Abstract: A cushioning pad, sized to be disposed about the inguinal area of a human male and to be worn for the support and protection of said area, contains a gel material to protect against both localized blows and chafing. The pad fits into a protective garment having a securing means for securing it about the inguinal area. In one embodiment, the pad further comprises an inner layer of gel material, an outer layer of gel material, and a layer of shaping material disposed therebetween. The layer of shaping material may be sized to be shorter and narrower than the inner layer and outer layer of gel material so that the layer of shaping material is completely interior to the cushioning pad, and no sharp or blunt plastic edges can come into contact with the body of the athlete.