Abstract: With the increasing demand for low-cost, high-performance materials, impact-resistant materials have become a focal point of research. This paper primarily discusses the microstructural characteristics of polyurethane in impact-resistant applications and the factors influencing its performance. The microstructure of polyurethane consists of hard and soft domains, which form a cross-linked network through hydrogen bonding, imparting excellent physical and mechanical properties. Under external impact loads, polyurethane absorbs and dissipates energy through mechanisms such as crystallization, structural rearrangement, and strain rate effects, demonstrating good impact resistance. Additionally, the viscoelasticity and superelasticity of polyurethane exhibit significant energy-dissipating capabilities under high strain rates. Research indicates that the impact performance of polyurethane is influenced by microstructure, strain rate, coating thickness, and spraying location. This paper analyzes the mechanisms by which these factors affect the impact resistance of polyurethane and explores its performance in various application environments, particularly under extreme conditions. By reviewing the influencing factors and applications of polyurethane regarding impact resistance, weatherability, and mechanical properties, the article summarizes directions for future research. It suggests enhancing polyurethane's application in specific environments using constitutive models, optimizing microphase separation to improve mechanical properties through a combination of simulation and experimentation, and developing smart-responsive, impact-resistant, and self-repairing polyurethane based on biomimetic principles.