Shoulder Pads

No matter how tough you are, it isn’t tough enough to play hockey without shoulder pads. This isn’t a challenge – playing with an unprotected torso increases the likelihood of injuring your collarbone, shoulders, sternum, and ribcage. Even if you’re in a non-contact league, that doesn’t guarantee you won’t make contact with the boards, puck, or ice. 

Shoulder pads range from $40 to $200, and you don’t really need a top-notch set of pads to be and feel well-protected. Like most protective gear, it will be most important for your pads to be correctly fitted and comfortable. 

Construction

All shoulder pads have:

• Collarbone protector
• Shoulder cap
• Ribs guard 
• Abdominal pad
• Bicep Protector

High-End v. Low-End

High-end shoulder pads usually have some additional features to improve their overall protection and lightness. Many also have additional Velcro straps that allow you to adjust or remove the abdominal and bicep protectors. Basic models usually have thinner foam and lack the extra bells-and-whistles. 

Unless you play in a physical, highly-competitive league, you probably won’t need the latest and greatest shoulder pads out there. Most entry and mid-level models will get the job done. Still, it’s never a bad idea to spend a little extra for more protective and durable gear, but basic shoulder pads will still keep you safe as long as they fit well. 

Sizing

Shoulder pads shouldn’t be difficult to size. They should feel snug and comfortable, while covering your rib cage, collarbone, and top half of your bicep – but not the entire stomach. If they’re too big your mobility will be restricted. Obviously, if they’re too small, you won’t be safe. 

Age Group	Size	Age	Height (ft)	Chest (in)
YOUTH	S	4 – 7	3’3 – 4’1	22 – 26
	L	6 – 9	3’9 – 4’7	24 – 28
JUNIOR	S	8 – 11	4’3 – 4’8	26 – 30
	M	9 – 12	4’7 – 5’0	28 – 32
	L	11 – 14	4’11 – 5’4	30 – 34
SENIOR	S	14+	5’5 – 5’9	36 – 40
	M	14+	5’7 – 5’11	38 – 42
	L	14+	5’9 – 6’1	40 – 44
	XL	14+	5’11 – 6’3	42+