How do I know if the shells are positioned correctly over my hip joints?

The rigid shells should sit directly over the greater trochanter—the bony prominence on the outside of your upper thigh, roughly at the level of your hip crease. To check, put on the protector and stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Place your hands on your hips—the shells should be centered on the most prominent bony point on each side. If the shells sit too high (on the iliac crest) or too low (on the thigh), the sizing is wrong. This is why trying on hard shell protectors before purchase is essential.