Overview of the Maverik M5 EKG Lacrosse Shoulder Pad
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad is one of the most advanced and protective pads on the market. Maverik designed this pad from the ground up to provide elite-level protection while maintaining a lightweight and mobile feel. The M5 EKG builds upon the successful M4 pad with several key upgrades.
The highlight of the M5 EKG is the Energy Transfer Kinetic System (EKG) which uses advanced materials to disperse impact forces across the pad. Polyethylene discs integrated into the chest pad and shoulder caps flex and deform on impact to absorb and redirect energy away from the player. This helps reduce the force transmitted to the body from checks and collisions. Players report the EKG system provides top-tier cushioning and rebound.
In addition to the EKG discs, the M5 uses strategically placed foam and plastic for robust shielding of vulnerable areas. The shoulder caps, chest pad, and bicep guards have a molded design to wrap around the arm for full coverage. At the same time, the pads utilize stretch materials and flexible connections to provide a natural range of motion.
Maverik focused extensively on keeping the M5 EKG streamlined and lightweight. By shaving down thickness in non-critical areas, they trimmed excess weight without compromising protection. The net result is one of the lightest yet most protective pads currently available. The M5 weighs in at just 1.9 lbs for improved speed and agility on the field.
For customization, the M5 EKG comes with interchangeable bicep guards, shoulder caps, and chest pads so players can tweak the fit. There are also optional accessory pads available for even more protection. Overall, the Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad offers elite-level cushioning and shielding with exceptional mobility.
Key Features of the M5 EKG Speed Pad
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad packs in several innovative features to make it one of the top pads on the market. Here are some of the key features and technologies that set the M5 EKG apart:
Energy Transfer Kinetic (EKG) Protection System: This is the hallmark of the M5 pad. Strategically placed polyethylene discs flex and deform on impact to disperse energy across the pad. This reduces the force transmitted to the body for superior cushioning.
Streamlined and Lightweight Design: By trimming down unnecessary bulk, Maverik engineered one of the lightest and most streamlined pads available. The M5 EKG weighs only 1.9 lbs to improve mobility and speed.
Strategic Plastic Molding: Hard plastic components are strategically placed in high impact zones for additional shielding. The shoulder caps, chest plate, and bicep guards utilize molded plastic exteriors for robust protection.
Flexible and Breathable Materials: The M5 uses flexible materials between components to provide a comfortable range of motion. Mesh and perforated foam improve airflow and ventilation during games.
Customizable Protection: The M5 comes with interchangeable padding components so players can tweak the fit. There are also optional accessory pads available for further customization.
Enhanced Chest Pad: An integrated sternum and spine pad provides all-around protection to the rib cage from frontal and side impacts.
Redesigned Shoulder Caps: The caps wrap further around the shoulders compared to previous models for better coverage and mobility.
Molded Bicep Guards: Guards with molded exteriors shield the biceps while maintaining a comfortable fit. The guards connect flexibly to the shoulder caps.
Asymmetrical Design: Asymmetrical padding allows for a natural feel during play. Interior liner sleeves stabilize the pads and protect against abrasion.
In summary, the key technologies of the M5 EKG optimize protection, comfort, breathability, and mobility for today’s fast-paced lacrosse game.
How the EKG Protection System Works
The Energy Transfer Kinetic (EKG) protection system is the defining feature of the Maverik M5 lacrosse shoulder pad. This innovative system helps redirect impact forces away from the body for superior cushioning and rebound.
The EKG system utilizes strategically placed polyethylene discs integrated into the shoulder caps, chest pad, and bicep guards. Polyethylene is a flexible plastic material that has excellent impact absorbing properties. The discs have an interlocking, segmented design that allows them to flex and deform upon impact.
Here is how the EKG system works to protect players during collisions:
- When a pad takes an impact, the force causes the EKG discs to flex inwards and sideways to disperse the energy
- The flexing and deformation of the discs absorbs a significant portion of the impact, reducing the force transmitted to the player’s body
- After impact, the discs quickly rebound back to their original shape and position, ready for the next hit
- This absorption, dispersion, and rebound of energy provides exceptional cushioning and shock dissipation
- The EKG discs are low profile so they don’t restrict mobility or add bulk to the pads
- Venting in the discs facilitates airflow to keep players cool
- The polyethylene material provides protection even in very cold temperatures when other foams can harden
In testing, Maverik engineers found that the EKG system reduces impact forces up to 15% compared to traditional foam padding alone. Players report the EKG protection results in excellent cushioning from bruising hits while still feeling light and mobile.
By leveraging the latest materials technology, the Energy Transfer Kinetic system gives the M5 pad revolutionary levels of protection unmatched by competitors. It demonstrates Maverik’s commitment to continuously improving player safety and performance on the field.
Fit, Feel, and Mobility of the M5 EKG Pads
In addition to top-notch protection, Maverik designed the M5 EKG pad for exceptional comfort, mobility, and athletic performance.
The overall fit is streamlined and contoured to move naturally with the player’s body. Strategically placed stretch fabrics between rigid components provide flexibility. The pads utilize an asymmetrical design to mirror the shape of the shoulders and arms for optimal comfort during play.
The interior liners feature perforated foam and moisture-wicking liner sleeves for a smooth, secure fit directly against the skin. This helps reduce skin irritation and friction during intense games and practices.
By shaving down any unnecessary bulk and thickness, Maverik kept the M5 EKG extremely lightweight at only 1.9 pounds. This improves mobility and speed across the field. The lightweight feel increases stamina by reducing fatigue over the course of a game.
The shoulder caps are lower profile than previous models for a wider range of motion during passing, shooting, and checks. Ventilation is also enhanced, with mesh covering large portions of the pads. Airflow through the pads keeps players cooler and dryer.
The EKG discs themselves are engineered to be thin and flexible so they move easily with the player. The interconnected plastic segments allow the discs to contour to the body in any position.
For customization, the M5 comes with interchangeable padding components. Swapping out pieces like the shoulder caps and bicep guards allows a personalized fit. Additional accessory pads can be added for even more protection.
In consumer testing and reviews, players praise the M5 EKG for feeling “light as air” while still providing elite protection. The pad performs like a fast, athletic shield, enhancing rather than restricting natural speed and agility on the field.
Maverik’s relentless innovation and fine-tuning delivers a pad with the perfect balance of flexibility, ventilation, and protection for today’s fast-paced game.
Sizing Options for Optimal Fit
Finding the right size is crucial for getting the optimal fit and protection from the Maverik M5 EKG shoulder pad. This pad comes in a range of sizes to accommodate players of all ages and body types.
Maverik offers the M5 EKG in youth, high school, and collegiate/professional sizing options. Within each size range, there are small, medium, large, and extra large sizing to dial in the ideal fit.
Here are some tips on selecting the proper M5 EKG size:
- Consult the Maverik size chart and measure the player’s chest, arm length, and shoulder width
- The pad should fit snugly but allow full mobility – not loose or overly restrictive
- Youth sizes fit chest sizes of 26”-38”, high school 38”-46”, collegiate/pro 46”-55”
- Height is less important than chest and arm measurements for finding the right size
- Consider the size of shoulder pads worn previously and any fit issues
- Try on the pad with shoulder pads and game jersey/equipment to test comfort
- Focus on a slim, athletic fit without restricting motion or flexibility
- Swapping interchangeable padding components can further dial in sizing
- If between sizes, size up for more protection and to allow growing room
With multiple size ranges and interchangeable parts, players of any age should be able to achieve the ideal tailored fit with the M5 EKG pad. Consult reviews and talk to fellow players for additional sizing guidance.
A properly fitted M5 EKG will be comfortable, move fluidly with the body, and provide robust protection where players need it most during intense lacrosse performance.
Lightweight Yet Durable Materials
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad stands out for its featherlight yet highly durable construction. By engineering the pad with the perfect blend of materials, Maverik minimized weight while maintaining rugged protection.
The main shell of the pad utilizes a high-grade polycarbonate material. Polycarbonate is an extremely strong yet flexible plastic perfect for dispersing impact forces. It is also very lightweight, helping cut down on overall weight.
Vital impact zones feature molded plastic exteriors for additional hardness and structure. Plastic does not compress or deform like foam, enhancing protection. Strategic placement of plastic components shields vulnerable areas like the sternum, shoulders, and biceps.
At the same time, flexible fabrics connect the rigid pieces of the pad together. These stretchy materials allow the pad to move freely with the body for unrestricted mobility. The interior liners utilize lightweight perforated foam along with soft moisture-wicking fabrics.
By paring down any superfluous bulk in non-critical areas, Maverik trimmed excess weight without sacrificing cushioning. Ventilation holes throughout the pad help shed a few more ounces.
Even with all the technology and engineering, the M5 EKG tips the scales at a mere 1.9 pounds. This featherweight feel is a huge asset when maneuvering on the field. Players report feeling quicker and less fatigued during intense games and repetitions.
Durability is also excellent thanks to the rugged polycarbonate shell and reinforced padding components. The M5 EKG will withstand countless hits, checks, and abuse through season after season.
Maverik utilizes the optimal blend of cutting-edge lightweight materials and strategic placement to create the lightest, most durable lacrosse shoulder pads possible.
Ventilation and Breathability
Superior ventilation was a key design priority for Maverik’s engineers when creating the M5 EKG pad. Excellent airflow and breathability help keep players cool, dry, and comfortable during intense games and workouts.
Mesh fabric covers large portions of the EKG shoulder pads. Mesh is lightweight, flexible, and promotes maximum airflow. The shoulder caps, chest pad, and bicep guards all utilize mesh exteriors to allow heat and moisture to escape.
Perforations throughout the interior foam padding also enhance breathability. The foam itself has an open-cell structure to allow air to flow through the pad rather than trapping heat.
The polyethylene EKG discs feature ventilation holes aligned throughout each segment. This allows air to flow freely through the pads even at the thickest points.
The interior sleeve liners are constructed from moisture-wicking technical fabric instead of cotton or solid nylon. This material draws sweat away from the skin to keep players drier.
By integrating ventilation zones throughout the pad, Maverik ensured the M5 EKG won’t hold heat or turn into a sweatbox during intense performances. Players report feeling cool and comfortable even when sprinting at full speed under the hot sun.
Proper airflow also helps prevent that irritating “slipping pad” phenomenon when pads start sliding around due to sweat buildup. The ventilated design locks the M5 EKG firmly in place against the body.
Breathability and cooling are vital for peak lacrosse performance. The M5 EKG pad was engineered for maximum ventilation to keep players energized and focused on the field.
Customizable Fit with Interchangeable Pads
One of the standout features of the Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad is the ability to customize the fit with interchangeable padding components.
The M5 comes stock with two sets of shoulder caps, bicep guards, and chest pads. By mixing and matching these parts, players can tweak the pad to find their perfect fit and protection.
Here are some examples of how interchanging the M5 EKG pads allows customization:
- Swap between the standard and speed shoulder caps depending on position
- Use thicker bicep guards for more protection during ground ball scrums
- Downsize chest pads for a slimmer, lower profile fit if desired
- Angle the shoulder caps forward or back to tailored arm positioning
- Use the interchange system to properly size the M5 as the body grows
- Position padding exactly where it’s needed based on playing style
In addition to the included pad options, Maverik offers several accessory pads that can be added to the M5 EKG. These include rib pads, spine pads, bicep extensions, and trapezoid rhomboid pads.
Mixing and matching the M5’s interchangeable parts and optional accessories allows true customization for the ideal fit. Players can shield vulnerable areas while maintaining full mobility.
The interchangeable pad system demonstrates Maverik’s commitment to choice and personalization. Each player can set up the M5 EKG shoulder pad precisely for their needs and playing style.
Protection Offered by the M5 EKG Speed Pad
With its innovative padding technologies, the Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad provides elite-level protection for players across the field. This pad is designed to shield the body from brutal impacts game after game.
The Energy Transfer Kinetic (EKG) system is the foundation of the M5’s protective abilities. The flexing polyethylene discs integrated throughout the pad absorb and disperse impact forces for superior cushioning. Tests show EKG reduces forces up to 15% compared to foam alone.
In addition to EKG, injected and molded plastic components reinforce vulnerable areas. The shoulder caps, chest plate, and bicep guards utilize rigid plastic exteriors for robust coverage. Plastic does not compress or deform on impact for true shielding.
An integrated sternum and spine pad offers all-around protection for the rib cage. The redesigned shoulder caps wrap further around the shoulders compared to previous models for better mobility and coverage.
Throughout the season, the M5 EKG pad retains its protective abilities even in foul weather. The materials resist hardening in cold temperatures when foams can stiffen up. Rain and moisture do not degrade the durable plastics and fabrics.
While optimized for protection, the M5 still remains streamlined and lightweight. By shaving down non-essential bulk, it prevents a bulky or encumbered feeling on the field. Players stay mobile and athletic in the M5 pads.
For lacrosse players demanding nothing short of elite-level protection, the Maverik M5 EKG shoulder pad delivers. Its innovative design shields against the most bruising checks, collisions, and impacts athletes endure.
Ideal for Attackmen and Middies
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad is optimized for speed and mobility, making it an excellent choice for attackmen and middies.
Weighing only 1.9 pounds, the M5 EKG has an ultra-lightweight feel to avoid slowing players down. The streamlined padding moves easily with the body for quick cuts, rolls, and change of direction.
Ventilation zones and breathable fabrics keep players cool and energized through intense runs up and down the field. Since the pads don’t trap heat, attackmen and middies stay fresh for clutch late-game performances.
The flexible EKG discs provide cushioning without restricting natural athletic motion. Players report feeling in tune with their body’s movements in the M5 EKG pads.
While optimized for speed, the M5 still provides robust protection thanks to its molded plastic and EKG technology. Quick dodges, curl backs, and rolls are protected against checks and collisions.
For players who take face-offs, the M5 EKG equips them to battle for possession and then immediately sprint down the field once securing the ball.
The interchangeable padding also allows customization for attack and midfield needs. Players can opt for more mobility by downsizing padding components.
In consumer testing, offensive players praise the M5 for feeling “fast,” “featherlight,” and like a “second skin.” Maverik built this pad from the ground up for speedy finesse players.
With its elite blend of freedom of movement and protection, the Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad is the perfect choice for attackmen, middies, and face-off specialists.
Compare to Other Maverik Shoulder Pads
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad sits at the top of Maverik’s pad lineup in terms of both technology and performance. Here is how the M5 compares to other pads in the Maverik family.
Compared to the entry-level Maverik Rome and Optik pads, the M5 provides noticeably more cushioning and mobility. M5’s advanced materials like the EKG system offer more impact protection and a better range of motion.
The M5 has the same Y-frame and streamlined shape as the Maverik Max but is lighter weight. M5’s plastic components and EKG add more comprehensive shielding for elite players.
Versus the previous generation M4 pad, the M5 EKG shaved off weight and bulk for a slimmer, speedier feel. M5 also integrated the new EKG technology to achieve the next level of cushioning.
Maverik’s flagship Kinetic and Kinetic Pro pads offer protection on par with M5 but are heavier and bulkier. M5 provides an excellent balance of rugged padding with featherlight mobility.
In terms of price, the M5 EKG hits a nice sweet spot between the budget-friendly beginner pads and the top-tier professional models. You get elite-level performance and innovation at a mid-range cost.
While the M4 remains available as a lightweight and protective option, the M5 EKG now sits atop Maverik’s shoulder pad product line for its balance of cushioning, coverage, and athletic mobility.
Compare to Competitor Speed Pads
How does Maverik’s M5 EKG pad stack up against competitor speed shoulder pads on the market? Here’s an overview of how the M5 compares.
The EKG protection system provides more advanced cushioning technology than many competitor pads. Discs flex and deform to disperse impact, reducing forces versus standard foam.
STX’s Cell 1 pads offer robust shielding but are over 2 pounds heavier than the M5 EKG. Other “speed” pads still have significant bulk versus M5’s featherlight 1.9 lbs.
While the Cascade S and Warrior Regulator pads are also highly mobile, the M5 uses higher-grade materials and construction for greater durability and longevity.
The M5’s mix of plastic and padding components achieves elite protection with less bulk than models like the STX Cell 5. Competitors must add more foam for the same coverage.
Few other pads on the market allow the level of customization as the M5 EKG. Interchangeable parts and optional accessories enable true personalization.
Thanks to its EKG technology, molded plastics, and streamlined design, the M5 achieves a uniquely elite blend of maximum protection and lightweight mobility.
While higher cost competitor pads may boast comparable performance, the M5 achieves similar attributes at a more affordable price point.
For players looking for the ultimate speed pad without compromising cushioning and coverage, the Maverik M5 EKG shoulders above the competition.
Pros and Cons of the M5 EKG Pad
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad has numerous standout features, but nothing is perfect for every player. Here is a quick rundown of some of the key pros and cons to consider about the M5 EKG.
Pros:
- Revolutionary EKG protection system for advanced impact absorption
- Featherlight at only 1.9 pounds for elite mobility
- Strategic use of rigid plastics for robust protection
- Streamlined, contoured shape moves easily with the body
- Interchangeable padding components allow custom fit
- Ventilated design keeps players cool during games
Cons:
- High price tag compared to beginner-level pads
- EKG discs add some complexity versus basic foam pads
- Less adjustment features than highest-end pads
- Sizing can run small, so try on before buying
- Padding is minimalist by design to cut weight
Weighing the pros and cons will help players decide if the M5 EKG’s elite blend of speed, protection, and technology fits their needs and budget.
Is the M5 EKG Worth the Price Tag?
With a relatively high price point, a common question around the Maverik M5 EKG shoulder pad is whether it warrants the investment. Based on its features and performance, the M5 EKG delivers plenty of value.
First and foremost, the M5 EKG provides elite-level protection thanks to innovations like the Energy Transfer Kinetic system. Advanced materials like EKG discs and rigid plastics provide cushioning and coverage simply not possible with basic foam and plastic pads.
Despite the robust protection, the M5 still delivers featherlight mobility at just 1.9 pounds. The streamlined construction moves seamlessly with the athlete’s body. Ventilation and breathability are also excellent.
The interchangeable padding components allow players to truly customize the M5 EKG to their needs. Optimal fit and coverage can be dialed in.
By utilizing cutting edge technology and materials, Maverik pushes the limits of possibility with the M5. The performance achieved is noticeable above cheaper beginner and intermediate pads.
Durability is also outstanding thanks to quality construction and rugged materials. Players invest in years of use from the M5 instead of replacing cheaper pads annually.
Considering the combination of elite cushioning, unmatched mobility, and customizable options, the M5 EKG provides strong value for dedicated lacrosse players looking to gain a performance edge.
Conclusion – Who Should Buy the Maverik M5 EKG Speed Lacrosse Shoulder Pad
The Maverik M5 EKG lacrosse shoulder pad offers an elite blend of protection, mobility, and customizable options. This innovative pad is ideal for certain player positions and styles.
Attackmen, middies, face-off specialists, and other speed positions will love the featherlight feel and high-end cushioning. The M5 EKG excels at fast, athletic play across the field.
Players who prioritize mobility and ventilation over maximum padding will appreciate the M5’s strategic use of lightweight materials.
Athletes looking for true customization will enjoy the interchangeable padding components to achieve their ideal fit.
Youth and high school players wanting to step up to higher performance and durability will find excellent value in the M5.
While a worthwhile investment for any dedicated lacrosse player, the M5 EKG speed pad truly shines for lightning-quick finesse players wanting the best blend of flexibility, protection, and custom options.