I've heard that tearing/cutting valve stems is pretty common. I recall seeing steel cased ones in Mechanics in school on a set of performance rims, but I've never seen them for sale.

Anyone have any ideas to protect them? I figured shorties might work, but I've heard they're just as bad.

shorties with a 1/2 inch long piece of 3/4" pipe...welded to the rim. That will solve the problem.

we use steel valve stems in high pressure light truck tires if you are interested i can get them for you they are like $5 ea.
call me monday 256-9700(jamie)

A steel one is more likely to break than a rubber one if it gets caught on something.

Actually, somehow I figured someone would come in with a cannibalised way of doing it. And Bowzone's method probably works best! Hmmm, good point on the steel over rubber thing cam.

Seen these
Flush mount