What features does the STX Shield 400 chest protector offer. How does it compare to other models in the market. Is it suitable for beginner to intermediate-level goalies. What are the pros and cons of this chest protector.
Key Features of the STX Shield 400 Chest Protector
The STX Shield 400 chest protector is a new addition to the lacrosse goalie gear market, introduced in 2021. This model is specifically designed for beginner to intermediate-level goalies and meets the latest NOCSAE standards for goalie chest protection. Let’s explore its key features:
Floating Chest Plate
One of the standout features of the Shield 400 is its floating chest plate. This innovative design allows the chest plate to sit independently from the main body of the chest pad. Why is this important? It serves two crucial purposes:
- Enhanced protection for the heart and chest area
- Improved range of motion and mobility for the goalie
The chest plate is designed with indents that enable it to fold into itself during saves, providing maximum flexibility. Sophia LeRose, a Duke starting goalie and Lax Goalie Rat sponsored athlete, comments on this feature: “The flexibility I get from the protector, especially during low saves or when I’m running outside the net, makes it feel like I’m hardly wearing a chest protector at all.”
Cardiac Silhouette
Another notable feature of the Shield 400 is the cardiac silhouette. This design element incorporates increased padding under the chest plate, extending over the cardiac region. The result? Superior protection for the heart area.
LeRose attests to the effectiveness of this feature, stating, “In 9 out of 10 instances when I’m hit in the chest protector, I barely feel it at all.”
Rib Protection
The Shield 400 doesn’t skimp on rib protection either. It features extended padding that wraps around to cover the ribs, providing comprehensive protection for this vulnerable area.
Comfort and Fit of the STX Shield 400
Comfort is a crucial factor in any piece of lacrosse equipment, and the Shield 400 doesn’t disappoint in this area. The chest protector is designed with adjustable straps that allow for a customized fit. This feature ensures that goalies of different sizes can achieve a snug, comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement.
The lightweight design of the Shield 400 is another comfort factor worth noting. Despite its robust protection, the chest protector doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome, allowing goalies to move freely and make quick reactions during gameplay.
Performance and Durability
How does the STX Shield 400 perform on the field? According to user feedback, including insights from LeRose, the chest protector offers excellent protection without compromising mobility. The floating chest plate and flexible design allow goalies to make a full range of motions, from low saves to quick interceptions outside the net.
In terms of durability, the Shield 400 is constructed with high-quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of regular gameplay. The reinforced stitching and robust padding contribute to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for developing goalies.
Comparing the STX Shield 400 to Other Models
How does the Shield 400 stack up against other chest protectors in the market? Let’s compare it to its higher-end sibling, the STX Shield 600, and other popular models:
STX Shield 400 vs. STX Shield 600
The Shield 400 is essentially a more affordable version of the Shield 600, which is popular among college and pro goalies. While it may lack some of the advanced features of the 600, it retains many of the key elements that make the higher-end model successful.
The main differences include:
- Level of padding: The Shield 600 offers more comprehensive padding
- Adjustability: The Shield 600 has more adjustment options for a more customized fit
- Price point: The Shield 400 is more budget-friendly, making it accessible to developing goalies
STX Shield 400 vs. Other Brands
When compared to chest protectors from other brands like Warrior or Maverik, the Shield 400 holds its own. Its floating chest plate design and cardiac silhouette feature set it apart from many competitors in its price range.
Pros and Cons of the STX Shield 400 Chest Protector
To provide a balanced view, let’s examine the advantages and potential drawbacks of the Shield 400:
Pros:
- Excellent protection for the chest and heart area
- Flexible design allows for a full range of motion
- Meets NOCSAE standards for goalie chest protection
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Affordable option for beginner to intermediate goalies
Cons:
- Less comprehensive padding compared to higher-end models
- Fewer adjustment options than some premium chest protectors
- May not be suitable for advanced or professional-level play
Is the STX Shield 400 Right for You?
Choosing the right chest protector is a crucial decision for any lacrosse goalie. Is the STX Shield 400 the right choice for you? Consider the following factors:
- Your skill level: If you’re a beginner to intermediate goalie, the Shield 400 offers an excellent balance of protection and affordability
- Your budget: The Shield 400 provides many features of higher-end models at a more accessible price point
- Your playing style: If you value mobility and flexibility, the Shield 400’s design caters to these needs
- Your long-term goals: If you’re looking to advance to higher levels of play, you might eventually outgrow this model
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences. The STX Shield 400 offers a solid option for developing goalies who want reliable protection without breaking the bank.
Care and Maintenance of the STX Shield 400
To ensure your STX Shield 400 chest protector serves you well for an extended period, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to keep your gear in top condition:
- Air it out: After each use, allow the chest protector to air dry completely to prevent odor and bacterial growth
- Clean regularly: Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the chest protector. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the materials
- Check for damage: Regularly inspect the chest protector for any signs of wear and tear, particularly in high-impact areas
- Store properly: When not in use, store the chest protector in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Don’t machine wash or dry: Hand washing is gentler on the materials and will help extend the life of your chest protector
By following these care instructions, you can help ensure that your STX Shield 400 remains effective and comfortable for many seasons to come.
Final Thoughts on the STX Shield 400 Chest Protector
The STX Shield 400 chest protector represents a solid choice for lacrosse goalies at the beginner to intermediate level. It successfully balances protection, comfort, and affordability, making it an attractive option for developing players.
Key takeaways include:
- The floating chest plate design offers excellent protection without sacrificing mobility
- The cardiac silhouette feature provides enhanced protection for the heart area
- While it may lack some features of higher-end models, it offers great value for its price point
- The lightweight and flexible design allows for a full range of motion, crucial for making saves
As with any piece of sports equipment, the best chest protector for you will depend on your individual needs, playing style, and budget. The STX Shield 400 offers a compelling package that will meet the needs of many developing goalies, providing the protection and comfort necessary to build confidence and skills on the lacrosse field.
Remember, while equipment is important, it’s your skills, dedication, and practice that ultimately make you a great goalie. The right chest protector, like the STX Shield 400, can support your development by providing the protection you need to focus on honing your skills and enjoying the game.
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STX Shield 400 Chest Pad Review
By Coach Damon
Here at Lax Goalie Rat we’re on a quest to review every chest protector currently available to the lacrosse goalie community under the NOCSAE guidelines.
The chest pads we’ve reviewed so far:
- STX Shield 600 review
- Maverik Max EKG review
In this post we’ll be reviewing the STX Shield 400 chest pad.
New in 2021, the STX Shield 400 chest pad is ideal for beginner to intermediate-level goalies and meets the new NOSCAE standard for goalie chest protection.
The Shield 400 is the model down of STX’s popular Shield 600 chest pad. While it may be a step down, it has many of the great features that makes the Shield 600 chest pad such a fan favorite of the college and pro goalies.
To help us with this review, we’ve called in Lax Goalie Rat sponsored athlete and Duke starting goalie Sophia LeRose to help. She is currently using the Shield 400 this season while playing with the Blue Devils.
Features of the STX Shield 400 Chest Pad
Floating Chest Plate
The first feature that stands out with this chest pad is the floating chest plate.
Like the Shield 600 chest pad, the Shield 400 has a chest plate that sits freely of the chest pad to provide additional protection to the heart and chest region while also providing maximum range of motion and mobility.
The chest plate has indents throughout it the chest pad that allows it to fold into itself as you make saves to allow for more movement.
“The flexibility that I’m able to get from the protector, specifically when I’m going for low saves or even when I go out for an interception or running around outside of the net makes it feel like I’m not really wearing a chest protector at all,” said LeRose.
Cardiac Silhouette
The chest pad line from STX introduced the cardiac silhouette feature. The Cardiac Silhouette is increased padding under the chest plate that extends over into the cardiac region and provides additional protection over the heart.
“9 times out of 10 if I’m getting hit in the chest protector, I’m really not feeling it at all,” said LeRose. “Every once in a while there is that low part of the chest protector that I choose to take off and sometimes I feel it there.”
Rib Protection
The Shield 400 chest pad features side rib protection similar to that of the 600. It doesn’t have the same elastic stretch zones that the Shield 600 does but the velcro strapping system allows for the rib padding to fit around the rib area providing you with protection to that area.
The padding in that area is made up of large pieces of hard foam which help absorb the impact of shots and disperse the force of a shot throughout the padded area to limit the brunch force of the ball.
“There are a couple of times where I get hit with a shot and it feels like I got the wind knocked out of me because it was such a hard shot but other than that I feel like I’m protected really well and I don’t get any sort of bruising in that area and it protects the ribs well,” said LeRose.
Of course Sophia is taking shots from Division 1 athletes. Most youth goalies said they feel really protected using the STX Shield 400:
Customization Ability
One of the features I really like about the Shield line of protective chest pads is its customizability.
The chest pad features a 3-point strapping system that allows you to adjust the pad both vertically and horizontally which provides you with the most personalized fit to get the chest pad in the right position for your preference.
“I think this chest pad really gives you the flexibility to make this chest pad as tight or loose as you want,” said LeRose. “When it comes to the straps in the back, I attach the straps of the chest pad across my body in the front to make it a little tighter to my body. From there I don’t have to fidget with it or readjust the straps it really just locks into place which is great.”
Like the Shield 600, the 400 chest pad features a removable belly pad that covers the lower abdomen region. This feature is removable so you’re able to take this piece off if you’re looking for some extra range of motion and mobility as you move.
“I like the flexibility of having the choice to take the bottom part of the chest pad,” said LeRose. “I like taking this piece off as I feel more comfortable running around and playing with less equipment restricting my mobility so I like to limit the padding that I’m wearing.”
Shoulder Protection
In terms of the differences between the Shield 400 & 600 chest pads, the Shield 400 features additional shoulder protection with the removable shoulder caps. They’re attached to the shoulder pad by a button on top of the shoulder and velcro strapping to the inside of the chest area.
While they aren’t the most robust pads, the shoulder caps do provide you with some extra protection on your shoulders if that’s what you’re looking for.
Sophia doesn’t use the shoulder pieces on her chest pad out of personal preference. Many goalies using this chest have commented that the shoulder snaps don’t stay in place very well and end up removing them like Sophia.
“My choice to take off the shoulders and the stomach pad works great for me because I like the extra range of motion, but I also have teammates that have everything attached to the chest pad and they really like that. So I think the chest protector gives you the ability to customize to your own liking,” said LeRose.
Other goalies also liked this chest pads customization ability:
The other big difference between the two chest pads is that the Shield 400 has a little bit of a bulkier profile compared to the Shield 600.
Of course “bulkiness” tends to be different for each goalie. Some goalies say this chest pad is bulky while others say the oppposite:
But when you hold up the STX Shield 600 next to the STX Shield 400 I think there’s no doubt the 400 is bulkier.
Sophia has tried both chest pads and actually finds that the Shield 600 is more firm than the 400 because of the different materials used on the chest plate.
To her, the style of the chest plate on the 400 allows maximum flexibility and range of motion compared to the 600. She also found the length of the 400 chest pad was shorter so this allowed for it to sit more comfortably for her when using the chest pad.
One of the drawbacks we hear regarding the Shield line of chest pads is the velcro pieces that connect to the strapping system and the removable belly pad tends to wear out over time making it difficult to connect the straps to the pad.
Sophia found that after 3 years of use of her current chest pad she is in need of purchasing a new one simply because the velcro on her current pad is starting to wear out and unable to attach to the pad.
She also crosses her straps across her body to secure the chest pad and they are starting to wear out as well.
So with the durability issues of the belly pad, the shoulder buttons, and the velcro you may find yourself having to buy a new chest protector after a few seasons of use.
Another thing that people have found is that the floating chest play can ride up and get caught in their throat guard while trying to make saves.
Sophia said she hasn’t experienced this as she’s adjusted the chest pad to sit pretty loose on her back so that it sinks down on her chest and then tightens around her waist.
STX Shield 400 Chest Pad Price
STX sells and promotes this pad and an intermediary level chest past. It comes in at the price of $129.99 on Lacrosse Monkey.
This helps you save a bit of money when purchasing a new chest pad compared to the top-of-the-line chest pads such as the STX Shield 600 which goes for $169.99 while still providing a great product that protects you and is also NOCSAE certified.
If you have a youth goalie who isn’t sure he/she wants to stick it out in goal, this chest pad is a great option to not break the bank.
You can purchase the STX Shield 400 chest pad on Lacrosse Monkey for $129. 99.
You might also be able to find a used STX Shield 400 on SidelineSwap for less.
Just based on price alone you can see why STX markets the 400 chest pad as their intermediate option:
- STX Shield 200 – $70
- STX Shield 400 – $130
- STX Shield 600 – $170
Who is the STX Shield 400 really for?
I really think this is an awesome option for a youth goalie. Perfect goalies like friend of the program and Lacrosse Goalie Summit 3 star, SeaBass:
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A post shared by Coach Damon | Lax Goalie Coach (@laxgoalierat)
If you want additional shoulder protection in your chest protector, your options are this chest pad and the STX Shield 200.
A middle school or high school-aged athlete who is starting to see faster and harder shots and is looking for a protective chest pad that still allows you to move well without having to break the bank, you might like the STX Shield 400 too.
Sophia recommends this chest pad to any goalie who has an active style of play who like to run around and play comfortably almost as if the chest protector wasn’t there. Other active goalies also sang this chest pad’s praises:
“I’d recommend this to someone that is trying to have active arms and know that the chest protector isn’t going to get in their way especially if you take the shoulder pads off,” said LeRose.
Video Review of STX Shield 400 Chest Pad
Here is a video that Evan, Sophia, and I did talking about the pros and cons of the STX Shield 400 chest protector.
Conclusion
Overall, we think the Shield 400 chest pad is an awesome budget option, especially for youth to high school goalies looking for a new chest pad.
The Shield 400 provides you with all the similar protective features of the top-of-the-line chest pads to help keep you safe and protected without costing you as much as those chest pads.
We also really like the customizability of this chest pad. Whether it’s the strapping system of removable pieces of the chest pad itself it really gives you a ton of options to fit this chest pad to your specific needs and preferences as a goaltender.
The cons of this pad are its bulkier profile, issues of durability with the velcro straps and the shoulder caps popping off.
“I really like this chest pad as it has worked for me for years and I really like the whole line of STX products,” said LeRose. “The biggest thing that sticks out to me again is the flexibility that you have with this chest pad. The market price for it is cheaper than some other pads on the market and you’re going to get great results with this chest protector. It’s going to protect your heart and you’re not going to feel the impact of hard when shots so I think it’s a great option for people considering it.”
Grab the STX Shield 400 on LacrosseMonkey.com
Anyone out there use the STX Shield 400? What do you think of it? Leave me a comment down below.
Goaltender Chest Guard Ritual PRO SR GCAPRO3 :: Goalie Chest Guards :: Goaltender Hockey Uniform :: HOCKEY :: SPORTS
Elite advanced level chest protection is extremely lightweight and well thought out design. The composition includes foams of different densities with plastic inserts. The chest has segmented high-density foam blocks, extended side padding, and a carbon fiber insert sits directly above the sternum for optimal protection. VE8 sleeves are flared for added flexibility and feature molded knee pads. The spine is protected by an adjustable high-density insert and double padding to protect the kidneys. Straps at the arms, shoulders, wrist and waist help fine-tune the fit for precise protection and agility.
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Hockey goalie hand and chest protection: what does it include?
The following equipment is used to protect the arms and chest of the goalkeeper: bib, shoulder pad, collarbone pads, pads to protect the elbow (folded in several layers, allowed as an additional element of protection).
Protruding or bent parts are prohibited on the front edges of the bib, protrusions on the inner or outer surface of the arms, shoulders are also excluded. The entire design of the bib will be considered non-standard if, with the main stance in the squat, the goalkeeper’s shoulder pad rises above the contour of his shoulders.
The shoulder pad must be anatomically proportionate and not extend beyond the width and height of the goalkeeper’s shoulders. Shoulder pads are not allowed, as they can lift it up due to the clavicle shields.
Clavicle guards on both sides must not protrude beyond the armpits and shoulder cups.
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