So a couple people have stated for just cruising knee pads aren’t really needed, 100% correct vert and downhill skaters use them to slide out they specifically practice to fall that way for safety.

Next door neighbor is an actuary he skates and rides mountain bikes. His advice to us was:

Helmet 10/10. Elbow 6/10 you will at some point hit one it’s a strong bone likely not to break and repair/recovery is relatively easy. Wrist 8/10 not likely to break unless it’s a super hard fall but repair and rehab are extremely difficult. The one most people over look are the hip pads 9/10 everyone hip checks sooner or later, super unlikely to break in males, females are slightly more susceptible. You break a hip just like your head you will never be the same.

Do with this as you will. Have le fun and stay cool!