Abstract: A shock absorber assembly for protecting a portable electronic device includes a number of protective elements disposed about the periphery of the portable electronic device. The protective elements are coupled to one another by an adjustable tension cord received through a passage in each of the protective elements. The adjustable tension cord is engaged with a fastener that is configured to be positioned in a secured position in which the tension of the adjustable tension cord is not adjustable and an adjustable position in which the tension of the adjustable tension cord may be adjusted by the user by moving the fastener with respect to the adjustable tension cord. The protective assembly is configured to protect the device from shocks and to elevate the device above a support surface to protect it from contact with moisture on the support surface.