Skiing is fun, but it can also lead to injuries if you aren’t careful. The mountain is a tough place that comes with a lot of risks. Shin guards are one way to reduce the risk of injury to your lower legs when skiing.
While shin guards/pads are primarily used by slalom skiers, they have applications for just about anyone navigating tight spaces on the mountain. Every great model on the market comes with certain specifications and premium traits.
Below we’ll analyze those characteristics, and explain why they’re so useful. Read on to learn more!
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Who Should Get This?
As mentioned above, shin guards are generally for slalom skiers. It’s quite easy to hit the poles or gates as you zip around the snow, and such collisions can hurt if you aren’t prepared. A good guard/pad cuts down on potential injuries and allows you to move at your own pace without worrying about pain.
That being said, there’s nothing wrong with using some extra protection if you’re a normal skier too. While guards/pads aren’t necessary on groomed or wide open runs, if you like to ride in the trees or areas where your legs are compromised, they can be a good insurance policy.
Top Picks of Best Ski Shin Guards
Here, you’ll see a list of my top recommendations along with a quick review of each ski shin guard/pad. The goal is to help you get to know the pros and cons of each product so you can make a more informed purchase decision.
1. Best All-Around: POC Shin Guards
Few guards/pads give you more comfort than the ones from POC. First and foremost, these are incredibly easy to use.
While certain models can be tricky to operate, these guards utilize special hook attachments that are simple to both put on and take off. Not only that, but the company uses a special silicone printed EVA padding that feels great no matter how you move around the slopes.
Another large bonus here is the high-density polyethylene plastic that can stand up to all the trials and tribulations of the mountain. They should last for years without breaking down. On top of that, the guards are long enough to fit both short and tall skiers. Everything is fully adjustable and the cutting marks let you mold the fit to whatever you need.
What We Like:
- Hooks for easy use
- Cutting markers
- Simple to adjust
- Special padding
- Extremely comfortable
- High-quality plastic construction
What We Don’t Like:
- No velcro closing strap
2. Best for Construction: Zipline Racing Guards
Made from durable, shatter-resistant Thermoplastic, the Zipline Racing Guards are some of the toughest options on the market. This pair, which is used by the U.S. ski team, easily makes our list because of how well they can take impacts. Not only are they tough and durable, but they are specifically made to handle the toughest collisions you can imagine.
While these are undoubtedly tough, they also feel great on your legs. First, they come with special ZipGrip foam that provides extra padding and comfort. These also utilize velcro straps that are easy to use and fully adjustable.
That combines with the one-size-fits-all design to deliver guards that will stay on and not move around or slip down as you ski. No matter how tall or short you are, these will fit.
What We Like:
- Constructed from shatter-resistant thermoplastic
- Velcro straps
- Foam padding
- Easily adjustable
- Impact absorption
- One-size-fits-all design
- Comfortable
What We Don’t Like:
- Straps can get caught on clothes
3. Best Premium: LEKI Shin Guard Worldcup Pro
The LEKI World Cup Pro Cup Guards, as their name suggests, are premium devices aimed at delivering a safe, comfortable skiing experience. While they are definitely more expensive than similar options, these guards are absolutely worth the price for anyone who’s serious about staying safe on the slopes.
Not only do they have a high-quality ABS construction, but they are also impact-resistant in a way that will keep you safe in the event of an accident.
Another reason these come so highly rated is their special interior memory foam padding that specifically molds to your legs as you ski. That means they won’t slip or slide around no matter how fast you go.
That makes them especially useful for racers, as well as skiers who have trouble getting other guards/pads to properly fit or stay on. They measure 15.7-inches long, which means they will fit any adult with ease.
What We Like:
- High-quality ABS construction
- Memory foam padding
- Velcro straps
- Fits well
- Designed for high-impact, extreme skiers
- Will mold to your legs
What We Don’t Like:
- Expensive
How to Choose Ski Shin Guards
Not sure how to narrow down the choices from the crowd? Take the factors below into account during your ski shin guard/pad research journey.
Durability
Anytime you purchase something that’s made to protect your body, it has to be tough. Always do what you can to ensure your guards/pads have the power to take a lot of hits without breaking or wearing down.
Paying more for premium materials may be harder on your wallet, but it will save you a lot of pain in the long run. Better made items also last longer, which means you won’t have to constantly pay for new models.
Comfort
Though protection is always priority number one, you want your shin guards/pads to fit well too. Make sure they sit on your body in a comfortable, organic way. That will ensure you don’t have to constantly readjust them.
They also won’t chafe or rub against your pants as you turn. Remember, most skiers who need shin guards/pads make a lot of movements. That’s why flexibility is key.
Fit
In line with comfort is fit. There are many shin guards/pads out there, but your goal should be to get something that you can fully adjust or mold to your body.
Ones with hooks that you can freely move around are quite nice, as are options with cutting marks that let you know where to secure them. Good straps are also key because they let you ride as fast as you can without having to constantly retie your guards/pads.
Useful Tips and Information
Shin guards/pads are useful, but they are only one way to protect yourself as you move around the mountain. There are many pieces of gear, such as the ones in this video, that ensure you stay safe no matter what type of riding you do.
One part of skiing safety is wearing proper protection. The other is taking the correct measures to ensure you never get into a tough situation. Following the tips in this article will keep you out of harm’s way.
Final Words
There’s nothing wrong with extra protection out on the slopes. Whether you’re a slalom skier or someone who just wants to avoid injuries, a good pair of ski shin guards can give you some extra peace of mind as you ride. Just do your research and understand which one will work best for you.
Do you use shin guards/pads while skiing? Why do you like them? Let us know in the comments below!
