Compare Maveriks Premium Shoulder Pads for Lacrosse Players

Compare Maveriks Premium Shoulder Pads for Lacrosse Players

Maverik’s M5 Shoulder Pad Offers Ultimate Protection and Comfort

When stepping onto the lacrosse field, having the right protective gear is essential. This is especially true for shoulder pads, which bear the brunt of high-impact checks. Maverik’s M5 pad is designed to provide elite-level cushioning and support so you can play confidently without worrying about injury. How does it offer such stellar protection?

The M5 is loaded with molded plastic components that disperse energy on impact. Its shoulder caps and bicep guards have thick, layered foam padding that absorbs shock when players collide. This extra cushioning on key contact points reduces painful bruising so you can keep attacking the goal. The M5’s chest and back plates are also reinforced to better shield your vital organs.

In addition to protecting against checks and crashes, the M5 pad promotes proper contact technique through its anatomical design. It matches the shape of your body for a natural feel that allows a full range of motion. The articulated shoulder caps move with you so you can throw, cradle, and shoot without restriction. This mobility makes it less likely to draw dangerous slashing penalties.

A common issue with bulky pads is discomfort, but the M5 was engineered with comfort in mind. Its lightweight compression molded chest plate reduces muscle fatigue compared to traditional rib guards. It also has a suspended sternum pad that contours to your body for superior comfort during intense play. The adjustable liner system lets you customize the fit for optimal movement and ventilation.

While prototypical defensive players favor its rugged build, the M5 offers enough mobility for offensive players who want some extra insurance against late hits. Ultimately, the M5’s protective components and anatomical design provide a perfect balance of cushioning, coverage, breathability, and flexibility.

Key Differences Between the M5 and EKG Pads

Maverik produces two premier shoulder pad models – the M5 and the EKG. While both pads offer pro-level performance, they take slightly different approaches. What are the key differences between Maverik’s M5 and EKG shoulder pads?

The M5 prioritizes maximized protection through more plastic components and thick padding, while the EKG focuses on optimized mobility through flexible materials and strategic padding reductions. The M5 is ideal for take-no-prisoners defensive players who want a rugged fortress of padding. In contrast, the EKG suits speedy, finesse-oriented offensive players who value featherweight agility.

Both pads utilize Maverik’s signature adjustable fit system for a custom, secure fit. However, the M5 has more adjustable options like removable bicep guards and extendable back panels. This lets you tweak the M5 pad for the perfect contouring and coverage. The EKG has a streamlined, built-in fit system without removable elements to minimize weight.

The M5’s shoulder caps, arm guards, and chest plates contain high-density EVA and PE foams for maximum shock absorption. Thick PE plastic molds augment protection across all contact points. Meanwhile, the EKG uses softer padding with strategic thickness variations and flexible PE plastic components that conform to the body. This dropping of some padding makes the EKG lighter than the M5.

Ventilation is another key differentiator. The M5 offers decent breathability through its compression molded chest plate and moisture-wicking liner. However, the EKG was designed with integrated airflow channels along its chest, shoulder caps, and back plates. These ventilation conduits make the EKG the cooler choice for sweltering summer games.

While the M5 caters to bruisers looking for uncompromising protection, the EKG suits speedsters wanting a lighter, faster pad. Ultimately, choosing between Maverik’s premier pads comes down to playing style preferences. The rugged M5 and agile EKG balance cushioning, coverage, weight, breathability, and mobility slightly differently.

M5 Pad Offers Ultimate Protection and Comfort

When stepping onto the lacrosse field, having the right protective gear is essential. This is especially true for shoulder pads, which bear the brunt of high-impact checks. Maverik’s M5 pad is designed to provide elite-level cushioning and support so you can play confidently without worrying about injury. How does it offer such stellar protection?

The M5 is loaded with molded plastic components that disperse energy on impact. Its shoulder caps and bicep guards have thick, layered foam padding that absorbs shock when players collide. This extra cushioning on key contact points reduces painful bruising so you can keep attacking the goal. The M5’s chest and back plates are also reinforced to better shield your vital organs.

In addition to protecting against checks and crashes, the M5 pad promotes proper contact technique through its anatomical design. It matches the shape of your body for a natural feel that allows a full range of motion. The articulated shoulder caps move with you so you can throw, cradle, and shoot without restriction. This mobility makes it less likely to draw dangerous slashing penalties.

A common issue with bulky pads is discomfort, but the M5 was engineered with comfort in mind. Its lightweight compression molded chest plate reduces muscle fatigue compared to traditional rib guards. It also has a suspended sternum pad that contours to your body for superior comfort during intense play. The adjustable liner system lets you customize the fit for optimal movement and ventilation.

While prototypical defensive players favor its rugged build, the M5 offers enough mobility for offensive players who want some extra insurance against late hits. Ultimately, the M5’s protective components and anatomical design provide a perfect balance of cushioning, coverage, breathability, and flexibility.

EKG Pad Focuses on Speed and Mobility

Maverik’s EKG shoulder pad takes a different approach than the rugged M5, prioritizing lightweight speed and mobility over maximum protection. How does the EKG pad optimize agility and ventilation for quickness-focused players?

The EKG uses flexible, low-profile polyethylene components rather than thick plastic molds to conform to the body’s natural shape and movement. Padding thickness is strategically reduced in non-critical areas to cut down on weight and material bulk. Breathable mesh inserts enhance airflow to prevent overheating.

These material choices result in a featherweight pad that lets players move freely while still providing crucial padding on key contact points. The EKG perfectly suits fleet-footed dodgers who rely on speed and quick changes of direction to blaze past defenders.

The EKG still offers solid protection thanks to PE caps on the shoulders, clavicles, and biceps. It has ample rib padding and a compression molded chest plate as well. However, padding reductions on the back, arms, and shoulders ensure you won’t feel bogged down while sprinting up-field.

Ventilation is also a top priority, with integrated airflow channels that help release heat. The shoulder cap flaps and back plate are built with portals that funnel air through the pad as you run. Meanwhile, the flexible chest plate material doesn’t inhibit breathing like some stiff pads.

While the EKG sacrifices some cushioning compared to the M5, its stripped-down design is perfect for offensive players who rely more on speed work than physicality. The EKG finds the sweet spot between protection, breathability, and mobility to help finesse players stay cool and nimble on the field.

Both Feature Maverik’s Signature Adjustable Fit System

While the M5 and EKG pads differ in their protection and mobility profiles, they share one key feature – Maverik’s adjustable fit system. This custom liner allows you to fine-tune the pad for a locked-in, comfortable fit.

Both pads include Maverik’s Flex arch design that removes material from the shoulder area for improved range of motion. Adjustable straps across the back and shoulders let you cinch the pad tightly against your body to minimize shifts and slips during intense play.

The M5 pad takes customization a step further with removable bicep guards and extendable back panels to augment or reduce coverage. This modular adaptability lets you set up the M5 for full-body protection or lightweight maneuverability.

While the EKG has a streamlined, built-in fit system without removable pieces, it still promotes an anatomical fit. Stretchy lycra shoulder sleeves allow natural movement in all directions. The dynamic pre-arched chest plate moves effortlessly with your torso.

Both pads remove distractions through a secure fit that locks padding components in place against your body. The M5 may offer more adjustable elements, but each pad integrates Maverik’s flexible and breathable FITSYSTEM to keep you cool, balanced, and focused on the game.

Choosing the right pad comes down to protection needs and playing style. But whether you pick the rugged M5 or agile EKG, Maverik’s adjustable fit system ensures a contoured, personalized fit with zero slippage or distractions.

M5 Pad Has More Plastic Molded Components

The Maverik M5 shoulder pad prioritizes uncompromising protection through its use of rugged, thick plastic molding throughout the pad. This gives it more comprehensive coverage than the streamlined EKG pad.

The M5’s shoulder caps, bicep guards, and chest plates contain high-density polyethylene plastic molding that disperses impact. This firm yet flexible plastic protects without inhibiting mobility. The shoulder caps have thick ABS caps for extra durability in a vulnerable area.

Additionally, the M5 integrates plastic molding into its back plates to shield the spine from checks. The deltoid guards and rib extensions are also reinforced with molded plastic components to deflect slashes and pokes from all angles.

In contrast, the EKG strategically utilizes plastic molding only on the most crucial pads, including the shoulders, clavicles, and biceps. Other areas rely on soft, low-profile padding materials to optimize mobility and breathability.

The M5’s extensive integration of plastic molding adds weight but provides complete coverage. While the EKG drops some plastic pieces for speed, it loses full-body protection. For defensive players who want a virtual suit of armor, the M5’s comprehensive plastic molding offers peace of mind against crushing hits from all directions.

So whether you choose the reinforced M5 or the streamlined EKG depends on your protection priorities and playing style. But the M5 undoubtedly provides Maverik’s most impenetrable padding coverage thanks to its molded plastic components.

EKG Pad Uses Flexible, Lightweight Materials

Unlike the rugged M5 pad, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pad utilizes flexible, low-profile materials to optimize mobility and breathability for speed-focused players.

The EKG forgoes bulky plastic components in favor of streamlined padding materials that move naturally with the body. The shoulder caps and bicep guards use lightweight polyethylene plastic that molds to the athlete’s form. The chest and back plates integrate flexible padding that doesn’t restrict twisting or turning.

Mesh paneling is strategically placed along the chest, back, and shoulders to enhance airflow and cooling. The lightweight metallic mesh rapidly releases heat and sweat during intense gameplay. The shoulder sleeves and liner feature moisture-wicking fabrics to keep players dry.

By selecting materials for flexibility rather than maximum protection, the EKG becomes the lightest pad in Maverik’s lineup. This featherweight feel translates into quicker cuts, faster sprints, and more elusive moves on the field.

While the EKG loses some ruggedness in favor of agility, it retains padding in critical areas. Foam-backed PE caps provide cushioning across the shoulders, ribs, and biceps against checks. Its streamlined design simply eliminates bulk where possible.

For fleet-footed players who rely on finesse rather than physicality, the EKG’s flexible build offers an ideal balance of protection and high-speed agility. Its strategic use of lightweight, breathable materials optimizes mobility for offensive playmakers.

M5 Ideal for Physical Defensive Players

With its rugged construction and maximum padding, Maverik designed its M5 pad to meet the needs of hard-hitting defensive players who battle relentlessly on the back line.

The M5’s thick plastic and foam protection can withstand the crushing collisions that defensive middies and defenders endure each game. Its comprehensive coverage shields the entire body, including vulnerable areas that other pads miss like the spine and kidneys.

The pad even includes removable ABS caps on the shoulders for extra shielding against slashes. While its bulk slows quickness a bit, the M5 allows enough mobility for defending slide packages and covering dodging cutters.

The M5’s thicker padding also lets you administer bone-rattling checks without sacrificing safety. Its molded plastic dissipates impact forces while its inner foam absorbs shock. You can disrupt offenses with clean, vicious hits that protect both players.

While built for defenders, the M5 offers enough versatility for offensive players wanting some extra protection against late hits or tough assignments. Ultimately, the M5’s ideal fit is with physical enforcers who must withstand relentless punishment as the last line of defense.

For field generals who anchor the back line with toughness, strength, and intimidation, the Maverik M5 pad provides the perfect protective arsenal to control the middle of the field.

EKG Suits Faster, More Agile Players

Unlike the heavy-duty M5, Maverik engineered its EKG pad for lightning-quick offensive players who rely on speed work and elusive moves in the open field.

By reducing padding and utilizing flexible materials, the EKG becomes the lightest pad in Maverik’s lineup. This featherweight feel translates into quicker cuts, faster sprints, and more dances around defenders.

The EKG forgoes rigid plastic shields in favor of streamlined padding that moves naturally with your body. Shoulder sleeves and back panels made of stretchy mesh provide uninhibited mobility for dodging and shooting on the run.

While sacrificing some protection, the EKG retains padding on crucial contact points like shoulders and ribs. But strategic padding reductions on arms, back, and legs prevent the bogged-down feeling of some overly-bulky pads.

The EKG’s materials also enhance breathability to keep you cool and energized during up-tempo contests. Airflow panels and moisture-wicking fabrics regulate temperature in tight games.

For crafty scorers, quick-cutting middies, or speedy transition players, the EKG offers the perfect blend of protection and high-performance mobility to excel in open space.

The EKG gives finesse players an unrestrictive shell that allows them to utilize their athletic gifts without sacrificing safety against late hits.

M5 Pad Includes Removable Speed Pad

The Maverik M5 pad caters to both offensive and defensive players through its modular design, including a removable speed pad for customized protection.

The M5 arrives with thick padding throughout its shoulder caps, arms, and torso for maximum cushioning. But offensive players can remove the external speed pad on each shoulder to enhance mobility.

This detachable panel uses perforated foam and stretch mesh for a lightweight, breathable feel. Taking it off reduces bulk and creates a contoured, low-profile shoulder for unrestricted shooting and passing.

However, the interior shoulder caps remain in place to retain crucial padding on this vulnerable contact point. You still get protection from slashes and checks after removing the speed pads.

Defensive players who expect hard collisions can keep the speed pads in place for reinforced shoulders. This modularity lets you reconfigure the M5 on the fly based on your position or game situation.

The M5 ultimately provides the versatility to suit different playing styles. Defensive bruisers appreciate its thick coverage and armor-like durability. Meanwhile, offensive finesse players can enjoy more agility through its adaptable speed pad system.

This clever combination of ruggedness and customization establishes the M5 as one of the most versatile shoulder pads for versatile athletes who play impactful roles on both sides of the field.

EKG Designed with Integrated Speed Channels

Unlike the modular M5 pad, Maverik engineered its EKG shoulder pad with built-in speed channels to maintain featherweight mobility for quickness-focused players.

The EKG forgoes removable padding components in favor of an integrated airflow system to avoid any excess bulk. Perforated portals along the shoulders, chest, and back funnel air through the pad to enhance ventilation.

This effective cooling system allows the EKG to utilize moisture-wicking liners instead of bulky mesh inserts that add material weight. The streamlined liner system keeps you dry without inhibiting mobility.

The pad’s flexible plastic and padding components are also strategically articulated to move naturally with the body’s contours. Pre-arched shoulder caps and chest plates conform to the athlete for unrestricted motion.

By integrating mobility and airflow channels into the design, the EKG eliminates any parts that could slow players down. Everything serves the purpose of maximizing quickness and agility.

For players who rely more on speed work than physicality, the EKG delivers unmatched mobility and breathability right out of the box. While the M5 relies on modular components, the EKG provides built-in performance through integrated speed channels.

M5 Offers Thicker Foam for Maximum Cushioning

The Maverik M5 pad utilizes thick, layered foam components to provide superior shock absorption compared to the streamlined EKG pad.

The M5 incorporates high-density EVA and polyethylene foams into its shoulder caps, bicep guards, and chest plates. This thick cushioning disperses impact forces and protects against bruising when players collide.

By using layered foam structures, the M5 provides progressive cushioning that dissipates energy step-by-step rather than letting it transfer to the body. Its rib extensions also integrate extra foam padding for comprehensive coverage.

In contrast, the EKG strategically utilizes thinner padding in non-critical areas to optimize mobility. It focuses padding on the shoulders, ribs, and biceps where it’s needed most.

The M5 sacrifices some agility due to its heavier padding, but provides peace of mind for players who expect rugged, high-impact matches. The EKG offers less cushioning yet still retains protection on key contact points.

Ultimately, the M5’s thicker foam components supply superior shock absorption for physical players who are constantly banging bodies. While the EKG is more streamlined, the M5 provides elite-level padding thickness for optimal energy dispersion.

EKG Optimized for Breathability During Intense Play

The Maverik EKG pad prioritizes airflow and ventilation through its use of lightweight, mesh materials to keep players cool during intense lacrosse matches.

The EKG utilizes perforated foam shoulder caps that allow air to flow freely, preventing heat buildup. Its back plates feature open ventilation ports that work like chimneys to expel heat.

Strategically placed metallic mesh inserts along the chest and shoulders wick moisture and accelerate evaporative cooling. The soft liner fabric also utilizes moisture-wicking technology to keep the pad dry.

By focusing heavily on breathability, the EKG prevents the overheating issues that arise with thicker pads like the M5. Staying cool and dry enhances comfort and reduces fatigue over the course of a game.

However, the EKG retains crucial padding on high-impact zones like shoulders, ribs, and biceps. It simply utilizes mesh and perforations in non-critical areas to optimize airflow.

For speed-focused players who run miles during intense games, the EKG shoulder pad provides unmatched temperature regulation and moisture control. Its design innovations optimize ventilation to help quickness-dependent athletes stay energized.

M5 Built with Durable Abrasion-Resistant Materials

To match the needs of rugged defensive players, Maverik constructed its M5 pad with durable fabrics and abrasion-resistant materials that can withstand constant pounding.

The M5 utilizes heavy-duty textured nylon on its outer shell rather than softer, more breathable fabrics. This rugged nylon weave resists tears, scuffs, and fraying even after countless slides and impacts.

The pad also incorporates solid plastic molding rather than more flexible components prone to cracking. Its shields stay intact season after season thanks to this durable construction.

The M5 takes inspiration from football pads with its thick EVA foam padding wrapped in hard polycarbonate casings. This padding fights packing out or deformation to maintain protection over time.

While the M5 loses some lightweight agility in favor of ruggedness, its abrasion-resistant build ensures seasons of reliable performance. The materials hold up to endless battles with the turf and other players.

For physical players wanting a pad that can endure back-to-back 60-minute wars of attrition, the M5 provides ideal long-term durability against the relentless wear and tear of lacrosse’s toughest positions.

EKG Engineered for Quick Break-In Time

Unlike the rugged M5, Maverik constructed its EKG pad from flexible materials that break in quickly to deliver full mobility right away.

The EKG utilizes soft, pliable padding materials rather than rigid plastic components that require a long break-in period. Its perforated foam shoulder caps and stretch mesh back panels flex naturally from day one.

Pre-arched plastic segments and dynamic sternum plates provide an anatomical fit straight out of the box. The EKG loses that initial stiffness common with solid plastic shields and thick foam pieces.

The EKG’s soft liner sleeves and inner padding also resist packing out or flattening over time. So it maintains its lightweight, contoured shape longer before requiring replacement.

While the M5 offers more comprehensive protection, all that rigid plastic and dense foam must be broken in for full mobility. The EKG provides quick comfort, flexibility, and performance right off the shelves.

For players needing agility immediately, not after a drawn-out break-in period, the EKG allows you to utilize your athletic gifts at full capacity from the first practice.