Hmmm. Talking about shock absorbtion, I don't think that the small pads would not be an an issue as so long as it is not obstructing the wearer's peripheral vision. By the looks of it looks safe, maybe the guy that said it didn't protect your nose very well had a mask that didn't fit right. It's worth trying though.

I just remembered something... You mentioned before your own ideas in regards headgear, and described two triangles on both sides of the nose. Perhaps that would protect the bridge (boney part) of your nose as well with no weak spot in between the eyes. It's just some food for thought.