Pull-on compression shorts are the most popular style for a reason—they offer the best stability of any closure system. Because there are no zippers, velcro, or buckles to shift or loosen, the pads stay exactly where you need them, even after a full day of active skiing. If you're carving turns, hitting bumps, or taking falls, that secure pad placement is critical for actual protection.
The trade-off is convenience. Pull-on styles can be tough to wiggle into when they're damp from sweat or snow, and bathroom breaks require pulling the whole thing down. Some skiers find this frustrating enough to prefer a zip or velcro option.
For most skiers—especially older adults, beginners, or anyone prioritizing reliable protection—the pull-on style is the best choice. The security of knowing your pads won't slide out of position outweighs the minor hassle. Just make sure to size correctly: a too-loose compression short defeats the purpose, and too-tight becomes unbearable. Try them on over your base layer before hitting the slopes.