Why shin/malleolus protection is essential when skiing
When you put on your ski boots — whether for downhill skiing, freeriding or touring — the rigid shell exerts significant pressure on the shins, malleoli and bony areas around the foot. During long days on the slopes, this pressure can cause pain, irritation, bruising, black toenails, and even burns or blisters. Shin/malleolus protectors reduce pressure, absorb shocks, limit friction, and thus preserve comfort, lower leg health, and boot fit.
A small accessory — but often crucial for skiing comfortably all day without pain.
What Sidas protectors offer
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Anatomical protection & shock absorption — Models such as the ‘Shin Protector’ use a progressive gel (thinner at the edges, thicker in the centre) that cushions the pressure exerted by the boot shell on the shin. This reduces impact, pressure points and the risk of bruising, while maintaining a comfortable fit.
- Extended comfort for long days of skiing — Placed under the sock, shin guards stay in place all day, even during intense descents. The result: less pain, less fatigue, more fun on the slopes.
- Protection for sensitive areas (shin, malleolus, protruding bones)— For skiers with sensitive shins, fragile malleoli, a history of bruising or simply discomfort, these protectors reduce the risk of impact, irritation or bruising.
- Reusable, washable, discreet — Sidas protectors are designed to be thin, discreet, hand washable and reusable. They fit easily under your sock without altering the fit or creating excess bulk.
- Improved comfort and confidence on the slopes — By eliminating pain or discomfort in the shin/malleolus, skiers can focus on skiing, enjoy themselves for longer, and feel more confident — improving the overall experience.
Who are these protectors for?
- Regular or intensive skiers — long descents, full days, repeated sessions — to avoid cumulative pain and discomfort.
- People who are sensitive to contact between boots and shins/malleoli — protruding bones, fragile shins, history of bruising or burns.
- For recreational skiers and committed practitioners alike — comfort for all types of use, from family fun to committed freeriding.
- For those looking for comfort + prevention equipment rather than a simple emergency solution — to preserve their body, their skiing days, and the duration of their outings.
Tips for use & best practices
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Put on the protection before putting on your boots—place the gel pad directly against the shin (or the targeted area) under the sock before putting on your boots.
- Make sure the boot closes properly—the protection adds a little thickness: check that the boot closes without creating excessive pressure, to maintain comfort and support.
- Check the condition of the protection regularly — the gel can wear out over time: if the cushioning decreases, replace the protection to maintain its effectiveness.
- Combine protection with suitable socks/insoles — for optimal comfort, it is best to combine shin/malleolus protection with comfortable insoles and technical socks.
- Cleaning & maintenance— wash the pads by hand with mild soap and dry thoroughly — to preserve the gel and prevent odours or deterioration.
