Abstract: A protective system for use in athletic contests is provided which includes at least one protective member designed to be worn over a portion of the body. Each of the members includes a main protective part constructed from resilient foam means covered by a pliable casing. The resilient foam means and casing define a first plane of protection for the user. Each member of the protective system also has a plurality of air pockets formed on and extending outwardly from the plane of the main protective part. The air pockets are constructed from a material similar to that used for the main protective part. The air pockets include an outermost surface which defines a second plane of protection for the user. In the preferred embodiment, the protective system includes a head protector and a device worn around a person's midsection for protecting the rib cage and adjacent areas.