The success of Pearl Izumi's UV blocking Sun-series accessories led the company to continue to refine an already great product. As advances in fabric technology go, so does product development. Sun Knees were created to offer serious UPF protection against UV rays. Similar to the size and style of a knee warmer, Sun Knees offer protection from the short down onto the top of the calf. The concept is ideal for those who struggle with lotion-based sun block, which while effective for most people, can also block the skin's pores that allow for perspiration to cool the surface. Many cyclists are also allergic to various lotions and others prefer to avoid the chemical composition of most widespread available sun block lotion. Sun Knees, along with Sun Sleeves (arms), and Sun Legs, offer a real alternative with UPF 50 protection and fabrics that not only breathe and move easily with you as you ride, but also offer an active cooling system that is partially powered by perspiration before it is wicked away from the skin.
The easy, slip-on fit of the updated Sun Knees is enhanced by the shift to a single fabric with a more universal stretch. That stretch, rated at about 30% for proper fit, includes the same UPF 50 protection of the relaxed fabric. With a 93% polyester and 7% elastane blend, with 4-way characteristics, Pearl's designers were able to create anatomically correct panels that allow for proper cycling ergonomics without sacrificing UV protection. The resulting Elite Transfer fabric lets air flow in and heat and excess moisture to move out, and also features In–R–Cool® technology to provide the optimal skin-cooling effect and moisture management when you perspire. In–R–Cool employs Ice-fil®, which uses xylitol on the fibers. This natural refrigerant application absorbs sweat while quickly and effectively being converted to cooling energy; potentially reducing surface temperatures by 5°F. Hence the fabric not only blocks the UV and heating effect of the sun, but also actively reduces skin temperature, keeping you cooler and drier on an 85°F, fast paced, high effort group ride.
The material feels soft on the skin, and is flexible. Wide, highly effective grippers at the top of each Sun Knee hold the piece in place, while a more subtle finished stitched bottom hem prevents it from riding upwards. The panel seams are flat stitched, and barely noticeable. The Sun Knees are right-left specific and Pearl applies a Bio-Viz reflective logo on the anterior aspect to make side identification easier and provide visibility in low-light situations. The lightweight material used for these slip-on knee covers will keep you protected and cool so you can best enjoy exerting yourself in the glorious summer cycling months.
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