Best Lacrosse Chest Protectors of 2026
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Lacrosse is a high-energy contact sport, and players must ensure they are fully protected from potential injuries. Chest protectors are a crucial piece of equipment for any lacrosse player, providing protection from stray balls or opponents' sticks. These protectors fit snugly over the chest and torso, and are designed to absorb the impact of any blows. Many models feature adjustable straps for a secure fit and are made from lightweight, breathable materials to ensure comfort during gameplay. With a range of sizes and styles available, every player can find a chest protector that meets their needs and provides the necessary level of protection.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Lacrosse Chest Protectors
Franklin Sports NHL Hockey Goalie Chest Protector
The Franklin Sports NHL Hockey Goalie Chest Protector comes in both Junior and Senior sizing, and features anatomical shoulder & abdominal wrap designs, adjustable elasticized quick-lock back strap, and a polyester mesh outer with rugged nylon binding. It is designed to reduce, but not prevent injury, and is only for use with official 2 5/8" street hockey ball.
STX Shield 200 Lacrosse Goalie Chest Protector
The STX Shield 200 Protector is designed especially for beginner lacrosse goalies, making it a great choice if you're just starting out. It meets the NOCSAE safety standards, so you can trust it provides solid chest protection during games. The chest plate and shoulder caps are made with hard plastic, giving you extra defense against impacts. Plus, the multiple hinges in the design help the protector fit your body comfortably, allowing you to move freely without feeling restricted. This means you can focus on stopping shots without worrying about your gear holding you back.
STX Shield 200 Goalie Chest Protector
The STX Shield 200 Protector is designed to keep you safe while playing lacrosse. It meets the NOCSAE safety standards, ensuring reliable chest protection during intense games. The hard plastic construction on the chest plate and shoulder caps provides extra defense against impacts, giving you peace of mind as you guard the goal. With multiple hinges, this protector offers a snug fit that allows for easy movement, so you can react quickly. An optional stomach pad is also available for those who want added coverage, enhancing your protection even further.
Unequal Lacrosse Goalie CC Chest Protector Medium
The Unequal Lacrosse Chest Protector offers top-notch safety with its SEI certification and compliance with NOCSAE standards, ensuring you are well-protected during play. Its patented HART Protection Zone uses a special four-layer composite that absorbs and disperses impact energy better than typical materials, giving you superior protection against hits. Designed with input from a Hall of Fame goalie, the narrow, non-restrictive design lets you move your arms freely, so your natural athletic movements won’t be limited. Plus, its low-profile shape and removable extender pad protect your chest and abdomen without getting in your way, making it both safe and comfortable to wear.
STX Shield 200 Lacrosse Goalie Chest Protector
The STX Shield 200 Protector is designed especially for beginner lacrosse goalies, giving you reliable protection as you learn the game. It meets the NOCSAE safety standards, ensuring you stay safe during play. The hard plastic chest plate and shoulder caps provide strong defense against impacts, helping you feel confident in the crease. Multiple hinges allow the chest protector to move naturally with your body, giving you the freedom to react quickly and move without limits. This combination of protection and mobility makes the Shield 200 a great choice for anyone starting out in goalie gear.
Zena Sport Youth Chest Protector Vest
The Zena Sport Chest Protector is designed especially for young female athletes aged 7-13 who play contact sports like softball, lacrosse, and football. It features special padding that cushions up to 75% of impacts, helping protect your chest, ribs, and sternum from hits. The vest is made from lightweight, breathable materials that wick away moisture, keeping you comfortable during intense games. Its racerback style offers plenty of freedom to move, so you can play without feeling restricted. Plus, the design is tested and approved by sports research centers, giving you reliable protection on the field.
STX Men's Lacrosse Shield 600 Goalie Chest Protector
The STX Men's Lacrosse Shield 600 Goalie Chest Protector is designed to meet the NOCSAE standard for chest protection while providing better freedom of movement with its floating chest plate and stretch areas. It also features a low profile design. Included components are pads.
STX Lacrosse Shield 400 Chest Protector
The STX Lacrosse Shield 400 Chest Protector is a specialized chest protector designed for advanced lacrosse players. It meets the NOCSAE standard for chest protection, features a floating chest plate for flexibility and mobility, and offers optional additional coverage with removable stomach pad and shoulder caps. The strap system also allows for a wide range of adjustability, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Boob Protect Women’s Impact-Resistant Chest Guard
The Boob Protect Chest Guard offers advanced protection designed specifically for female athletes. It features a hard-shell insert that shields your chest from direct impacts, helping to reduce bruising and prevent long-term injury so you can play without worry. Its thin, flexible design fits smoothly into any sports bra, allowing you to move naturally without feeling restricted. Developed and tested by professional female athletes, this chest guard is trusted worldwide for sports like rugby, soccer, and lacrosse. Plus, its encapsulation technology supports and stabilizes your breasts, absorbing shocks and giving you the confidence to focus fully on your game.
STX Shield 400 Lacrosse Chest Protector
The STX Shield 400 is designed for advanced lacrosse goalies who need reliable protection. It meets the NOCSAE safety standards, ensuring you stay safe during intense games. The floating chest plate moves with your body, giving you the flexibility to react quickly and stay agile. You can also customize your protection with a removable stomach pad and shoulder caps, so you can add extra coverage when you need it. This protector is built to keep you comfortable and secure on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do you need a chest pad for lacrosse?
Yes, a chest pad or chest protector is essential for lacrosse players, especially goalies. It provides protection against high-speed shots that can reach speeds of 110 miles per hour or more. Chest protectors are designed to absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injuries from powerful shots. It is a necessary piece of equipment for all lacrosse players.
2. How do I choose a chest protector?
When choosing a chest protector for lacrosse, it's important to consider the width and adjustability around the body. However, the sleeves are a crucial factor to focus on. Make sure the sleeves are not too long as they can interfere with the movement of the catcher and blocker, and even cause the gloves to fall off. Finding the right balance between protection and mobility is key when selecting a chest protector.
3. Are chest protectors worth it?
Yes, chest protectors are worth it as they are designed to absorb and distribute the force from a striking object, reducing the impact on the player. In lacrosse, chest protectors can help reduce the risk of traumatic structural injuries to the chest, such as rib fractures. They provide an added layer of protection and are an important part of the player's safety gear.
During our lacrosse chest protector research, we found 24 lacrosse chest protector products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,108 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lacrosse chest protectors list. We found that most customers choose lacrosse chest protectors with an average price of $94.74.
The lacrosse chest protectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lacrosse chest protectors, including Franklin Sports, STX, Unequal Technologies, Zena, Boob Protect. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.