oh. and if you do go to perf. bike store, check their web site 1st, sometimes the in-store price is more, but they'll match the web site price if you bring in a printout of the item.

i have to credit mark for the cyclegear reference, he pointed them out to me in the past. got some great stuff there.

I rarely pay full retail for clothes, opting to buy last year's styles instead. The Champion brand that Target, Big 5, Sports Authority, etc. carry hass essentially the same moisture-wicking material as the name brand stuff like Fox for about 3rd of the cost. Also, like Chris pointed out, motorcycle clothes are exactly the same and often cheaper than what you'll find in bike shops.

for regular biking stuff, performance bike usually has some decent gear and prices http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/TopCategories_10052_... , plus you get 10% back when you join their club (it adds up!), for motocross type stuff http://www.cyclegear.com/ has lots of cool stuff, gloves, shirts, goggles.

I'm definitely listening and taking in all of the advice. Thank you everyone! I will probably shop around for pads next weekend and let ya know what I end up getting. Since we're on the shopping topic... what's your favorite place for cheap biking clothing? Why does it have to be so dang expensive :)

this is a good discussion if elizabeth is still listening. what ever you go with and happy with, we will all be happier that you're better protected.

There are some trails like the Chantry loop we're doing in a couple weeks on which you would definitely want to wear the pads both up and down the ride.

if you fall that often while climbing you have much bigger problems to deal with ;)

Like I said... just my two cents :o)

but david, why wear them only on the descent? you can fall while climbing.
elizabeth, you've got a lot to think about... good luck!

oh mammoth is one of my favorite places! have a great time and be carefull!

Elizabeth,
The only thing I see that would deter me from getting the pads Eddie is suggesting is from the picture it looks like they slip-on instead of strap on. For me personally, pads get real cumbersome whil climbing. I strap mine to my pack and put them on on the downhill sections. This could be a problem if you have to take off your shoes everytime you want to put on your pads. Just my two cents. I use Fox "Launch" pads, they have never slipped. Plus they come in different sizes.

Thank you guys! This is a huge help and points me in the right direction. I will definitely try them on before buying. Eddie, I won't be able to ride this weekend because I'm going to Mammoth. My first trip to the snow in years, can't wait! Have a great ride!

oh here's a review on these pads: http://www.gravity-slaves.co.uk/main/?p=show_article&...
it's tough... who knows, maybe the the people who complain about slippage got the wrong size/fit. you should definitely go out and try some at some local shops.
are you riding this weekend? come join us at the topanga ride.

elizabeth, you can check out some reviews of pads here:
http://www.mtbr.com/cat/mtb-apparel-and-protection/armor-...
i suggest trying them on before buying, they all fit a little different. jensonusa in corona usually has good prices. dont know too many LBS in santa monica but you might check with chris ashford.

Hey Mark! Thanks, but she asked me.
Hey Elizabeth, after talking with people like Chris G and doing extensive research and trying on different pads, I went with these: http://www.jensonusa.com/store/product/PG310B00-The+Storm...
A lot of people complained how the pads would slip off their knee, so I like how these have a sleeve you pull on. It's harder to put on and off, but they're more secure. But I'll have to test them out for myself.

Thanks so much, Mark!

I got my pads through Amazon. Check out some options here:
http://www.saferbiking.com/index.php?option=com_content&a...

Hey Eddie, what kind of pads did you get, and where did you order them from? Thanks!