If you're like me a dollar needs to be stretched as far as possible. However, when it comes to safety gear it's something you don't wanna scrimp on. Thankfully though, I've found an affordable alternative...
for knee and shin protection. For the morning commute I throw a set of these Alpinestars Reflex knee/shin guards. These guards cost a mere 25 bones and offer knee and shin protection.
While expensive riding pants do in fact protect better, I throw these under some reinforced riding jeans and I'm good for the commute. After all, when you bif it what's the first two things you throw out to break the fall, your hands and knees.
Check them out and give them a try, they slide under jeans so nobody even knows you're concerned with safety.