Padding and Protection Levels Offered by Lacrosse Rib Pads
When selecting lacrosse rib pads, one of the most important factors to consider is the level of padding and protection they provide. Lacrosse is a high-impact sport with a hard rubber ball that can inflict bruising blows, so having proper padding over the ribs is essential.
The amount of protective foam or plastic padding in rib pads can vary greatly between brands and models. Thinner, minimalist pads may use a single layer of foam or plastic sheets to provide basic cushioning against checks. Thicker, more protective pads will incorporate multiple layers of dense foam or advanced plastic alloys to maximize shock absorption and disperse energy from impacts.
Many lacrosse players prefer rib pads with segmented or articulated padding designs that contour around the body and allow for a full range of motion. This also helps prevent gaps in coverage when twisting or reaching. High-end rib pads may even include padding with different densities, like softer foam around the sternum but firmer plastic shields over the ribs.
For field players, rib pads that offer a balance of protection and flexibility are ideal. Goalies, however, may opt for maximum protective padding to withstand point-blank shots, even if the bulkier pads reduce mobility slightly. When trying on rib pads, focus on how they fit your body type and playing style to find the right amount of padding for your needs.
By understanding the protection levels rib pads provide, you can choose the right amount of cushioning and impact resistance for your game. Advanced padding technologies allow rib pads to be protective yet lightweight and low-profile, keeping you covered without restricting your movement.
Getting the Right Fit and Coverage with Your Lacrosse Rib Pads
A crucial factor in maximizing the effectiveness of your lacrosse rib pads is getting the proper fit and coverage for your body type and position. Taking the time to find rib pads that contour correctly to your frame can make a big difference in comfort and ensuring full protection where you need it most.
When trying on rib pads, you want a snug fit that keeps the pads from shifting during athletic movement. Most rib pads use adjustable straps and velcro closures to dial in the right tightness and prevent slipping. Finding the sweet spot between too loose and overly constrictive is key. The rib pads should feel secure when twisting your torso and raising your arms without impeding your range of motion.
Pay attention to how the rib pad cups contour around your rib cage as well. The shape and design can vary to fit narrow or broad frames. Pads that flare out too far can leave gaps by your lower ribs and sides. An anatomical shape that hugs your ribs helps prevent uncovered spots.
Coverage wise, rib pads should protect the front and sides of your ribs without rotating or bunching up. When fitting rib pads, simulate lacrosse positions to ensure prime coverage areas don’t get exposed by reaching or hunching over. Also consider your playing style and position – defensive players may want extra side protection while offensive dodgers need unrestricted arm movement.
Taking into account your sizing, frame type, and on-field positioning when selecting rib pads will go a long way towards getting ideal coverage. Don’t settle for generic sizing or a poor shape match. A properly fitted rib pad that contours to your body and stays put even at full exertion will let you play confidently without worrying about taking a painful unchecked shot to the ribs.
Most Protective Rib Pads for Goalies vs. Field Players
When choosing lacrosse rib pads, goalies and field players have slightly different priorities due to their contrasting roles and exposure to ball contact. Understanding these differences allows each position to select the rib pads that offer the ideal blend of protection, coverage and maneuverability.
Since goalies are tasked with standing in the line of fire and repelling close-range shots, they generally opt for rib pads with maximum protective padding to shield against bruising impacts. Multi-layer foam or advanced plastic shielding over vital rib areas helps diffuse the force of point-blank saves and rebounds.
While bulky padding can hamper mobility, goalies remain relatively stationary in the crease during play. So they can sacrifice some freedom of movement for shot-stopping power. A snug fit and anatomical shaping prevents coverage gaps when dropping into butterfly stance or extending fully to make saves.
For field players who cover ground all over the field, lighter padding balanced with flexibility offers better overall play. Midfielders and attackmen especially benefit from a slimmer pad profile to keep their dodging and shooting uninhibited. But slimmer doesn’t mean less protective – modern padding materials allow for low-profile coverage.
Extended side panels help protect field players from checks while Arching and twisting away from defenders. Strapping configurations that don’t restrict shoulder movement also aid field players. Finding rib pads with segmented padding zones that move naturally with your torso helps maintain top play across positions.
While gear preferences vary by playing style, goalies and field players can both find rib pads that offer an ideal level of protection for their unique roles on the field. Advanced modern padding makes it possible to stay safe without sacrificing agility.
Rib Pad Materials: Basic Foam vs. Advanced Plastics
The materials used to construct rib pads have a direct impact on their protective qualities, flexibility and durability. Basic foam pads provide entry-level cushioning, while advanced plastic and polymer blends maximize high-impact protection. Understanding the advantages of each material helps select the right rib pads for your needs.
Traditional foam rib pads use single or multi-layer sheets of padded foam to absorb and disperse impact energy. This cushioning material offers affordable protection suitable for new players. However, foam tends to pack out and lose resiliency over time. Foam also provides universal padding thickness, rather than targeted shielding of vulnerable areas.
Newer high-end rib pads utilize advanced engineered plastics and polymers like Polypropylene, TPU, EVA and D3O to optimize protection. The materials and molding process allow for precise pad shaping around ribs for a contoured fit. Plastic alloys also bounce back better than foam to retain protective qualities over years of use.
Plastic shielding can focus the thickest padding layers over the sternum and rib fronts where ball contact is most likely. Cutouts under the arms ensure full range of motion. Mixing materials like soft foam around the collarbone and firm reinforced plastic over the ribs provides ideal multi-zone protection.
While foam rib pads offer budget-friendly protection, technical precision padding molded from advanced plastics gives experienced players serious protection from bruising impacts. New material technologies also allow for low-profile coverage that flexes naturally with the body. Consider material construction when selecting rib pads to match protection level to your skill level and positions.
Popular Rib Pad Styles: Straps, Velcro, Slip On
Rib pads come in a variety of styles when it comes to their fit, fastening system and how they are put on and taken off. Straps, velcro and slip on designs all have their own pros and cons and appeal to different player preferences. Evaluating the options can help find your ideal rib pad style.
Strap systems utilize adjustable nylon straps with plastic clips to secure rib pads snugly in place. This allows for a customized fit by tightening or loosening straps as needed. However, straps can dig in, cause discomfort and potentially restrict arm movements if too tight. More straps mean more secure, but the trade off is adjustability and comfort.
Velcro rib pads use wide velcro flaps rather than narrow straps to fasten pads. Velcro allows for easy on and off while still delivering a tight and stable fit. The broad panels distribute pressure more evenly than straps as well. The drawback is velcro can collect dirt and debris, reducing grip over time until cleaned.
Slip on pads offer quick on and off without fasteners for maximum convenience. They stretch firmly over the torso for held-in place compression and slide off just as easily. But without straps or velcro, slip ons won’t have the same customized, locked down fit of hard fastening systems.
Consider if you’ll be removing rib pads frequently or want a set-and-forget fit when choosing fastening styles. Also factor in potential comfort issues from pressure points. While strap, velcro and slip on rib pads all have their merits, selecting the system that caters to your preferences makes it easier to consistently wear your pads effectively.
Caring for and Maintaining Your Lacrosse Rib Pads
Taking proper care of your lacrosse rib pads helps them last longer and retain their protective qualities over repeated use. Following some basic maintenance guidelines makes it easier to keep your rib pads in top shape for seasons to come.
After each use, lightly rinsing rib pads removes dirt, debris and sweat that can degrade materials over time. Allow pads to fully air dry before storage to prevent moisture buildup. Baking pads in the sun also helps dry foam innards and disinfect.
Check straps and velcro for proper tension and adhesion. Fraying straps should be replaced. Pressed velcro can be revived by working it with a stiff brush. Check padding thickness and resilience as well – compacted or flattened pads may need replacement.
Prolong pad life by not sitting or storing heavy objects on them. The constant pressure can misshape padding. Rotate use between multiple rib pad sets to allow foam to fully re-expand between wears.
For deep cleaning, hand wash rib pads in mild detergent and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Never machine wash or dry pads. Air dry away from direct sun to avoid material shrinkage or warping.
With routine care and maintenance, lacrosse rib pads can give years of reliable protection. Inspect pads regularly for fit, function and deterioration. Keep them clean, allow proper drying and rotation, and replace worn parts promptly. Well-cared for pads play and protect better.
Are Lacrosse Rib Pads Necessary? Pros and Cons
Lacrosse rib pads provide protective padding against checks, shots and collisions, but are they an essential piece of gear? Weighing the pros and cons helps determine if rib pads are a necessary investment for your game.
The main advantage of rib pads is the extra protection they offer for a vulnerable area. The rib cage lacks natural muscular padding, so rib pads add a protective barrier. For positions like goalie that receive heavy contact, rib pads can make playing less painful.
Rib pads also provide peace of mind by allowing players to take hits without fear of injury. The added confidence and comfort rib pads provide is a mental edge that can improve performance.
However, some players feel rib pads restrict movement with their snug fit and bulky padding. The compression can also retain heat and sweat on hot days. Players with previous rib injuries may lean on pads as a crutch rather than improving conditioning to strengthen their core.
Ultimately, choosing to wear rib pads comes down to your position, play style and personal preference. They may benefit goalies and defenders the most in terms of protection. But as a optional piece of gear, their value lies in if a player feels more confident and comfortable competing with them on.
Our Top Rib Pad Recommendations for 2023
With many rib pad options available, it helps to have a shortlist of models that consistently provide great protection, breathability, and durability. Based on expert and buyer reviews, here are our top rib pad recommendations for 2023:
For field players, the Maverik Rome RPC is a go-to choice that offers lightweight, low-profile protection. The injected polymer padding absorbs hard shots without restricting mobility or generating excess heat. Segmented padding panels move smoothly with your torso.
Goalies seeking hardcore bruise-blocking will appreciate the Warrior Ritual Pro Goalie rib pads. Dual-density foam brings the perfect balance of cushioning and rebound qualities to deflect point blank saves. Anatomical shaping eliminates gaps for complete coverage.
On a budget? The STX Stallion 100 rib pads bring exceptional value. Single-piece molded padding keeps weight down. Integrated shoulder caps heighten protection at a vulnerable spot for just a few dollars more.
Youth players should check out the Cascade Rookie rib pads, offering sturdy side panel padding on a stretchy compression shirt frame with anti-slip grip. Maximum mobility helps young players focus on developing skills.
While many factors go into choosing rib pads, starting your search with highly rated customer favorites can fast track you to finding the best match for your particular needs and budget. Be sure to consider all attributes like fit, padding style and adjustability when making your selection.