Abstract: An improved body protection pad which can be formed to protect a variety of body parts from impact, constructed with a rigid central layer and having a soft outer covering which absorbs impacts and disperses energy. This softer outer layer protects the wearer of the pad, as well as protects the impacting object or person. An inner cushioning layer is also provided between the pad wearer and the rigid central layer. An abrasion resistant coating can also be added over the soft covering. When used for contact sports such as football, this pad construction is effective in preventing injuries resulting when the pad is used as a striking object. The covering may be applied in segmented pieces or as a continuous layer over both sides of the rigid central layer. The central layer can be solid or can form a frame-like structure.