Best Lacrosse Shoulder Pads & Liners Reviewed
17 ND200-certified shoulder pads and liners for every position and age, with specs, pros and cons, and the pads you can order today at BattleLax.
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Just like with goalie chest protectors, lacrosse took a big step forward when it adopted the NOCSAE ND200 standard for upper body protection, which is designed to help prevent commotio cordis, cardiac arrest from a blow to the chest.
The standard became mandatory for field players at all levels on January 1, 2022. That made a ton of older shoulder pads illegal overnight and left a lot of players hunting for legal replacements. To help, we went through the pads and liners that meet ND200 and found the best options for every level. New to the game? Start with our lacrosse equipment guide.
Whether you grew up getting cross-checked into the boards up in Ontario, taking long-pole slashes on the fields around Virginia Beach or diving for ground balls in a sleet storm in upstate New York, you know your shoulder pads take a beating. We looked at price, protection, mobility and player feedback, and every pad on this list meets ND200.
Quick note: "full shoulder pads" usually have removable bicep guards and more shoulder protection, while liners skip the arm protection, have smaller shoulder pads and are built for maximum mobility.
Coach's note: I've watched plenty of kids show up to the first practice of the season with pads they wore two years ago, the straps barely reaching and the chest plate sitting at their belly button. A pad that doesn't fit doesn't protect. Make sure the chest plate covers your sternum, the caps sit on your shoulders, and you can still throw a full overhand without the pad riding up. Check the fit every season. Kids grow.
Our top picks
- Best liner: Maverik Shift EKG Speed
- Best full pad: Maverik Shift EKG
- Best value: Maverik M5 EKG Speed
- Best hybrid: STX Stallion 900
- Best youth pad: Maverik MX EKG
Compare all 17 shoulder pads
| # | Pad | Type | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Maverik Shift EKG Speed | Liner | 5/5 | Alt |
| 02 | Maverik Shift EKG | Full pad | 5/5 | 169.99 |
| 03 | Maverik M5 EKG Speed | Liner | 5/5 | 79.99 |
| 04 | Nike Vapor Elite | Liner | 4.9/5 | Alt |
| 05 | STX Stallion 900 | Hybrid | 4.9/5 | Alt |
| 06 | Maverik Max EKG Speed | Liner | 4.6/5 | 139.99 |
| 07 | STX Cell VI | Full pad | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 08 | STX Cell 5 | Liner | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 09 | STX Stallion 450 | Full pad | NR | Alt |
| 10 | STX Cell 5 | Full pad | 4.8/5 | Alt |
| 11 | Maverik M6 EKG | Full pad | NR | Alt |
| 12 | Maverik M5 EKG | Full pad | 4.7/5 | Alt |
| 13 | Nike Vapor LT | Full pad | NR | Alt |
| 14 | Nike Vapor | Full pad | 4.4/5 | Alt |
| 15 | Maverik MX EKG | Youth | 5/5 | 99.99 |
| 16 | STX Stallion 200+ | Youth | 4.6/5 | Alt |
| 17 | Maverik Charger EKG | Youth | 4.6/5 | 74.99 |
A price goes to the pad on BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest pad BattleLax has in stock. NR means not rated.
Best lacrosse shoulder pad liners
Liners are for players who want ND200 protection with as little bulk as possible. Poles and middies live in these.
1. Maverik Shift EKG Speed Shoulder Pad Liner Top pick
A trimmed-down liner with serious heart protection and almost no bulk.
The Maverik Shift EKG Speed Pad tops our list of the best lacrosse shoulder pads. It improves on the popular M5 liner and gives you great protection without slowing you down.
Like the M5, the star of the show is the Anaform chest plate that protects your heart and the area around it. It sits on the outside of the pad, so you barely notice it, even though it's pretty big.
Besides the chest plate, you get some padding on your shoulders and sides, and that's about it. It's a stripped-down liner built for guys who want maximum mobility.
The QuickDry liner does a great job wicking sweat and keeping you dry. That might not sound like a big deal, but sweat-soaked pads really slow you down by the fourth quarter.
Overall, the Shift EKG Speed is very comfortable and still protects well. For middies, LSMs and defensemen, it's our top pick.
Key features: 4-point ball deflection system · QuickDry liner wicks away sweat · DuraStretch panels for mobility · Anaform chest plate protects the heart
- Great mobility
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Protective for a liner
- Very light
- On the expensive side
- Big Anaform chest plate
Who it's for: Middies, LSMs and poles who want ND200 protection with the least bulk possible.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik Shift EKG Speed. Maverik's newer speed pad, the Maverik M7 EKG Speed Pad ($129.99), is the one they stock.
3. Maverik M5 EKG Speed Shoulder Pad Liner Best value
An older liner that's still one of the most comfortable pads you can wear.
The Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad is a little older than the Shift line, but it's still an awesome pick if you like a liner. It's built for mobility but protects better than most liners.
The Anaform chest plate is the focus, protecting your heart and the area around it. Better yet, it sits on the outside of the pad, so it doesn't change how the inside lays on your chest.
Big arm openings give you almost full mobility. Whether you're shooting, laying checks or bending for a ground ball, the M5 won't hold you back.
We found the QuickDry liner really good at wicking sweat. I never felt like my pads were wet or getting heavier, even when I was sweating buckets.
Overall, the M5 EKG Speed Pad is extremely comfortable, and plenty of high school and college players have worn it for good reason.
Key features: QuickDry liner wicks away sweat · DuraStretch panels for mobility · Anaform chest plate protects the heart
- Great mobility
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Protective for a liner
- Very light
- Some players have trouble with the straps
- Big Anaform chest plate
Who it's for: Players who want a proven, comfortable liner at a great price.
At BattleLax: In stock and on sale. Grab the Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad ($79.99) straight from BattleLax.
4. Nike Vapor Elite Shoulder Pad Liner Most mobile
The most mobility and the least protection on this list.
Nike's Vapor Elite Liner gives you the most mobility and the least protection of any pad on this list.
This ultra-scaled-down liner protects the key areas, with added reinforcement on the chest to meet ND200. It drops everything extra so it's as light and flexible as it gets.
All that stripping down comes at a cost, though. Players have noted a lack of back protection. The pad does wrap around the back, but the cushioning is questionable.
The Vapor Elite Liner is a great pick for a confident defenseman who doesn't need extra coverage for the worst case. Basically, a pole who isn't backing into windup shots from the top of the box.
Key features: Ultra-light, flexible padding · Adjustable straps · Built-in ventilation
- Ultra-scaled-down
- Light and flexible
- Trusted Nike quality
- Least protection of any liner here
- Pricey for a liner
Who it's for: Confident poles who want almost nothing on their shoulders.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Nike Vapor Elite. For a light, low-profile liner they stock, go with the Warrior Evo V Shoulder Pad Liner ($139.99).
6. Maverik Max EKG Speed Shoulder Pad Liner The original
One of the original ND200 liners, and still a no-frills favorite.
The Maverik Max EKG Speed Liner was one of the first ND200-certified pads on the market, and it's more than proven its staying power.
It features the External Kardiac Guard, a reinforced plate over the center of your sternum designed to reduce the risk of commotio cordis from a hit. It's light and doesn't restrict the rest of the pad.
Anaform plates on the front and back cover the vulnerable spots, so you get protection you can trust.
Being the OG also means it may be a generation behind newer pads. The main knock is the width of the shoulder strap. Some players say it gets in the way on a big overhand windup.
Otherwise, the sleek design makes it a perfect pick for poles who don't need any extra coverage.
Key features: External Kardiac Guard (EKG) · Traditional fit for comfort and mobility · Adjustable ComfortFit arch · QuickDry tech · Anaform plates
- Front and back protection
- Customizable fit
- Light and mostly unrestrictive
- No-frills build
- Wide top strap
Who it's for: Poles who want a simple, proven liner.
At BattleLax: BattleLax carries the newest version, the Maverik Max Speed Pad 2028 ($139.99), with Air Core foam and the EKG plate.
8. STX Cell 5 Shoulder Pad Liner
Built for range of motion, with a chest plate on the inside.
STX released the Cell 5 line in 2021, and it really pushed the tech in their protective gear.
The Cell 5 Liner is all about mobility, with GeoFlex II and 7-point stretch zones. Those, plus fewer pads than the full version, give you the ultimate range of motion.
On the downside, the chest plate (which it needs for ND200) sits on the inside, so the pad doesn't lie flush on your chest. It's not a huge deal, but we find it less comfortable than the M5.
Overall, the Cell 5 Liner is a great pick if you want maximum mobility and don't mind a little less protection. It's a favorite with middies, LSMs and defensemen.
Key features: GeoFlex II for flexible protection · T.A.C. system to customize the fit · 7-point stretch zones
- All about mobility
- Easy to adjust
- Low-profile pads
- Inside chest plate keeps it from lying flat
Who it's for: Middies, LSMs and poles who want maximum range of motion.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Cell 5. For a low-profile liner they stock, go with the Warrior Evo V Shoulder Pad Liner ($139.99).
Best full and hybrid shoulder pads
Full pads add shoulder caps and bicep protection for the guys taking checks all game, usually attackmen and dodging middies. Hybrids split the difference.
2. Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad Best full pad
Everything in the Shift liner, plus real shoulder caps and removable bicep pads.
If you want full shoulder pads with more shoulder and bicep protection, the Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pads are a great pick.
They have everything the Shift EKG Speed Pad has, plus extra padding on the shoulders and removable bicep pads.
Like the Speed version, you get a moisture-wicking liner to keep you dry and a protective Anaform chest plate to keep your heart safe.
If you're an attackman or middie who takes a lot of checks and wants more than a liner, go with the Shift EKG. You get solid protection and excellent mobility for a full pad.
Key features: More shoulder and bicep protection than the liner · 4-point deflection system · QuickDry liner wicks away sweat · Anaform chest plate protects the heart
- Great shoulder and bicep protection
- Heart protection without much bulk
- Moisture-wicking liner
- On the expensive side
- Extra padding cuts into mobility
Who it's for: Attackmen and middies who take a lot of checks and want full coverage that still moves.
At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad 2025 ($169.99) straight from BattleLax.
5. STX Stallion 900 Shoulder Pads Best hybrid
Fits like a liner, protects your shoulders like a pad.
The STX Stallion 900 is one of the best pads on this list.
What makes it unique is that it's a hybrid between a liner and a full shoulder pad. It fits like a liner but adds a bit of extra protection around the shoulders, so it's great for attackmen and offensive middies who want protection without giving up mobility.
I also really like how low-profile the chest plate is. Other pads have a big, bulky chest plate, but you barely notice the Stallion 900's.
Like other STX pads, it uses an overlapping strap system that keeps the pad locked onto your torso.
Overall, it's a great pick for any player who wants a little extra protection without bulky shoulder and bicep pads slowing them down.
Key features: Launched in 2022 · Mix of mobility and protection · Low-profile chest plate
- Shoulder protection that doesn't hurt mobility
- Light and flexible
- Low-profile chest plate
- Not many long-term reviews yet
- On the expensive side
Who it's for: Attackmen and offensive middies who want liner mobility with a little more shoulder coverage.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Stallion 900. For a light speed pad they stock, go with the Maverik M7 EKG Speed Pad ($129.99).
7. STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Most protective
Full coverage with a D3O and CURV heart guard and surprising flexibility.
The STX Cell VI is a big upgrade over the Cell V. It has a sewn-in heart guard made with D3O and CURV technology. I felt the difference the first time I took a hard shoulder check in a game. The pads soaked up the hit without shifting or digging into my chest.
The floating sternum pad spreads the force out without adding bulk, and STX improved the strap system, so it fits a lot better than the last version.
The heart guard placement felt a little limiting, but I liked the protection. If it feels tight, size up. It comes in several sizes.
Even with full coverage, it's really flexible, more so than the exoskeleton design of the Maverik M6. The stretch zones and adjustable shoulder caps let you sprint, cut and turn through traffic with no restriction.
I loved how comfortable it is, too. It's durable and breathable. The aerated design moved heat well, and the mesh inside handled sweat even at 32°C (about 90°F).
Key features: D3O and CURV chest protection · Floating sternum pad · Adjustable strap system · Aerated design with breathable mesh
- Light and durable
- Adjustable strap system
- Soft padding with great impact absorption
- Big shoulder coverage for middies and attackmen
- Breathable
- Snug at times
- Expensive
Who it's for: Middies and attackmen who want premium full coverage that still flexes.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Cell VI. For a premium full pad they stock, go with the ECD Echo Shoulder Pad ($184.99).
9. STX Stallion 450 Lacrosse Shoulder Pads Best for middies
A light, comfortable full pad with a good balance for middies.
The STX Stallion 450 has been a great addition to my gear this season. It has a good balance of flexibility, protection and comfort, especially for middies who need mobility and coverage.
Hex Pro technology keeps it light, so it moves easily on shots and dodges. The foam molded to my torso, so I could move freely without giving up comfort, and the adjustable buckles kept it secure.
I liked how well it breathes, too. I didn't feel weighed down by sweat and stayed cool running up and down the field. Even after a few hours, it was comfortable and didn't limit me on cuts or ground ball battles.
The ND200 protection is great for middies, but on big hits, like going up for a check, it doesn't cover as much as bulkier pads.
So attackmen who take a lot of hits to the chest and shoulders should look at something with more coverage, like the Stallion 1K or the Cell VI.
Key features: Light design with Hex Pro technology · Sturdy front guard for chest protection · Adjustable straps
- Durable and light
- Comfortable fit that doesn't limit mobility
- ND200 commotio cordis protection
- One-year warranty
- Less padding on the shoulders
- Not for advanced players
Who it's for: Middies who want a light, comfortable full pad.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Stallion 450. For an affordable full pad they stock, go with the Warrior Burn Shoulder Pads ('22) ($89.99).
10. STX Cell 5 Shoulder Pads
The full version of the Cell 5 liner, with the same mobility focus.
By now you can tell most pads come as both a liner and a full version. The Cell 5 Shoulder Pads are the more protective version of the liner above.
Like the liner, they focus on mobility with GeoFlex II and 7-point stretch zones, which free up your range of motion compared to other full pads.
On the downside, they have the same issue as the liner: they don't sit flat on your chest because the chest plate is on the inside.
Overall, the Cell 5 is a great pick for anyone who wants a good mix of protection and mobility.
Key features: GeoFlex II for flexible protection · T.A.C. system to customize the fit · 7-point stretch zones
- All about mobility
- Easy to adjust
- Great protection
- Not many long-term reviews
Who it's for: Players who want full coverage with a liner-like range of motion.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Cell 5. For a full pad they stock, go with the Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad ($149.99).
11. Maverik M6 EKG Shoulder Pads Most durable
A sturdier EKG guard and flexible caps that never got in my way.
The M6 EKG is one of the best upgrades in Maverik's M series. Maverik kept the quality and design while improving the protection, with a sturdier external cardiac guard than the M5 that meets ND200.
The thick DuraLight foam soaked up checks and spread out the force, so I felt secure on big hits. I was especially impressed scooping ground balls and taking direct checks. The pads never got in the way.
Even with thick padding, I didn't sweat through it in the hottest summer practices. It breathes really well and kept me cool and dry after hours on the field.
After a few months of heavy use, the Velcro loosened a bit. It wasn't a big deal, but I noticed. The pads as a whole held up great, though. The padding kept its shape after a year, and the stitching never came loose.
I also loved the flexibility. I barely felt restricted getting low to shoot, and dodging or battling for ground balls felt easy with the segmented caps. I didn't have to keep adjusting them like other bulky pads.
Key features: DuraLight foam padding · Segmented shoulder caps · Durable design that holds its shape · Velcro straps
- Great impact absorption
- Snug fit
- Unrestricted movement
- NOCSAE-tested EKG guard
- Breathable
- Expensive
- Velcro loosened after about four months
Who it's for: Players who want a durable, breathable full pad with a strong heart guard.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik M6 EKG. Its successor, the Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad ($149.99), is the one they stock.
12. Maverik M5 EKG Shoulder Pads
The full version of the M5 liner, with bigger caps and removable bicep pads.
Next up is the full version of the M5 liner, the Maverik M5 EKG Shoulder Pads.
They're almost identical to the M5 liner but add more protection around the shoulders and upper arms. The shoulder caps are bigger, and you get removable bicep pads.
They also have the same great features as the liner, including the moisture-wicking liner and solid Anaform chest plate.
I prefer liners, but I found the full M5 pretty comfortable with good mobility. It's a great pick if you want more protection without giving up too much movement.
Key features: QuickDry liner wicks away sweat · DuraStretch panels for mobility · Anaform chest plate protects the heart
- Effective moisture-wicking liner
- Lays flat on your chest
- Very protective
- Less mobile than smaller pads
- Bulky chest plate
Who it's for: Players who love the M5 liner but want shoulder and bicep coverage.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Maverik M5 EKG. For the newer full Maverik pad they stock, go with the Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad ($149.99). The M5 EKG Speed liner is still in stock at BattleLax ($79.99).
13. Nike Vapor LT Lacrosse Shoulder Pads
A flexible, low-profile full pad that young players can move in.
A lot of shoulder pads protect well but don't give young players the flexibility they need. The Nike Vapor LT lets you move freely without pinching your stomach or limiting your stretch.
The chest guard meets ND200. I took some of the hardest shoulder-to-shoulder hits and felt only a fraction of the impact. The soft padding cushioned the blow and protected my ribs and shoulders.
The only thing I'd improve is the weight. It's a little heavier than I expected, but I got used to it. If you want max speed and comfort, go lighter.
The lining breathes really well. It kept me dry through intense drills and hot practices, and the ventilation kept sweat from building up.
The shoulder straps are fully adjustable, which is great for a snug fit. The pads didn't shift or bother me when I moved.
Key features: ND200-certified chest guard · Flexible, low-profile design · Breathable lining · Fully adjustable shoulder straps
- Sturdy
- Great mobility
- Meets the NOCSAE standard
- Protects the ribs
- Best for younger players
- A little heavy
Who it's for: Younger players who need a full pad that won't restrict them.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Nike Vapor LT. For a flexible, affordable full pad they stock, go with the Warrior Evo Rise Shoulder Pad ($74.99).
14. Nike Vapor Shoulder Pad
A trimmed-down full pad with a solid arm pad that works in box too.
If there's a liner, there's a full pad to go with it, and here it is: the full Nike Vapor Shoulder Pad.
It shares a lot of the liner's quality, with a trimmed-down shell and tech that keeps it flexible without giving up too much protection where it counts.
Players say the upper arm pad is actually solid, which is rare in my experience. That makes the Vapor work for box, too, when the fields are frozen over.
The big knock is how much it relies on Velcro for the straps and attachments. Those pieces tend to loosen or even fall off after a short time.
Hopefully Nike fixes that, because the Vapor is a great candidate for players who want one pad for the grass and the concrete.
Key features: Ultra-light padding · Ergonomic design for comfort and mobility · Stretch zones for a flexible fit
- Light and mobile
- Solid upper arm pad (great for box)
- Relies on Velcro
- Questionable back protection
Who it's for: Players who play both field and box and want a light pad with a real arm pad.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Nike Vapor. For a full pad they stock, go with the Warrior Burn Shoulder Pads ('22) ($89.99).
Best beginner and youth shoulder pads
Like everything in lacrosse, youth gear is its own world. For younger players, liners aren't really a thing. Full pads let them try different positions safely.
When is your young laxer ready for adult pads? Most kids make the jump around 14, but chest size is the real indicator. Check out the size chart below.
15. Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad Best youth pad
A scaled-down Max EKG with front-to-back Anaform protection.
Maverik is like a middie hopped up on Red Bull, covering every yard of the shoulder pad game, and the MX EKG is their youth pad.
Newer versions added a 5-point deflection system designed to keep shots from hitting you straight on in the chest, plus more mobility.
It's a scaled-down Max EKG with a lot of the same tech and protection as the adult pad. The EKG center plate brings it up to ND200.
Anaform plates wrap from front to back, giving extra peace of mind at the ribs and spine. The bicep pads come off, so you can trade a little protection for more mobility.
The main knock carries over from the adult pads. The upper arm attachments can have quality issues, so keep that in mind.
Key features: External Kardiac Guard (EKG) · Traditional fit for comfort and mobility · Removable bicep pads · DuraStretch panels · Anaform plates
- Flexible and light
- Good rib protection
- Customizable arm protection
- Arm attachments can be iffy
- May run a size big
Who it's for: Youth players who want the most complete protection.
At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad 2026 ($99.99) straight from BattleLax.
16. STX Stallion 200+ Shoulder Pads Budget youth
An affordable, coverage-first youth pad built on the classic Stallion 200.
With the standards changing, STX gave its flagship Stallion 200 a facelift, and it's more than a plus sign on the end.
The Stallion 200+ is one of the most affordable youth pads out there, built on the trusted 200 frame. Hard plastic shoulder caps, extended back coverage and added chest protection cover the key impact zones.
A wider neck opening gives you room around your helmet, and like every other youth pad, the arm pieces come off for some customization.
The main knock is that there isn't much feedback on this version yet, so any durability issues haven't come out. It's also built on a retail pad, so it doesn't have the quality of higher-end options.
Ultimately, the Stallion 200+ is a great pick if you trust STX and want something affordable, because before long, you're going to be sizing up.
Key features: Hard plastic shoulder caps · Extended back coverage · Wider neck opening · Better Velcro attachments
- Doesn't skimp on coverage
- Built for mobility and flexibility
- Very affordable
- Not much user feedback
- Built on a retail pad
Who it's for: Families who want solid coverage at a low price for a growing kid.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Stallion 200+. The most affordable youth pad they stock is the Maverik Charger Shoulder Pads 2022 ($34.99), on sale.
17. Maverik Charger EKG Youth Shoulder Pad
Chest protection first, at a youth-friendly price.
Oh look, another Maverik pad. These guys don't quit, and neither does the Charger EKG.
The Charger is a more affordable option than the MX EKG, with chest protection as the top priority for youth players.
The EKG plate is there, of course, along with detachable upper arm pads for customization.
Like most Maverik pads, the arm connection has the same quality issues. One parent even broke out the sewing kit to fix it.
The lower price also means scaled-back tech, so don't expect the same wraparound protection as the MX. Still, it's a great pick if you don't want to break the bank on pads your kid will outgrow in no time.
Key features: External Kardiac Guard (EKG) · Floating shoulder pad on each side · Adjustable upper arm pad
- Chest-first protection
- Customizable arm padding
- Affordable
- Arm attachment issues
- Scaled-back tech compared to the MX EKG
Who it's for: Youth players on a budget who still need ND200 chest protection.
At BattleLax: In stock now. Grab the Maverik Charger Shoulder Pad 2026 ($74.99) straight from BattleLax. The 2022 version is also on sale for $34.99.
Full shoulder pads vs. liners
If you're newer to the game, you probably wondered about this going through the list, so let's break it down.
Liners
Liners are scaled-back versions of full shoulder pads. They don't have the shoulder caps and arm pieces that make full pads bulkier but a lot more protective around the shoulders and arms. A lot of liners are literally the center piece of a full pad, because that's exactly what they are.
Liners cover the vital areas around your chest and back that are in harm's way no matter where you play. They're a great fit for defensemen, who don't need the extra bulk of caps and arm pads. Middies like them too, since they're lighter and less in the way.
If you're buying for a youth player, skip the liner. There's a lot less body control in the youth game, so full pads are much safer, and they let kids try every position safely as they grow into the game.
Full shoulder pads
Full pads usually give you more ways to customize your coverage. Many have detachable upper arm and shoulder pieces you can take off as you get more comfortable or settle into a position where you don't need them.
Full pads are the best choice for offensive players, especially attackmen around the cage. Checks from poles and desperate middies don't always land where they're supposed to, so you'll appreciate the extra padding on your shoulders and arms.
They're also great for newer middies still getting comfortable. The extra protection gives you confidence diving in for ground balls until you're ready to rip the extra padding off.
Finding shoulder pads that meet NOCSAE ND200
In a big move for player safety, every shoulder pad and liner has to meet the NOCSAE ND200 standard at all levels of the sport, starting in 2022. It's not a design rule. It's a performance test that measures how well a pad reduces the impact forces that raise the risk of commotio cordis.
ND200-compliant products are certified by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI) and carry the NOCSAE lacrosse label on the tag. Look for that label on the packaging of any pad or liner you buy, too.
If your shoulder pads don't meet ND200 and carry the label, you won't be allowed on the field. If you're still wearing a pre-2022 pad, it's time to upgrade.
Lacrosse shoulder pad buying guide
Here's what to look for if you want to size up a pad on your own.
- Protection. It goes without saying, protection is why you buy shoulder pads. This isn't football, so why do you need them? If you've ever fought for a 50/50 ground ball, you've heard the clash of pads. If you've ever been caught between the cage and a shot-happy attackman, you know how much a wayward shot hurts. And as a short stick on the wrong end of a long-pole slash to the shoulder blade, you'll be thanking your lucky stars for the padding.
- Comfort and flexibility. Right behind protection. There's nothing worse than clunky pads that weigh you down and don't fit. Look for Anaform plating and foam in the spots that move the most, like your arms and ribs. Padding should move with you, not fight you. Watch the shoulder joint, too. At least one pad on this list has a strap that gets in the way of overhand shots. And look for secure detachable pieces and plenty of adjustment at the waist and chest. There's nothing worse than loose pads playing the bongos on your chest while you're sprinting down the field.
- Durability. You want your money's worth. Just looking at a pad can show you weak spots, like cheap Velcro or exposed seams. As a rule, clasps beat Velcro, and less stitching is better. Keep an eye on the detachable pieces, too, since those connections tend to loosen over time. Brand and price are also good indicators, though neither is a hard rule.
- Breathability. There's nothing worse than pads turning into a 20-pound weighted vest halfway through a game because they soaked up your sweat. Look for built-in ventilation and moisture-wicking liners that move sweat instead of holding it. Your teammates will thank you, too. Like arm pads and gloves, shoulder pads are one of the main sources of lax funk.
- Customer reviews. Read reviews before you buy. Other players can tell you how a pad wears, how it fits and any quirks with sizing. And don't forget to leave your own review. Pay it forward.
- Budget. Find something that fits your budget, but with protection this important, it's worth stretching as far as you can. If you go cheaper, you may give up some performance and durability. Keep an eye on older models and sale pads, which can be great deals.
Lacrosse shoulder pad size chart
Here's a general size chart to help you find the right fit for you or your young laxer. Brands can run big or small, so always check the brand's own size chart before you buy.
Source: Lax.com, Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Sizing and Fitting Guide
How we rate lacrosse shoulder pads
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend gear we'd use ourselves. To rate each product, we test it ourselves whenever we can, dig into the specs (weight, materials and so on), and read reviews and talk to players we know who use it.
When we test shoulder pads, we usually take them to the field and use them in game situations: passing, catching, shooting and taking checks. When we can't, we at least try them on in the store and spend more time talking to players who use them.
If you have feedback on any of these products or want us to add one, reach out and let us know!
Shoulder pads in stock at BattleLax
Want pads you can order today? These are the ND200 shoulder pads and liners BattleLax carries right now.
| Pad | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad 2025 | Full pad | $169.99 |
| Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad | Full pad | $149.99 |
| ECD Echo Shoulder Pad | Full pad | $184.99 |
| Warrior Burn Shoulder Pads ('22) | Full pad | $89.99 |
| Warrior Evo Rise Shoulder Pad | Full pad | $74.99 |
| Maverik Max Speed Pad 2028 | Speed pad | $139.99 |
| Maverik M7 EKG Speed Pad | Speed pad | $129.99 |
| Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad | Speed pad | $79.99 |
| Warrior Evo V Shoulder Pad Liner | Liner | $139.99 |
| Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad 2026 | Youth pad | $99.99 |
| Maverik Charger Shoulder Pad 2026 | Youth pad | $74.99 |
| Maverik Charger Shoulder Pads 2022 | Youth pad (sale) | $34.99 |
Prices and stock change, so check the product page for your size before you order.
Frequently asked questions
Do lacrosse shoulder pads have to meet NOCSAE ND200?
Yes. Shoulder pads and liners for field players must meet the NOCSAE ND200 standard, which has been required at all levels since January 1, 2022. Look for the NOCSAE lacrosse label on the pad and the packaging.
Should I get a liner or full shoulder pads?
Defensemen and many middies like liners because they're lighter and less bulky. Attackmen, newer middies and youth players are usually better off in full pads with shoulder caps and bicep pads.
When should a youth player move up to adult pads?
Most players make the jump around age 14, but chest size is the real indicator. Check the brand's size chart before you buy.
Can I wear my old shoulder pads?
Only if they meet ND200 and carry the NOCSAE lacrosse label. If they don't, you won't be allowed on the field.
Final verdict
There's no single best pad for everybody. Poles and middies who want to move should start with a liner like the Maverik Shift EKG Speed or the M5 EKG Speed. Attackmen and dodging middies should go full pad, like the Shift EKG. And for the young laxers, the Maverik MX EKG gives you the most complete protection, while the Charger keeps the price down for a kid who'll outgrow it in a season.
Whatever you pick, make sure it carries the NOCSAE ND200 label and fits right. Looking for more gear? Check out our guides to the best gloves, arm pads, heads, shafts, helmets, cleats and rib pads.
Shop the shoulder pads at BattleLax
- Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad 2025
- Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad
- ECD Echo Shoulder Pad
- Warrior Burn Shoulder Pads ('22)
- Warrior Evo Rise Shoulder Pad
- Maverik Max Speed Pad 2028
- Maverik M7 EKG Speed Pad
- Maverik M5 EKG Speed Pad
- Warrior Evo V Shoulder Pad Liner
- Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad 2026
- Maverik Charger Shoulder Pad 2026
- Maverik Charger Shoulder Pads 2022