Best Football Rib Protectors of 2025

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Football rib protectors are essential for any football player who wants to protect themselves from serious injuries during the game. These protectors are designed to cover the ribs and reduce the impact of any hits or tackles that a player may encounter. They come in a range of sizes and styles, from simple foam pads to more advanced models with hard shells and adjustable straps. Many football rib protectors also feature breathable fabrics to keep players cool and comfortable during intense games. With their ability to provide vital protection to the torso, football rib protectors are a must-have for any serious football player.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Riddell Youth Rib Protector Cover #TOP 1
Riddell Youth Rib Protector
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest Cover #TOP 2
Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Champro Adult Medium Rib Protector Cover #TOP 3
Champro Adult Medium Rib Protector
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Football Rib Protectors

#TOP 1

Riddell Youth Rib Protector

3002740
Black/Silver
Large
Riddell Youth Rib Protector Cover
Youth Rib Protector, Large,Black/Silver

The Riddell Rib Protector is designed to enhance your safety on the football field by providing extra protection for your ribs and lower back when used with shoulder pads. It easily attaches to most shoulder pads, ensuring a secure fit that won’t hinder your movements. With all necessary hardware included, you can set it up quickly and conveniently. As an original equipment manufacturer (O.E.M.) part, you can trust its quality and reliability. This rib protector is essential for any young athlete looking to minimize injury risks while playing the game they love.

What We Like
Extra rib protection
Compatible with most shoulder pads
Easy installation
Quality O.E.M. part
#TOP 2

Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest

FR3VM
Black, Blue
Medium
Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest Cover
Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest (Black, Medium)

The Champro Air Tech 3 Adult Rib Vest provides high impact polyethylene shock plates encased in dual-density foam padding, contouring to the body for improved protection. It is lightweight and ventilated with a mesh construction that allows air flow to prevent heat buildup. Hook & loop closures offer customizable sizing, making it perfect for athletes of any age, size, and ability. The elasticized tail pad increases flexibility, allowing athletes to optimize their mobility and range of motion.

What We Like
Customizable sizing with hook & loop closures
Padded shock plates encased in dual-density foam padding for improved protection
Lightweight and ventilated with a mesh construction for preventing heat buildup
#TOP 3

Champro Adult Medium Rib Protector

FRPAM
BLACK
Adult Medium
Champro Adult Medium Rib Protector Cover
Champro Adult Medium Rib Protector, Black - Fits Players Approximately 100-160 lbs

The Champro Rib Protector is designed for players weighing approximately 100-160 lbs. Its wrap-around design provides extra protection to your ribs and back. This protector easily attaches to shoulder pads with included hardware, ensuring a secure fit. The adjustable hook and loop front closure allow for a custom fit and maximum comfort. The high impact plastic outer layer adds durability and enhanced protection during gameplay.

What We Like
Custom fit
Extra protection
Durable design
#TOP 4

Douglas JP Series 4" Rib Protector

Generic
AJ-RIB
Black
Junior
Douglas JP Series 4" Rib Protector Cover
Douglas Football JP Series 4" Wrap-Around Rib Protector, Black | Junior

The Douglas JP Rib Protector is designed specifically for junior players, providing excellent protection for your torso. Its removable wrap-around pad ensures that you can customize your comfort level while playing. With extra grommet holes, you can easily adjust the height of the rib protector to suit your body size, enhancing your overall fit. Keep in mind that you may need to drill additional holes in your shoulder pads to properly attach the rib protector. This versatility allows you to use it with almost any junior-sized shoulder pads, ensuring you stay safe on the field.

What We Like
Maximum torso protection
Adjustable height for comfort
Compatible with various shoulder pads
Removable wrap-around design
#TOP 5

Under Armour Gameday Armour Pro 5-Pad Top

UA21280
White
Large
Under Armour Gameday Armour Pro 5-Pad Top Cover
Gameday Armour Pro 5-Pad Top White L

The Under Armour 5-Pad Top is designed to provide exceptional protection and comfort during your football games. Its durable HEX pads shield your ribs, spine, and shoulders from impacts, ensuring you stay safe while playing hard. The padding is expertly welded, eliminating any seams for a distraction-free fit that lets you focus on the game. Made with HeatGear fabric, this top offers excellent compression that supports your muscles without restricting movement. Additionally, the breathable material wicks away sweat and dries quickly, keeping you cool and comfortable even during intense play.

What We Like
Durable waterproof pads
Distraction-free comfort
Extreme comfort and compression
Quick-drying and breathable
#TOP 6

XTECH Universal Football Rib Guards

XTECH
Grey
Universal
XTECH Universal Football Rib Guards Cover
XTECH Universal Football Rib Guards - Adjustable Core Guard for Maximum Protection and Performance - for Adult Mens and High School Players - Protective Gear and Accessories (Standard / Skill), Grey

The XTECH Rib Guards are designed to provide exceptional protection and comfort for football players of all levels. With adjustable straps, these guards fit perfectly with XTECH's shoulder pads and most other brands, ensuring a custom fit that allows you to move freely. They are made from advanced lightweight materials, offering maximum safety during impacts without restricting your mobility. Plus, their universal design offers comprehensive protection for your ribs, core, and lower back, making them ideal for any player, especially quarterbacks who need to shield themselves from tough hits.

What We Like
Custom fit with adjustable straps
Lightweight for mobility
Universal protection for all players
Popular among pro athletes
#TOP 7

Schutt Youth Football Rib Protector

79811105N0506
Neon Blue
Large
Schutt Youth Football Rib Protector Cover
Schutt Sports Youth Football Rib Protector, Neon Blue, Large

The Schutt Rib Protector offers essential safety and comfort for young football players. Its ventilated high-density EVA foam padding ensures protection while allowing breathability, keeping you cool during intense games. You can wear it with the included harness or easily attach it to your shoulder pads with the provided hardware, offering flexibility in how you gear up. The design includes ventilation in both the fabric and padding, promoting consistent airflow. It is compatible with all youth Schutt shoulder pads and most competitor's models, making it a versatile choice for young athletes.

What We Like
High-density foam padding
Ventilated for comfort
Flexible attachment options
Compatible with various shoulder pads
#TOP 8

EvoShield Youth Sleeveless Rib Shirt

Black
Medium
EvoShield Youth Sleeveless Rib Shirt Cover
EvoShield Youth Sleeveless Rib Shirt and Shields - Black, Medium

The EvoShield Rib Shirt offers a lightweight design that keeps you cool on warm days. Its compression fit ensures that the shirt hugs your body, providing support where you need it most. With innovative Gel-to-Shell Technology, the material transforms from a soft gel into a customized shield within just 30 minutes, adapting to your specific shape. Additionally, moisture-wicking properties help manage sweat, keeping you dry and focused during intense activities. This combination of features makes the EvoShield Rib Shirt an excellent choice for athletes looking for comfort and protection.

What We Like
Lightweight and breathable fabric
Customizable fit
Moisture management
Enhanced support
#TOP 9

Champro Air Tech 3 Rib Vest

FR3VYM
Black, Blue
Medium
Champro Air Tech 3 Rib Vest Cover
Champro Air Tech 3 Rib Vest (Black, Youth/Medium)

The Champro Air Tech 3 Rib Vest is a lightweight and ventilated football rib protector designed to provide improved protection and comfort for athletes. The vest features padded shock plates made of high impact polyethylene, which are encased in dual-density foam padding to contour to the body and absorb impact. This helps to reduce the risk of injury during intense gameplay. The mesh construction of the vest allows for air flow, preventing heat buildup and keeping the athlete cool and comfortable. With customizable sizing options, athletes can easily find their perfect fit using the hook and loop closures. The elasticized tail pad increases flexibility, allowing athletes to optimize their mobility and range of motion on the field. Available in a range of sizes, the Champro Air Tech 3 Rib Vest is suitable for athletes of any age, size, and ability.

What We Like
Padded shock plates
Ventilated mesh construction
Customizable sizing options
#TOP 10

Douglas Football Rib Pad Protector Combo

AD2-RIB4
Black / White
Douglas Football Rib Pad Protector Combo Cover
Douglas Football Adult/Junior Adjustable 4" Destroyer-2 D2 Rib Pad Protector Combo (Black/White)

The Douglas Rib Pad Combo is a versatile and protective accessory for football players. It features a removable wrap-around rib pad protector, which provides maximum torso protection and safeguards vulnerable lower sides from dangerous hits, making it ideal for Running Backs. The extra grommet holes allow players to easily adjust the Rib Combo Protector to a comfortable position based on their size and height. This Rib Pad Combo fits most shoulder pads ranging from Youth XL to Adult XXL, and it comes with mounting hardware included. With its 4-inch model, this combo delivers excellent coverage and security on the field. Stay protected and confident with the Douglas Rib Pad Combo.

What We Like
Maximum torso protection
Adjustable for personalized fit
Compatible with most shoulder pads
Buying Guide Image

Explore Your Options of Football Rib Protectors

Why Should You Wear Rib Protectors?

Rib protectors, also known as rib guards, are an important piece of equipment for football players. They help protect the ribcage from impact and reduce the risk of rib injuries, which can be painful and potentially serious.

Choosing the Right Size and Fit

When choosing a rib protector, it's important to make sure it fits properly. It should be snug, but not too tight, and should allow for full range of motion. You should be able to move freely and comfortably without the rib protector interfering with your movements.

To find the right size, measure the circumference of your chest just below the pectoral muscles. This will give you a good starting point for finding a rib protector that fits properly. It's always a good idea to try on the rib protector before purchasing it to make sure it fits well.

Material and Construction

Rib protectors are typically made from a combination of foam and plastic. The foam provides cushioning to help absorb impacts, while the plastic provides structure and support. Look for rib protectors that are made from high-quality materials and are constructed well. This will help ensure that they provide the maximum amount of protection.

Ventilation and Comfort

In addition to providing protection, it's also important for a rib protector to be comfortable to wear. Look for rib protectors that have ventilation holes or other features that help keep you cool and dry during games and practices. This will help you stay comfortable and focused on the game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rib protectors are an important piece of equipment for football players. They help protect the ribcage from impact and reduce the risk of rib injuries. When choosing a rib protector, it's important to consider the size and fit, the material and construction, and the ventilation and comfort. With the right rib protector, you can stay safe and comfortable on the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do football players wear to protect their ribs?

Football players have two options for rib protection: traditional rib protectors and padded compression shirts or vests. Traditional rib protectors come with harnesses or straps to ensure a secure fit. Padded compression shirts or vests offer a more streamlined and comfortable option for rib protection.

2. What rib protectors do NFL QBs wear?

NFL quarterbacks commonly wear flak jackets for rib protection during games. Flak jackets are also used by other football players like running backs and wide receivers to protect their ribs. These jackets have become well-regarded across the sport for providing additional safety and preventing serious rib injuries.

3. Why do quarterbacks wear rib protectors?

Quarterbacks wear rib protectors to reduce the risk of serious rib injuries during American football games. These protectors offer additional protection or support following an injury. However, some offensive players may choose not to wear them if they believe it hinders their athletic performance.

4. Can a QB play with bruised ribs?

Playing with bruised ribs can be challenging for quarterbacks as the rib cage provides stability to the shoulder and scapula. On average, players with one or two injured ribs miss 1-2 games. Quarterbacks tend to take longer to return to the field, with an average absence of 3.5-5 weeks.

5. Why do quarterbacks put black under one eye?

Quarterbacks and other football players apply black grease or strips under their eyes, known as eye black, to reduce glare. While its effectiveness is not conclusively proven, it is commonly used to mitigate the effects of bright sunlight or stadium floodlights in sports like American football, baseball, softball, and lacrosse.

6. Do NFL players play with broken ribs?

NFL players often play with partially healed ribs, typically after around three weeks. While it takes about six weeks for broken ribs to fully heal, players may return to the field before complete recovery. However, the decision to play with broken ribs depends on the severity of the injury and the player's ability to perform.

Editor's Notes

During our football rib protector research, we found 24 football rib protector products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,941 customer reviews through our big data system to write the football rib protectors list. We found that most customers choose football rib protectors with an average price of $50.84.

The football rib protectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of football rib protectors, including Riddell, CHAMPRO, Under Armour, XTECH, Schutt. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.