In the fall of 2019, US Lacrosse approved a rule change to the equipment, specifically shoulder pads. This is in an effort to reduce the risk of an injury known as commotio cordis. Find out more about the new rule change in our other blog about this rule change. Starting in 2022 all players will be required to wear the approved shoulder pads which will feature a hard plastic cap on the chest.
Some manufacturers have already gone ahead and start making shoulder pads that are already approved for the new rules. Below is a list of some of our favorite shoulder pads that are approved for the rules, as well as some other options. There will be both shoulder pads and shoulder pad liners listed below. The main difference between these two styles of padding are the amount of protection provided. Liners are designed with defensemen in mind and provides more mobility with limited protection. Regular shoulder pads feature a hard cap on the shoulders and biceps. These are designed for attackmen who absorb a lot of contact going to the net. You can find out more about the difference between shoulder pads and liners in our video here.
Maverik Max EKG Shoulder Pads
The new Maverik Max EKG shoulder pads are the first shoulder pads to feature the EKG (External Kardiac Guard) which meets the new NOCSAE rules addressing Commotio Cordis. The pads also offer tremendous coverage of the shoulders, as well as removable bicep pads. This is a must get for any attackmen.
STX Cell 4 Shoulder Pads
The Cell line is one of the most popular lines of protection of all time, and the Cell 4 shoulder pads are no different. 25% lighter than it’s predecessors, this is a great option for any player who is looking for increased protection and comfort. There is extended coverage in the shoulders helping to absorb contact. One of our favorite features is the new stretch zones, allowing the pads to float and adjust to your body.
STX Surgeon 700 Shoulder Pads
If you want added shoulder protection compared to regular should pad liners, the Surgeon 700 is perfect for you. It does not feature any bicep pads, while providing extended shoulder protection compared to liners. This is designed more for midfielders and attackmen who are outside shooters.
Maverik Max EKG Speed Shoulder Pad
Like the standard Maverik Max EKG Shoulder Pads, the Speed Shoulder pad is the first liner to feature the EKG pad and be approved for the NOCSAE 2022 rule change. The traditional fit is designed with comfort and mobility in mind. The QuickDry liner wicks moisture away from the skin, and keeps you cool and dry during play.
Nike Vapor Elite Shoulder Pad Liner
The Nike Vapor Elite liner is one of the most popular speed liners on the market due to the wide neck opening, as wel as the light weight non restrictive sternum plating. The low profile padding gives you one of the best fitting pads on the market.
Maverik Rome Speed Shoulder Pad
The Maverik Rome Speed Shoulder Pads are extremely popular amongst our Pros and college guys, this is a good option for both midfielders and defensemen. There is a low neckline and wide neck opening, which allows for the pads to be extremely comfortable.
Maverik Charger EKG Shoulder Pad
The Maverik Charger EKG lacrosse shoulder pad is approved for the new US Lacrosse rules change to enhance heart protection for young athletes. The Maverik Charger EKG is the perfect shoulder pad for the entry level players.
Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad
These are a step up from the Charger version and a step below the best-selling Max Shoulder pads. These wont fit the real little guys but is perfect for 6th-9th graders looking for the best technology in shoulder pads. Made with Maverik's External Kardiac Guard (EKG) their revolutionary pad that meets the new NOCSAE performance standard ND200 to help address commotio cordis. The MX is designed for new players, and to help them reach their highest potential. Our Pro's are impressed with the lightweight, comfortable, and protective shoulder coverage this pad provides. This traditional fit is designed for the younger player to provide comfort and mobility.
If you have any questions about which shoulder pad is best for you, reach out to one of our Pros! We can be reached at 855-255-5294 and questions@lax.com. We’ll see you on the fields!