You don’t need me to remind you that lacrosse is a contact sport, but it is also one of the fastest sports on two feet. Striking that balance between protection and speed can be difficult, and you will no doubt find yourself vulnerable in certain areas.
Luckily, you can supplement the required lacrosse pads with extra gear to keep you safe.
Two forms of optional equipment are rib pads and kidney pads. These guard players from painful rib and kidney injuries that often occur when getting hit with a shot or slashed in the mid-section.
This guide covers the best lacrosse rib pads and kidney pads currently on the market and what to consider before purchasing.
Table of Contents
Best Lacrosse Rib Pads & Kidney Pads
Rib pads and kidney pads are very similar to one another but do have some major differences in functionality and coverage.
In brief, rib pads provide more mobility but with less protection making them a great option for field play. Meanwhile, kidney pads offer more protection but with less mobility making them better for box lacrosse.
Both are included in our list below as they can technically be interchangeable between field and box play, but we will include a recommended primary use (field vs. box) for each.
As always, we scoured the market to find the best rib and kidney pad options for field and box lacrosse available, looking at the specs, pricing, and player feedback to compile our list.
NOTE: We’ve found that rib pads are regularly out of stock at online retailers or many sizes are out of stock. We recommend checking Lacrosse Monkey to see what’s currently in stock.
Best Lacrosse Rib & Kidney Pads:
- STX Stallion 200 Lacrosse Rib Pads
- Epoch Integra X Box Lacrosse Kidney Pads
- Under Armour Spectre Kidney Pad
- Warior Fatboy Box Lacrosse Rib Pad
- Warior Fatboy Next Youth Box Lacrosse Rib Pab
- Epoch iD X Lacrosse Kidney Pads
- Maverick Rome Lacrosse Rib Pad
- Brine Youth Uprising II Lacrosse Rib Pad
- Maverick Charger Rib Pad
1) STX Stallion 200 Lacrosse Rib Pads
Drip Level: 5/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box & Field
- Age range: Youth
- Key Features:
- 360° coverage
- Hard plastic protection
- Adjustable straps for a customized fit
The Stallion 200 Lacrosse Rib Pads are a great low-profile offering from STX to work alongside youth players’ shoulder pads.
360° coverage with hard plastic reinforcement at key impact areas absorb the force of those hits and checks that could easily sideline you from action. Adjustable straps make the fit customizable to what works best for you in movement and feel.
The only drawbacks are some potential exposure around the belly and this being an older offering on the market.
Otherwise, the Stallion 200 is a great option for youth players with an eye to split their play between the needs of field and box lacrosse.
Pros
- Low-profile to compliment shoulder and chest pads
- Comfortable fit thanks to customizability
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Belly is a bit exposed
- Older offering (2019 release)
2) Epoch Integra X Box Lacrosse Kidney Pads
Drip Level: 4.9/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box
- Age range: Youth to Adult
- Key Features:
- Phase Change Technology for moisture control
- Thermoplastic shells and foam for protection
- Removable abdominal pad
The Epoch Integra X is a great option for any box lacrosse player in the market for extra kidney protection.
Built-in Phase Change Technology keeps heat transferring efficiently off your torso to protect against moisture build up. This lining also houses the thermoplastic shells and foam that absorb the brunt of force in every check you experience.
A continuous, wrapping torso pad leaves no gaps in protection to your midsection while an additional abdominal piece makes 360° coverage actually means 360° coverage.
The rub with the Integra X comes down to its clunkier profile in comparison to other options on the market. Additionally, these kidney pads are relatively expensive as they are one of the higher-end pads on our list.
But, hey, if you have the cash and want full torso protection, the Integra X is a great option to complement your primary padding.
Pros
- Extra abdominal protection
- Continuous torso padding in midsection wrap
- Targeted padding to key impact zones
Cons
- Thicker profile than other options
- On the expensive end of the spectrum
3) Under Armour Spectre Kidney Pad
Drip Level: 4.8/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box
- Age range: Youth to Adult
- Key Features:
- “Molded Skin” technology
- HeatGear tech for moisture protection
- High impact triple-density foam
- Fully adjustable straps
Under Armour enters the fray with their Spectre Kidney Pad, a great option for any box players looking to guard their vital organs.
Triple-density foam provides the necessary protection expected in a kidney pad while not bearing the additional weight of heavier material. This contributes to the low-profile design that offers both protection and flexibility.
The knocks would be that the position of the front side pads may leave some vulnerability to a player’s upper ribs. Additionally, this newer foam technology does not have as much feedback on its durability.
Still, the Spectre Kidney Pad is a great option for box players looking for some added peace of mind when absorbing those stray checks to the body.
Pros
- Low profile design for protection and flexibility
- Reduced weight to match flexibility
- Dense foam protection is strong but lightweight
- Customizable fit
Cons
- Unknown durability of foam
- Some upper rib exposure
4) Warrior Fatboy Box Lacrosse Rib Pad
Drip Level: 4.8/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box
- Age range: Youth to Adult
- Key Features:
- Super-tough thermoplastic outer shell
- Easy clip system
- Break/fold points for full wrapping coverage
Warrior’s Fatboy Box Lacrosse Rib Pad brings a streamlined, zero-frills construction to rib and kidney pad market.
The Fatboy employs tough thermoplastic padding around key impact zones that match the durability of normal plastic shells but at a lighter weight. Strategic break and fold points in the padding allow for full wrapping coverage with less obtrusiveness.
The clip system and overall low profile of the shoulder element stand out with this pad as demonstrations of reliability without the extra girth of other pads out there.
The biggest knock on the Fatboy is the price—this is easily the most expensive pad on our list, probably thanks to the fact that it is also newer than most which does mean there is less feedback out there on its performance.
Overall, the Fatboy is a really solid candidate for extra protection especially for any older box players out there seeking something with an ultra-low profile to complement their primary gear.
Pros
- Thermoplastic shell in key impact zones
- Clip system is durable, easy, and secure
- Mesh shoulder component for unobtrusive wear
Cons
- Most expensive rib/kidney pad on this list
- Relatively new so not a lot of feedback
5) Warrior Fatboy Next Youth Box Lacrosse Rib Pad
Drip Level: 4.8/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box
- Age range: Youth
- Key Features:
- Durable plastic and high-density foam shell
- Mesh shoulder straps for comfort
- Easy-to-use clip system
Another Warrior product here with the Fatboy Next Youth Box Lacrosse Rib Pad—an option specifically designed for youth players in the box game.
This version of the Fatboy has plastic and foam padding for increased protection while maintaining comfort and flexibility in the wear. The easy clip system makes this not only an unobtrusive wear but easily adjustable as a player grows.
But as adjustable as it is, there is an end date to this pad’s usefulness as a player moves towards the higher/older level of the sport. Also, the main midsection pad has a relatively rigid shape that may leave some exposure at the top.
Still, this youth version of the Fatboy is a solid entry-level rib pad at half the price of its more adult counterpart and worthy of consideration for any young box player.
Pros
- Designed and sized specifically for developing youth players
- Fitted plastic and foam for increased protection and comfort
- Easily adjustable as players grow
Cons
- Young players will eventually grow out of them
- Rigid shape/protective area around midsection may reduce mobility
6) Epoch iD X Lacrosse Kidney Pads
Drip Level: 4.6/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Box
- Age range: Youth to Adult
- Key Features:
- Phase Change Technology for moisture control
- Thermoplastic shells and foam for protection
- Adjustable strap system for a customized fit
The Epoch iD X is a toned-down version of the company’s Integra offering but offers much of the same amenities as its counterpart.
A stripped-down profile and adjustable strapping make the fit of the iD X much less intrusive and overall comfortable for the wearer. Continuous padding and angled edges along the front sides provide a solid area of protection supplemented with thermoplastic and foam.
But the transition between pads in the iD may leave some slivers of torso vulnerable due to developed gaps in coverage. Additionally, the iD lacks the abdominal pad offered with the Integra.
Still, if the Integra intrigued you but the price point was too little high, the iD X is a great alternative that can save you some cash.
Pros
- Continuous padding in key frontal impact zones
- Customizable fit to your comfort and needs
- Extra padding in key impact zones
Cons
- Potential gaps between front and side paddings
- Lack of an abdominal pad like its counterpart
7) Maverik Rome Lacrosse Rib Pad
Drip Level: 4.6/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Field
- Age range: Youth to Adult
- Key Features:
- Stretchable material for increased flexibility
- Adjustable elastic suspender straps
- Ventilated base foam and Quikdry lining for moisture protection
We take on the field game again with the Maverik Rome Rib Pad—anoter option that is suitable for all age ranges.
Stretchable connective material between minimally separated pads gives a cohesive surface area to the pad with a customizable element in the adjustable suspenders.
For additional comfort, these pads are heavily ventilated from the foam to the liner, keeping you dry and moisture-free.
The drawbacks come with the opposite side of the minimal pad separation—this causes a wider, bulkier fit given the size of each pad. Unfortunately, the pads also have a narrow appearance that leaves less top to bottom coverage area.
Even so, if you’re looking for a rib pad to go with to primarily employ on the field, you can’t go wrong with the Maverik Rome Rib Pad.
Pros
- Minimal pad separation
- Customizable fit
- Heavily ventilated for comfort
Cons
- Wider, bulkier fit
- Less top-to-bottom coverage
8) Brine Youth Uprising II Lacrosse Rib Pad
Drip Level: 4.5/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Field
- Age range: Youth
- Key Features:
- Multiple padding breaks for increased mobility
- Adjustable straps for a customized fit
Brine offers up the Youth Uprising II Lacrosse Rib Pad for extra protection for your young player.
The Uprising II uses multiple segments of padding that provide a more malleable fit but are layered in a manner that does not leave gaps in the protection.
The major knock on this pad is that it is a much older model (August 2013). As it is older, the protective elements are a softer foam material that does not match up to the weight and quality of more recent pads.
Still, if you want a trusted name in lacrosse and a pad that will protect but not overly weigh down the development of your young player, look no further than the Uprising II Rib Pad.
Pros
- Relationship between separate pads leaves few gaps in protection
- Customizable fit thanks to the adjustability
Cons
- Much older model (August 2013)
- Soft foam rather than stiffer material
9) Maverik Charger Rib Pad
Drip Level: 4.5/5
Key Details
- Recommended for: Field
- Age range: Youth
- Key Features:
- Adjustable hook and loop closure for a proper fit
- Flexible material to reduce movement inhibition
Maverik is looking out for the youngest and smallest players entering the game with their Charger Rib Pad.
The Charger features a customizable fit with adjustable hooks and loops to better secure the rib pad. This makes it a solid choice for young players to grow with.
The rub with the Charger is the narrow protective area provided. Even for a young player, this does not quite give enough protection. The material used here is also softer foam that may be outdated.
If you’re not looking to break the bank and want a decent addition to your young player’s protection on the field, the Charger Rib Pad checks all boxes.
Pros
- Most inexpensive offering on this list
- Adjustable fit
- Specifically designed for young players
Cons
- Least protection on this lst
- Made of soft foam
Lacrosse Rib Pad Buying Guide
As always, we know there are options out there beyond our list so we like to provide you with the tools and things to consider when it comes to going off book to find an appropriate rib or kidney pad.
1) Rib Pads for Box or Field?
The big difference here comes from necessity—box lacrosse requires additional protection given the intensity of the sport and increased close-quarter contact when it comes to the size of the playing field.
Box players should look into rib and kidney pads as a means of limiting potential injury in the faster, more physical iteration of the sport.
For field players, rib and kidney protection are less of a necessity. There is less contact on the field but rib injuries are always a possibility.
Youth players and those who want some extra peace of mind on the field, as well as those who have a history of rib injuries, should definitely look into purchasing this extra protection.
2) Comfort & Flexibility
Do not underestimate the importance of comfort and flexibility when it comes to padding. There is nothing worse than a clunky set of padding, especially for something that often isn’t required.
You should keep an eye out for the relationship between padding elements to weigh what may conform best to your torso shape. Adjustable elements in down and cross strapping are also important to look for.
3) Durability
Given that the ribs are hit less than the arms and shoulders, rib pads will likely endure less wear and tear than your other, more primary protective gear.
But that does not mean that durability is something to overlook. Many of the pads above and those outside of our list employ elements that are more prone to deterioration, from suspender buckles to Velcro straps to additional add-on elements. It is important to be cognizant of these elements and their potential for malfunction over time.
Unfortunately, beyond customer reviews, durability may be tough to judge from just an online photo and product listing. Seeing and feeling the item are the best markers of craftsmanship. But you can also look out for elements such as stitching, lining and the overall layout of the item that may provide visual cues to the quality.
Price and the name of the manufacturer are your next indicators of overall durability and quality of a rib pad or any other gear you plan to purchase. Odds are, the cheaper the price point, the cheaper the quality of material, so this is something to keep in mind.
Additionally, you can look into the durability historically for the manufacturer behind the pad to get some insight into their track record for such items. Well-known brands such as STX, Warrior, Epoch, and Maverik are always good options when it comes to any lacrosse gear.
4) Breathability
Looking for things such as moisture-wicking liners and mesh connectors can be extremely important in guaranteeing a comfortable wear, especially in hot weather. Such elements will make sure you’re not weighed down with sweat as play drags on.
Breathability is also an important element in limiting the dreaded smell that can present itself after long-term use.
5) Customer Reviews
We cannot stress this enough—customer reviews are one of the most important insights into the quality and long-term durability of every product you plan to buy for lacrosse, including rib and kidney pads.
Even though they aren’t required, many players still choose to get rib or kidney pads for lacrosse. There is a good chance some of their feedback will answer the questions you are looking for, from how a pad wears to the strength of its protection.
Put in the effort by reading or watching as many reviews as you can, whether through retail sites, YouTube videos, or even first-hand feedback from a teammate.
Customer reviews can be your window into knowing how an item wears or the quality of its construction before you buy it, because there is nothing worse than purchasing a product and what arrives is not what you expected.
And, as always, we do ask that you pay it forward—leave your own perspective on the product page and let other prospective customers know why a certain pad may be great or why it would be better to steer clear.
6) Budget
Find something that fits your budget…this is always key.
Rib pads are a supplemental item so it is probably something you do not need to break the bank for, especially since there are so many good options that are reasonably priced.
Given that not every player uses rib pads, there are more opportunities to see such items go on sale given overstocking. Be on the lookout for potential deals through web and brick-and-mortar retail outlets.
Lacrosse Rib Pad Size Chart
Here is an estimated lacrosse rib pad size chart. Check with the manufacturer of the specific product you are considering to make sure you purchase the correct size:
| Size | Height |
|---|---|
| XS | <5’0” |
| SM | 5’0” – 5’6” |
| MD | 5’6” – 5’11” |
| LG | 5’6” – 6’2” |
| XL | 6’3” – 6’6” |
How We Rate Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend products that we would use ourselves.
To come up with our ratings for each product, we test the product ourselves whenever possible, review product specifications (weight, materials used, etc.), and read customer reviews/talk to lacrosse players we know that use the product.
If you ever have any feedback for any of the products listed on this page or have a recommended addition, please contact us and let us know!
Other Gear Guides
Here at Lax Drip, we have many other gear guides to help you find your perfect fit. Here are some you may be interested in:
Leave a Reply