POC Joint VPD elbow pads are designed for cyclists who view protection as a fallback option and not as an inevitable necessity. They include VPD gasket which may well be the POC initialism for [High] Velocity Pedaling Demon. Pads don't weigh you down , so your net cross-country and climb speed will not be affected but they will catch you in case of user error at high speed. Neoprene cover and Velcro strap secure the pad during pedaling and impact. so it won't be out of place when trouble strikes.