Choosing the right goalie shorts matters: they protect against bruises and turf burn while letting you move freely and confidently. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, expert feedback, and analysis of real-world user reviews to find options that balance protection, fit, breathability, and value for women goalkeepers.
How we tested and what we considered
We evaluated women's goalie shorts using a consistent, research-driven approach based on hands-on testing, expert input, and aggregated consumer feedback. Key criteria included:
- Impact protection (pad materials, thickness, placement) — measured for hip, thigh, and tailbone coverage.
- Fit & mobility — compression and stretch, whether pads restrict kicking or diving.
- Breathability & moisture management — fabrics and mesh panels for long sessions.
- Durability & washability — how pads and fabric hold up to repeated washing and turf abrasion.
- Practical features — anti-slip leg grips, UV protection, pad placement, and sizing accuracy.
- Value — protection per dollar, brand reputation, and warranty/support.
Testing combined lab-style impact checks (pad compression and recovery), on-field movement drills (dives, slides, pivots), and user feedback from goalkeepers of multiple levels. We prioritized products that work well for women in typical goalie movements and sizing.
Sliding Padded Undershorts
Affordable padded compression undershorts with 16mm EVA impact pads for hips and thighs. Breathable, sweat-wicking fabric with 4-way stretch and anti-slip leg grips makes these a solid entry-level protective short for sliding, tackling and training sessions.
Why we picked it
The sliding padded undershorts deliver strong protection for the price. They use 16mm thick EVA pads across hips and thighs to reduce bruises and turf burn during slides and dives. The 4-way stretch fabric provides a snug, compression fit and the silicone leg grips help keep the short in place during play.
Key details:
- Padding: 16mm EVA impact pads (hip & thigh-focused)
- Fabric: Breathable, sweat-wicking, skin-friendly material
- Fit: Compression, anti-slip leg openings
Pros:
- Excellent protection for the price
- Comfortable compression fit that moves with you
Cons:
- Padding is thicker and more noticeable under slim-fitting shorts
- Sizing can be hit-or-miss; check measurements before ordering
Best for: Budget-conscious goalkeepers and youth/adult players who want reliable impact protection without spending much.
Storelli ExoShield Pants
Premium 3/4 goalkeeper pants with multi-density pads (5mm Poron XRD on knees + 7mm polyurethane foam on hips/thighs) that absorb up to 90% of impact. Durable, UV-resistant and breathable — designed for heavy-duty play and long sessions.
Why we picked it
Storelli's ExoShield Goalkeeper 3/4 pants are built around high-performance materials and protective engineering. The pants combine 5mm Poron XRD knee pads with 7mm polyurethane foam for hip and thigh protection; Storelli reports up to 90% impact absorption. The form-fitting ergonomic cut prevents bunching, the fabric wicks moisture, and UV-resistant materials make them suitable for long outdoor practice or matchdays.
Key details:
- Padding: 5mm Poron XRD on knees; 7mm polyurethane on hips/thighs
- Materials: 82% Nylon, 18% Spandex, urethane foam pads
- Care: Machine washable; tailored 3/4 length for coverage without restricting cleats
Pros:
- Industry-leading impact attenuation and premium materials
- Durable build for heavy use and turf abrasion resistance
Cons:
- Higher price point and 3/4 pant silhouette (not a short) — may feel long for some players
- Premium pricing may be overkill for casual weekend players
Best for: Competitive women goalkeepers and those who prioritize maximum protection and durability in training and matches.
Rinat Padded Shorts
Goalkeeper-tailored padded compression shorts from a specialist brand. Narrow cut for freedom of movement with targeted protection at knees, hips and shins, plus anti-skid gel details. A good middle-ground option for dedicated keepers.
Why we picked it
Rinat's goalkeeper compression shorts are purpose-built with goalkeepers in mind. The narrow cut and separate leg panels deliver good freedom of movement, while padding at knees, hips and shins provides targeted protection. An anti-skid gel application helps prevent shifting during aggressive dives.
Key details:
- Padding: Multi-zone protection (knees, hips, shins) designed for goalkeepers
- Construction: Separate leg panels and lycra stretch fabric for mobility
- Extras: Anti-skid gel in crotch area to reduce ride-up
Pros:
- Goalkeeper-oriented design and fit
- Mid-range price with sensible protective coverage
Cons:
- Not as ventilated or advanced in impact tech as premium options
- May run narrow in cut; try sizing up if you prefer a less fitted feel
Best for: Dedicated club-level women keepers seeking goalkeeper-specific fit and protection without premium pricing.
G-Form Impact Shorts
Form-fitting impact shorts with G-Form SmartFlex padding that hardens on impact. Machine-washable, breathable and low-profile padding make these a great all-around protective short for women who want mobility and discreet coverage.
Why we picked it
G-Form's SmartFlex technology is the defining strength here: soft and flexible during movement, it stiffens on impact to disperse force. The shorts are machine-washable, have integrated mesh panels for breathability, and include inner thigh protection with minimal bulk — a strong blend of comfort and protection.
Key details:
- Padding: SmartFlex reactive padding (low-profile, impact-stiffening)
- Fit: Form-fitting; integrated mesh panels for ventilation
- Care: Machine washable; note that G-Form gear can run small for some users
Pros:
- Excellent mobility and low bulk — pads feel discreet under shorts
- Proven SmartFlex impact tech and easy care
Cons:
- Tends to run small — consult the size chart
- Price sits above basic padded shorts
Best for: Women who want high-performance, low-profile protection for matches and training while preserving full mobility.
Quick comparison: at a glance
- Storelli ExoShield Pants (Premium Choice) — Maximum protection and durability; best overall if you want top-tier impact attenuation and durability. 3/4 pants shape offers extended coverage.
- G-Form Impact Shorts (Editors Choice) — Best balance of mobility, low-profile padding, and modern impact tech. Great for matchday performance.
- Rinat Padded Shorts (Best Value) — Goalkeeper-specific cut and targeted protection at a reasonable price; a smart pick for club keepers.
- Topeter Sliding Padded Undershorts (Best Budget) — Strong padding (16mm EVA) for the price; ideal for budget-focused players or backups.
Which is best overall? For most women keepers who prioritize protection above all else, Storelli ExoShield is the best overall due to its high-impact materials and coverage. If you want a shorter, more discreet solution that still performs across drills and matches, G-Form is the top pick for mobility and everyday use.
Final recommendation
All four picks earned their spots through testing focused on protection, fit, and real-world use. If you play frequently or at a competitive level and want the best protection, choose the Storelli ExoShield pants. If you want low-profile protection that won’t get in the way of movement, choose the G-Form Impact Shorts. For a goalkeeper-specific fit at a modest price, the Rinat padded shorts are a reliable choice. If budget is the priority, the Topeter sliding undershorts deliver excellent impact protection for the cost.
When choosing size and model: measure hips and waist carefully, factor in whether you prefer short vs. 3/4 coverage, and consider pad profile and breathability based on how long you play. These recommendations reflect hands-on testing, expert feedback, and consumer experience to help you pick the right goalkeeper protection for your needs.