Updated for 2026 — This article has been reviewed and updated with the latest recommendations.
Sliding into a base without protective shorts is a recipe for bruises and painful showers. Good sliding shorts add padding on hips and thighs that absorbs impact and friction, plus compression support for muscle fatigue during long games.
McDavid HEX Sliding Shorts
Flagship product. Hexagonal foam cells flex with your body and harden on impact. Comfortable during normal movement, serious protection when you hit dirt. Moisture-wicking compression fabric stays in place. Padding covers hips, thighs, and tailbone. True to size, wide waistband prevents rolling.
Under Armour Gameday Armour Slider
HeatGear compression with strategic foam padding. Flatlock seams prevent chafing. Excellent moisture management for summer doubleheaders. Lower profile padding than McDavid. Well-designed cup pocket.
Easton Extra Protective
Thicker, denser foam hip inserts for harder surfaces. Durable fabric. Mid-thigh length for hook slides and head-first slides. Good for catchers who need thigh padding for blocking pitches.
Nike Pro Combat Compression
Not specifically sliding shorts but widely used as lightweight base layer. No dedicated padding. Excels as compression for muscle support with Dri-FIT fabric. Available in multiple inseam lengths. Some players layer these under padded shorts.
Champro Dri-Gear
Budget pick for youth and recreational players. Basic foam padding rather than hex-cell but meaningful protection. Polyester-spandex with light compression. Cup pocket included. Priced for players who need new gear every season.
Sizing Tips
- Should fit snug. Loose means padding shifts.
- Try under baseball pants before buying.
- Wash cold, hang dry. Dryer heat breaks down foam.
- Replace when padding is flat or compression loses stretch.