Comprehensive Guide to Shoulder Pad Measurements and Fitting

How do you properly measure for shoulder pads. What factors should be considered when fitting shoulder pads. Why is proper fit crucial for shoulder pad effectiveness. How can you ensure optimal protection with the right shoulder pad size.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Shoulder Pad Measurements

Proper shoulder pad measurements are crucial for ensuring optimal protection and performance in contact sports. Ill-fitting shoulder pads can compromise an athlete’s safety and hinder their mobility on the field. To achieve the best fit, it’s essential to understand the correct measurement techniques and sizing guidelines.

Key Factors in Shoulder Pad Measurements

When measuring for shoulder pads, several key factors come into play:

• Chest circumference
• Player height
• Shoulder width
• Range of motion

Each of these elements contributes to finding the perfect fit for an athlete’s unique body shape and playing style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for Shoulder Pads

Accurate measurements are the foundation of finding the right shoulder pads. Here’s a detailed guide on how to measure correctly:

1. Measure the player’s chest below the armpits using a flexible tape measure.
2. Record the chest measurement in inches or centimeters.
3. Note the player’s height as a secondary reference point.
4. Measure the width of the shoulders from one AC joint to the other using a yardstick.

Is there a specific tool recommended for measuring AC joints? Yes, Douglas Pads suggests using a yardstick for the most accurate measurement of AC joints. This ensures precision in determining the appropriate shoulder pad size.

Interpreting Shoulder Pad Sizing Charts

Once you have your measurements, it’s time to consult a sizing chart. Most manufacturers provide detailed charts to help you select the right size based on chest measurements and player height.

Sample Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart

Remember, chest size is the primary factor in determining the correct shoulder pad size, with player height serving as a secondary guide.

Ensuring Proper Fit and Range of Motion

Beyond measurements, it’s crucial to assess the fit and functionality of shoulder pads once they’re on the athlete. How can you determine if shoulder pads fit correctly? Consider these key points:

• The pads should cover the shoulders, upper chest, and upper back completely.
• There should be no gaps between the pads and the body.
• The player should have full range of motion in their arms and neck.
• The pads should not dig into the neck when arms are raised above shoulder height.

To test range of motion, have the player lift their arms above shoulder height and rotate them in various directions. If the pads restrict movement or cause discomfort, a different size or model may be necessary.

Air Management Technology in Modern Shoulder Pads

Advancements in shoulder pad design have led to the development of air management technology, which enhances protection and comfort. How does this technology work?

Air management technology utilizes open-cell foam with thousands of tiny air cells. The outer fabric is adhered to the foam, creating a sealed environment that traps air inside the cushion. When an impact occurs, the force is distributed across a wider area, reducing the trauma to the body at the point of impact.

Benefits of Air Management Technology

• Improved force dispersion
• Enhanced shock absorption
• Reduced risk of injury
• Increased comfort during play

This innovative approach to padding design represents a significant advancement in player protection.

Custom and Pro-Level Shoulder Pads: Considerations and Limitations

For serious athletes, custom-made shoulder pads offer a tailored fit and enhanced protection. However, it’s important to understand the implications of opting for custom equipment.

Can custom-made shoulder pads be returned or exchanged? Unfortunately, most manufacturers, including Douglas Pads, do not accept returns or exchanges on custom Pro shoulder pads and accessories. These items are made to order, which prevents them from being resold or reused.

Advantages of Custom Shoulder Pads

• Precise fit for unique body types
• Optimized protection for specific playing positions
• Potentially improved performance due to better fit

When considering custom shoulder pads, it’s crucial to ensure accurate measurements and consult with experts to avoid the need for returns or exchanges.

Additional Protective Gear: The Role of Skull Caps

In addition to shoulder pads, many athletes use supplementary protective gear like skull caps. These accessories can provide an extra layer of protection when used correctly.

Are skull caps effective in preventing head injuries? While skull caps like the Noggin by Nogginsport Inc. can potentially reduce the severity and frequency of certain injuries, they do not eliminate the risk of concussions or other serious head injuries. It’s crucial to understand their limitations and use them in conjunction with certified helmets.

Key Points About Skull Caps

• Should be worn under a properly fitted, certified helmet
• Do not prevent all types of head injuries
• May help reduce the severity of some impacts
• Should be inspected before each use

Remember, no protective gear can completely eliminate the risk of injury in contact sports. Athletes and coaches must always prioritize safety and adhere to proper techniques and rules.

Maintaining and Caring for Your Shoulder Pads

Proper maintenance of shoulder pads is essential for ensuring their longevity and continued effectiveness. How can you keep your shoulder pads in top condition?

1. Inspect the pads regularly for signs of wear or damage
2. Clean the pads according to the manufacturer’s instructions
3. Store the pads in a cool, dry place when not in use
4. Avoid altering or modifying the pads in any way
5. Replace pads that show significant wear or damage

By following these maintenance guidelines, you can extend the life of your shoulder pads and ensure they continue to provide optimal protection.

When to Replace Your Shoulder Pads

Even with proper care, shoulder pads will eventually need to be replaced. Signs that it’s time for new pads include:

• Visible cracks or breaks in the outer shell
• Significant compression or breakdown of the padding
• Loose or damaged straps and closures
• Pads no longer fit properly due to growth or changes in body shape

Regular assessment of your gear’s condition is crucial for maintaining the highest level of protection.

The Future of Shoulder Pad Technology

As sports science and material engineering continue to advance, we can expect further innovations in shoulder pad design and functionality. What developments might we see in the coming years?

• Smart materials that adapt to impact forces
• Integrated sensors for real-time impact monitoring
• Lighter, more flexible materials that offer enhanced protection
• Customizable padding systems for position-specific protection

These potential advancements could revolutionize player safety and performance in contact sports.

The Role of Research in Improving Protective Gear

Ongoing research into sports-related injuries and protective equipment plays a crucial role in driving innovation. Studies focusing on impact forces, material properties, and injury patterns contribute to the development of more effective protective gear.

As our understanding of sports-related injuries evolves, so too will the design and functionality of protective equipment like shoulder pads. Athletes, coaches, and equipment manufacturers must stay informed about the latest developments to ensure the highest level of safety on the field.

Conclusion: The Importance of Proper Fitting and Quality Shoulder Pads

In conclusion, the importance of properly fitted, high-quality shoulder pads cannot be overstated. From accurate measurements to understanding sizing charts and leveraging advanced technologies, every aspect of shoulder pad selection and use contributes to an athlete’s safety and performance.

By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, athletes, parents, and coaches can make informed decisions about shoulder pad selection and ensure optimal protection on the field. Remember, while protective gear is crucial, it’s equally important to practice safe playing techniques and adhere to the rules of the sport to minimize the risk of injuries.

As technology continues to advance, we can look forward to even more innovative solutions in sports protection. However, the fundamental principles of proper fit, regular maintenance, and responsible use will always remain at the core of effective protective gear utilization.

FAQ – Douglas Pads

FAQ – Douglas Pads

How do I measure for my shoulder pads?

• Remember, when taking an AC measurement, never lay the tape on the body. The best tool for measuring
  AC joints is a yardstick. Call your local dealer for any questions
  regarding the proper way to measure for Douglas shoulder pads.
  Click Here To View Our Fit Guide

Can I return a custom made product?

• Custom Pro shoulder pads and accessories cannot be returned or
  exchanged. Custom items are made to order so we are unable to
  accept returns on these items.

How Do I Fit My Douglas Pads ( Video )?

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Air Management Technology

The protective padding (cushion) of the shoulder pad is made of
open cell foam. Within the foam are thousands of tiny air cells.
By adhering the outer fabric to the foam, a sealed environment is
created trapping the air inside of the cushion. When an outside
force is exerted on to the shoulder pad shell (load spreader), the
force causes the shell to push on the cushion, forcing the air to
move within the cells of the foam out 360 degrees, thereby lessening
the blow from being felt straight in to the point of impact. There is
a much wider area of dispersion, resulting in less trauma to the body.

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How To Measure

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Nogginsport Inc. guarantees that each Noggin is free of
manufacturing defects and workmanship for a period of one
year from the date of purchase when used as intended without
any alterations. Each Noggin should be inspected prior to
each use.

To ensure maximum performance of the Noggin, the skullcap
is to be worn under a properly fitted certified helmet.
Nogginsport Inc. makes no representation nor guarantees
that the use of their product will prevent the occurrence
of a concussion, mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), or head
injury. The Noggin should never be worn without a certified
helmet. The Noggin offers no protection from neck, spinal or
certain types of brain injuries. Severe head, brain and/or
spinal injuries including concussions, paralysis or even
death may occur despite using the Noggin.

Contact sports can result in serious and even fatal injuries.
Participation in these sports implies that players acknowledge
and accept these types of injuries. Noggin Sport seeks to
reduce these risks; however, it will not eliminate injuries
but may reduce their severity and frequency.

The Noggin has been CSA and HECC tested, at the Intertek Lab
in New York City. It has surpassed all the safety standards
provided. These have not been reconditioned or altered in any way.

Douglas Pads & Sports, Inc. is the US distributer for
Nogginsport Inc.M

Mobile Site Coming Soon…

Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
– TheHockeydepot.com

Shoulder Pad Sizing Guide

Size & Fit Guide

• Measure the player’s chest below the arm pits.
• Match the players chest measurement to the shoulder pad size.
• Player height is a secondary guide. Chest size is primary.
• A player should have good range of motion while wearing shoulder pads. To test range of motion, lift arms above shoulder height – ensure the pads do not dig into the neck.

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How to make a shoulder pad | Tailoring-cutting and sewing lessons

Now shoulder pads bear little resemblance to their counterparts from the eighties. In those days, jackets with shoulder pads looked more like hockey equipment than an elegant model. Now the shape and size of the shoulder pads have changed, they have become more delicate and inconspicuous, but nevertheless they have one thing in common: with their help, each model acquires clarity of lines, more style and improves the posture of its owner.

Shoulder pads come in a variety of shapes, sizes and thicknesses. They are chosen depending on which silhouette is in fashion: with straight wide or narrow sloping shoulders. Shoulder pads can also be used to compensate for minor posture defects.

The shape of the shoulder pad depends on the type of sleeve and the width of the shoulder. For models with set-in sleeves with a high rim, regular shoulder pads (1) are used. Raglan shoulder pads (2) are suitable for heavily flared shoulders and sleeves with a low rim, as well as for raglan sleeves and all one-piece sleeves.

Contents

1. Regular shaped shoulder pads
2. Raglan shaped shoulder pads
3. Own made shoulder pads

Regular shaped shoulder pads

so that the edge of the shoulder pad extends over the sleeve by 1 cm. If the rounded sides of the shoulder pad are not symmetrical , then the longer side of the rounding is turned to the back. Pin the shoulder pad to the shoulder seam by inserting a pin from the right side (3). Sew the shoulder pad to the shoulder seam allowances. Attach the ends of the shoulder pad to the seam allowances for sewing in the sleeves using small thread jumpers (4).

Raglan shoulder pads

On models with regular shoulders, pin so that the bulge of the shoulder pad is under the shoulder seam and, accordingly, the sleeve hem.

For models with extended shoulders, pin the shoulder pads so that the rounded edges of the top seam of the sleeve and the shoulder seam meet the bulge of the shoulder pad. Pin the shoulder pads to the shoulder seam by inserting a pin from the right side (5). Sew it to the shoulder seam allowances.

Home made shoulder pads

If you cannot find the right shoulder pads, follow our instructions and sew the shoulder pads yourself.

From the materials you will need: a rigid pad, such as interlining or felt, for the liner – a volumenfleeze pad or batting. You can also use cotton for raglan shoulder pads.

REGULAR SHOULDER PADS ARE SEW LIKE THIS…

Draw parts 1 and 2 according to scheme A in full size (cell size 2×2 cm). From a stiff pad or felt, cut out two pieces according to these patterns. For the liner, cut out several parts 2 from the vomenfliz or batting, with each next part being slightly smaller than the previous one along the rounded contour. Then pin 1 layer of the liner to part 1 so that the smaller part is on top. Align straight cuts.

Lastly pin piece 2 of stiff padding or felt (6). When stitching individual layers, hold the shoulder pad in an “arch” and pierce through all layers (7). If the shoulder pads are intended for an unlined dress, blouse or jacket, cover them with a piece of main or lining fabric. Cut out piece 1 from the main or lining fabric, folded in half with the fold aligned with the straight side of the piece.

Leave an allowance of approx. 2 cm. Wrap the padding around the shoulder pad and secure with pins (8). Lay a zigzag stitch close to the cut of the shoulder pad. Trim the seam allowance close to the stitch (9).

…THIS IS HOW THE RAGLAN SHOULDERS ARE SEW

Draw the details of the pattern 1, 2 and 3 in full size (the dimensions of one cell are 2×2 cm). Cut out four parts 1 and 2, two parts 3 with a fold from a gasket or felt. Stitch parts 1 and 2 according to the reference marks with a zigzag stitch. Then sew the middle seam (10). Reinforce the shoulder pad with batting or cotton wool. Notch the lower part of the shoulder pad (part 3) along the line marked INCUT, and pin it to the shoulder pad from below, while sliding the edges of the notch over each other.

Keeping the shape of the shoulder pad, sew the pieces (11). If the shoulder pad needs to be tightened, cut out parts 1 and 2 from flaps of the main or lining fabric with 1 cm allowances in all sections. Cut out part 3 with 3 cm allowances in all sections. Sew parts 1 and 2 according to the control marks, then sew the middle seam. Pin the parts from the main or lining fabric with the wrong side to the corresponding parts of the shoulder pad, lay a fold on the bottom part over the notch. Stitch the cuts of the skin with a zigzag stitch. Trim the seam allowances close to the stitching.

How to take measurements for tailoring correctly

Before you start sewing a dress, top or other model of clothing, you need to fix the measurements of the figure. But how do you take them off? This is the most popular request for beginner seamstresses in search engines. Those who sew professionally or for themselves, but often, are sure that by knowing how to correctly take measurements from a female figure, you automatically solve half of the problem you face. Even if you have never done it yourself, our detailed instructions with tips for beginners, as well as photos and pictures will help you easily learn how to work correctly with measurements. There are also video tutorials where experienced tailors demonstrate how to measure so you can quickly learn how to measure.

In the sewing literature, generally accepted abbreviations are usually used to designate already recorded measurements: an uppercase letter to identify a specific measurement, lowercase characters indicate the place where it was made. For example, the letter “W” means “width”, and “p” – the shoulder, together it turns out the Width of the shoulder.

Tips before starting work

There are some rules according to which patterns of outfits for a woman are built, they will suit a girl, and clothes for a man or a child require other measurements (these are the parameters of a male and child figure). What is the scheme of work?

The first piece of advice is that the person whose measurements are being taken should only wear underwear.

The second important detail: at the very beginning it is important to choose the underwear that is supposed to be worn under a particular product (we are talking about the style and type of underwear). It is known that elastic tights can give a tremendous slimming effect, reducing volumes by up to 3 cm in terms of waist and hips, while a push-up bra adds up to 5 cm in chest circumference. After the person changes the underwear, the fit of the product will be different, the executor of the order must warn the client about this.

Use a soft measuring tape. Take a tape measure, the measurements will be completely different, wrong. When measuring circles, the tape must be placed exclusively horizontally.

Measurements are taken from a person standing straight, in complete peace, while maintaining everyday posture. This rule takes into account the natural posture of the body – for example, if you are sewing for a teacher or coach, it is important to understand that even in this profession, the ability to move dynamically even in a standing position is important. At the same time, if a person is used to slightly stooping, and you decide to measure him with a retracted stomach, the finished product will be skewed along the body. Stooped shoulders create additional volume during the construction of the back pattern, and in this case, the position of the tucks will change and the shoulder line will shift.

Use a pencil to record your measurements. It is better to use checkered paper – the cells are convenient for clear recording and further use.

Sometimes experts offer clients self-measurements, then they analyze photos of the figure and build a pattern. It is required that the photo has a person standing straight, not hugging, not sitting. However, the data taken by a specialist or by you using our instructions will be much more accurate.

Basic measurements for the pattern-base of the future dress or blouse (top, jacket, t-shirt, shirt and even coat)

Often, for sewing different products on a specific human figure, many measurements are required, they are divided into special groups. At the same time, three standard, typical measurements for the shoulder type of products are distinguished, without which it is impossible to work on a pattern. These are the basics for creating any pattern. Getting down to business, mark the line of the minimum waist width with a lace for designation, make sure that along the back and stomach it runs along a line parallel to the floor surface.

1) Girth (circumference) of the chest. It must be measured through the protruding areas of the chest and back (touching the shoulder blades). The tailor’s meter is not recommended to over tighten or relax, keep it close to the body, passing through both extreme points of the mammary glands.
2) Waist. The measurement of this parameter is carried out along the natural waistline (the minimum place in terms of volume), while the tailor’s meter is placed close so that it can wrap around the waist without stretching. (You can also use the entry PoG or St – half waist).
3) Hip circumference. It involves measuring the convex points of the gluteal muscles, capturing the bulge of the abdomen. (Sat – half-circumference of the hips).

The second important block is the parameters that determine the height and length of the product and individual parts

The most recognizable of these measurements is the total length of the product (Di). To know it correctly, you need to determine where the bottom of the future model will be. Attach the beginning of the tailor’s meter to the place where the neck begins, from the back. Usually, this place is considered the 7th vertebra of the neck. Fix the tape along the entire spine until it intersects with the cord signaling the location of the waist, and then lower it down to the planned bottom of the product.
Since we are talking about how to take measurements for shoulder products – dresses or blouses – next we will consider a number of relevant indicators.

• The abbreviation Dsb or Dst stands for the length of the back to the waist. Measurement is recommended to be taken from the 7th cervical vertebra, and completed at the intersection with the waist, while it is important to ensure that the tailor’s meter passes strictly on the site of the spine line.
• The abbreviations Dp, Dts, Dtp are the length of the front to the waist / the length of the front from the neck or collar. The parameter is taken from the transition area of ​​the neck to the shoulder, then the tailor’s meter goes down to the highest point of the chest, and then goes down to the waist.
• Shoulder length (Dp). Measurement should be done from the base of the neck at the transition to the shoulder, and complete at the beginning of the arm.
• dr is the length of the sleeve. The measure is taken from the starting point of the hand. It is important to lead the tailor’s meter along the outside of the hand, towards the little finger. Removal is completed at the level of the wrist. Important! The arm should be slightly bent at the elbow, take a natural position. If it is completely straight and down, complete the removal at the height of the thumb. To measure Dr for a ¾ sleeve, you must complete the measurement strictly at the level of the elbow.
• Вг — this is how tailors write Chest Height. Initiate the removal of the parameter at the point of the base of the neck at the transition to the shoulder, and end at the highest point of the mammary glands.
• The abbreviations Vp or Vpp refer to the height of the front shoulder. Measurement starts from the starting point of the arm and ends at the highest point of the chest.
• Armhole depth (Gp). To measure, you will need a paper tape approximately 3 cm wide. It must be passed under the arms and fixed under the armpits (just ask the client to hold it under the armpits or do it yourself – if you are taking measurements for yourself). Then, with the assistance of an assistant, take measurements from the 7th cervical vertebra to the beginning of the tape (in the center).
• Height of the back shoulder oblique (Vpk). You need to initiate the measurement at the point where the arm starts, and end in the middle of the back at the intersection with the lace marking the waist.
• Hip height (Wb). These data are measured as follows: it is important to place the tailor’s meter on the side, taking the distance from the waist to the hips as information.
• Seat height (Sun). Sit down on a hard horizontal surface before starting measurements. With the involvement of an assistant, this indicator is measured from the back, from the lace showing the waist to the seat itself (legs in contact with the surface).
Special measurements (Vprz, Vpkp) are determined if necessary.

Width measurements

What measurements are required for a perfect fit? What determines the size of future clothes? How to measure the width? The answer is waiting for you below!
• Index Back Width (LW) is measured on the back, at the height of the shoulder blades. Fix the centimeter exclusively horizontally, without turning it under the armpits!
• To find out what will be Shoulder Width (W) , measure the distance between the extreme points of the shoulders (points of the beginning of the arms). It is important to keep the tailor’s meter horizontal!
• Measure The width of the chest (Whd) can be measured along the horizontal protruding points of the chest.

Measurements of girths (half girths)

Often, these measurements are used in their half size, then on the patterns of models for women they are designated as Po or C (for example, Cr1, Cr2, Cr3 – half chests 1, 2 and 3). To obtain them, the girth data is divided in half. It looks like this: if the girth is 60 cm, the half-girth will be 30 cm.
• Over bust or under bust. Its removal is carried out closely attached to the body with a tailor’s meter at the desired level. The semi-girth of the chest1 is removed at the top, above the beginning of the mammary gland. In the case of measuring SG2, the meter goes under the chest. Cr3 – along the highest points of the mammary glands.
• Osh – neck girth indicator. The measurement is taken directly above the jugular fossa itself.
• What is Op? Of course, this is short for Shoulder girth. It is measured at the widest point of the arm in a calm state.
• Wrist size. It is carried out along the base of the brush from below.

To create a pattern of trousers, trousers, a suit, other basic measurements are also needed. What are they like? How to calculate the parameters required during cutting?

• Front length (chipboard). It can be measured from the lace at the waist, along the bulge of the abdomen, to the planned bottom of the product.
• Dsb stands for Side Length. The length is written from the waist to the bottom of the product along the protruding part of the thigh.
• Dsz means back length. The distance from the waist to the bottom of the product along the protruding part of the buttocks is indicated.
• Step length (Ls). It is determined by the inside of the leg from the point of the groin to the bottom of the product.
• Knee length (Ltk). Recorded according to the length from the waist to the middle of the knee when measured from the side. This may be the difference between Dsb and the distance from the middle of the knee to the bottom.