I'm curious as to why that appropriate gear doesn't include at least some thin layer of foam or kevlar or some-such sewn into the side of the shorts where so many riders seem to fall and skid and end up with huge road rash?

I do understand that it would add a tiny bit of weight and potentially be somewhat uncomfortable on a 100+ mile ride each day, but to have a small measure of protection on your hip on a raining-cobblestone stage seems only prudent.

For that matter, why not some small shoulder padding to try to brace the collarbone?

I'm not advocating full American Football-style gear, but these guys are out there in skin suits and going 30-50 mph...