When it comes to off-road riding, protection should never be compromised. Whether you’re trail riding on weekends or pushing through a motocross heat, knee injuries are among the most common and serious setbacks a rider can face. This is where the Leatt Z-Frame V22 Knee Braces come in—offering a dependable and medically certified mid-range solution without the extreme cost of top-tier models. Designed with comfort, protection, and affordability in mind, the Z-Frame V22 has quickly become a go-to option for riders looking for balance between performance and price.

Why Leatt Z-Frame V22 Stands Out in Motocross Knee Protection

In the world of motocross knee braces, finding a product that offers both high protection and comfort without costing a fortune is rare. The Leatt Z-Frame V22 fills this gap beautifully. Constructed with an injection-moulded composite chassis, this brace offers serious reinforcement around the knee while remaining flexible and slim. It’s a CE-certified medical device designed to reduce forces on the ACL, MCL, and meniscus, which are typically vulnerable during crashes or over-extensions. At its price point, it provides more protection than standard knee guards and rivals some premium braces, making it an excellent option for those who take their riding seriously but want to stay within budget.

What’s New in the V22 Edition?

Updated Chassis Design for Better Fit and Strength

One of the most noticeable improvements in the V22 version is the redesigned chassis. Made from a durable glass-filled nylon material, the V22 offers improved strength and a more ergonomic fit compared to earlier versions. The carbon-injected knee section provides additional stiffness where it matters most—directly over the kneecap—helping absorb impacts more effectively. This design wraps snugly around the leg, offering a secure yet flexible hold that prevents the brace from sliding during rides. Riders have reported the new chassis feels less bulky and more form-fitting, which enhances both comfort and protection over long sessions on the bike.

Refined Hinge and Hyperextension Stop System

Another key feature updated in the V22 is the dual-pivot hinge system. These hinges now include aluminium covers for added durability and a sleeker appearance. What truly sets this version apart is the adjustable hyperextension stop system, which allows riders to set limits at 5°, 10°, 15°, or 20° to help prevent overextending the knee. This feature is particularly valuable for riders recovering from ligament injuries or those simply looking for extra reassurance when riding aggressively. It allows for personalisation based on riding style and physical needs, enhancing both safety and confidence on the track.

How the Z-Frame Protects You on the Track

Impact Protection and Ligament Support

Designed to function like a cage around your knee, the Z-Frame V22 effectively disperses energy from direct impacts while stabilising the joint during twisting or hyperextension events. The carbon-injected kneecap and CE-certified materials help shield you from rocks, roost, and collisions. More importantly, the dual-hinge design controls lateral and vertical movement, reducing strain on key ligaments. For those who ride trails, motocross circuits, or enduro events, this level of ligament protection is a must. It acts not just as a pad, but as a true brace, redistributing force away from critical areas that would otherwise be vulnerable to serious injury.

Comfortable Enough for Long Rides

All the protection in the world means nothing if the brace is too uncomfortable to wear. Fortunately, the Z-Frame V22 shines here too. The low-profile design fits easily inside most modern motocross boots, and the minimalistic shin pad reduces bulk while keeping the brace securely in place. Riders who’ve spent full days on the bike consistently praise the comfort, noting that once the fit is dialled in, the brace virtually disappears during use. There’s no excessive rubbing or pressure points, even during intense sessions. The slim hinge and ergonomic design promote natural knee movement, which makes long rides much less tiring.

Fitment, Sizing, and Adjustability

The Z-Frame V22 comes in a wide range of sizes from Youth to 2XL, ensuring a proper fit for nearly every rider. Accurate measurement of your thigh and calf is essential, as the brace relies on close contact to function correctly. The system features adjustable Velcro straps that lock the brace into position, and once adjusted, the braces can be removed and reapplied without needing to re-fit every time. One of the standout adjustability features is the hinge padding system—riders can customise the spacing between the leg and hinge with included inserts. This helps prevent chafing and ensures consistent alignment with your knee joint. When correctly fitted, the brace remains secure through whoops, jumps, and long-haul rides, maintaining both comfort and protection.

Real Rider Reviews and Community Feedback

What Users Are Saying About the V22 Z-Frame

The rider community has responded positively to the Z-Frame V22. Many mention that it's significantly more protective than knee guards, yet far more comfortable than bulkier braces. One common praise is that the brace stays in place without constant adjustment, and doesn’t shift even during crashes. Users recovering from injuries say the hyperextension stops gave them peace of mind during rides, while others highlight how they forget they’re wearing the brace after a while. Criticism tends to focus on sizing issues—braces that are too tight or too loose can cause discomfort or slippage. However, once properly fitted, most riders find the Z-Frame reliable, protective, and extremely wearable.

Ideal User Profiles and Rider Types

The Leatt Z-Frame V22 is best suited for intermediate to advanced recreational riders who want solid knee protection without the premium cost of race-level braces. It’s an excellent choice for enduro, trail, and motocross riders who ride regularly but don’t need or want the rigidity of a full carbon brace. It’s also perfect for riders recovering from injuries thanks to its adjustable stop system. Youth riders transitioning from soft guards will also benefit from this brace, as it’s more supportive while still comfortable. While not quite elite-tier, the Z-Frame offers 80% of the performance at a fraction of the price, making it one of the best value propositions on the market.

Z-Frame V22 vs Other Motocross Knee Braces

Z-Frame vs. C-Frame Pro Carbon

Leatt’s C-Frame Pro Carbon is its top-of-the-line model, built with a full carbon fibre monocoque design and premium features aimed at competitive racers. Compared to the Z-Frame, it’s stiffer, lighter, and more adjustable—but also much more expensive. While the C-Frame offers ultimate support, it can feel restrictive to some riders, especially those who prioritise flexibility. The Z-Frame is noticeably softer and more forgiving, which makes it more suitable for general off-road use. It may not offer the pinpoint rigidity of the C-Frame, but it covers all the critical protection zones well, particularly for the price-conscious rider.

Z-Frame vs. Mobius X8 and Pod K4

Against other mid-tier braces like the Mobius X8 and Pod K4, the Z-Frame V22 holds its own. The Mobius X8 is known for its tendon-style cable tension system, which some riders find innovative, but others see as over-complicated. The Pod K4 is lightweight and modular, but lacks the same level of impact protection due to its design. The Z-Frame offers a more traditional chassis-style brace that delivers consistent performance and proven ligament protection. In terms of feel and user feedback, many riders find the Z-Frame more confidence-inspiring during impact events, with better integration into boots and less bulk around the knees.

Is the Leatt Z-Frame V22 Worth It?

The short answer is yes. For riders who want proper knee protection but don’t want to spend over a thousand dollars, the Leatt Z-Frame V22 is one of the best options available. Its CE and FDA medical certification means it’s more than just a marketing gimmick—it offers real anatomical support and impact defence. It also delivers great comfort, long-ride usability, and practical features like adjustable stops and fitment inserts. If you’re an intermediate or advanced rider doing regular sessions on the track or trails, this brace gives you peace of mind without emptying your wallet. It’s not the most rigid brace out there, but for most off-road conditions, it offers more than enough support.

Conclusion: High-Performance Knee Protection Without the Hefty Price Tag

The Leatt Z-Frame V22 Knee Braces offer an impressive blend of safety, comfort, and affordability for serious off-road riders. With medical-grade ligament protection, CE-certified impact zones, and thoughtful design refinements in the V22 version, it’s a serious piece of gear for riders who value their knees. It bridges the gap between budget knee pads and ultra-premium braces, giving you 80–90% of the performance at less than half the cost. Whether you’re racing, exploring trails, or tackling enduro loops, the Z-Frame V22 provides the assurance that your knees are well protected. For many riders, that confidence makes all the difference—making this brace one of the smartest investments in your riding kit.