Best Lacrosse Shoulder Pads of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Lacrosse shoulder pads are an essential piece of equipment for any lacrosse player. Made from durable materials, these pads provide protection to the shoulders, chest, and back during gameplay. They are designed to absorb impact and prevent injuries, while also allowing for a full range of motion. The shoulder pads come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit players of all ages and skill levels. They are a necessary investment for any serious lacrosse player, ensuring safety and comfort during play.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

STX Stallion 75 Shoulder Pads Cover #TOP 1
STX Stallion 75 Shoulder Pads
ftb score rating icon 9.8
STX Stallion 400 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Medium Cover #TOP 2
STX Stallion 400 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Medium
ftb score rating icon 9.7
STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Cover #TOP 3
STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

#TOP 1

STX Stallion 75 Shoulder Pads

STX
SP75
Black/Grey
Medium
STX Stallion 75 Shoulder Pads Cover
STX Stallion 75 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad, Black/Gray, Medium

The STX Stallion 75 Pads are designed to provide beginner lacrosse players with essential shoulder and chest protection. They meet the NOCSAE safety standards, which means you can play with confidence knowing you’re protected. The extensive coverage ensures vital areas are safeguarded while allowing you to move freely. With adjustable features, these pads can fit a variety of body types, ensuring comfort and support during play. Additionally, the modular bicep pads let you customize the fit to match your individual style, enhancing both comfort and performance on the field.

What We Like
Meets NOCSAE safety standards
Extensive coverage for protection
Adjustable fit for comfort
Customizable bicep pads
#TOP 2

STX Stallion 400 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Medium

STX
PD SPT4 02 WE/XX DK
White
Medium
STX Stallion 400 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Medium Cover
STX Lacrosse Stallion 400 Shoulder Pad, Medium

The STX Stallion Shoulder Pad is designed for middle and high school players who want reliable protection and comfort during competitive lacrosse games. Its flexible padding helps shield your chest while allowing you to move freely, meeting important safety standards. The shoulder caps adjust to fit your body perfectly, giving you a custom feel that stays secure. Plus, the pad is built with breaks in key areas so you can stay agile and quick on the field. This pad is a great choice if you’re looking for protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort.

What We Like
Flexible protective padding
Adjustable shoulder caps
Enhanced mobility design
Meets safety standards
#TOP 3

STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

STX
SPC6
White
Medium
STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Cover
STX Cell VI™ Lacrosse Shoulder Pads, Medium

The STX Cell VI Pads offer flexible protection designed for powerful players by using GeoFlex II material, which moves easily with you. The chest protection system is lightweight and slim, so you stay protected without feeling bulky, meeting the latest safety standards. You can easily adjust the shoulder straps to get a snug and comfortable fit, ensuring the pads stay in place during play. Plus, the upgraded premium buckle on the waist provides a secure hold, replacing older models' hooked buckles for better stability. These features combine to give you comfort, safety, and a custom fit on the field.

What We Like
Flexible GeoFlex II material
Lightweight chest protection
Adjustable shoulder straps
Secure premium waist buckle
#TOP 4

STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad

STX
SPT+
Black/Grey
Large
STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Cover
STX Stallion 200+ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad, Black/Grey, Large

The STX Stallion Shoulder Pad is designed especially for young lacrosse players in elementary and middle school who want extra protection. It meets the NOCSAE ND200-22 safety standard, so you can feel confident without feeling weighed down. The hard plastic reinforcement on the shoulders shields you from tough hits and slashes during the game. Plus, the built-in shoulder straps keep your practice pinnie securely in place, preventing it from sliding around and distracting you. This thoughtful design helps you focus on playing your best while staying well-protected on the field.

What We Like
Certified NOCSAE protection
Hard plastic shoulder guards
Integrated pinnie straps
Designed for young players
#TOP 5

STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Liner

STX
SLC6
White
Large
STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Liner Cover
STX Cell VI™ Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Liner, Large

The STX Cell VI Shoulder Pads offer flexible protection with their GeoFlex II material, allowing you to move freely while staying safe on the field. You’ll appreciate the lightweight chest protection system that keeps bulk to a minimum but still meets the latest safety standards, so you’re well guarded without feeling weighed down. The adjustable shoulder straps help you find a perfect, comfortable fit, ensuring the pads stay secure during play. Plus, the upgraded premium buckle on the waist provides a reliable and easy way to fasten the pads, replacing the older hooked system for better convenience and stability.

What We Like
Flexible GeoFlex II material
Lightweight chest protection
Adjustable shoulder straps
Upgraded premium waist buckle
#TOP 6

STX Stallion 450 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad

STX
SP45
White
Large
STX Stallion 450 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Cover
STX Stallion 450 Lacrosse Shoulder Pad, Large

The STX Stallion 450 Pad is designed to keep you protected without weighing you down. Its lightweight and slim design ensures you get solid chest protection while staying agile on the field, so you can move freely without feeling bulky. The padding is shaped to fit your body better, offering more coverage and a comfortable, custom feel as you progress in the sport. Thanks to its smart design with flexible fold points, you’ll enjoy greater mobility, letting you react quickly during play. Plus, the adjustable strap system lets you fine-tune the fit for all-day comfort, so the pad stays secure no matter how intense the game gets.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Custom fit padding
Enhanced mobility
Adjustable straps
#TOP 7

Lacrosse Unlimited STX Stallion 75 Youth Set

Black and White
Lacrosse Unlimited STX Stallion 75 Youth Set Cover
Lacrosse Unlimited 3-Piece STX Stallion 75 USA Youth Starter Set (MD) - MD Gloves, MD Arm Pads, MD Shoulder Pads

The Lacrosse Unlimited Youth Set offers a complete starter kit for young players. It includes medium-sized lacrosse gloves that provide you with essential hand protection and a firm grip on your stick. The set also features medium shoulder pads designed to shield your upper body during play, available in black for a sleek look. Additionally, medium arm pads help protect your arms from impacts, allowing you to play confidently. This set is perfect for beginners looking for reliable gear to stay safe and comfortable on the field.

What We Like
Complete starter gear
Hand protection gloves
Upper body padding
Arm impact guards
#TOP 8

Maverik Max Bicep Pads

black
Large-X-Large
Maverik Max Bicep Pads Cover
Maverik Max Bicep Pads

The Maverik Max Bicep offers strong protection with its tough panels designed to absorb impacts, keeping you safe from hits and slashes during intense lacrosse games. It easily attaches to Maverik EKG shoulder pads, so you can trust it stays securely in place. The adjustable waist strap lets you customize the fit for comfort and stability as you move. Plus, its two-part design helps you stay agile while fully protecting your arms without any gaps, giving you both freedom and security on the field.

What We Like
Strong impact protection
Shoulder pad compatibility
Adjustable secure fit
Enhanced arm mobility
#TOP 9

CROSS101 Camouflage Shoulder Pads for Weighted Vest

CPADS
camouflage
CROSS101 Camouflage Shoulder Pads for Weighted Vest Cover
Cross101 Camouflage Shoulder Pads for Weighted Vest

CROSS101 Shoulder Pads are compatible with all weight vests, adding extra comfort to your shoulders during long distance workouts. Made from 1200d camouflage nylon, they provide a firm shape, strong hold, and are soft to your shoulders. The Velcro attachment is adjustable and secure, making it easy to relieve shoulder pressure. These shoulder pads are the best way to enhance your workout experience and reduce discomfort, allowing you to focus on your training goals.

What We Like
Compatible with all weight vests
Adjustable & secure Velcro attachment
Relieves shoulder pressure
#TOP 10

Unequal Lacrosse CC Right Rib Pad

3205-LAX-CC-RR-PAD
Black
Unequal Lacrosse CC Right Rib Pad Cover
Unequal Lacrosse CC Right Rib Pad

The Unequal Right Rib Pad is designed to provide extra protection to the right side of your torso during lacrosse play. It easily attaches to Unequal Lacrosse Player CC Shoulder Pads or Goalie CC Chest Protectors, so you can customize your gear for better coverage. The pad’s adjustable hook and loop system lets you find a secure fit that won’t limit your movement, keeping you comfortable and agile on the field. Its upper section uses Unequal’s advanced HART CC technology, a special four-layer material that absorbs and spreads out impact energy more effectively than regular pads, helping to reduce the risk of injury during play.

What We Like
Easy attachment system
Adjustable secure fit
Advanced impact absorption
Enhanced rib protection
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do MLL players wear shoulder pads?

Yes, shoulder pads are essential for lacrosse players, including those in Major League Lacrosse (MLL). These pads offer protection against major injuries and are commonly worn by lacrosse players. They resemble shoulder pads used in other contact sports like football or hockey.

2. Are there shoulder pads in lacrosse?

Yes, lacrosse players are required to wear NOCSAE lacrosse shoulder pads as of January 1st, 2022. These shoulder pads meet the highest performance standard and ensure that athletes are adequately protected on the field. You can find a variety of lacrosse shoulder pads at sporting goods stores like DICK'S Sporting Goods.

3. Are bigger shoulder pads better?

No, bigger shoulder pads are not necessarily better in lacrosse. In fact, a larger size and looser fit can make players more susceptible to injury. It is important to choose shoulder pads that fit properly and provide adequate protection, regardless of whether you are a youth or adult player.

4. Should your shoulder pads be tight or loose?

Shoulder pads should fit securely but not be too tight or too loose. The caps of the shoulder pads should cover the shoulder joint area and hang down at least a few inches over the upper arm. The neck opening should be comfortable and secure, without pinching or exposing the collarbone.

5. Do male lacrosse players wear cups?

Yes, male lacrosse players are usually required to wear protective cups. Even when cups are optional, it is recommended for guys to wear them for added protection. Lacrosse sticks are also different for guys and girls, with boys' lacrosse sticks having a deeper pocket to aid in faster ball throwing.

Editor's Notes

During our lacrosse shoulder pad research, we found 24 lacrosse shoulder pad products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,243 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lacrosse shoulder pads list. We found that most customers choose lacrosse shoulder pads with an average price of $113.58.

The lacrosse shoulder pads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lacrosse shoulder pads, including STX, Lacrosse Unlimited, Maverik Lacrosse, CROSS101, Unequal Technologies. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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.