I used to think impact shorts were bulky and unnecessary.
Then I destroyed my ass on a park feature.
After that, I tested as many impact shorts as I could find. Some were stiff and awkward. Others had padding that collapsed after one fall. A few were actually comfortable, even on long days.
If you’ve ever taken a fall that made you limp to the lift, this list is for you.
🏆 The Bottom Line
The Demon Flexforce X V7 Impact Shorts are still my recommendation. The D3O and XRD combination genuinely softens hard tailbone hits better than anything else I've ridden, but they're also comfortable enough that I don't spend all day wishing I'd taken them off. They're expensive, but I'd happily buy another pair tomorrow.
How I Tested Them
I started testing these while trying to land a backflip last season, which meant a lot of hard falls and plenty of time on my tailbone. I wore each pair for at least 3-5 days of riding… park sessions, icy early-morning laps, and even a few intentional low-speed falls just to see how the padding held up.
Some lasted one run before I knew they weren’t making this list. Others only showed their flaws after a full day, when the padding had shifted, my hips were cooked or I was counting down the chairlifts until I could take them off. Turns out deliberately falling over gets old surprisingly quickly.
I paid attention to fit, comfort after a few hours and whether the pads actually stayed where they were supposed to when things went south. If I found myself leaving a pair in the accommodation because I couldn’t be bothered wearing them, that counted against them too.
Only the pairs I’d genuinely wear again made this list.
What I Looked For
I wasn’t interested in giving everything an arbitrary score out of ten. I just wanted to know one thing – when I inevitably landed on my backside, which shorts actually made me glad I was wearing them?
But broadly speaking, I considered:
- How well they handled icy tailbone and hip hits
- Whether the tailbone pad stayed where it should
- Comfort after a full day on the hill
- Heat build-up and breathability
- Freedom of movement
- How quickly I forgot I was wearing them
Like every review on The Snow Chasers, every pair was ridden for multiple days before I decided whether it deserved a place. If it spent more time in my bag than on me, it didn’t make the cut. Read more about our testing process.
My Favorite Impact Shorts
1. Demon Flexforce X V7 D3O Impact Shorts Best Overall Option
- Triple D3O + XRD padding for tailbone, hips, and butt
- TPS comfort system + extra plush foam
- Ventilated Lycra/mesh for breathability
- Extended lower back protection
- X-Connect compatible with Demon tops
I’ve tried a lot of impact shorts over the years and these are hands down the most protective I’ve ever worn. If they were a little cheaper, I might have ended the list here.
But the truth is, they’re worth every dollar if you’re the kind of rider who slams hard, rides park, or just wants to avoid a bruised tailbone that ruins the week.
The V6 uses triple D3O panels including an upgraded T6 tailbone pad, plus extra XRD foam layered in for even more impact dampening. There’s extended lower back protection, full-flex hips, ventilated mesh legs and a padded insert system that actually adds comfort instead of bulk.
They’re a bit overkill if you just cruise groomers, but if you’ve ever landed flat or caught an edge on ice, you’ll get why these exist. I ride with these any time I’m pushing it and they’ve absolutely saved me. Ignoring price, these are technically the best snowboard crash pants. Full review.
Update: Demon has now released the Flexforce V7. It keeps the core V6 protection but adds a few extras – A.I. Plush Padding system, adjustable T.P.S. V2 insert and the C.B.I.S. cross-belt system to help stop the padding shifting around.
I’ll be testing it properly this season and updating this guide once I’ve put it through the same abuse. For now, the V6 is still the version I’ve personally ridden and can properly vouch for. I have no doubts the V7 will be equally dominant if you want the latest model.
Pros
- Industry leading protection
- Triple D3O panels with upgraded T6 tailbone pad
- XRD foam for added absorption
- Extended lower back protection
- Flexible and ventilated
- Comfortable despite heavy protection
Cons
- High price point
- Might be overkill for casual riders
2. Demon Zero RF D30 Impact Shorts Lower Profile Pick
- Low-profile D3O padding focused on tailbone and hips
- More flexible and less bulky than the Flexforce V6
- Designed to disappear under snow pants
- Breathable stretch fabric for all-day comfort
- Good choice for cruising, carving and longer days
I added the Demon Zero RF as a 2026 update after putting them through the ringer over the past few weeks. They earned the spot. I kept grabbing these on days where I wanted protection but didn’t feel like wearing something bulky or restrictive.
The Zero RF is noticeably lower profile than the Flexforce V6. You still get D3O in the tailbone and hip zones, but the padding is thinner and more flexible, so it sits properly under your pants and moves with you without feeling stiff. You do give up some of the extra padding and extended coverage found in the V6, but that’s exactly why these feel lighter and easier to wear all day. They’re easier to forget about once you’re riding.
If you’re slamming hard, riding park, or landing flat, the V6 is still the better tool. But for carving, cruising and normal resort riding where falls still happen but you don’t want to feel armored up, these make a lot of sense. The price is also easier to swallow. If you want most of the protection without going full V6, this is the cleaner choice. Full review.
Pros
- Low-profile D3O protection
- Much less bulky than the V6
- Tailbone and hip coverage where it matters
- Easy to wear under normal snow pants
- Comfortable for all-day riding
Cons
- Less coverage than the Flexforce V6
- No extra XRD or extended lower back padding
- Still pricier than basic foam shorts
3. Bodyprox Protective Padded Shorts Best Budget Option
- Be limitless, Be fearless -- Your choice of rugged and hidden armor for your vulnerable hip, thigh, sit bone, and tailbone that efficiently bends and moves along with the body. Have your own Bodyprox Protective Shorts during outdoor and all action sports activities such as Snowboarding, skateboarding, Cycling, roller sports, mountain biking, skating, and other extreme activities.
- Premium Protection -- With our very own Protective Shorts that are equipped with generous shock absorbing EVA foam cushions strategically placed to the rear, thigh and tailbone area, this ensured exceptional comfort and protection from scratches, bumps or even drop during an intense outdoor activity.
- Skillfully produced from the highest-grade breathable fabric, combine features of Nylon and Spandex, skin-friendly material that absolutely fit your body, quick-dry technology which prevents fabric from sticking to the skin, providing an exceptional ease of use at the same time, have soft and comfortable custom fit waistband that allows excellent mobility.
- Durable and Flexible -- Durability and stability whilst flexible at the same time without the discomfort that comes with traditional and known padded shorts. Your all-in-one protection for lumbar, butt and thigh area.
- Relaxed-Fit and Skin-Friendly -- Since it is ideally worn underpants, it is the combination the highest grade elements from Nylon, Spandex and Vent Mesh materials keep the skin from moisture and retains the skin cool, dry and fresh. Lightweight even with sufficient amount of pads and precisely designed for comfort.
I’ll be real. These aren’t the most premium crash shorts out there. The padding is a bit thin and they won’t save you from every slam. But the Bodyprox Padded Shorts are so comfortable and easy to wear that I kept forgetting I had them on.
When I tested some of the thickest, most hardcore options, I could barely wear them for more than a few hours. They started getting in the way of how I ride. In the end, thinner padding you’ll actually wear is better than thick padding that stays in your gear bag.
The Bodyprox cover the tailbone, hips, and thighs well. They’re breathable, stretchy and slim enough to fit under any snowboard pants without feeling bulky. For the price, it’s hard to argue. If you’re new to snowboarding or just want something light that softens the blow, these are a smart choice. Full review.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Breathable and stretchy fabric
- Slim fit - works under most pants
- Good coverage for tailbone, hips, and thighs
- Affordable price for the quality
Cons
- Padding is on the thinner side
- Less durable than premium picks
- Won’t absorb the biggest impacts (get the Demon Flexforce for that)
4. Triple Eight Bumsaver Padded Shorts Trusted Classic
- Heavy-duty impact shorts for skateboarding and snowboarding provide coverage from the waist to just above the knee; made to fit comfortably and discreetly under clothing
- In collaboration with professional skaters, these lightweight, breathable padded shorts were ergonomically designed for mobility and flexibility in extreme conditions
- Equipped with 10mm thick EVA foam pad for increased protection for hips, thighs and tailbone; pads are removable to customize padding zones
- Available in five sizes to fit kids, youth, and adults: X-Small fits 22 – 27 inches, Small fits 26 – 30 inches, Medium fits 29 – 33 inches, Large fits 32 – 38 inches, X-Large fits 36 – 42 inches
- To determine proper size, measure around waist; pads and shorts are machine washable; manufacturer's 180-day limited warranty
I tested the original Triple Eight Bumsaver, not the newer 2.0 version. From what I’ve seen, the 2.0 adds more coverage and updated padding, but the original still holds up well.
The protection is solid without being overbuilt. I’ve worn these while learning new tricks and taking some rough park falls, and they definitely helped soften the blow. Tailbone hits were less brutal, and the hip padding gave me enough confidence to keep pushing.
They’re not ultra low-profile, but they’re flexible enough to wear under snow pants without much hassle. If you’re looking for something more protective than the thin budget options, these are a good middle ground.
Not full armor, but a noticeable upgrade if you’re tired of riding away sore.
Pros
- Good balance of protection without feeling bulky
- Great tailbone padding
- Extra hip pads
- Not overly restrictive
Cons
- Not quite on par with Demon
- Newer 2.0 version offers more coverage
5. Demon Flexforce X D3O Women's Impact Shorts Best Women's Option
- Triple D3O + XRD padding tuned for female fit zones
- More forgiving waistband and plush foam that doesn’t dig in
- Breathable Lycra/mesh that moves with you, not against you
- Tailbone and hip protection that actually stays in place
- Compatible with Demon tops using X-Connect (seamless fit)
I handed this one over to my partner in crime, Jess. She came back saying exactly what I expected: these are the best impact shorts for women.
Demon’s X V6 design is the real deal, with triple D3O panels, extra foam everywhere it counts, and a better fit than any “unisex” options we’ve tried.
Jess wore them through multiple crash-heavy park days, icy morning groomers, and some unintended tailbone slams. No complaints. They’re bulkier than the thin budget stuff, but if you’re serious about staying protected and still want to move freely, these are legit. The upgraded T6 D3O pad is great – especially when layered with the yellow TPS comfort insert.
If you’re a hard-charging rider or just tired of bruised hips and butt bones, these are worth the investment. Jess says she’d pick them again in a heartbeat. Just make sure to size based on their chart – fit is snug but true.
Pros
- Industry leading protection
- Triple D3O panels with extra foam for maximum protection
- Female-specific fit
- Great tailbone coverage with upgraded T6 D3O pad
- TPS comfort insert adds padding without restricting movement
- Proven performance in park and icy conditions
Cons
- Bulkier than budget options
- Snug fit — sizing chart is essential
- Pricey compared to entry-level picks
6. Demon Lil' Ripper Kids Padded Shorts Best Kids Impact Short
- Lightweight protection built just for kids (ages 5–11)
- Soft compression fit that stays comfy all day
- Moisture-wicking base layer feel — no overheating
- Thermo-formed padding where crashes actually happen
- Perfect for learning falls, park laps, or icy groomers
I got these for a friend’s kid who was just starting out, and honestly, they did exactly what they’re supposed to do. They’re light, they fit properly, and the padding is in all the right spots for beginner crashes. No drama, no complaints, and no bruised tailbones after a full day of falling.
They don’t feel like armor – more like a slightly padded base layer – and that’s probably why kids actually wear them. If your little one is just getting into riding or is the type to charge without much self-preservation, these are a solid call. Nothing fancy, but they work.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Padding in the right spots for beginners
- Proper fit encourages kids to actually wear them
- Affordable and simple design
Cons
- Lacks the extra features and advanced materials of the adult versions
7. Legendfit Protective Shorts
- UPGRADED CLOSURE SYSTEM - Enjoy better comfort and fit with our new elastic and drawstring closure. Customize your fit and stay secure during activities like snowboarding, skiing, skating, and more. Our double elastic band is tighter than similar products, giving you a stable fit when playing winter sports.
- UPGRADED MESH FABRIC - In line with our dedication to comfort, we've elevated the fabric in the groin area to feature breathable mesh fabric. This enhancement improves the shorts' breathability. Stay feeling refreshed and drier, whether you're engaging in vigorous workouts or embarking on outdoor escapades.
- DETACHABLE EXTRA BUTT PADS - To cater to the diverse needs of sports enthusiasts across various seasons and activities, we've designed outer orange padding to be detachable. Our tailbone protection features a dual-layered structure for enhanced safeguarding. It comprises a built-in thick foam layer along with an additional removable butt pad. This allows you the flexibility to choose whether to remove the extra protective layer based on your specific requirements.
- PROFESSIONAL PROTECTION - For winter sports players at low temperature, our protective padded shorts offer exceptional safeguarding. They feature ultra-thick EVA foam pads that protect your hip, butt, and tailbones from shock and impact. The ergonomic design conforms to your body’s natural curves, lowering the injury risk during falls or slides. Our extra pads have achieved overall level 2 performance in the test experiment, at -20℃/-4℉.
- LEGENDFIT SATISFACTION - We stand behind the quality of our products and are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The Legendfit Padded Shorts are a funny one. I honestly thought these were going to end up higher.
The removable butt pads are actually quite clever, and the drawstring waistband means you can get them sitting exactly where you want them. That’s not something you see very often (obviously you do in Demon – but I hadn’t seen those at the time I tested these).
The protection is decent too. They cover the hips and tailbone well, and I noticed the extra padding compared to some of the thinner budget shorts. The little mesh panel through the crotch also works better than you’d think. After a full day riding you appreciate anything that keeps you a bit cooler. Nobody wants swamp crotch!
The problem is I just never reached for them.
Every time I was grabbing a pair before heading out, I’d pick something else. They’re bulkier than most, I always knew I was wearing them, and they work much better under baggier pants than slimmer ones.
Nothing wrong with them. They just never became the pair I wanted to ride.
Pros
- Generous padding coverage
- Dual-layer tailbone protection
- Removable extra butt pads for custom comfort
- Adjustable drawstring waistband
- Mesh crotch panel improves ventilation
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Bulkier fit than most
- Better suited to roomier snowboard pants
8. TTIO Protective Impact Shorts
- Chiffon
- Imported
- Superior Materials:High density environmental EVA materials which is Non-toxic surely there is no harm to your body, yet it's durable means it can provide a long service lifetime
- Unique Design:Modern human motion design, EVA net structure pads provides average Shock absorption, Maximum benefit reduces your damage during sports.fabric between the pads which is more soft and breathable, lightweight, thin and skin-friendly using experience, it can help you enjoy the sports safely, absolutely a perfect gear for sports
- Adjustable & Stretchy:The pads can adjust according to your waistline so that it can perfectly fit for your body, Thickening structure enhance the pads offer the dual protections for your body, protect you from any injury during exercise
The TTIO shorts deserve to be here simply because they’re the pair that got me wearing impact shorts in the first place.
I bought these years ago when I was spending loads of time trying new tricks, and they definitely saved my tailbone more than once in minor falls.
Going back to them after testing everything else though… they’re basic.
They’re comfortable enough, disappear under your pants easily, and they’ll soften beginner crashes just fine. But once you’ve ridden something like the Demon or even the Bodyprox, you realise how much protection you’re giving up.
If you’re learning linked turns or your first boxes, I’d happily tell someone to buy these.
If you’re riding park every week?
I’d spend the extra money.
Pros
- Very affordable entry-level option
- Lightweight and flexible design
- Soft EVA padding over hips, tailbone, and thighs
- Easy to wear under snowboard pants
Cons
- Padding is too thin for big impacts
- Not as durable as higher-end options
9. Cienfy 3D Hip Protection Padded Shorts
- Protective padded shorts: Cienfy protective padded shorts use multi-layer materials to provide strong protection for the vulnerable tailbone, hips, thighs and hip bones; When you wear our hip protection shorts, you can enjoy extreme sports such as skiing, ice skating, skateboarding and rollerblading without worrying about injuries from falls.
- EVA Hip Protection: Our EVA padded shorts are designed for high-impact sports; Tailbone pad have extra large protection area, EVA padded coverage on tailbone, coccyx, hip bones and thighs cushion you from the impact of falling cargo falls, providing you with 3D protection; The high elasticity EVA material also springs back quickly for longer life.
- Enjoy Extreme Sports: The cut block design of the protection area provides a more flexible range of motion for your extreme sports; At the end of the trousers we use a silicone anti-slip band, close to your skin, you don't need to worry about padded shorts will move up during exercise, can enjoy extreme sports to the fullest.
- High Elastic Waistband: High elasticated waistband and hook and loop closure make it easy to adjust the waist size of the hip shorts for easy on and off; Meanwhile the lightweight hip shorts are worn without making you feel bulky and restricted during intense extreme sports; You can wear our hip shorts under or over your trousers depending on your preference.
- Breathable and skin-friendly: Our padded shorts are made of comfortable nylon fabric, skin-friendly and breathable, not stuffy; The outside of the EVA pads are made of SBR and fit nylon fabric, which is highly elastic and abrasion-resistant, and can be used repeatedly without wear and tear.
By the time you get to number nine, I’ll be honest… you’re looking at products I probably wouldn’t buy myself anymore (other than for the purposes of this test).
I still wanted to include them because loads of people don’t want to spend over a hundred bucks on crash shorts, and it’d be daft pretending everyone has that budget.
I actually tested the older version of these first, then bought the updated one to see if they’d changed much.
They’re better than I expected.
The foam is denser than most cheap EVA shorts, they move pretty well once you’ve ridden a couple of runs and they don’t feel like they’re fighting you every time you bend your knees.
Would I choose them over anything above?
No.
Would I buy them over a random no-name Amazon pair with exactly the same photos?
Every single time.
If you’re shopping at this end of the market, these are one of the better cheap pairs I’ve ridden.
Pros
- Thick, segmented EVA foam for solid impact protection
- Good tailbone coverage
- Breathable mesh side panels improve ventilation
- Stretch fabric is pretty comfortable
- Strong value for a mid-range price
Cons
- Thicker padding adds some bulk under slim pants
- Seams may shift slightly if not washed carefully
Buyer's Guide
If you've already decided which pair you want, honestly, just scroll back up. The reviews are where I spent my time.
But if you're not sure what actually matters, here's what I've learnt after crashing in far too many different pairs over the last couple seasons.
I made the same mistake most people do. I assumed the thickest shorts would automatically be the best. Turns out that's only half the story.
Some of the most protective shorts I tested were also the ones I least wanted to wear. After a couple of hours they felt bulky, hot and awkward, so I'd quietly leave them in my bag the next day.
Protection you actually wear beats protection sitting in your kit bag.
1. Padding
This is obviously the big one, but don't just look at how much padding there is.
Think about where it's protecting you.
- Tailbone
- Hips
- Upper thighs
Most snowboard falls end up on one of those three areas.
If you ride park, spend time on icy hardpack, or you're still catching the occasional heel edge, decent tailbone protection is worth paying for. Ask me how I know.
Some premium shorts also extend the protection around your lower back or wrap further around your hips. Nice to have, but I'd still prioritise a really good tailbone pad over loads of extra foam everywhere else.
Also consider the material the padding is made from. You'll notice in my reviews the huuuuge difference between the techy materials in Demon's offerings and the cheap crap shoved into generic Amazon models. More often than not, you get what you paid for.
2. Comfort
This surprised me more than anything.
I expected comfort to be a bonus. It ended up being one of the biggest deciding factors. I realised this very quickly after the first pair I ordered spent the day lodged firmly in my lower GI tract. Too much information?
If your shorts ride up every chairlift, dig into your hips or make squatting awkward, you'll stop wearing them.
The best pairs almost disappear once you've had a few runs. You stop thinking about them completely, which is exactly what you want.
If they constantly remind you they're there, they're probably not the right pair.
3. Bulk
There's a balance here.
More protection usually means more bulk, but that doesn't automatically make something better.
The Demon Flexforce V6 are the most protective shorts I've worn, but they're definitely aimed at people who actually want that level of protection.
The Demon Zero RF lose a little coverage, but they're much easier to wear all day under normal snowboard pants. That's why I still reach for them plenty of the time.
Don't buy more protection than you'll realistically use.
4. Breathability
You'll sweat. Especially if you're lapping the park or hiking features.
The better shorts use stretchy mesh panels and fabrics that don't end up feeling like you're wearing a wetsuit halfway through the day.
It doesn't sound exciting, but after six hours on the hill you'll notice the difference.
5. Washing
This sounds boring until you've ridden five days in a row.
Imagine my horror when I discovered the first pair I tested required "hand-washing only". I still get flashbacks.
Luckily, most modern shorts can just go in the washing machine, which makes life much easier.
A few premium options need a bit more care, or certain pads to be removed first. So it's worth checking before you buy if you're planning to ride regularly.
Final Thoughts
Hope this helped you find a trustworthy pair of crash pants.
Whether you’re learning switch, going too fast in the park, or just sick of tailbone bruises, padded shorts are one of those things you only regret not wearing. I tested a bunch so you don’t have to.
Figure out what kind of protection you actually need, pick something you’ll actually wear, and give your butt a break.
Any questions, hit me up below. Ride safe out there.
Any thoughts on Rippl impact shorts? Seen lots of ads for them.
Hi. Yep – we actually reviewed them here. Sadly not one we’d recommend. I think they’re excellent at social media marketing, but the product itself does not compete with the proper brands. Hope that helps!