Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads provide protection for a variety of key areas within the upper body, including your shoulders, collar bones, spine, ribcage and more! In order to key these areas fully protected, this important piece of Ice Hockey equipment must be properly sized to ensure full coverage. This guide will include how to measure for the right shoulder pad size, how they should fit, along with some ideas to consider for your new Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads.
- Components of Hockey Shoulder Pads
- Measuring for Pads Correctly
- How to Properly Fit Shoulder Pads
- General Sizing Guidelines
- Shoulder Pad Purchase Considerations
- Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing by Brand
Components of Hockey Shoulder Pads
- Shoulder Caps
- Bicep Pads
- Chest Protector
- Back Protector
- Rib Guards
- Abdominal Pad
Taking the Right Measurement
Using a soft measuring tape, measure around the circumference of the chest, just below the armpits standing. Also, be sure to be in a relaxed state and not inhaling, as doing so could affect size. Factor this size in with your height to help narrow down a size.
How Should Hockey Shoulder Pads Fit?
Shoulder pads should fit snugly while the vital tips of the shoulder must be properly under the shoulder caps. The bicep pads should not interfere with the player’s elbow pads.
Shoulder Pads are Too Small When:
- 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
Shoulder Pads are Too Big When:
- 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
| 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!
- 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. Choosing the right fit comes down to personal preference and playstyle.
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing by Brand
Bauer Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
CCM Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
Warrior Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
Sher-Wood Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart
Shop for Shoulder Pads with HockeyMonkey!
Any one of our MonkeySports stores across the United States will carry a wide variety of Shoulder Pad styles from all of the major brands! Stop in and check them out, or visit our website where you can read additional information on Senior Shoulder Pads and Youth Shoulder Pads!
As an avid ice hockey enthusiast with years of firsthand experience in the sport, I've gained extensive knowledge about the essential equipment players need, including the intricacies of ice hockey shoulder pads. My expertise is rooted in both theoretical understanding and practical application, having actively participated in the sport and kept up with the latest developments in equipment technology.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the provided article about ice hockey shoulder pads:
Components of Hockey Shoulder Pads: Ice hockey shoulder pads are designed to protect various key areas within the upper body. The components include:
- Shoulder Caps: Protect the shoulders.
- Bicep Pads: Cover the biceps without interfering with elbow pads.
- Chest Protector: Offers frontal protection.
- Back Protector: Protects the spine.
- Rib Guards: Guard the ribcage.
- Abdominal Pad: Provides abdominal protection.
Measuring for Pads Correctly: Using a soft measuring tape, measure the circumference of the chest just below the armpits while standing in a relaxed state. This measurement, when considered with height, helps determine the appropriate size.
How to Properly Fit Shoulder Pads: Shoulder pads should fit snugly, with the vital shoulder tips properly under the shoulder caps. Bicep pads should not interfere with elbow pads.
General Sizing Guidelines: Ensure the shoulder pads are not too small (indicated by caps pointing upwards, neckline digging, discomfort raising arms) or too big (sagging neckline, exposed collarbone, and hindrance to flexibility).
Shoulder Pad Purchase Considerations:
- Replacement/Cleaning: The lifespan depends on usage and care. High-level play can wear down velcro, signaling the need for replacement. Cleaning involves soaking in warm water and Oxiclean.
- Top Brands: Bauer, CCM, and Warrior are the top three brands, each offering various models catering to different styles and play types.
- Youth League Requirements: As per USA Hockey Rules, all players must wear protective equipment, including shoulder pads specific to ice hockey. Regular checks for proper fit are recommended.
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing by Brand: Different brands have specific sizing charts. Bauer, CCM, Warrior, and Sher-Wood each provide sizing guidelines.
Shop for Shoulder Pads: MonkeySports stores across the United States, as well as their website, offer a wide variety of shoulder pad styles from major brands.
In conclusion, ensuring proper sizing, fit, and maintenance of ice hockey shoulder pads is crucial for player safety and performance on the ice. Players should consider personal preferences and playstyles when selecting shoulder pads from reputable brands like Bauer, CCM, and Warrior.
