Universal Padding Fit Kit vs Shock Absorbing Base: which is safer?
Macgregor Shock Absorbing Base is our pick: better on PFAS and on the overall hazard picture.
Easton
Universal Padding Fit Kit
PFAS grade
D 65/100
Overall grade
F 43/100
Verdict
Skip
Hazard flags
⚑ 4
Material
foam padding, elastic straps
Confidence
72%
PossiblePolyurethane foam off-gassing (VOCs)
PossibleAdhesive leachables
PossibleElastic synthetic fiber irritation
Our pick
MacGregor
Shock Absorbing Base
PFAS grade
D 65/100
Overall grade
F 53/100
Verdict
Skip
Hazard flags
⚑ 3
Material
foam or elastomer cushioning in shoe base
Confidence
45%
PossibleFoam degradation and off-gassing
PossibleAdhesive and binder leachables
PossibleFormaldehyde resins in binders
Both products run through the same public rubric: materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls, plus a beyond-PFAS hazard analysis. Grades are model-based estimates, not lab tests. How grades work →
More sports equipment padding: see the full ranking