d3o lab has an incredible new material that absorbs hits and shocks. It's a soft, putty-like plastic that you can squish in your hand. When it experiences blunt force, such as smacking it with a hammer, the plastic instantly hardens.
d3o's flexible plastic is already integrated into many brands and products such as Quicksilver, Northface, Armadillo to name a few. I particular love Ignite's soft hats and beanies that can be used as a snowboarding helmet. The technology and function does not compromise the aesthetics. I'm definitely getting one of these for the slopes: