Abstract: A modular protective system for protecting a joint of a human or an animal is provided. The modular protective system can include modular pads for attachment to a garment fitted to surround the joint. The modular pads can include an elongated upper pad for positioning above the joint, an elongated lower pad for positioning below the joint, separated from the elongated upper pad, and a flexible and stretchable intermediate pad. The elongated upper pad and the elongated lower pad each include an undersurface for attachment to the garment. The flexible and stretchable intermediate pad can include a top cap portion, for positioning on top of the joint, and two side portions.

Abstract: A footbed for use in an article of footwear, the footbed comprising a conforming layer having an initial, substantially uniform thickness of 3 to 9 millimeters, and comprising a foam that permanently conforms to a shape of a foot after wear; and a pressure-spreading layer disposed on the conforming layer, having a thickness of 2 to 4 millimeters, and comprising a resilient foam.