Size L in ski hip protectors is designed for waists measuring approximately 90-100 cm and hips measuring 104-112 cm. If your measurements fall in this range, a Large should position the protective pads correctly over the greater trochanter—the bony prominence on your upper thigh where impact injuries most commonly occur.
Getting the right size is critical because if your protectors are too small, the pads can ride up above the hip joint during movement, leaving you exposed in a fall. If they're too large, the pads may shift off to the side and miss the impact zone entirely. Size L ensures proper coverage for broader hips, keeping everything aligned where it needs to be.
Always measure your waist and hips at their widest points before buying, and check the specific brand's size chart—sizing varies significantly between manufacturers. If you're between sizes, it's generally better to size up slightly so the shorts stay snug but not restrictive for comfort all day on the slopes.