Nike Vapor Untouchable Pro 3 Football Pads Review
The Nike Vapor Untouchable Pro 3 football pads are one of the most popular sets for players looking for lightweight, flexible protection on the field. These pads utilize flexible plates in the shoulder area to allow a full range of motion while still absorbing big hits. I’ve used the Vapor Untouchable pads for over a season now and can attest to their comfort and protective abilities.
One of the standout features of the Untouchable Pro 3 pads is the carbon fiber shoulder caps. These circular plates flex naturally as you move your arms, unlike traditional plastic shoulder pads that can feel rigid. The carbon fiber material is extremely strong and dissipates impact very well. I’ve taken some huge hits wearing these pads and they have held up great.
The padding underneath the shoulder caps is lightweight as well. Nike uses a four-way stretch woven material that molds to your body type. I barely notice I’m wearing shoulder pads when I have the Vapors on. The stretchy material allows you to generate full power and torque when stiff-arming defenders or making tackles.
Fit is also excellent with the Vapor Untouchable Pro 3 pads. I always struggled to find a comfortable fit with other brands, but Nike offers three size options to get the right tailored fit. The back panel uses an adjustable belt system to cinch the pads in place right below your jersey. This creates a streamlined fit that won’t shift around during games or practices.
For maximum maneuverability, Nike also moved many of the traditional pad protectors to an integrated girdle piece. This takes bulky thigh and hip pads off the main pad area for better fit and feel. The girdle has customizable Velcro placements so you can position padding exactly where you need it.
After over a year of use, my Vapor Untouchable Pro 3 pads have held up extremely well and still look and feel brand new. The pads have great ventilation to stay cool and the carbon fiber flex plates show no signs of warping or damage. While a bit more expensive than traditional pads, the Vapors are worth it for the game-changing comfort and protection.
Nike Baseball Pant Sizing Chart and Fit Guide
Finding the right fit for your Nike baseball pants is crucial for optimal comfort and performance on the diamond. Nike offers a handy size chart to help determine your ideal vapor baseball pant size based on your waist size and preferred fit.
Nike baseball pants come in three main fit types – compression, fitted, and loose. Compression pants are skin-tight and offer maximum support and flexibility. Fitted vapor pants are more traditional and athletic fitting. Loose pants provide the most airflow and room.
I’d recommend fitted or loose Nike baseball pants for most players. Compression pants can be restrictive and don’t work well for all body types. Fitted pants will be snug in the legs and rear without being too restrictive in motion. Loose pants allow for maximum airflow on hot days but can be baggier around the legs.
Nike’s size chart lists recommended waist sizes for each pant length. Measure around your natural waistline, just above your hip bones, to determine your waist size. Then find your general size based on a fitted pant fit to pick your size.
For example, if you have a 32″ natural waistline, the Nike chart shows size Medium as the best loose fit option. But you may want to size down to a Small for a more fitted, athletic vapor pant look and feel.
I’d recommend trying on baseball pants in-person if possible to gauge fit and comfort. Nike vapor pants have a tapered leg so sizing up or down can dramatically change the fit through the legs and rear. If ordering online, carefully review sizing info and consider ordering two sizes to compare at home.
Also keep in mind Nike offers select baseball pant models in Tall and Short inseam lengths. Measure your inseam from the crotch to ankle for the most accurate length. Nike’s standard inseam is around 31-32″. Tall pants add 2″ and Short subtracts 2″.
Lastly, consider wearing sliding shorts or a cup underneath for the best comfort and protection. The smooth, snug material of Nike baseball pants can be revealing, so base layers preserve modesty. And the right sliding shorts or compression shorts add support while preventing chafing.
With the right measurements and fit considerations taken into account, you can dial in the perfect size Nike vapor baseball pants for unmatched comfort, range of motion and style on the field.
Nike Vapor Fly 3.0 Football Shoulder Pads Features
The Nike Vapor Fly 3.0 football shoulder pads provide an innovative blend of flexibility, protection and comfort for players looking to maximize performance. These pads utilize several key technologies to deliver lightweight, low-profile protection that moves naturally with athletes on the field.
A standout feature of the Vapor Fly 3.0 pads is the FlexPlate technology used in the shoulder caps. These circular shoulder plates are made from a proprietary blend of lightweight polymers and fabric. This allows the plates to flex and move with your natural shoulder motion.
Traditional shoulder pads use rigid plastic plates that can restrict motion and feel uncomfortable. The FlexPlates on the Vapor Fly 3.0 dynamically flex when running, throwing, tackling or contorting your body to make tough catches.
Underneath the FlexPlate is a 4-way stretch liner material. This creates a secure but comfortable fit around your shoulders. The stretchy material allows for full freedom of movement while keeping the pads firmly in place. The shoulder pad lining also enhances the FlexPlate technology by moving with your muscles.
Breathability and ventilation are also excellent in the Vapor Fly 3.0 pads. Nike strategically placed cooling zones of laser cut foam and mesh to increase airflow. The shoulder pads stay light and dry compared to more bulky traditional models, especially during 2-a-day practices in August heat.
For comfort across the collar bone, Nike added extra padding and shaping in the chest region. This helps prevent painful pressure points from forming when you rotate your shoulders to throw or stiff arm. The sternum and collar bones stay protected without sacrificing range of motion.
Nike also focused on making the Vapor Fly 3.0 pads as streamlined and anatomical as possible. By integrating the back plate into the interior lining, there is less bulk against your shoulder blades. The tails in back are curved to match your natural shoulder shape rather than just straight plastic plates.
After wearing the Vapor Fly 3.0s for a full season, I’m amazed at how lightweight and comfortable a protective shoulder pad can be. The innovative FlexPlate technology allows free, natural movement on the field while still absorbing big hits. These are by far the most advanced and well-designed pads I’ve worn.
How to Measure for Proper Football Pad Size
Finding the right size football pads is crucial for maximum protection and mobility on the field. Taking accurate measurements and considering key fit factors will help you select shoulder, girdle and thigh pads that perform comfortably.
The first step is measuring your torso for shoulder pad sizing. Have a partner wrap a soft tape measure under your armpits and across your shoulder blades. This chest measurement along with your height determines general size – small, medium, large, etc.
It’s also important to consider shoulder width. Measure across your back from shoulder joint to shoulder joint. Wider or narrower shoulders may require going up or down a size for ideal fit and coverage.
When trying on shoulder pads, make sure the padding extends well past your shoulders fully covering your collar bones. Raise your arms to ensure no gap forms near the armpit area when in motion. The shoulder caps should contour to your natural shoulder shape without drooping.
For football girdles and pads, first measure your waist approximately 3 inches below your belly button. Then measure your hips and thighs at their largest circumference. Compare these measurements to size charts to determine ideal thigh pad, knee pad, and girdle sizes.
Proper thigh pad fit is especially important, as pads that are too small can slide and shift, leaving you vulnerable. When wearing thigh pads, jog in place to confirm they stay centered on your legs without rotating or creeping up/down.
Hip pads and tailbone padding should rest comfortably on the front and back of your hip bones. Make sure padding extends far enough down your thighs for complete coverage when crouched in an athletic position.
Try performing football-specific movements like exploding from a 3-point stance, twisting, and backpedaling to gauge comfort and ensure pads stay put. The ideal pads should move seamlessly with your body, never restricting natural motion.
Taking the time to find properly fitted Nike vapor pads for your unique build will provide that second-skin feel that allows you to play at your highest level without even noticing your equipment.
Vapor Elite Baseball Pant Design and Performance
Nike’s Vapor Elite baseball pants provide lightweight comfort and mobility for players who want to feel fast and athletic on the diamond. Several design elements optimize the vapor baseball pants for athletic performance.
The Nike Vapor Elite pants use a combination of polyester and spandex in the fabric. This provides a good amount of stretch to allow full freedom of movement in all directions. The material is also moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry even on hot summer days.
Strategically placed mesh panels add even more breathability throughout the legs and lower back. Perforations in the mesh fabric significantly increase airflow circulation to prevent overheating.
For mobility, the Vapor Elite pants utilize an articulated knee design with darting seams. This allows the pants to contour to your natural knee bend for unrestricted range of motion. You can field grounders, steal bases and leg out extra bases without restriction.
The overall fit is also athletic and tailored for performance. While not as compressive as Nike Pro pants, the Vapor Elite pants offer a snug fit through the hips and thighs without constricting. The tapered leg opening prevents bagginess around the calves.
To help keep pants in place during athletic activity, Nike added silicone gripper tape inside the waistband. This helps prevent shirts from becoming untucked and keeps you focused on the game rather than adjustments.
For convenience, the Vapor Elite pants include an interior waistband pocket large enough for a key, card or cash. Zippered pockets are also positioned on each thigh for secure storage during games.
The Vapor Elite pants provide a great balance of comfort, mobility and convenience. The flexible fabric and articulated design allow natural athletic motion during any baseball activity. Breathable mesh panels help regulate temperature on hot days. And the secure pockets keep small essentials handy when on the field.
Nike Football Girdle and Hip Pad Size and Fit
Finding the right size Nike football girdle and integrated hip pads is key for optimized protection and non-restrictive comfort on the field. Here are some tips for getting the ideal fit for your body type and safety needs.
Start by accurately measuring your waist about 3 inches below your belly button. Compare this to Nike’s size chart for compression girdles or padded girdles to identify the best size option.
Keep in mind Nike girdles are designed for a tight, compressive fit to hold pads firmly in place. If between sizes, I’d recommend sizing up for a little more comfort and coverage.
It’s also important to measure your widest point around your hips and thighs. Again, err on the larger girdle size if your hips or quads are particularly muscular.
When trying on a Nike Pro Combat girdle, walk, jog, and squat to test mobility. Make sure the material doesn’t pinch or restrict your natural motions. Properly fitted girdles should flex with your lower body movements.
For tailbone and hip protection, press down on the padding sections after cinching the belt tight. Hip pads should cover the front and side portions of your hip bones completely. Tailbone padding should sit comfortably over the base of your spine.
If included thigh pads slide up or down your legs when moving, you may need to tighten the girdle more or go down a size for optimal security. Well-fitted pads should stay centered on your thighs and quads.
Take note of any gaps in coverage between the girdle pad protection and your shoulder pads above. Optimal protection requires full coverage without gaps that could leave areas exposed.
Finding your perfect Nike girdle and hip pad fit may require trying on a couple sizes. But dialing in the right tight and secure fit is worth the effort for complete coverage and unrestricted mobility.
Finding Right Football Hip, Tail and Thigh Pads
Determining the ideal hip, tailbone and thigh pads for your football needs involves considering key factors like fit, coverage area, and adjustability. Here are some tips for selecting hip and thigh pads that provide complete customizable protection.
Look for removable/adjustable pads that secure tightly into your girdle system. Integrated single-unit pads can’t be repositioned for customized protection. Separate pads allow you to configure the setup as needed.
Pay close attention to coverage zones when evaluating tailbone pads. Quality pads will extend lower down the spine and wrap further under the hips for complete protection.
For thigh protection, prioritize pads that wrap fully around the thighs without leaving the interior or rear exposed. Multi-segment pads conform better to leg musculature.
Heat and sweat can be an issue with bulky pads during summer practices and early season games. Look for lightweight, breathable materials like perforated foam or ventilated plastic for cooler comfort.
Make sure to match your girdle size to the pad size for optimal security. Girdles that are too loose won’t hold pads tight to the body, allowing slippage.
When trying on pad sets, jog, sprint and cut to test for movement. Properly fitted pads shouldn’t slide down or loosen over time. Nor should they impede natural mobility.
Consider how thigh pads interface with your knee pads. Some segmented thigh pads integrate with Nike Vapor knee pads for seamless coverage. This prevents gaps and slippage.
Proper pad fit is also vital for avoiding injuries. If pads are too small, they can leave vital areas vulnerable. Oversized pads can shift and slide out of place when hit.
Take the time to dial in pads that check the boxes for security, breathability and comprehensive coverage. Proper pad fit allows you to play hard and aggressive with the peace of mind that you’re protected from every angle.
Buying Used Nike Football Gear: What to Check
Purchasing used Nike football pads and gear can be a great way to save money. However, there are some important factors to inspect before buying used equipment to ensure both safety and performance.
Carefully examine the shoulder pad shells, looking for any cracks or damage in the plastic that could compromise protection. Bend and flex the shoulder caps to check for brittleness or warping.
Press down firmly on interior shoulder pad foam or liners. Deteriorating or compressed foam indicates the pads have exceeded their protective lifespan.
Try on used shoulder pads to check overall fit and mobility. Raise your arms to ensure no significant gap forms near the armpit area, which would leave you exposed.
Inspect hip, thigh and tailbone pads for tears, gaps or thinning foam. Exposed hard plastic without sufficient interior padding offers limited protection.
Check pad straps, belts and hardware such as buckles or clips. Everything should be fully intact and functioning properly to keep pads secured in place.
Examine the moisture-wicking lining inside pads. Stained or foul-smelling interiors may indicate mold issues better avoided for health reasons.
Press down on any removable foam padding in the pants to gauge thickness and resilience. Padding that feels crushed or flattened is nearing the end of its usable life.
Inspect pant fabric for small holes or tears that could expand through repeated use and snagging. Damaged pants won’t offer much slide or abrasion protection.
Try on pants and run through a full range of motions. Compromised elasticity through the hips and thighs presents a safety issue long term.
Take a close look at the knee pad slots and pockets. Fraying, tears or warped openings can make properly securing knee pads difficult.
Buying smart when purchasing used Nike gear helps maximize value. But examining equipment closely beforehand prevents safety issues down the road.
Cleaning and Taking Care of Used Football Pads
Extending the life and performance of used football pads requires proper cleaning and care. Here are some tips for keeping pre-owned Nike shoulder pads, girdles and pants in good playing condition.
Frequently wipe down pad shells and lining with antibacterial wipes or spray. This helps eliminate bacteria that causes odors after repeated use and sweat.
Periodically hand wash detachable pad liners and moisture-wicking layers with mild detergent and let air dry. Don’t machine dry padding materials.
Spray gear with a disinfectant spray designed for sports equipment after each use. This prevents buildup of grime and odor-causing bacteria.
Lightly scrub pads with a soft brush to lift trapped dirt and debris from crevices. Avoid abrasive scouring that could damage pad materials.
Use a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar to wipe off stuck-on grime or residue. The mild acetic acid cuts through buildup.
Rinse football pants and wash removable padding after muddy/dirty practices and games. Let gear fully air dry before storing.
Frequently treat gear with a protective conditioner made for football pads. This maintains moisture-wicking ability and durability.
Avoid storing gear in direct sunlight or excessive heat which can break down materials faster. Store in a ventilated, shaded area.
Replace detached or damaged straps, belts and hardware like buckles so pads stay properly secured.
Consider reapplying paint/coating on pads that develop scratched or flaking areas after heavy use.
With some diligent care, pre-owned Nike football pads and gear can deliver seasons of quality performance. Proper cleaning removes bacteria and maintains protective integrity.
Top Football Pad Brands and Models to Consider
When purchasing new football pads and protective gear, popular brands like Nike, Under Armour and Schutt offer excellent options. But there are some other pad models and manufacturers worth considering as well.
The Douglas line of pads from Xenith are known for their shock-absorbing hexagonal foam cells, making them top rated for safety and impact protection. The lightweight low-profile design is also popular with skill players.
Gear from Riddell tends to run a little more budget friendly but still offers solid protection. Their SpeedFlex helmets and customizable shoulder pad options are popular choices.
Rogers Athletic is lesser known but garners high marks for comfort and flexibility. Their adjustable R2 shoulder pads remove limitations to motion while tackling and blocking.
Benson Sports specializes in larger player sizes up to XXXL. Linemen love the comprehensive joint coverage and secure fit of their padded girdles and integrated thigh pads.
Gear from Adidas, New Balance, and Under Armour-owned Shock Doctor also rate well for protection, breathability and mobility. Shock Doctor compressive shirts make great base layers under pads.
For younger players, the Schutt Vengeance Pro line offers adjustable sizing to grow with kids. The lightweight flexible pads work for flag football as well as contact leagues.
Champro’s value-packed pad bundles include shoulder pads, padded belt, and thigh pads for a budget-friendly price point. Great for new players trying the sport.
When it comes to keeping young athletes safe, don’t sacrifice protection for savings. Prioritize certified gears that’s fitted properly to provide full coverage.
While Nike remains atop the football landscape, taking the time to research and try on options from some of these other reputable brands can pay off in the right pad for your body type, position, and protection needs.
New Nike Vapor Football Gear Coming in 2023
Nike is set to release several new and updated Vapor football pads, girdles and pants for the 2023 season. Here is a preview of some of the key innovations and additions football players can look forward to.
The Nike Vapor Edge Pro 3 shoulder pads introduce a new Flex Plate construction using a proprietary blend of tough polymers and woven fabrics. This enhances multi-directional flex and movement while maintaining protection.
An all-new Type-3 girdle design features fewer seams and updated pad positioning for less bulk. Built-in side lacrosse pads will help protect that vulnerable underarm gap area.
The Nike Vapor Untouchable Pro 3 FlyEase shoulder pads implement a rear entry design for easy on and off without having to reach overhead. Great for injured athletes.
Nike is also answering the call for increased customization with new additive padding options. Shoulder, hip and thigh pads will feature attachable add-on padding modules for adaptable protection.
Athletes concerned with sustainability will appreciate Nike’s latest recycled Vapor material made from manufacturing waste. The material debuts in the limited edition Vapor Voyage pants.
Younger players are covered with the Nike Vapor Jet 3.0 pads featuring softer flexible plates tuned for elite youth performance and safety.
Moisture-wicking fabrics get upgraded across all pads and girdles using high-stretch knits infused with fitted silver fibers that actively combat odor bacteria growth.
Vapor football pants for 2023 gain added side thigh zips for easier entry over cleats and improved ventilation airflow. Stretch woven waistbands enhance comfort as well.
Nike continues raising the bar for innovation, protection and sustainability with their 2023 Vapor football launch. The pads perform at the highest level, engineered for today’s fastest game.
Kids’ Football Pad Sizing Tips for Proper Fit
Getting the right fit is crucial when selecting youth football pads to ensure protection, comfort and mobility. Here are some tips for properly sizing football shoulder pads, girdles and pants for young athletes.
Measure across the chest under the armpits for shoulder pad sizing, referencing age-specific size charts from Nike or other brands. Allow room to grow if between sizes.
Prioritize adjustable pads with removable padding and swappable components to accommodate growth spurts. This adds value over time.
Focus on shoulder pad models with elastic webbing or stretch material rather than restrictive and bulky leather straps for growing kids.
For girdles, measure the waist and hip area. Compression girdles must fit snugly to hold pads in place, so resist sizing up too much.
Be sure knee, thigh and hip pads are centered properly and don’t slide when running. If so, adjust straps or size down the girdle.
The bottom of the shoulder pads should rest no more than 1-2 inches below the top of the pants/girdle for full torso coverage.
Take note of any size/age guidance from youth leagues regarding maximum pad sizes allowed to prevent unnecessarily bulky gear.
Prioritize breathable, lightweight pads and fabrics allowing air circulation for hot summer practices and early season games.
Avoid hand-me-down pads with cracked shells, degraded interior foam or damaged straps that can no longer protect properly.
Properly fitted pads that stay put allow kids to focus on learning the game rather than fiddling with shifting equipment. Take the time to get the right, safe fit.
Safest New Vapor Shoulder Pads for Youth Players
Finding the optimal blend of protection, comfort and mobility is key when selecting new football shoulder pads for youth athletes. Here are some of the top performing and safest new shoulder pads on the market this season.
The Nike Vapor Jet 3.0 pads utilize flexible plates tuned to the needs of growing bodies. Softer polymer construction allows natural movement while still absorbing contact.
Schutt’s Vengeance Pro MV series ranks high for adjustability with removable pads and liners to customize fit as kids grow. Great value.
Xenith’s Shock Bonded X2 padded shirt integrates directly with shoulder pads for added rib and sternum protection. Youth sizes available.
The lightweight Rogue 2 pads from Rogue Athletic conform to shoulders without limiting mobility – great for speed positions. Detachable accessories help customize protection as kids mature.
For linemen, the Douglas XP youth pads offer excellent lightweight protection. Their snap-in Boa belt system ensures a tight secure fit every time.
The Riddell SpeedIcon pads allow swapping of hook and loop accessories for adjustable protection. The flexible shoulder caps move naturally with youth athletes. Great for contact or flag leagues.
Under Armour highlights include the UA ISO-LUTION 2.0 ST and Spine Hip pads with elastic webbing for security and breathable HeatGear moisture-wicking fabric to stay cool.
New Schutt F7VTD TWILL pads constructed with durable antimicrobial, vinegar-infused twill good for sensitive young skin while retarding odor bacteria.
Today’s top rated youth pads blend protection, mobility, adjustability and cooling comfort crucial for aspiring young players. Prioritize certified safe, flexible equipment that instills confidence.
Conclusion: Get Properly Fitted Nike Gear for Your Sport
Finding properly fitted Nike football, baseball and other sports apparel and protective gear can elevate your performance, comfort and safety. Taking accurate measurements, understanding optimal fit guidelines and trying on different sizes ensures you select equipment that works best for your body type and sport.
Carefully follow size charts and measuring instructions for pads and clothing from Nike or other trusted brands. Consider your unique proportions and needs when determining sizes. Order multiple sizes to home try if needed.
Prioritize quality materials and construction for durability and functionality. Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics, flexible lightweight pads and abrasion-resistant pants/sliding shorts make a difference.
Test mobility by mimicking sport actions and movements. Well-fitted gear shouldn’t restrict motion or natural athletic prowess in any way.
Perfectly dialed-in pads, pants, jerseys and other gear gives you the confidence to perform at 100% without distractions from ill-fitting equipment. Proper fit also optimizes protective padding coverage.
Invest the time upfront to properly outfit yourself and you’ll reap dividends with optimized comfort, performance and safety during every practice, scrimmage and game. Take steps to get gear that fits your body and sport-specific needs for peak play.