Key Changes from NOCSAE ND200 Performance Standards
The most significant update in the new lacrosse chest and shoulder pad regulations comes from adherence to the NOCSAE ND200 performance standard. ND200 establishes more rigorous safety criteria for lacrosse protective equipment compared to previous NOCSAE standards.
Specifically, ND200 requires chest pads and shoulder pads to better shield the heart from commotio cordis – an often fatal condition caused by blunt, non-penetrating blows to the chest. Under the new rules, shoulder pads must extend below the sternum to provide ample cardiac coverage. ND200 also mandates chest pads sufficiently compress on impact to properly absorb energy and reduce force transmitted to the heart.
In ND200 testing, pads undergo impacts from lacrosse balls traveling up to 120 mph to simulate realistic high-speed shots. Only gear passing these tests can be certified under the updated standard. SEI certification indicates compliance, so coaches, players, and parents should verify chest protectors and shoulder pads meet ND200 through the presence of an SEI mark.
The impetus for upgrading to ND200 comes from commotio cordis remaining an occasional cause of sudden cardiac arrest in lacrosse. Despite being rare, these traumatic heart issues are frequently lethal if not treated immediately. Improving chest and shoulder pad protections aims to eliminate commotio cordis, along with other internal thoracic injuries, from the sport. However, balancing safety with playability was also considered when developing the new standard.
By managing energy transfer more effectively, ND200-compliant pads not only enhance protection but allow freedom of movement and promote proper checking technique. Although adjusting to new gear may take time, optimized safety coupled with maintained mobility and comfort should make the transition worthwhile. Ultimately, widespread adoption of ND200 could save lives and further establish lacrosse as a safe, inclusive sport.
List of Approved 2022 Chest Protectors and Shoulder Pads
With the new lacrosse chest and shoulder pad rules requiring ND200 certification, many preexisting pads are now illegal for play. To help players, coaches, and parents ensure they select compliant protective equipment, US Lacrosse has compiled a list of approved gear meeting the updated standards.
For the 2022 season, only models from the following brands carrying the SEI mark are permitted: Maverik, Warrior, STX, Gait, Under Armour, Epoch, Brine, Nike, Cascade, Shock Doctor, and SportsStar. However, not all pads even within these product lines are certified, so double-checking for the ND200 label is a must.
The full list contains over 50 currently legal lacrosse chest protectors and shoulder pads. Given the range of sizes, protection levels, and prices available, players should still have plenty of choice to find gear that fits well and suits their preferences and budget.
Some popular NOCSAE-ND200 certified shoulder pad options for 2022 include:
- Maverik Rome NXT
- STX Cell 5
- Warrior Regulator Max
- Epoch Dragonfly 6.0
- Brine King 6
Top chest protector picks compliant with the new standards include:
- Warrior QR3
- Maverik Max Pro
- STX Stallion 600
- Under Armour Command X
- Nike Vapor
The full list is available through the US Lacrosse website, where players can also check for updates as new certified gear is released. With the proper safety approvals, athletes can shop the list with confidence they’re getting high-quality protection that meets the latest standards.
Shoulder Pads Must Extend Below Sternum for Heart Protection
One of the most vital new lacrosse chest and shoulder pad requirements for 2022 is that shoulder pads must extend below the sternum. This mandate comes directly from the NOCSAE ND200 standards focused on reducing cardiac risk from commotio cordis.
Commotio cordis can occur when a sudden, blunt force impact to the chest interrupts the heart’s electrical rhythm, leading to ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest. Fatal instances in lacrosse most often stem from shots hitting unprotected areas over the heart. Requiring shoulder pads to extend lower improves protection in vulnerable zones.
Specifically, ND200 states shoulder pads must have a cardiac tail that extends at least 1.75 inches below the sternum at the pad’s center. Flaring out to wider coverage on the chest also boosts heart protection across impact angles.
With the heart located in the lower half of the chest, extending shoulder pads downwards ensures more overlapping coverage with the chest protector. This redundancy better shields the cardiac region from lacrosse balls and collision forces.
In addition to cardiac tails on shoulder pads, ND200-certified chest protectors themselves must provide adequate absorption in the heart area. The combination of improved gear working synergistically enhances overall commotio cordis safety.
Extending shoulder pads for more heart coverage does mean giving up some mobility compared to previous minimalist pads. However, this trade-off was deemed necessary to meet the ND200 standards in preventing cardiac contusions.
Players adjusting to new shoulder pads with fuller extension will need to focus on proper checking form to avoid dangerous hits. But refining technique is worthwhile to foster safety, especially given commotio cordis’ high fatality rate when it does occur.
Only SEI Certified Lacrosse Chest Pads Allowed in High School
A key provision of the updated lacrosse chest and shoulder pad rules is that only NOCSAE ND200 certified equipment carrying the SEI mark can be used in high school play. The requirement for Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) testing ensures gear meets proper standards.
For chest protectors and shoulder pads to receive SEI certification, manufacturers must submit products to independent labs for evaluation. Testing verifies pads comply with ND200 performance requirements for cardiac safety, impact attenuation, and other metrics.
SEI certified pads undergo thorough analysis of abilities to disperse energy and prevent trauma from lacrosse ball impacts. Test methodologies simulate shots from all angles at ball speeds exceeding 100 mph.
In addition, SEI certification encompasses a comprehensive quality assurance process. It checks that certified pads consistently match their approved samples from start to finish production. This guarantees each chest protector and shoulder pad offers the same level of protection and construction as prototypes passing ND200 tests.
With SEI marking mandatory for high school lacrosse, players can trust this emblem as verification of legitimately meeting safety standards. The certification provides assurance to athletes, parents, coaches, and administrators that gear provides effective protection.
Use of non-certified pads lacking SEI approval can now result in ejection or disqualification. So lacrosse programs must ensure all equipment is properly compliant. Given SEI’s neutral, third-party role, its certification carries authority in enforcing the new mandates.
The processing and inclusion of SEI marks does introduce costs and complexity for manufacturers. But this independent validation better safeguards players and raises confidence that safety comes first within the lacrosse community.
New Chest Pads for Lacrosse Under ND200 Standards
With the 2022 update to lacrosse chest and shoulder pad regulations requiring ND200 certification, manufacturers have rolled out new gear engineered specifically to meet the latest standards.
Leading brands like Maverik, STX, Warrior, and Brine now offer NOCSAE-ND200 approved chest pads featuring improved protections. Although similar in appearance to previous versions, the newly designed pads incorporate technological advancements to better protect the heart and sternum.
Key changes in new chest protector models involve use of proprietary multi-layer foam constructs for enhanced impact absorption. Some companies have added integrated heart shields within the padding itself for direct cardiac coverage.
The outer shell on updated chest pads also tends to flare outward more from the collarbone down towards the abdomen. This expanded wraparound shape increases protective surface area on the chest, especially laterally.
Pre-existing pads without ND200 certification can still be used for practice but are now prohibited in games. So most players will need new, approved gear to remain compliant.
When shopping for updated chest protectors, look for clear ND200 and SEI marks indicating appropriate safety approvals. Also focus on comfort and breathability during sizing, as a good fit bolsters protection and mobility.
While the upgraded pads do sacrifice some lightness and range of motion, feedback from players testing ND200 prototypes has been positive overall. The safety and assurance provided by improved chest pads developed under the new standards help justify any small trade-offs.
Advancements in materials and engineering used for the latest chest pads also maintain lacrosse’s physical integrity and help reduce commotio cordis risk as intended by the new regulations.
New Rules Aim to Reduce Commotio Cordis Risk
The driving motivation behind the updated lacrosse chest and shoulder pad requirements is reducing cardiac risk from commotio cordis events. Requiring ND200-certified gear intends to better protect athletes’ hearts and minimize this tragic outcome.
Commotio cordis refers to ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest resulting from blunt force trauma to the chest. The blow impacts at a precise timing during the heart’s rhythm cycle, triggering dangerous arrhythmias.
Due to the chest’s vulnerability, lacrosse has seen commotio cordis cases from close-range shots, especially by newer players with less control. If not treated within minutes via AED defibrillation, commotio cordis quickly becomes fatal.
By mandating more protective padding extending over cardiac regions, the updated regulations seek to dissipate shot energy and prevent trauma that could disrupt the heart.
While rare statistically, the catastrophic nature of commotio cordis elevated it as a priority for safety improvement. ND200 requirements enhance chest pad absorption abilities and ensure adequate cardiac coverage by shoulder pads.
The new rules also standardize safety protocols across states and leagues. Widespread compliance with ND200 makes all levels of lacrosse more consistent in prioritizing cardiac protections.
Continued coaching on proper shooting technique and prohibiting overly stiff crosses can further aid risk reduction efforts. But improved protective gear represents a fundamental advancement, signaling commotio cordis has no place in the modern game.
Lacrosse Goggles Must Also Meet Safety Standards
Along with upgraded chest and shoulder pads, the lacrosse community is also implementing new mandates around protective eyewear for 2022. Similar to the ND200 standard, regulated goggles aim to reduce injury risks and improve safety for athletes.
Under US Lacrosse rules, all youth players must wear facemasks with attached shields or dedicated lacrosse goggles. At higher levels, goggles remain optional but are strongly recommended to prevent eye trauma.
With increased goggle usage, requiring them to meet performance standards provides another layer of protection. NOCSAE has developed and updated test specifications for lacrosse goggles to verify impact resistance.
Certified goggles undergo testing to simulate collisions from balls, elbows, and sticks. Models meeting approval standards can withstand these impacts at high speeds without fracturing or dislodging.
Lab evaluations also assess visual acuity and ensure goggles provide unobstructed vision. Fog resistance testing validates ventilation and anti-fogging performance as well.
Compliant goggles will carry updated NOCSAE labels clearly indicating conformance to the latest metrics. SEI also independently certifies goggles meeting proper specifications.
Wearing safety-approved eyewear preserves athletes’ vision and prevents costly injuries. Especially for youth, mandating protected eye zones prevents avoidable harm both short and long-term.
Layered with improved chest gear, integrated standards forlacrosse goggles demonstrate a shared priority of making player safety paramount at all levels of competition.
How the ND200 Standard Differs from Previous Versions
The NOCSAE ND200 certification introduced for 2022 lacrosse chest and shoulder pads establishes more rigorous safety requirements compared to past NOCSAE standards.
Prior to ND200, the NOCSAE ND200 standard regulated lacrosse pads and helmets. However, ND200 lacked specific performance metrics and test procedures tailored to lacrosse’s equipment needs.
ND200 builds upon the previous standard but incorporates lacrosse-specific lab testing and minimum safety criteria. The requirements focus on reduced cardiac vulnerabilities and improved impact protections specific to lacrosse ball collisions.
Key differences in ND200 include mandating shoulder pads extend lower over cardiac regions, CHEST pads withstand focused sternum impacts, and requiring more energy attenuation from all aspects.
The test methodology also advances from ND200 to assess chest pads and shoulder pads separately and as integrated systems. This evaluates real-world usage in which the pads work in conjunction to reduce injury.
Moreover, ND200 adds new requirements around quality control, construction techniques, pads maintaining their integrity over time, and other components lacking in prior standards.
By elevating standards to be lacrosse-centric rather than based on other sports, ND200 pushes the safety baseline much higher. The NOCSAE committee developing the new protocol incorporated extensive input from lacrosse stakeholders to get protections right.
Ultimately, the ND200 standard’s rigorous, lacrosse-tailored approach aims to provide athletes with the best possible safeguards tailored to the game’s equipment needs.
Reasons for Implementing More Protective Gear Regulations
The decision to mandate NOCSAE ND200-certified lacrosse chest and shoulder pads stemmed from several factors highlighting the need for updated protective equipment regulations.
A primary motivation was the ongoing occurrence of commotio cordis events in lacrosse resulting from inadequate cardiac protections. Despite being rare, commotio cordis’ high fatality rate prompted actions to improve chest gear safety.
Another reason involved variability in safety requirements across leagues and levels of play. Standardizing on ND200 ensures consistent protections for all lacrosse athletes, from youth to college.
Advancements in materials science and padding technology also enabled development of optimized pads meeting advanced performance criteria. Implementing ND200 takes advantage of these innovations in safety engineering.
In addition, feedback from lacrosse representatives indicated readiness for stricter safety mandates. Players, parents, coaches, and other stakeholders largely supported heightened regulations to prevent injuries.
Wider public scrutiny on contact sport safety, injuries, and liability also contributed to the tighter lacrosse equipment standards. ND200 demonstrates lacrosse’s commitment to maximizing safety.
Lastly, the maturity of lacrosse itself as an established sport with resources justified implementing ND200 protections. Improved gear utilization aligns with the sport’s overall growth.
Together, these factors created a prime opportunity to leverage safety advancements through updated regulations. While an adjustment, the ND200 standard ultimately provides a worthwhile enhancement to preserving lacrosse’s future.
Impacts on Different Lacrosse Positions and Play
The updated lacrosse chest and shoulder pad requirements will affect some playing positions more than others. However, the overall impacts on play should be minimal as athletes adjust to the new protective gear.
Close-contact positions like defensemen will likely notice the strictest pad regulations the most. Bulkier shoulder pads with extended cardiac tails reduce mobility that defenders rely on.
Midfielders pulling double shifts on offense and defense may also struggle initially with stamina wearing heavier pads. But midfielders tend to adapt well to equipment changes given their versatility.
On attack and offense, bulky pads could limit shooting power fractionally. However, offsetting this is reduced risk of chest or arm bruising from checks.
Goalies should see minimal impacts beyond adapting to new gear weight and balance. Goalie-specific chest protectors already provide robust coverage, so effective designs meet ND200 obligations.
In terms of play dynamics, the biggest change may be somewhat fewer monster hits. But controlled, ethical contact and checking can still occur within PAD and rules while wearing compliant gear.
Pad break-in periods may be longer until new equipment molds to athletes’ bodies and movements. But as comfort improves, any hindrances diminish over time.
By working with coaches on proper technique and pads fitting correctly, players across positions should acclimate well to the updated equipment. Any potential downsides are outweighed by improved protection against injuries.
New Style Lacrosse Chest Pads Compliant with Rules
To meet the new NOCSAE ND200 protective equipment standards, lacrosse chest pad manufacturers have developed fresh styles engineered specifically for compliance and safety.
Leading brands have utilized innovative materials and constructions to balance protection, breathability, mobility, and adherence to the updated regulations.
For example, Maverik’s 2022 Rome NXT chest pad line employs the company’s DualCore foam padding to handle high-impact stress across a range of temperatures. This proprietary padding technology increases shock absorption while retaining a flexible, lightweight feel.
STX took a structural approach with the new Stallion chest protector, integrating its SmartShield plastic sternum plate to distribute direct shot forces. Segmented padding components then bolster protection on surrounding vulnerable areas.
Warrior leveraged its past goalie chest technology to create the thick QR3 rib plates on its redesigned Regulator chest pads. For all-around protection, Warrior surrounded its Exo-Shield high-density foam with softer outer padding.
Cascade used injection molding on its all-new CPX-R chest protector, creating a hybrid hard-soft padding system. This rigid yet flexible construction meets safety needs while delivering comfort and mobility.
Across all updated styles, extended shoulder coverage, enlarged protective surfaces, and strategic padding segmentation allow compliance without overly hindering movement or natural play.
Ultimately, players can be confident these athletically engineered, ND200-approved chest protectors provide modernized, specialized protection according to the newest lacrosse gear regulations.
Age Groups Affected by US Lacrosse Chest Protector Mandates
The updated US Lacrosse regulations around NOCSAE ND200-certified chest and shoulder pads impact youth, high school, and collegiate-level players in slightly different ways.
For youth lacrosse athletes, ND200 gear is recommended but not yet mandated across all leagues. However, coaches and parents should still ensure young players wear properly safety-approved pads.
High school level lacrosse requires ND200 pads as a nationwide requirement. Only NOCSAE-certified chest protectors and shoulder pads with SEI markings comply with scholastic league rules.
At the collegiate level, the NCAA mandated ND200 gear for men’s lacrosse starting in the 2021 season. Women’s lacrosse will require certified pads in future seasons as well.
The tiered rollout helps balance mandating updated protections while allowing sufficient time for pad research, inventory adjustments, and cost considerations across age groups.
Making pads mandatory for all scholastic play ensures these athletes – as the largest demographic in lacrosse – benefit from consistent safety measures. Colleges often follow high school regulations while upholding even higher standards.
For youth, promoting ND200 gear through cost assistance and education will enable more young players to access improved pads. Mandating equipment too early could otherwise limit recreational participation.
Over time, as ND200 pads become the norm through all levels, lacrosse as a whole can become synonymous with top-tier safety across every age group.
Enforcement Details and Penalties for Illegal Equipment
To ensure all players adhere to the new lacrosse chest and shoulder pad requirements, details on enforcement and penalties for non-compliant gear have been established.
During pre-game inspections, officials will verify that all chest protectors and shoulder pads are clearly marked with NOCSAE ND200 certification and SEI approval labels.
Coaches and league directors bear responsibility for initially confirming team equipment meets current mandates. But referees will also conduct random spot checks of pads during gameplay.
If a player is found wearing non-certified pads during a game, the officials can issue a warning or technical foul if the violation seems unintentional. However, deliberate disregard of the rules results in a 1-3 minute non-releasable penalty.
For repeat violations across multiple games, stiffer consequences are possible depending on league discretion. These include fines, suspensions, or forfeiting contests where illegal pads were utilized.
School athletic directors and team staff must ensure proper lacrosse gear compliance across all players and equipment managers. Pads lacking NOCSAE ND200 or SEI marks have no place in the modern game.
By enforcing regulations consistently and transparently, players will adapt quickly to the new requirements. Given the safety benefits provided by ND200 gear, these enforced measures serve to protect athletes and preserve fair play.
Grandfathering In Old Gear Versus Replacing Non-Compliant Pads
With the 2022 lacrosse chest and shoulder pad rule changes, teams and players had to decide whether to grandfather in old gear or fully replace non-compliant equipment.
The general guidance has been that any chest pads and shoulder pads lacking NOCSAE ND200 certification or SEI approval should no longer be used for games. Only regulated scrimmages or practices allow continued use of old pads.
However, some leagues did permit “grandfathering in” existing pads this first season if they were purchased just prior to the new rules. This aimed to ease costs by extending the use of recently bought, non-compliant gear.
But most teams recognized that continuing to use outdated pads carried risks and liabilities. Opting for full replacement all at once maximizes safety protections sooner.
Staggering introductions through a transition period risks situations where illegal pads cause injuries. Players wearing properly certified gear also have an on-field advantage.
Buying new ND200 pads for entire teams and budgets represents a substantial upfront investment. But costs per player diminish over time as pads undergo regular replacement cycles.
With multi-year useful lifespans, pads compliant in 2022 should remain legal and serviceable for a while. One-time replacement removes grandfathering confusion going forward.
By prioritizing safety over convenience, teams fully upgrading to regulated pads send the right message about keeping athletes’ well-being first and foremost.
Future Outlook for Lacrosse Protective Equipment Innovation
With the new 2022 chest and shoulder pad requirements establishing the ND200 standard, continued innovation around protective lacrosse gear looks set to progress.
Manufacturers will keep enhancing pad technologies to optimize safety while retaining high-performance and comfort. Expect material advancements and structural improvements to meet evolving regulatory and consumer needs.
More widespread embedded sensor usage could allow “smart padding” to monitor impacts and react dynamically. Connected gear may enable real-time safety analytics as well.
Expanded use of customizable 3D-printed pads tailored to an athlete’s body could maximize individual protection and movement efficiency.
Further reducing pad weight while managing energy alongside new helmet designs will help decrease overall loading forces on players during collisions.
Expect more funding and research around injury biomechanics and advanced padding materials to drive development. Safety requirements extending to gloves, pants, and other gear could also emerge.
Above all, preserving lacrosse’s integrity and appeal while optimizing risk reduction will stay atop the equipment innovation agenda. The sport’s future growth depends on both aspects advancing hand-in-hand.
The ND200 standard lays the groundwork for this continued progress by unifying safety expectations across the lacrosse community. Pushing development forward ultimately serves all athletes and the game itself.