Best Impact Shorts for Snowboarding: Features, Pros, and Cons
Snowboarding is an exhilarating sport, but with excitement comes risk. The risk of falls and injuries is always present, whether you’re a beginner perfecting your first turns or an experienced rider speeding down the slopes. To mitigate some of these risks, many riders use protective gear like impact shorts to reduce the effects of unavoidable spills.
Impact shorts are designed to protect the body parts most prone to harm during a fall, such as the hips, tailbone, and thighs. Although bright boards and fashionable jackets often take the spotlight, investing in the best impact shorts for snowboarding can make a world of difference when it comes to safety and comfort on the slopes.
In this blog, we’ll explore the realm of snowboarding impact shorts. We’ll dive into the best options on the market, their features, advantages, and disadvantages, giving you a comprehensive look at what makes each pair unique.
What Are Snowboarding Impact Shorts?
Snowboarding impact shorts (also known as padded shorts) are worn under your regular snowboarding gear to protect sensitive areas of your body from the impact of falls or collisions. They typically include foam or gel padding in areas like the tailbone, hips, and thighs. These shorts help prevent bruising, cuts, and more serious injuries by absorbing some of the shock from falls.
While their primary purpose is impact protection, these shorts are designed to be lightweight and breathable, ensuring they don’t restrict movement during snowboarding. Since snowboarding involves plenty of twists, turns, jumps, and falls, these shorts are especially helpful for riders who want to stay comfortable and safe on the hill.
Characteristics Desired in Snowboarding Impact Shorts
When looking for the best impact shorts for snowboarding, several important factors should be considered:
Padding Style
The padding is the most critical aspect of impact shorts. There are two main types of padding:
- Foam Padding: Made from materials like EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), foam padding is lightweight and flexible, offering good shock absorption while being breathable.
- Gel Padding: Heavier and stiffer, gel padding provides superior impact resistance. It’s often found in higher-end shorts and offers extra protection, especially around the tailbone.
Fit and Comfort
Your impact shorts should fit snugly without being too tight. Look for shorts with adjustable waistbands and straps that allow you to customize the fit. Comfort is essential since these shorts are worn for extended periods, and any discomfort can detract from your snowboarding experience.
Breathability and Moisture-Wicking
Snowboarding is physically demanding, and sweating is inevitable. Breathable fabrics and moisture-wicking textiles are essential to keep you dry and comfortable. These features help to draw sweat away from your skin, preventing irritation and discomfort.
Durability
Snowboarding can be tough on gear, so your impact shorts should be made from durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. Look for reinforced stitching and robust construction to ensure they last through multiple seasons.
Lightweight Construction
While protection is important, you don’t want your impact shorts to be heavy or cumbersome. A lightweight design allows for more freedom of movement, making it easier to perform tricks, jumps, and other snowboarding maneuvers.
Protection Zones
Most impact shorts are designed with extra padding around the tailbone, hips, and thighs, which are the areas most prone to injury in a fall. These key protection zones help absorb shock and prevent more serious injuries.
Design and Aesthetics
While not a safety feature, the appearance of your impact shorts may matter to you. Many brands offer a variety of colors and designs, so you can choose a pair that matches your snowboarding gear or personal style.
Best Impact Shorts for Snowboarding: Reviews and Comparisons
1. Review: Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts
Key Features:
- Materials: Nylon, EVA foam, Spandex, and Rubber
- Protection: Hip, thigh, and tailbone padding
- Maintenance: Easy to clean and quick-drying fabric
Pros:
- EVA foam cushions offer excellent impact absorption
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry
- Flexible and durable, allowing mobility without restriction
- Versatile—suitable for snowboarding, skateboarding, and more
Cons:
- Bulky: Padding can restrict mobility for advanced riders
- Firm padding feels more like football pads than soft gel cushions
- Some find the design bulky and unattractive
Best For:
- Beginners to intermediate riders needing extra cushioning, particularly for casual snowboarding or skating. Not ideal for high-performance athletes or those seeking a sleeker appearance.
2. Review: Triple Eight Bumsaver Padded Shorts
Key Features:
- Protection: 10mm thick EVA foam padding for hips, thighs, and tailbone
- Material: Breathable polyester fabric
- Removable pads for customizable protection
- Machine-washable
Pros:
- Thick EVA foam pads protect key areas
- Lightweight, breathable, and discreet under clothing
- Removable pads for customizable protection
- Suitable for multiple sports, including snowboarding, skateboarding, and roller derby
Cons:
- Bulky padding can feel heavy for advanced riders
- Limited tailbone protection
- Sizing may not work well for all body types; consider the RD Bumsaver model for a better fit
Best For:
- Beginners and intermediate athletes who need more confidence during training or leisure activities. Not the best for those seeking a slimmer fit or for high-performance athletes.
3.Review: OHMOTOR Padded Shorts for Skating, Snowboarding, and Skiing
Key Features:
- Material: Impact-resistant polyester and EVA cushioning
- Protection: Padded hip, thigh, and tailbone areas
- Comfort: Soft, breathable fabric for all-day wear
- Fit: Adjustable waistband for a customized fit
Pros:
- Excellent protection for hips and thighs
- Breathable fabric keeps you cool and dry
- Affordable at $29.99, offering great value
- Versatile—can be used for snowboarding, skiing, and more
Cons:
- Larger sizes may feel constricting, so size up if needed
- Tailbone protection could be better
- Bulky fit, especially under tight clothing
Best For:
- Beginners or anyone who frequently falls during extreme activities. These padded shorts offer great protection at an affordable price but may not be suitable for those needing looser fits or more substantial tailbone protection.
4. Review: 3D Hip Protection EVA Butt Pads
Key Features:
- Materials: Spandex, EVA foam, and polyester
- Protection: Padded tailbone, hips, and thighs
- Comfort: Moisture-wicking milk silk fabric with mesh pattern
- Adjustable waist with hook-and-loop closure for a customizable fit
Pros:
- Good cushioning for hips and tailbone
- Flexible, lightweight, and breathable
- Durable EVA padding resists abrasion and can be worn repeatedly
- Affordable at $29.99
Cons:
- Sizing can be tricky; consider sizing up
- Pads may feel stiff initially but soften over time
- Some users find the fit tight around the waist
- Bulkiness may show under tight clothing
Best For:
- Extreme sports enthusiasts who need strong protection at a reasonable price. Not ideal for those seeking a slimmer fit or extra tailbone protection.
5. Review: BenKen Butt Pads Snowboarding Impact Shorts
Key Features:
- Materials: EVA foam for shock absorption
- Adjustable fit: Waist adjustment with zippers and Velcro
- Fabric: Lycra for quick-drying, elastic, breathable material
- Protection: Focus on hips, buttocks, and tailbone
Pros:
- Excellent padding for hips and tailbone
- Flexible and soft fabric
- Durable and built to last
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Sizing runs large for some users, so consider scaling down
- Bulky under tight clothing
- Material doesn’t breathe as well, which may lead to heat buildup
Best For:
- Athletes who need consistent impact protection during extreme sports. Ideal for those who prioritize cushioning but may not be the best choice for those looking for breathability or a tighter fit.
Affordable vs. Premium Impact Shorts: Are Expensive Options Worth It?
Impact shorts — also known as padded shorts — can be a game-changer for snowboarders, especially beginners or park riders. But with prices ranging from budget-friendly to premium, many riders ask: Are the expensive ones really worth it? Let’s break it down.
Affordable Impact Shorts
Pros:
- Budget-friendly for beginners or casual riders
- Basic padding over key areas (hips, tailbone, thighs)
- Lightweight and low-profile under snow pants
- Easy to find online or in sporting goods stores
Cons:
- Foam padding is usually thinner and less shock-absorbing
- Cheaper materials can wear out quickly or lose shape
- Minimal breathability — can get sweaty on warmer days
- May shift during movement due to basic fit design
Best For: Beginners, casual weekend riders, or those testing if impact shorts are right for them.
Premium Impact Shorts
Pros:
- High-density or dual-layer foam for better impact protection
- Ergonomic design that stays in place during movement
- Better coverage, especially around the tailbone and thighs
- Often includes moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics
- Some feature removable pads for customization
Cons:
- Price can be steep for riders on a budget
- Some models feel bulkier under tight-fitting snow pants
- May be overkill for beginner-friendly terrain
Best For: Freestyle riders, park and pipe snowboarders, or anyone prone to falls and impacts who rides often.
So, Are Premium Impact Shorts Worth It?
✅ Yes, if you:
- Ride aggressively (jumps, rails, icy terrain)
- Want long-term durability and better comfort
- Prioritize protection and injury prevention
❌ No, if you:
- Are new to snowboarding and just getting started
- Only ride occasionally on beginner slopes
- Want to test the concept before committing
Men’s vs. Women’s Impact Shorts: Key Differences and Best Picks
When it comes to snowboarding, protecting your body is just as important as perfecting your turns. Impact shorts — also known as padded or protective shorts — are a must-have for riders who want to minimize the risk of injury, especially to the hips, tailbone, and thighs. But not all impact shorts are created equal. In fact, there are some key differences between men’s and women’s impact shorts that are worth knowing before you buy.
In this article, we’ll break down the main distinctions, why they matter, and share some of the best impact shorts picks for both men and women.
🧍♂️🧍♀️ Key Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Impact Shorts
1. Fit and Shape
- Men’s shorts typically have a straighter cut and more room in the waist and thigh areas.
- Women’s shorts are designed with a contoured fit, often slightly higher at the waist with more room in the hips to match female body anatomy.
2. Padding Placement
- Women’s impact shorts may feature wider hip padding to protect the pelvic area better, which can be more exposed depending on stance and movement.
- Men’s versions often prioritize tailbone and thigh padding, with less focus on hip width.
3. Waistband Design
- Many women’s models offer a higher-rise or V-cut waistband for comfort and mobility, especially around the lower abdomen.
- Men’s designs usually keep the waistband lower and more even.
4. Size Range and Stretch
- Women’s versions may offer more flexible sizing or extra-stretch materials to accommodate curves without compressing too much.
- Men’s impact shorts are typically built with bulkier materials focused on durability and high-impact zones.
FAQ: Snowboarding Impact Shorts
1. Why would one use impact shorts for snowboarding?
Impact shorts help protect vital areas such as the hips, tailbone, and thighs from injury during falls. They absorb some of the shock from crashes, reducing bruises, cuts, and more severe injuries.
2. Should I snowboard in impact shorts?
Impact shorts are especially helpful for beginners or riders attempting difficult moves. They provide extra protection and comfort, reducing the likelihood of bruises, strains, and more serious injuries.
3. What characteristics should I look for in snowboarding impact shorts?
Look for padding type (foam or gel), fit, moisture-wicking properties, durability, lightweight construction, and protection in key areas like the tailbone, hips, and thighs.
4. Can I wear regular underwear under impact shorts?
Yes, impact shorts fit easily over regular underwear. Some riders prefer wearing compression underwear or moisture-wicking base layers beneath them for added comfort.
5. How much protection do impact shorts offer?
While impact shorts won’t prevent all injuries, they significantly reduce the risk of bruises, cuts, and soft tissue injuries by absorbing shock during falls. More premium options with thicker padding offer greater protection.
6. How do I know if my impact shorts fit properly?
Impact shorts should be snug around your waist and hips without being uncomfortable or too tight. They should allow full mobility and not restrict your movements.
7. Are impact shorts breathable?
Many top-tier impact shorts use breathable, moisture-wicking materials like Lycra or mesh to keep you dry and comfortable during intense snowboarding sessions.
8. Are impact shorts only for beginners?
No, riders of all skill levels can benefit from impact shorts. Even experienced riders can take advantage of the extra protection when attempting difficult tricks or navigating challenging terrain.
9. Can I wear impact shorts for other sports?
Yes, many impact shorts are versatile enough for other sports like skateboarding, mountain biking, and skiing.
10. How do I wash my snowboarding impact shorts?
Wash your impact shorts in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Air dry them to prevent damage to the padding.
11. Do impact shorts compromise comfort or mobility?
Well-designed impact shorts should not significantly compromise your comfort or mobility. They should be lightweight, flexible, and comfortable to wear throughout your snowboarding sessions.
12. Can impact shorts be costly?
Impact shorts are available in a wide price range. Premium options with advanced materials tend to be more expensive, but you can find affordable options that still provide great protection.
13. Can impact shorts prevent all snowboarding injuries?
No protective gear can prevent all injuries, but impact shorts help minimize the risk of injury, particularly in areas like the tailbone, hips, and thighs.
14. Can I wear impact shorts under my snowboarding pants?
Yes, impact shorts are designed to be worn underneath your snowboarding pants. They are typically lightweight and slim, so they won’t add bulk or discomfort.
15. Which impact shorts are best for me?
Your choice should depend on your riding style, personal preferences, and the level of protection you need. Beginners may prefer more protective options, while advanced riders might opt for slimmer, more flexible designs.
Investing in a good pair of impact shorts will enhance your safety, comfort, and overall snowboarding experience. Stay protected and have fun on the slopes!
