The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

Determine Your Lacrosse Position – Attack, Midfield, Defense?

When selecting new lacrosse shoulder pads, one of the most important considerations is your position on the field. Attack players, midfielders, and defenders all have different needs when it comes to protection and mobility.

For attack players, mobility and range of motion are critical since you’ll be dodging and shooting frequently. Look for lightweight pads with flexible or stretchy materials that won’t restrict your movement. Attack pads tend to offer less protection and padding compared to defenseman pads.

Midfielders need a balance of mobility and protection as you transition between offense and defense. Mid-level shoulder pads offer modest padding with some flexibility. Consider pads with removable caps and adjustable features to customize the fit.

Defenders need maximum protection as they constantly engage in physical battles for ground balls and throws checks. Look for shoulder pads with thick foam or plastic caps, chest plates, and spine protection. While bulkier, these pads will shield you from bruising checks. Prioritize protection over mobility as a defender.

Think about your primary responsibilities on the field along with the positions you match up against. Do you need more freedom of movement or extra padding? Finding the right mix of mobility and protection in lacrosse shoulder pads starts with honestly assessing your position and style of play.

Consider Protection Level – More for Close Defense

When selecting new lacrosse shoulder pads, the amount of protection and padding is another key factor to evaluate. The protection level you need depends largely on your position and style of play. Close defenders generally require the most protective padding since their main role is to prevent goals through physical play.

As a close defenseman, you’ll be constantly bumping and jostling with attackmen in front of the crease so you need shoulder pads that can absorb those bruising hits. Look for thick foam caps over the shoulders, reinforced plastic caps on the biceps and ribs, and chest plates with ample padding. The extra bulkiness provides necessary shielding from checks. Brands like Maverik and Warrior make defensive focused shoulder pads with maximum protection.

For midfield, you’ll want moderate padding that balances mobility and protection since you transition between offense and defense. Midfield shoulder pads typically have modest foam padding over key contact areas like the shoulders, rib cage, and sternum. They aren’t overly bulky but still dissipate checks better than attack pads. Brands like STX and Brine offer midfield level shoulder pads.

Attack players can opt for more minimalist padding since they endure fewer checks overall. Lightweight attack pads value freedom of movement over extensive protection. Focus on flexibility in the shoulder caps, moisture wicking materials, and a comfortable fit. Avoid bulky plastic caps and chest plates in favor of thin foam inserts or removable caps. Brands like Nike and Under Armour offer highly mobile attack pads.

Consider if you want shoulder pads tailored for your position or if you tend to play an unorthodox style. For example, a fast footed attackman may want more protection than typical attack pads provide while an aggressive middie may prefer the bulkier defenseman style pads for extra security in the midfield scrum. Think about your durability needs at your position to choose the right protection level.

Choose the Right Size – Measure Carefully

Finding lacrosse shoulder pads that fit properly is extremely important for comfort and protection. Take the time to carefully measure yourself or get professionally fitted by a knowledgeable sporting goods retailer to determine your ideal shoulder pad size.

Most brands size their pads according to chest circumference right under your armpits. Wrap a soft measuring tape snugly around your chest in this area and note the measurement. Compare your chest size to the manufacturer’s sizing chart to identify your recommended size. Some brands also list height and weight recommendations for certain sizes.

Keep in mind that lacrosse shoulder pad sizes run smaller than traditional clothing. Don’t just choose your t-shirt size or assume you need a large. Actually measure for the best accuracy since the pads must fit very close to the body. If between sizes, it is usually better to size up for the best fit.

The ideal shoulder pad fit will be snug with no major gaps. The shoulder caps should cup closely over the top of your shoulders without drooping down your arms. Straps should criss-cross securely over your back and torso without straining. When you bend your elbows, the bicep pads should not dig in or slip off.

Try performing lacrosse movements with the pads on to test mobility. Lift your arms straight up overhead – the shoulder caps shouldn’t lift off your shoulders at the apex. Do full squats and twists to confirm nothing binds or limits your flexibility. Break in the pads before use to soften materials.

A proper fitting pair of lacrosse shoulder pads will move with your body like a second skin. An ill-fitting pair will constantly slip, pinch, or rub you the wrong way leading to discomfort. Sizing up is better than pads too small which expose you to impact injuries. Take the time to get the sizing right before purchasing new lacrosse shoulder pads.

Compare Brands – Maverik, STX, Warrior, Brine

When shopping for new lacrosse shoulder pads, comparing the major brands is an important step. Maverik, STX, Warrior, and Brine are some of the top manufacturers of lacrosse gear and each offers a range of shoulder pad models catering to different positions and playing styles.

Maverik is known for highly protective pads optimized for close defense. Their Rome and Max pads offer rugged carbon fiber caps and removable chest plates for customized protection. Maverik pads have a more rigid, molded feel focused on durability.

STX makes flexible, lightweight shoulder pads geared for midfield and attack players. Models like the Stallion and Cell focus on high mobility using elasticized materials and hybrid caps that flex with movement. STX pads provide a cushy, comfortable fit.

Warrior pads are technologically advanced with features like removable padded liners, moisture wicking fabrics, and adjustable straps for customized fits. The Warrior Burn and Rabil pads balance protection and articulation through strategically placed padding modules.

Brine offers affordable, well-rounded pads like the King and Clutch that work for all field positions. Brine focuses on breathable padding configurations to dissipate heat and moisture during intense play. The padding is supportive without limiting mobility.

Within each brand lineup, you’ll find options for every position and price point. Try pads on in-person if possible to get a feel for the size, weight, and flexibility. Read reviews and ask teammates for recommendations on the best pads for your needs. While personal preference varies, the major brands each offer quality lacrosse shoulder pads with unique strengths.

Focus on finding the right blend of protection, comfort, breathability, and mobility based on how and where you play. With the right pair of shoulder pads, you can perform your best while minimizing bruising from checks.

Evaluate Materials and Durability

The materials and construction of lacrosse shoulder pads affect their durability and lifespan. When comparing different pads, take time to evaluate the materials used and overall craftsmanship.

Many performance pads today use lightweight, breathable fabrics on the interior liner and harness to manage moisture. Antimicrobial materials prevent odor buildup. Exterior shells may incorporate sturdy nylons or ventilated mesh for protection.

Padding materials vary from basic foam to proprietary blended formulas designed for impact absorption. Multi-layer padding with differing densities often provides better energy dispersion. Some brands inject gel pads or removable inserts for customizable cushioning.

Plastic caps guard against frontal hits and checks. Hard polyethylene or polycarbonate caps withstand high impact forces. Newer engineered polymer compounds like Warrior’s Tighbond 2 plastic aim to be more flexible while still protective. Minimalist pads may use EVA foam caps instead.

Stitching and bindings must be strong enough to hold padding and caps in place through constant motion and checking. Doubled topstitching on stress points adds structural integrity. Industrially rated Velcro secures adjustable straps.

Metal hardware like buckles, D-rings and side clips should show no signs of rust or defects out of the box. Check that all snaps and clips engage securely without fail.

Higher priced pads generally use more advanced materials and sturdier construction for extended durability. However, proper care also prolongs the life of any lacrosse pads. Inspect gear regularly for damage and launder according to guidelines. Don’t wear chest pads too small as the constant strain will break down materials prematurely.

Assess Ventilation and Comfort

Proper ventilation and overall comfort are critical factors when selecting new lacrosse shoulder pads. The pads must provide protection without overheating or restricting your movement and range of motion.

Look for shoulder pads with breathable liner materials that wick moisture away from the skin. Mesh paneling on the interior harness promotes air circulation to cool the torso. Perforations on caps and padding also enhance airflow.

Padding materials should feel supple yet supportive against the body. Multi-layer foam combinations prevent pressure points and hot spots during play. Any rigid plastic components should be trimmed and contoured to avoid digging into the skin.

Ergonomic shoulder cap designs follow the natural shape of the deltoids for full mobility. Articulated caps flex properly when raising your arms rather than lifting or bunching awkwardly.

Adjustable features like removable bicep guards, interchangeable chest plates, and customizable strap configurations let you dial in the fit. The more you can fine tune the pads to your build, the more comfortable they’ll feel in action.

Try shoulder pads on with full lacrosse gear to assess feel during real play. Move through your full range of motion to detect any binding or restriction. Jump, dodge, cut, and shoot to confirm nothing digs or chafes.

A comfortable, ventilated pair of shoulder pads will protect you while remaining virtually unnoticeable on the field. Breathable, flexible padding in areas that commonly absorb checks reduces pain and swelling.

Look for Adjustability Features

Finding the ideal lacrosse shoulder pads often comes down to fit, so look for models with multiple adjustability features that allow you to customize the pads to your build and comfort preferences.

Pads with removable or interchangeable components offer more fine-tuned fitting. Shoulder cap inserts, bicep guards, and chest plates that can be added or removed as needed are advantageous.

Stretchy Lycra shoulder harness straps with Tri-glide adjusters make it easy to loosen or tighten the overall fit. More rigid belts with classic slide adjustments also work but may not conform as closely.

Integrated loose cord lacing systems let you tighten or relax the upper chest plate rigidity as desired. Dialing in the right tightness balances mobility and protection.

Being able to reposition shoulder caps vertically on the bicep helps achieve full arm extension. Detachable extensions allow the caps to raise higher on the shoulder when needed.

Swapping out various foam comfort pads and liners to either limit or increase bulkiness provides another useful tuning option. Thicker pads can be inserted for more protection.

The more flexibility you have to configure the pads on your body, the better they will complement your physique and style of play. Test adjustability features to see how they impact fit and function before selecting new shoulder pads.

Once the pads are properly positioned for you, mark your custom settings with a Sharpie so they can be quickly replicated each time you gear up to play.

Check Out Integrated Chest Pads

Many newer lacrosse shoulder pad models integrate padded chest protection directly into the front plate for extra security. Integrated chest pads provide more complete coverage without limiting mobility.

Traditional stand-alone chest pads can shift around on impact and expose sections to bruising checks. Integrated chest plates stay put in proper position for reliable padding. They move naturally with the shoulder pads.

Integrated chest pads are often removable to accommodate different protection preferences. Foam or plastic plates slide securely into concealed sleeves but can be taken out for more mobility.

Protection levels vary from modest foam inserts to hard plastic guards. Attacker pads may just use basic foam for cushioning while defender pads incorporate heavy-duty plastic plates.

Ventilation is important on integrated protection to prevent overheating. Perforations, mesh panels, and breathable foam maintain airflow to the pads underneath.

Before sizing, consider if you want optional integrated chest protection or not. If so, ensure the chest plate leaves room for shooting shirts or cold gear underneath without compressing or riding up uncomfortably.

Test mobility at full extension when trying pads with integrated chest pads. Reach across your body and fully overhead to detect any pulling or restriction during play.

Don’t Forget the Shoulder Liners

Many lacrosse players overlook shoulder liners but these moisture-wicking sleeves provide an important barrier between your skin and shoulder pads. Quality liners optimize comfort while absorbing sweat.

The compressive fit of shoulder liners prevents pads from rubbing or chafing on your bare skin during intense competition. Tight polyester or spandex material won’t chafe like pads directly against your skin.

Seamless liner construction eliminates any potential irritation from stitches under the pads. Flat-lock stitching further minimizes raised seams.

Breathable technical fabrics with mesh paneling or laser-cut holes ventilate heat and humidity away from the body under oppressive pads.

Antimicrobial treatments reduce bacterial growth and unpleasant odors even with heavy sweating. Silver ions woven into material naturally inhibit microbes.

Padding zones provide supplemental cushioning on bony areas like the sternum, collarbone, and shoulder points prone to bruising. Targeted foam protects vulnerable spots.

Secure grip tape at the bicep keeps shoulder liners from sliding down your arms. Ankle cuffs also prevent migration while running.

Shock absorbing shoulder liner pads reduce sting and prolong the life of your lacrosse pads. Change liners regularly to prevent bacterial buildup for optimal hygiene.

Set Your Budget – Prices Range Widely

Lacrosse shoulder pads vary widely in price from under $50 up to $250 or more for high-end pads. Determine your budget in advance so you can filter options realistically.

Youth and entry-level pads typically cost $40-80 based on simplicity of design. Mid-range pads from major brands normally run $80-150 with more technical features. Elite and pro pads reach up to $200+.

While pricier pads generally provide higher quality materials and construction, you can still find excellent mid-range pads if you aren’t rough on gear. Avoid the cheapest pads with flimsy padding.

Pay more attention to fit, comfort, and protection level versus fixating on price alone. A $175 pair of pro pads won’t benefit you if the fit is uncomfortable and restrictive.

Prioritize spending for safety-critical items like helmets and protective cups first. Allocate shoulder pad dollars you have remaining to get the best pair within your budget.

Consider buying last year’s model on sale to get enhanced features at a discount. Off-season sales often discount new prior-year pads significantly.

With some brands, you pay a premium for pro player endorsements more so than better quality gear. Judge objectively if the price matches the performance and construction.

While shoulder pads are important, don’t overspend based on hype or marketing claims. Get the best pads possible within your comfortable budget range.

Read Online Reviews Before Buying

Reading lacrosse shoulder pad reviews from other players provides valuable insight before purchasing. Customer reviews spotlight real-world benefits and drawbacks you can’t glean from product photos or descriptions alone.

Look for consistent praise or complaints around sizing, comfort, durability, and protection level. This feedback indicates potential strengths or weaknesses of a particular model’s design and materials.

Pay attention to reviews focused on your specific position since needs differ greatly between attack, midfield, defense and goalie pads. A great defender pad may be far too bulky and restrictive for a nimble attacker.

Consider both five star and one star reviews to get the full picture. Massively positive reviews could be biased while extreme negatives may reflect fit issues vs. poor quality.

Factor in reviewer experience level, similar build, and playing style for the most relevant opinions. A beginner may perceive advanced pads as uncomfortable simply because they aren’t used to the snug, compressed fit.

Photo reviews allow you to see how the pads look on real players during use. Watch video reviews to evaluate flexibility and range of motion as players move.

Overall, reviews identify pads that deliver great protection without sacrificing mobility so you can avoid gear that looks good but underperforms on the field.

Try Them On Before Purchase If Possible

The best way to evaluate new lacrosse shoulder pads is trying them on in person prior to purchasing. Making the effort to test pads at a store provides invaluable fit and comfort insights.

Trying pads on fully geared up with your helmet, gloves, and elbow pads simulates how the pads will feel in live action. You can assess mobility performing lacrosse moves.

Notice any tightness or chafing points as you twist and rotate your torso. Rising arms fully overhead identifies range of motion restrictions.

Focus on achieving full arm extension without pulling across the chest or shoulders. No section of padding should lift or separate as you move.

Testing adjustable features allows you to tune the pads ideally to your build. Make notes on strap positions, removable pads, and hardware settings for your preferred fit.

Judge weight distribution and balance by jogging and sprinting with pads on. Heavier padding should not shift dramatically as you run and cut.

Trying pads on with guidance from knowledgeable lacrosse retailers ensures proper sizing and positioning. They can recommend ideal models for your needs.

While not always possible if ordering online, test fitting lacrosse shoulder pads eliminates surprises and reduces returns. The investment of time results in maximum on-field performance.

Consider Style and Color Options

Beyond fit and protection, lacrosse players also care about how their shoulder pads look. Most pad models come in a variety of bold colors and designs to match your preferences.

Popular colors like black, white, navy, scarlet, royal blue, orange, and grey provide classic customizable options for any jersey or sock combination.

Brands offer unique prints or fades like digital camo, stars and stripes, carbon fiber, and more. Warrior leverages creative graphics and color schemes on their pads.

Collegiate editions align with major NCAA lacrosse school colors and logos. Rep your team with pads sporting team colors and mascots.

Custom color configurations from companies like Custom Creations allow you to dream up your own color schemes if nothing off the shelf excites you.

Focus on fit first then narrow options by selecting your preferred colors. While looks are secondary to performance, pads that reflect your style do inspire confident play.

Change up colors between seasons to stay fresh. Having a couple sets allows you to alternate based on jersey colors as well.

Within your budget, consider springing for that sharp looking pair of pads even if it’s just for the intimidation factor of looking totally dialed-in on the field.

Think About Replacing Every Few Seasons

While lacrosse shoulder pads can last for many years if cared for properly, you’ll maximize safety and performance by replacing pads every 2-3 seasons.

The materials and foams in shoulder pads compress and break down over time even if not noticeably damaged. Prolonged UV exposure also degrades components.

Thinner padding leaves you more vulnerable to bruising shoulder checks from opponents’ sticks. Reduced shock absorption increases risk of painful bone bruises.

Straps and harnesses stretch out with use which alters fit and leaves gaps exposing you to checks. Hardware can loosen or fail as plastic and metals fatigue.

Advances in technologies, materials, designs make new pads more protective and comfortable than models from even a few seasons ago.

Rotate into new pads incrementally if budget is tight. Start with freshening up liners and gloves then replace major protective gear like helmets and pads.

Consider letting teammates use your gently used pads as you cycle into new gear. Lacrosse programs often need equipment donations.

While replacing pads feels like an added expense, protecting yourself from injury is a wise investment in the long run. New gear simply performs better.