Abstract: A flexible, foam-based mat comprising: a bottom layer of foam comprising four lateral edges, wherein a first smooth lateral edge is opposing a second smooth lateral edge, and a third lateral edge comprising a plurality of protrusions opposes a fourth lateral edge comprising a plurality of intrusions, further wherein the plurality of protrusions have complementary dimensions with the plurality of intrusions; a top layer of foam comprising four lateral edges; and a surface layer that covers the top layer of foam, further wherein the bottom layer and top layer are segmented with horizontal scoring extending across the width of the mat from the first smooth lateral edge to the second smooth lateral edge.

Abstract: A protective article, comprising: a shin section extending downward from a knee area to an ankle area of an individual; and a foot section extending outward from an ankle area to a toe area of the individual, covering the top of the individual's foot, wherein the shin section contains an interior removable insert and at least two pair of straps, wherein a first strap pair is positioned below the knee area and a second strap pair is positioned above the ankle area, with a first attachment point for the first and second pair of straps on one lateral edge of the shin section and a second attachment point for the first and second pair of straps on the opposite lateral edge of the shin section.