From Quarterback to Tight End, our list of best-selling skill position shoulder pads has something for everyone. We work with players and gear experts to review shoulder pads for protection (how well they protect against impacts), mobility (the pad’s freedom of movement), and comfort/fit (how well they fit a variety of body types). We update our rankings weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.
Schutt Y Flex Football Shoulder Pads are designed to provide varsity-level protection for youth athletes. The increased chest width accommodates larger players, while the T-Hook strap ensures a secure fit. The lightweight arch design enhances range of motion around the shoulders, facilitating catching and blocking. The wider neck opening allows for better pre-snap head positioning and improved line calls, making the Y Flex a top choice for young athletes seeking performance and protection.
The weight on the Y Flex is perfect. Not too heavy but still sturdy enough for tough games and hard hits. They are easy to adjust and provide a wider neck opening that allows a better pre-snap head position. Highly recommend these pads for all positions on the field.
Devon Murray
Riddell Pursuit Shoulder Pads offer a lightweight and comfortable option for young athletes. The flat pad design and integrated deltoid pads provide essential protection without compromising mobility. The Z-Fit belting system ensures a secure and easy-to-adjust fit, while the removable/adjustable bodies allow for customization. With its blend of comfort, protection, and versatility, the Riddell Pursuit is a great choice for aspiring young football players.
The Riddell Pursuits are easy to get on and off and extra breathable. They have pulls for tightening the sides which helps youth players adjust the fit on the fly. If you're a competitive youth player who needs protection and mobility, the Pursuit is well worth it.
Devon Murray
The Riddell Power SPX football shoulder pads offer protection and performance. Featuring the innovative Stac-Shoulder System, these pads provide a customized fit for optimal comfort and impact absorption. The low-profile, flat pad design maximizes coverage while allowing for unrestricted mobility, making the Power SPX ideal for players at all positions. With advanced features like an Air Management Liner System for cooling and swivel fronts for enhanced range of motion, these shoulder pads deliver performance on the field.
The Power SPX is a classic choice for a reason. It's tough, reliable, and offers great protection. The Shock Absorption System is a standout feature, soaking up big hits and keeping players safe. While it might be a bit bulkier than some newer options, it's a tried-and-true pad perfect for players prioritizing protection over pure mobility.
Devon Murray
The Riddell Warrior IIx football shoulder pads deliver protection and comfort for young athletes. Featuring a flat pad design for a low-profile fit and extended arches for superior coverage, these pads offer reliable impact absorption. The Z-Fit easy-fit belting system ensures a secure and customizable fit, while the corrugated epaulets enhance mobility. Lightweight and breathable, the Warrior IIx prioritizes player comfort without sacrificing safety, making it an ideal choice for developing football players.
The Riddell Warrior IIx is a lightweight, comfortable pad that's great for skill players who prioritize mobility. The FlexTech material gives it a good balance of flexibility and protection, but some might find the protection a bit lacking compared to bulkier options. It's a solid choice for players who want to feel fast and agile, but durability and long-term protection might be concerns for some.
Devon Murray
The Champro Scorpion football shoulder pads offer reliable protection and comfort for young athletes. Featuring a cantilever design that disperses impact and high-impact polyethylene arches for added durability, the Scorpion provides a solid defense against hits. The adjustable elastic straps ensure a secure and customizable fit, allowing for optimal comfort and freedom of movement. With its focus on protection and adaptability, the Champro Scorpion is a dependable choice for developing football players.
The Champro Scorpion is a solid choice for young players seeking basic protection. It's a no-frills pad that does the job without breaking the bank. The cantilever design is a standout feature, helping to distribute impact away from the body. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end pads, the Scorpion offers dependable protection for kids just starting in football.
Devon Murray
The Schutt DS Flex football shoulder pads offer a superior blend of protection and flexibility. Featuring Flex-Tech material, these pads provide an exceptional range of motion without compromising player safety. The Shock Sorb padding system absorbs and disperses impact forces, ensuring optimal protection in key impact zones. Designed for athletes seeking a balance of performance and coverage, the DS Flex delivers comfort and confidence on the field.
The Schutt DS Flex is a game-changer for skill players. It's insanely light and flexible, letting you move like you're wearing nothing. The ShockSorb foam does a decent job of protecting you, but expect a lower level of coverage than a bulkier pad. If you prioritize speed and agility, these pads are worth a look. Just be aware they might not be the toughest option out there.
Devon Murray