THE story of ProKnee started more than 45 years ago when, at the age of 16, Maine, US native Lee E Richards began a career in the flooring industry.
By 1983, he founded his own flooring company, Qualified Flooring, and while the business thrived, the physical strain of long hours spent kneeling and working on hard surfaces became an increasing concern. Like many in his line of work, Lee suffered from severe knee pain, which threatened his knee health and his ability to continue doing what he loved.
It was this personal struggle that sparked a ground-breaking idea: if the existing kneepads on the market weren’t providing the protection and support tradespeople needed, why not create something better?
Driven by a natural gift for problem-solving and innovation, Lee began designing a new kind of kneepad, one that prioritised comfort, durability and ergonomic knee protection.
His early prototypes focused on distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure on the knee joint, an innovation that set his design apart from traditional kneepads and would eventually become the principals of ProKnee brand kneepads.
The response from fellow tradespeople was overwhelmingly positive: they realised quickly that the kneepads provided convenience and protection. More and more people were relying on them for long-term health and mobility. As word spread, demand grew, and Lee officially founded ProKnee Corporation.
Says the company: ‘Since then, ProKnee has continued to evolve, using customer feedback and ongoing research to refine its products. Our kneepads are custom-fit to each individual, understanding that one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to proper knee protection. ProKnee has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and truly understanding the needs of those who work in physically intensive trades.
‘Proudly still manufactured in the US, ProKnee holds multiple patents in the US, Canada and Europe, with 11 patents granted referencing kneepads and two referencing construction tools specialising in floorcovering installation (the Treadman Multi Angle Stair Tread Cutting System and the GoofProof Wall Trimmer).’
Continues the company: ‘ProKnee remains committed to its mission: protecting the knees and overall well-being of professionals in flooring, construction and other trade related industries. The company’s products are more than just tools, they’re a reflection of Lee Richards’ journey and his determination to turn a personal challenge into an opportunity to help others.’
ProKnee’s story is a powerful reminder that innovation often comes from lived experience and that real solutions are born when people refuse to accept discomfort as part of the job.’
www.floormart.co.uk
www.proknee.com
