Hockey Shoulder Pads Sizing & Fit Guide

Shoulder pads are typically sized by chest measurement in inches. Proper sizing ensures adequate protection while maintaining mobility and comfort. Unlike some hockey gear, shoulder pads should fit relatively true to your actual measurements.

Sizing Guidelines:

Proper fitting shoulder pads should sit comfortably on your shoulders, provide complete protection of your upper body, and allow unrestricted arm movement. Here's what to look for:

Fitting Guidelines:

• Shoulder Coverage: The shoulder pads should sit comfortably on top of your shoulders without slipping. The padding should cover the vulnerable top of your shoulders completely.
• Collar Fit: The collar area should fit snugly without choking or restricting your neck movement. You should be able to move your head freely in all directions.
• Upper Arm Protection: The pads should extend down the upper arms providing protection. Coverage should extend about halfway down your upper arm.
• Chest Protection: Chest protection should be complete with proper padding placement. There should be no gaps in protection across your chest.
• Back Coverage: Shoulder pads should provide coverage across your back and shoulder blades. This is a vulnerable area that needs complete protection.
• Arm Mobility: You should be able to move your arms freely through a full range of motion. Raising your arms overhead should not be restricted by the pads.
• Fit Adjustment: Most shoulder pads have adjustment features like straps or velcro closures to fine-tune fit to your body shape.

Shoulder pads come in different styles optimized for different playing styles and levels. Your choice should be based on your level of play and protection priorities.

Pad Categories:

• Recreational Pads: Designed for casual and beginner players. Offer solid protection with generous padding and straightforward designs. More affordable ($60-120) and comfortable for recreational play and learning.
• Intermediate Pads: Built for improving players. Feature balanced protection and mobility with quality padding placement. Mid-range pricing ($120-220) and good for most competitive play levels.
• Performance/Elite Pads: Designed for competitive and advanced players. Feature premium materials, optimized padding, and advanced mobility features. Higher cost ($220-450+) and offer superior protection while maintaining excellent range of motion.

Modern shoulder pads incorporate advanced protection technologies and materials. Different shoulder pads offer varying levels of protection through innovative padding density, material quality, and design. Understanding these features helps you choose pads appropriate for your level of play.

Key Protection Elements:

• Shoulder Caps: The most critical protection area. Modern shoulder caps use multi-density foam, D3O impact protection, or JDP (Jock Dynamic Protection) technology. These materials remain flexible during normal movement but harden on impact to absorb and disperse energy. Premium caps are anatomically shaped to provide maximum protection without limiting shoulder mobility.
• Upper Arm/Bicep Padding: Protects the vulnerable upper arm and deltoid area from slashes and impacts. Quality pads feature segmented construction that allows natural arm movement. Modern designs use lightweight, high-density foams with strategic placement for protection without bulk.
• Chest Protection: Should provide comprehensive protection across your chest and pectoral area. Premium pads use contoured chest plates or sternum guards combined with impact-absorbing foam. Modern designs protect vital organs while allowing unrestricted breathing. Some elite models feature additional sternum protection for high-level play.
• Back/Spine Protection: Quality pads include substantial padding across the back and between the shoulder blades. Modern designs feature molded plastic inserts or composite materials for spine protection. This vulnerable area benefits from the extra protection, especially for players who take hits from behind.
• Advanced Foam Technology: Modern shoulder pads utilize cutting-edge foam systems like multi-density foams, D3O, AeroLite, or dual-layer foam constructions. These technologies provide superior impact absorption with significantly reduced weight compared to traditional foam padding.
• Material Quality: The outer shell uses durable nylon, polyester, or specialized synthetic blends resistant to abrasion and tearing. Premium materials maintain their protective properties through repeated impacts and washing. Many include reinforced stitching and stress points.

Modern shoulder pad design balances protection with mobility. Understanding key design features helps you find pads that allow optimal performance while protecting critical areas.

• Flexible Side Panels: Quality pads use flex panels on the sides that allow torso rotation without sacrificing protection. This is critical for shooting and body movement.
• Articulated Shoulder Design: Modern designs use articulated shoulder cups that flex with your arm movement while maintaining protection. This allows full shoulder range of motion.
• Breathable Materials: Quality pads feature breathable liners and outer materials that prevent heat buildup. This improves comfort during extended play.
• Adjustable Straps: Shoulder pads with multiple adjustment points allow fine-tuning to your specific body shape and preferences. Straps should be easy to adjust between uses.
• Neck Opening: The neck opening should be appropriately sized to allow full head movement without gaps. Poor neck fit compromises protection.

Different players have different fit preferences based on their position and playing style. Understanding these preferences helps you choose pads that enhance your game.

• For Forwards: Often prefer lighter, more mobile pads with excellent mobility features. Full range of motion is essential for shooting, passing, and quick movement.
• For Defensemen: Often prefer pads with more substantial padding and protection given the increased physical play in their zone. Extra protection in critical areas is valued.
• For All Positions: Quality modern pads offer good protection with excellent mobility, making them suitable for all playing styles. The best design balances both factors.
• Personal Preference: Some players prefer snugger fits, others prefer more room for layering. Adjustable features allow customization to personal preference.

Proper care extends the life of your shoulder pads and keeps them performing optimally. Hockey pads are subject to significant wear and sweat during play.

• Air Dry After Use: Always air dry your pads after practice or games. Moisture leads to material degradation and odor.
• Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your pads with a damp cloth after use. Machine wash if manufacturer allows (usually on gentle cycle with cold water).
• Odor Management: Use odor-absorbing products or store pads in a well-ventilated area. This is important for hygiene and longevity.
• Strap Maintenance: Check adjustment straps regularly and replace if they become damaged or lose grip.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for tears, loose padding, or seam damage. Address issues promptly to prevent further damage.

• Measure your chest accurately to determine your size

• Try on pads with your base layer and jersey if possible

• Test arm mobility by raising arms overhead and rotating torso

• Ensure complete protection without excessive bulk or restriction

• Consider your position and playing style when choosing protection level

• Make sure the neck opening fits comfortably without restricting movement

• Test all adjustment features to ensure they work well for you

• Prioritize proper fit and mobility for your specific playing style

• Plan regular cleaning and maintenance to extend pad lifespan