In side impact events padding is often utilised to not only absorb energy but also push the dummy into motion. The padding is usually applied in the pelvic, the abdomen and the thorax area. The amount of absorption versus push load is important to obtain acceptable levels of the injury parameters as stipulated by legislation (e.g. ECE R95, FMVSS 214) and consumer tests (e.g. EURO/US-NCAP and IIHS). Practice shows many types of foam padding designs which fulfil the requirements, often in combination with side airbags. In this paper the advantage of applying high efficient energy absorption foams in padding is presented. This enables designers of passive safety systems not only to save space, weight and cost but also increase safety (ratings) by having a better defined and more easily tune-able loading system on the dummy during side impact crashes. Computer Aided Engneering (CAE) simulation methodology can be used efficiently to optimise part design. A case showing the benefits of high efficient energy absorption foam padding is discussed.