I tend to agree with him. As an experiment, I 'accidentally' tripped over my own feet and, if anything, felt more secure and supported in the new pads. With the previous model, there seemed to be a 'breaking in' period as the pad molded to the knee. With this updated version, my knee fit into it much better and felt fully supported from the first session.
The difference is noticeable, the top of the pad seems to offer a more natural, snug fit, and the cap now features a smaller logo, giving you more space to add your own design underneath. The overall length remains the same, but the straps felt more secure around the calf.
The key improvement is that the pad no longer shifts or twists after a fall, and the sides of the knee feel more protected, likely due to its more secure fit. I can now kneel in them without feeling like the pad is moving beneath me or tipping over when I try to stretch after practice.
One of my favorite features is the fastening system. Both top and bottom have a traditional butterfly fastening, but the top is secured with a thick wrap-around strap, and the bottom has a smaller adjustable strap. As most skaters struggle to find pads that fit well, this allows for minor adjustments to ensure it stays in place while remaining comfortable. Based on skater feedback, Deadbolt also enhanced the stitching in this model to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
With a busy training schedule ahead and a trip to Beach Brawl planned with the Central City Rollergirls it's fair to say these couldn't have arrived at a better time! While the original Grand Slams served me well, the new ones seem even better!
Jelly Mean