Objective This paper elaborates several cushioning materials and common theories or methods in the research of cushioning performance. Methods The progress and application process of constitutive model, BP neural network, cushioning curves as well as stress-energy and simulation analysis were analyzed, and the application condition and innovation of these cushioning theories were reviewed. Results Different methods have different advantages, characteristics, application scopes and convenience, in particular, stress-energy and simulation analysis methods have inapproachable advantages. Conclusion Given the deficiency in comprehensive research of system performances, it is common task for experts from home and abroad to develop and improve the research theories.