Imagine this: you’re on the field, ready to make a big play, but a hard check sends a jolt of pain through your shoulder. That’s where the right lacrosse shoulder pads come in! They’re your first line of defense against those powerful hits and accidental bumps. But let’s be honest, picking out the perfect pair can feel like navigating a maze. Too much padding can make you feel like a walking marshmallow, while too little leaves you feeling vulnerable.
Choosing lacrosse shoulder pads isn’t just about picking the coolest looking ones. You need to find a balance between protection and freedom of movement. You want to feel secure without being weighed down, allowing you to run fast and cradle the ball smoothly. It’s a tricky decision, and a wrong choice can leave you uncomfortable or even unprotected.
But don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what makes a great lacrosse shoulder pad. We’ll break down the key features to look for, discuss different types of padding, and help you find the perfect fit that lets you play your best game. Get ready to ditch the confusion and step onto the field with confidence!
Our Top 5 Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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STX Stallion 75 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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STX Lacrosse Stallion 400 Shoulder Pad | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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STX Cell VI™ Lacrosse Shoulder Pads | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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STX Cell V Shoulder Pad Liner | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Detailed Reviews
1. STX Stallion 75 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad
Rating: 9.0/10
The STX Stallion 75 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad in Black/Gray, Medium, is built for young, aspiring lacrosse players. It offers excellent protection and comfort so beginners can focus on learning the game. This pad meets safety standards, giving parents peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Meets NOCSAE standard for chest protection, keeping young players safe.
- Provides extensive coverage to protect vital areas.
- Offers expanded adjustability for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Features modular bicep pads for a personalized fit and enhanced comfort.
- Designed with elementary school-aged players in mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sizing can be tricky; it’s important to check the size chart carefully.
- Sizing up if between sizes is recommended for optimal fit.
This shoulder pad is a solid choice for any young lacrosse player starting out. It balances safety and comfort effectively for a great learning experience.
2. STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad
Rating: 8.9/10
The STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad in Black/Grey, Small, offers a great upgrade for young lacrosse players. It’s designed for elementary and middle school athletes who need more protection than basic starter pads. This pad gives that extra layer of defense without feeling bulky.
What We Like:
- Certified Protection: Meets the NOCSAE ND200-22 Standard, ensuring top-notch safety for competitive play.
- Targeted Reinforcement: The shoulders have hard plastic to shield against hard checks and slashes.
- Smart Design: Built-in shoulder straps keep your practice pinnie snug, so it won’t move during the game and distract you.
- Comfortable Fit: Provides better protection without adding unnecessary bulk, allowing for easy movement.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sizing Nuances: It’s crucial to check the size chart carefully. Players who are between sizes might need to go up one size for the best fit.
- Targeted Age Group: While great for elementary and middle school, it’s specifically designed for this age range, so older players would need a different model.
Overall, the STX Stallion 200+ is a solid choice for young players looking to step up their game with improved safety. It balances protection and comfort effectively for the growing athlete.
3. STX Lacrosse Stallion 400 Shoulder Pad
Rating: 9.0/10
The STX Lacrosse Stallion 400 Shoulder Pad in Large is designed for serious lacrosse players in middle and high school. It offers great protection and freedom to move so you can play your best game.
What We Like:
- These pads meet safety rules for chest protection.
- The shoulder caps adjust to fit your shoulders perfectly.
- Special breaks in the padding let you move easily.
- The straps adjust to give you a snug and comfy fit.
- The padding is soft and lets you bend and twist without feeling stiff.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to check the size chart! It’s best to order one size up if you’re between sizes.
With its focus on comfort and safety, the STX Stallion 400 shoulder pads help you focus on the game. They are a solid choice for young, competitive lacrosse players.
4. STX Cell VI™ Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
Rating: 9.4/10
We checked out the STX Cell VI™ Lacrosse Shoulder Pads in size Medium. These pads are designed for players who need good protection without feeling weighed down. They use special materials to keep you safe while letting you move freely. Plus, they’re made to fit just right and are easy to put on.
What We Like:
- The GeoFlex II material offers great flexibility and coverage for powerful players.
- The new chest protection system is low-profile and lightweight, meeting the latest safety standards (NOCSAE ND200-22).
- Adjustable straps on the shoulders make it simple to get a snug and comfortable fit.
- The upgraded buckle system securely fastens the waist, which is a nice improvement over older models.
- You can take the bicep pads off if you want a slimmer feel or don’t need that extra protection.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the overall profile is reduced, some players might prefer even more padding in certain areas.
- The modular bicep pads, while a good feature, might not offer the same level of protection as permanently attached ones.
These STX Cell VI™ shoulder pads are a solid choice for lacrosse players looking for a balance of protection and mobility. They offer smart features that help you play your best.
5. STX Cell V Shoulder Pad Liner
Rating: 9.2/10
The STX Cell V Shoulder Pad Liner in Medium offers serious protection and comfort for lacrosse players who like to dominate the field. Designed with the power player in mind, these liners help you move freely while keeping you safe. They meet important safety standards, so you can play with confidence.
What We Like:
- GeoFlex II protection is super flexible, letting you move without feeling stiff.
- It meets the NOCSAE standard, which means it’s built for really good chest protection.
- The T.A.C. system makes it easy to adjust the fit so it stays snug and feels great.
- With 7-point stretch zones, you get awesome freedom to move your arms and shoulders in any direction.
What Could Be Improved:
- We found that you should size up one whole size from your old pads. This is important to remember when ordering.
These liners are a solid choice for any player looking for top-notch protection and the ability to move freely. Just be sure to order a size larger than you normally would for the best fit.
Choosing the Best Lacrosse Shoulder Pads: Your Complete Guide
Lacrosse shoulder pads are super important for protecting players on the field. They help keep you safe from hard hits and checks. Picking the right pair can make a big difference in how you play and how comfortable you feel. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for lacrosse shoulder pads, keep these things in mind:
- Protection Level: Different pads offer different amounts of protection. Some are lighter and more flexible for offensive players, while others are bulkier and offer more padding for defensive players. Think about your position and how much contact you expect.
- Fit and Comfort: Pads should fit snugly without being too tight. They shouldn’t move around a lot when you’re running or playing. Look for adjustable straps to get the perfect fit. Good comfort means you can focus on the game.
- Flexibility and Mobility: You need to be able to move freely. The pads shouldn’t restrict your arm movement or make it hard to throw or catch. Some pads have special designs to help with this.
- Ventilation: Hot pads can be really uncomfortable. Look for pads with breathable materials and good airflow to keep you cool during intense games.
- Durability: You want pads that will last. Good stitching and strong materials mean your pads can handle tough play.
Important Materials
The materials used in shoulder pads affect how they protect you and how they feel:
- Foam Padding: Most pads use different types of foam. High-density foam offers better impact absorption. Some pads might use gel inserts for extra cushioning.
- Plastic Shells: The outer shell is usually made of hard plastic. This helps to spread the force of a hit over a larger area. The thickness and design of the shell matter for protection.
- Fabric/Mesh: The fabric that covers the padding and straps is often a breathable mesh or a strong nylon. Breathable fabrics help with ventilation.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make shoulder pads better or worse:
- Padding Density and Placement: Thicker, denser foam in key impact areas like the shoulders and collarbone improves protection. Poorly placed padding won’t do much good.
- Stitching and Construction: Strong, reinforced stitching means the pads won’t fall apart easily. Well-constructed pads will hold their shape and provide consistent protection.
- Adjustability: Straps that are easy to use and hold tight allow for a better, more secure fit. Cheap or flimsy straps can loosen during play.
- Weight: Lighter pads can improve agility, but sometimes lighter materials might offer less protection. Finding a balance is key.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your pads and what players say about them is important:
- Player Positions: Attackers often prefer lighter, more flexible pads for quick movements. Defenders might want more robust padding for physical play. Goalies need good shoulder and chest protection.
- Comfort During Play: Players want pads that don’t chafe or dig in. Easy on and off is also a plus.
- Durability Over Time: Good pads should withstand multiple seasons of practices and games without losing their protective qualities.
- Ease of Cleaning: Some materials are easier to wipe down or clean than others, which is helpful for maintenance.
Choosing the right lacrosse shoulder pads is about finding a balance between protection, comfort, and mobility. Think about your game, and you’ll find the perfect fit to keep you safe and playing your best!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in lacrosse shoulder pads?
A: You should look for the protection level, how well they fit and feel, how flexible they are, how well they let air through, and how tough they are.
Q: What are the most common materials used in lacrosse shoulder pads?
A: They are usually made with foam padding, hard plastic shells, and fabric or mesh for the covering and straps.
Q: How does the density of the foam affect the quality of the pads?
A: Denser foam offers better protection by absorbing more of the impact from hits.
Q: Can I use shoulder pads designed for other sports in lacrosse?
A: It’s best to use pads specifically made for lacrosse. They are designed for the specific types of hits and movements in the sport.
Q: How important is flexibility in shoulder pads?
A: Flexibility is very important. It allows you to move your arms freely to throw, catch, and dodge.
Q: How should lacrosse shoulder pads fit?
A: They should fit snugly without being too tight and should not move around a lot when you play.
Q: Will heavier shoulder pads offer better protection?
A: Not always. While some heavier pads might offer more padding, the quality of the materials and the design are more important than just weight.
Q: How often should I replace my lacrosse shoulder pads?
A: You should replace them if they show signs of wear and tear, like cracked plastic or flattened padding, or if they no longer fit properly.
Q: Are there specific shoulder pads for different player positions?
A: Yes, offensive players might prefer lighter pads, while defensive players may want more padding. Goalies need specialized protection.
Q: How can I ensure my shoulder pads stay comfortable during a game?
A: Look for pads with good ventilation and adjustable straps for a secure, comfortable fit.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.