MX Shoulder Pads Provide Superior Protection and Impact Absorption
When choosing between the Maverik MX and EKG shoulder pads, one of the biggest differences is the level of protection. The MX line features increased plastic molded components and thick, high-density foam to provide elite levels of protection on the field.
The MX shoulder caps are designed to absorb heavy impacts from checks, slashes, and falls. Maverik uses advanced materials like D3O foam that hardens on impact to dissipate energy from collisions. Several plastic guards also help distribute force and protect vulnerable areas like the sternum, spine, and shoulders.
For players who take a beating game after game, the MX pads are the go-to choice. The thick padding not only absorbs impact but also allows players to play more physically and aggressively. Studies have shown that proper padding actually prevents injuries by allowing athletes to play with confidence and intensity.
While some pads sacrifice protection for mobility, the MX focuses heavily on keeping players safe on the field. The rigid shell and thick foam provide complete coverage of the shoulders, chest, and back. For elite players who want to leave it all on the field, the MX pads provide reliable protection play after play.
So for defensemen, aggressive midfielders, and power players who take and give out hard hits, the superior protection and impact absorption of the MX shoulder pads gives them the confidence to play physically without worrying about injury. Maverik engineered the MX line for the hardest hitters in the game.
Key Differences Between the Maverik EKG and MX Shoulder Pad Models
When researching new lacrosse shoulder pads, two models from Maverik stand out – the MX and EKG lines. While both offer great protection and comfort, there are some important distinctions between the two that players should consider before choosing.
The MX pads feature increased plastic components and thick, high-density foam for maximum protection. The EKG line utilizes flexible, lightweight materials for better mobility and breathability. The MX shoulders have more rigid components while the EKG focuses on articulated movement.
Both the MX and EKG pads use Maverik’s SlideTrac adjustment system for a customized fit. However, the MX line contains thicker foam padding and plastic guards for elite-level protection. The EKG line relies more on perforated neoprene stretch materials that conform to the athlete’s body type.
When it comes to positioning, the MX pads are geared more towards defensive players like defensemen who need the extra protection. Their sturdy construction allows them to play physically without worrying about impacts. The EKG pads are optimized for offense and midfielders who rely on speed and want unrestricted mobility.
The ideal customer for the MX pads is an elite or collegiate level player who doesn’t want to sacrifice protection for mobility. High school and youth players who prioritize comfort and range of motion are better suited for the EKG pads. Knowing the differences allows athletes to select the right model for their playing style, skill level and preferences.
By understanding the unique technology and construction behind the MX and EKG models, players can confidently choose the Maverik shoulder pads that offer the protection and performance they need to excel on the field. While both are high-quality options, analyzing the key differences helps lacrosse athletes determine the optimal gear for their game.
EKG Shoulder Pads Excel in Mobility and Comfort
When comparing Maverik’s EKG and MX shoulder pads, one area where the EKG line excels is in providing exceptional mobility and comfort on the field. The EKG pads utilize flexible, lightweight materials that allow for a full range of motion during play.
The EKG shoulder pads feature perforated neoprene stretch zones that conform to the body for unrestricted movement. Players can run, cut, and twist without their gear inhibiting their athletic abilities. The tri-layer foam protects without sacrificing dexterity.
Strategically placed ventilation in the EKG pads enhances breathability during intense gameplay. The perforated back panel allows air flow to keep players cool. The lightweight construction reduces sweat and discomfort over 4 full quarters.
The EKG shoulder caps are precisely contoured to the human form for a personalized fit. They are designed to move seamlessly with the athlete’s body. The articulated padding sections enable full articulation of the arms and shoulders.
For players who rely on speed and agility, the EKG pads provide the flexible protection they need. The dynamically stretchable fabrics and smart cushioning offer durable protection against impacts while giving players the mobility and comfort to perform at their best.
While the MX line focuses heavily on maximum protection, the EKG line achieves an optimal balance between protection and performance. For players who depend on their athleticism and range of motion, the mobility and comfort of the EKG pads gives them the tools to excel on the field.
MX Pads Feature Increased Plastic Molded Components
The Maverik MX shoulder pads stand out for their rugged construction and elite-level protection. One of the key features of the MX pads is the increased plastic molded components designed to disperse impact.
Strategically placed plastic guards on the MX pads protect vulnerable areas like the sternum, shoulders, and back. High-density plastic covers the shoulders for increased protection from checks and falls. An integrated sternum plate disperses the force from shots and collisions.
The rigid chest plates on the MX pads utilize impact-resistant plastic to prevent injury even from the hardest slashes and cross-checks. Underneath the plastic guards, thick high-density foams absorb any force that gets through the outer shell.
The MX shoulder caps contain molded plastic segments that are tightly integrated with the foam lining. This “exo frame” provides a sturdy enclosure around the padding for hardcore protection play after play.
For players who want to feel invincible on the field, the MX pads offer complete coverage from hard impacts. The integrated plastic guards and molded shoulder caps allow players to be aggressive without worrying about injury. That added confidence gives athletes the edge they need to dominate.
EKG Uses Flexible Materials for Natural Range of Motion
Unlike the MX pads, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pads utilize flexible, athletic-minded materials to provide a natural range of motion during gameplay. The EKG pads are constructed with mobility and comfort as top priorities.
The EKG shoulder caps feature four-way stretch neoprene that moves seamlessly in sync with the athlete’s body. Neoprene guard plates on the sternum and spine protect while bending and twisting. Perforated arch panels enhance both breathability and flexibility.
Strategically placed ventilation zones allow air flow while also improving mobility. The lightweight foam padding throughout the EKG pads is precision contoured to the natural shape of the shoulders and arms. This allows for unrestricted movement in all directions.
For players who rely on speed, quick cuts, and dodging, the EKG pads provide optimal protection without limiting agility. The flexible materials are designed to move, stretch, and adapt to an athlete’s full range of dynamic motion on the field.
While the MX focuses on sturdy construction, the flexible athletic fabrics of the EKG pads deliver both durable protection and natural mobility. For players who depend on their athleticism, the EKG pads move with and support the body in motion.
MX Designed for Elite and College Players Needing Max Protection
Maverik engineered the MX shoulder pads to meet the protection needs of elite and college level lacrosse players. With its rugged construction, the MX line offers maximum shielding for athletes who play the game at the highest intensity.
The MX pads account for the faster pace and harder hits that come with advanced competition. The integrated plastic guards and thick foam withstand high speed collisions from aggressive checking. The rigid shell ensures vital protection even when players lay out horizontal for a ground ball.
For athletes who log lots of minutes and want to leave it all on the field, the MX pads allow them to play with confidence. The full-wrap shoulder caps reduce the sting of checks thrown by stronger players at higher levels. The added neck roll provides protection for vulnerable collarbone areas.
College lacrosse features bigger and faster athletes who can generate significant contact forces. The MX pads are designed to nullify those impacts so that elite players can focus on their game rather than worrying about injury on the field.
With the MX line, Maverik proves they understand the demands of premier level lacrosse. By providing maximum protection, these pads give elite and college athletes the assurance they need to play all out against top-tier competition.
EKG Popular Among High School and Youth Players
While the MX line appeals to elite athletes, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pads are a popular choice among high school and youth players due to their focus on comfort and mobility.
The flexible construction of the EKG pads provides growing athletes with protection that moves naturally with their bodies. The perforated neoprene and stretch fabrics allow free movement as young players develop their athletic skills.
The strategic ventilation built into the EKG pads helps reduce sweat and overheating during games and practices. The lightweight padding also puts less strain on shoulders and back muscles that are still developing in high school players.
For parents concerned about safety, the EKG pads still offer solid protection with their integrated foam layers to shield growing bodies during play. At the same time, the freedom of movement helps athletes hone their agility and lacrosse techniques.
While elite players need maximum protection, high school and youth athletes benefit more from flexibility and comfort as they progress in the sport. With a focus on mobility and breathability, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pads are ideal for the next generation of lacrosse stars.
Both Feature Maverik’s SlideTrac System for Adjustability
One key feature found in both Maverik’s MX and EKG shoulder pads is the SlideTrac adjustment system for a customized fit. This allows players to dial in the perfect feel regardless of which model they choose.
The SlideTrac system uses a rail-mounted strap along the spine that smoothly adjusts up and down to find the ideal position for the back padding. This ensures a secure, snug fit tailored to the player’s proportions.
Adjustable bicep straps on both pad models also help micro-fit the padding caps around the arms. Players can independently tweak the upper arms and shoulders to eliminate any gapping or slipping during intense play.
For athletes who want their gear to feel like a natural extension of their bodies, the SlideTrac system delivers. It allows customization of multiple key contact points for a truly personalized fit. The adjustable components adapt to all shoulder widths and arm lengths.
While the MX and EKG models differ in their protective technologies, they share Maverik’s SlideTrac innovation. This gives all athletes the ability to micro-adjust their pads for optimum comfort, flexibility and responsiveness on the field.
MX Has Thicker Foam and Sternum Padding
The MX shoulder pads stand out for their extra thick, high-density foam padding components, especially surrounding the sternum area. This provides elite level protection for players who want maximum impact absorption.
Maverik uses advanced foam materials like D3O in the MX line to provide rigorous protection. D30 hardens on impact to diffuse the force before quickly returning to flexible form. The MX sternum plate has over double the thickness of the EKG padding.
Strategically placed foam inserts in the MX shoulder caps surround the entire shoulder joint for complete cushioning. An integrated PE sternum plate disperses the force of frontal impacts across the chest. The back panel features layered foam sheets for added protection.
For field generals like defensemen who command respect, the MX pads allow hard-hitting play with less pain. The thick padding reduces injury risk from heavy collisions during clearing passes, ground balls, and board battles.
While the EKG uses lighter, flexible foam, the MX pads offer elite protection for the most punishing players thanks to innovative high-density foam inserts placed intelligently in high-impact zones.
EKG Has Perforated Neoprene for Breathability
Unlike the MX pads, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pads utilize perforated neoprene material for enhanced ventilation and breathability during games.
Strategically placed perforation zones allow air flow across major heat zones like the chest, back, and underarms. The perforations increase air circulation, keeping players cooler and drier as games intensity ramps up.
The perforated neoprene still provides cushioning against impacts, but also flexes with the body’s movement. This improves comfort and reduces restriction when running or cutting on the field. The material dries quickly as sweat evaporates through the perforations.
For players who tend to overheat in their gear, the breathable EKG pads help prevent that stifling, sweaty feeling. The perforations and stretchy material aid thermoregulation and moisture control when sprinting 60 yards up and down the field.
While the MX focuses solely on protection, the EKG pads achieve a balance between padding and breathability. For athletes prone to perspiring heavily during games, the cool-wearing neoprene perforations keep the EKG pads light and airy in action.
MX Suitable For Defensive Positions and Defensemen
With their rugged, protective construction, Maverik’s MX shoulder pads are ideally suited for defensive positions like defensemen who play physically around the cage.
The MX padding allows defensemen to play aggressively, absorbing slashes and cross-checks during one-on-one battles. The rigid shell withstands helmet and shoulder contact when pressing opponents and fighting for inside position.
During clears after a save, the MX pads provide extra shielding as defensemen burst upfield through traffic and incoming checks thrown by midfielders. The padding reduces the brunt of collisions when picking up ground balls or boxing out on faceoffs.
For the primary protectors on the back line, the MX pads enable defensemen to dictate the tone and handle the heavy-hitting shifts. The thick padding allows them to enforce without concern and control the middle third of the field.
With their max protection emphasis, the MX pads give physical defensemen the assurance they need to play hard in the trenches, move bodies, and win the heated individual matchups that determine possessions.
EKG Ideal for Offensive Players and Midfielders
In contrast to the MX pads, Maverik’s EKG shoulder pads are optimized for offense and midfield positions that rely on speed, quickness, and agility.
The flexible padding of the EKG pads move freely as midfielders cut and change direction upfield. The mobility also allows dodging and rolling off checks during drives to the cage. The lightweight feel reduces fatigue over long offensive possessions.
During fast breaks and unsettled situations, the EKG pads allow midfielders to sprint at full speed to beat defenders downfield for quick strikes. The breathable construction prevents overheating when pushing tempo for four quarters.
For offensive players who find space and want to play free, the EKG pads deliver. The freedom of movement let offensive players make plays while the protection dampens checks when exposed in scoring areas.
With their emphasis on dexterity and quickness, the flexible EKG pads empower offense and midfield players to capitalize on their athleticism to create opportunities and outmaneuver opponents.
Choosing the Right Model Based on Position and Skill Level
When deciding between Maverik’s MX and EKG shoulder pads, players should consider their position and skill level to determine the right model for their needs.
For elite and college athletes who play physically demanding defensive roles, the MX pads provide the maximum protection they require. But for youth and high school players focused on developing skills, the flexibility of the EKG pads allows room to grow.
Midfielders who run all game benefit from the lightweight breathability of the EKG pads. But dominant offensive attackmen who absorb big hits need the sturdy MX padding in front of the net. Goalies also prefer the rugged MX construction.
Beyond position, the pace of play and intensity of hits at higher levels necessitates the thicker MX padding for seasoned players. But for beginners, the EKG mobility facilitates learning proper mechanics.
By matching gear to their role, experience and style of play, athletes can use the right Maverik pads to optimize their performance and safety on the field at any level.
Maverik’s Innovative Approach to Lacrosse Protective Gear
What sets Maverik apart in the lacrosse gear industry is their innovative approach to designing high-performance protective equipment like the MX and EKG shoulder pads.
Maverik engineers analyze the biomechanics of the sport down to the muscle fiber level. They study the impacts that occur on the field from different checks, collisions, and falls. This data then guides the development of protective padding engineered for lacrosse movements.
Maverik also draws from the latest advances in materials technology and manufacturing processes. By utilizing novel foams, perforated textiles, and injection molding, they can optimize protection and athletic performance in their pads.
Additionally, Maverik designs their pads in cooperation with premier lacrosse athletes. The insight from pros ensures the gear meets the physical demands of the sport at the highest levels. Athlete feedback then leads to refinements.
From lab analysis to real-world testing, Maverik dedicates immense R&D resources toward engineering the most innovative lacrosse equipment. Their pads set the standard for protection and playability through technology.
Choosing the Right Maverik Pads for Your Game
When researching their lineup of MX and EKG lacrosse shoulder pads, Maverik empowers athletes at all levels to choose the right gear for their style of play and protection needs.
For elite and college players, the ultra-protective MX pads allow you to play with confidence against higher caliber competition. But for youth still developing skills, the flexible EKG pads support growth as an athlete.
Defensemen who constantly take checks benefit from the rugged MX padding during one-on-one battles. But lightning-quick midfielders are better served by the unrestrictive EKG for sprinting upfield.