Abstract: There is provided a shock absorbing structure comprising a generally planar surface made of a flexible plastic material. A plurality of upstanding, hollow support members extends from the planar surface. The support members are made of flexible plastic material. There is also a plurality of openings in each of the support members, the openings define air passages within the shock absorbing structure to allow air to flow through the support members. The shock absorbing structure may be used in helmets, shin pads, kneepads, elbow pads, shoulder pads, chest protectors, gloves, pants and footwear.

Abstract: A shock absorbing structure comprising a foam base defining a plurality of recesses, each of the recesses receiving shock absorbing inserts therein. Each insert includes a generally planar surface made of a foam layer and a flexible plastic layer and including a plurality of upstanding, hollow support members extending therefrom. The support members are made of flexible plastic material and have a plurality of openings therein which define air passages within the shock absorbing structure to allow air to flow therethrough. The shock absorbing structure may be used in helmets, shin pads, kneepads, elbow pads, shoulder pads, chest protectors, gloves, pants and footwear.