For most recreational skiers, CE Level 1 is plenty of protection. This certification means the hip protector transmits no more than 18 kN of force during an impact — which is enough to significantly reduce injury risk in typical falls on the slopes. It's the standard you'll find in most quality ski hip pads, and it strikes a great balance between protection and comfort.
The real advantage of Level 1 is that it's lighter and more flexible than Level 2, so you're more likely to actually wear it all day. Pads that are too bulky or restrictive often end up staying in the locker room, which defeats the purpose entirely.
You'd want to consider upgrading to CE Level 2 if you have osteoporosis, are recovering from a previous injury, or ski at higher speeds — like racing or aggressive freestyle. But for general resort skiing and typical falls, Level 1 gets the job done without the extra bulk.