10 Best Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)

Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads Buying Guide : What You Need To Know

*Our top pick for the best Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

Attributes Of High Quality Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

- Thick padding for protection.
- Adjustable straps for a snug fit.
- Breathable material to keep the player cool and dry.

How To Choose The Best Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

If you're a hockey player, then you know that shoulder pads are an essential part of your equipment. They protect your shoulders, chest and upper back from impact, and can help prevent injuries. But with so many different types and brands of shoulder pads on the market, how do you choose the right ones for you?

Here are some tips to help you choose the best ice hockey shoulder pads:

1. Consider your position.

The first thing to consider when choosing shoulder pads is your position. Forwards and defensemen need different types of protection, so it's important to choose pads that are designed for your position. Forwards need more protection for their upper body, while defensemen need more coverage for their lower body.

2. Know your size.

Shoulder pads come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to know your measurements before you buy. Use a tape measure to determine the circumference of your chest and waist, and then consult a size chart to find the right size pads for you. It's always better to err on the side of too big rather than too small.

3. Try them on.

Once you've determined your size, it's time to try on some shoulder pads! Put on a shirt or jersey over the pads to get a feel for how they fit and move with you. Make sure you can raise your arms overhead without the pads restricting your movement. And be sure to bend, twist and squat in them to ensure they won't impede your range of motion on the ice.

4. Choose the right level of protection.

There are three main types of shoulder pads: entry level, mid-level and high-level. Entry level pads are typically less expensive and offer less protection than mid- or high-level pads. They're a good choice for recreational players or those just starting out in hockey. Mid-level pads offer more protection than entry level pads but are still relatively affordable. They're a good choice for competitive players who want more than basic protection but don't want to spend a lot of money on their equipment. High-level pads offer the most protection but also come with a higher price tag. They're often used by professional or elite level players who need the highest level of protection possible.

5. Consider your budget.

Shoulders pads can range in price from around $30 to $300 or more, so it's important to consider your budget when choosing which ones to buy. If you're just starting out in hockey, entry level shoulder pads may be all you need (and can afford). But if you're an experienced player looking for maximum protection, you'll likely need to spend more money on high-end shoulder pads.

What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

When choosing the best ice hockey shoulder pads, there are a few things you will want to avoid in order to make sure you are getting the most out of your purchase. First and foremost, avoid shoulder pads that do not fit properly. It is essential that your shoulder pads fit snugly and do not slide around on your shoulders, as this can lead to serious injury.

Another thing to avoid when choosing ice hockey shoulder pads is opting for the cheapest option available. While it may be tempting to save a few dollars by going with the cheapest pair of shoulder pads on the market, this is often a false economy. Cheap shoulder pads are likely to be made from inferior materials and construction, meaning they will not offer the same level of protection as more expensive options. In the long run, it is worth spending a little extra on a quality pair of shoulder pads that will offer you the best possible protection.

Finally, avoid shoulder pads that restrict your range of motion. While some padding is necessary for safety reasons, too much padding can actually limit your ability to move freely and react quickly on the ice. This can put you at a disadvantage during game play, so it is important to choose shoulder pads that strike a balance between protection and mobility. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you choose the best ice hockey shoulder pads for your needs.

Additional Details

As a result of our extensive research into the best Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads, we discovered 34 products and condensed that list down to the top 10 products. Using our state-of-the-art AI powered system, we've collected and anayzed 3,678 customer reviews, compared 1,673 product features, and cross-examined 276 product specifications. From this data, we've discovered that most customers purchase Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads that costs around $18.99 and have an average customer rating of 81%.