Ice hockey shoulder pads are an essential piece of equipment, providing protection for key areas of the upper body, including the shoulders, collarbones, spine, and ribcage. To keep these areas fully protected, it’s crucial that shoulder pads are properly sized to ensure full coverage. IW Hockey is here to ensure you have all the information you need to make the right purchase for your game. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to select the right size and fit for hockey shoulder pads, ensuring optimal protection and mobility on the ice.
Key Features of Hockey Shoulder Pads
Hockey shoulder pads typically consist of two shoulder caps that protect the shoulders and upper arms. They also include:
- Shoulder Caps: Provide primary protection for the shoulders.
- Bicep Pads: Protect the upper arms.
- Chest Protector: Shields the chest area.
- Back Protector: Covers the spine and upper back.
- Rib Guards: Offer additional protection to the ribcage.
- Abdominal Pad: Provides lower abdominal protection.
Why Proper Fit Matters
A properly fitted pair of shoulder pads balances protection and mobility, helping players feel confident and safe on the ice. A poor fit - either too small or too big - compromises that protection. When pads are too tight, they can limit movement and cause discomfort. If they’re too loose, they shift during play and leave vital areas exposed. This is especially crucial for young players in developing leagues, where youth hockey shoulder pads need to grow with the athlete while still providing effective coverage.
Taking the Right Measurements
To select the right size shoulder pads, you need to know your height and chest circumference. Using a soft measuring tape, measure around the circumference of the chest, just below the armpits, while standing in a relaxed state. Be sure not to inhale deeply, as doing so could affect the size. Player height is a secondary guide.
How Hockey Shoulder Pads Should Fit
Hockey shoulder pads should fit snugly, with the vital tips of the shoulders properly under the shoulder caps. It's essential that the shoulder pads fit snugly against the shoulders and cover the entire chest. The bicep pads should not interfere with the player’s elbow pads. A player should have good range of motion while wearing shoulder pads. You can adjust the fit yourself using the straps that extend from the back and fasten to the front with Velcro.
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Signs That Shoulder Pads Are Too Small:
- Shoulder caps point upwards instead of outwards.
- Neckline digs into neck or shoulders.
- Cannot raise arms comfortably overhead.
- Too much skin is exposed between the top of the pants and the bottom of the shoulder pads, and between the bicep protectors and the top of the elbow pads.
Signs That Shoulder Pads Are Too Big:
- Neckline sags and collarbone is exposed.
- Pads fall off the tops of the shoulders.
- Bottom edges droop well below the rib cage.
- They overlap with the hockey pants and elbow pads, which hinder flexibility and mobility.
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
If you are uncertain about which size fits you best, you can compare the circumference of your chest with the size chart provided on the product page. Please note that you should measure as high up on the chest as possible (under the arms), where it is widest.
The information below is a general sizing guideline and DOES NOT guarantee fit. Should an item have sizing guidelines provided by the manufacturer, they will be provided for you within the product description next to that item.
How to Select Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads
| Pad Size | Age Range | Height | Chest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Youth Small | 3 - 4 | 3'2" - 3'11" | 20" - 23" |
| Youth Medium | 4 - 6 | 3'6" - 3'11" | 22" - 25" |
| Youth Large | 7 - 8 | 3'10" - 4'4" | 24" - 27" |
| Junior Small | 7 - 9 | 4'4" - 4'7" | 26" - 29" |
| Junior Medium | 8 - 11 | 4'5" - 4'11" | 28" - 31" |
| Junior Large | 10 - 13 | 4'10" - 5'3" | 30" - 34" |
| Senior Small | 14 - 16 | 5'4" - 5'8" | 32" - 38" |
| Senior Medium | 16+ | 5'6" - 5'11" | 36" - 41" |
| Senior Large | 18+ | 5'9" - 6'2" | 39" - 43" |
Shoulder Pad Purchase Considerations
How often should I replace / clean my shoulder pads?
Shoulder pads can last for many years depending on care, how often you use them, and the level of hockey you play. If you use them at a high level multiple times a week, there is a good chance that the velcro can wear down and become ineffective. This is a sign that you will need a new pair. To clean shoulder pads, soak them in a bathtub filled with warm water and Oxiclean (or something comparable). Take them out after a few hours, then let them air dry.
What are the top brands for shoulder pads?
The top three brands for Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads are Bauer, CCM, and Warrior. Each of the three brands have various models that cater towards a certain style and play type.
What are youth league shoulder pad requirements?
As per USA Hockey Rules, all players must wear all protective equipment for games, which includes shoulder pads. It is recommended that players wear shoulder pads that are specific to Ice Hockey. Also, be sure to check and see if the youth shoulder pads fit properly before each new season!
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Any other considerations?
Most brands have three styles of shoulder pads. For example, one style might cater towards players looking for maximum protection, while looking less for mobility. On the contrary, another style might be for players looking for maximum mobility, but with less emphasis on protection.
Read also: The Ultimate Guide to Custom Hockey Pads