disclosed are knee pad assemblies , methods and systems comprising a knee pad base and an outer cover that forms the contacting surface of the knee pad . a removable cover may be secured to a knee pad base . replacement cover configurations may be provided that are adapted to various surfaces , including roofing , tile , wood , carpet , concrete and asphalt . the knee pad base can be adapted for different user weights and durations for wearing the pad . the outer cover can provide a floating suspension . the knee pad base may be held in place on knee of the user by various mechanisms . the restraint mechanisms can be adjusted by the user . the knee pad assembly can also include a tension / release mechanism so that strap tension is decreased or released when kneeling but increases tension or engage when the user stands to retain the knee pad in the desired location .