People think of padding, and they say, "well I'm not doing anything that I need padding for..." Well, I say why not?
It is comfortable and provides a little extra warmth, but most of all everyone crashes sooner or later. The difference is who will get back up and keep skiing, or who will wake up the next morning wishing they had that little extra protection.
I have been wearing padding for years now, and maybe for the reason of I do need it, but the designs and materials that are being used to make these pads now are malleable or flexible and if anything make sitting on the chairlift more comfortable. I feel naked without it now, but if you plan on pushing the limits, even from your own perspective, protect your body so you can do it again tomorrow.

I'm not the rowdiest cliff hucker you'll ever meet, but I have been known to take a chance here and there which leads to the inevitable explosion/tumble through rocks and trees. I figured 'Hey I wear a helmet, may as well keep my spinal cord safe too, right?" POC body armor is lightweight and comfy stuff and you don't need to be a big mountain contest skier to appreciate the extra protection gained from padding up some. When you first put this vest on, it'll feel a little like a backpack. That feeling goes away within a day or two as the ergonomic back plates eventually match the shape of your own back. After a week, this vest is barely noticeable. I was concerned that wearing another layer would be too warm, but am happy to say that the mesh breathes super easy and I haven't had to deal with a swampy back...even while hiking on sunny days. I like the snug fit of this piece since the protective 'shell' doesn't float around and therefore has not restricted any movement when I flail my 360's off of, umm, sick cat tracks. I haven't slammed onto my back or wrapped myself around a tree while wearing this, but I haven't crushed my helmeted head this season either. That being said, I'm glad to be wearing a little armor. Just in case...