PROKNEE’s story is one of innovation, perseverance, and dedication to the trades, says the company. It all began over 45 years ago with Lee E Richards, a Maine native who started his career in flooring at just 16. Immersed in the physically demanding world of floor installation, Richards quickly experienced the toll the job took on his body – especially his knees.

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, Richards 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 groundbreaking 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 desire to solve this problem not just for himself but for others in the industry, Richards 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. These principles eventually became pillars to ProKnee brand kneepads.

The response from fellow tradespeople was overwhelmingly positive. They recognised that these kneepads weren’t just a convenience – they were a necessity for long-term health and mobility. As word spread, demand grew, and Richards officially founded ProKnee Corporation.

Says the company, ‘Since then, ProKnee has continued to evolve, using customer feedback and ongoing research to refine their products. Their kneepads are custom-fit to each individual, acknowledging one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to proper knee protection.

‘ProKnee has built a reputation not only for quality craftsmanship, but for 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 2 referencing construction tools specialising in floorcovering installation (the Treadman Multi Angle Stair Tread Cutting System and the GoofProof Wall Trimmer).

‘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.proknee.com
www.floormart.co.uk