STX Stallion 1K Lacrosse Shoulder Pad Review
A light, low-profile shoulder pad with a D3O chest plate built to the NOCSAE ND200 standard. Here's how the Stallion 1K held up after a month of practices and scrimmages.
LaxDrip is reader supported. When you buy through links on this page we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. How we review.
The STX Stallion line has been a player favorite since the Stallion 600, and STX has outfitted plenty of elite players over the years. Now STX has released the Stallion 1K, and the hype is real. Still, you'll want to read a real review before you spend on premium pads like these.
I usually prefer low-profile shoulder pads, because full-coverage pads make my arms feel restricted. But real impact protection matters a lot.
So let's see if the Stallion 1K's lightweight design actually delivers protection and comfort, or if it's just a cosmetic upgrade.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry STX pads. The closest match they stock is the Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad 2025 ($169.99), a premium, lightweight pad with an EKG chest plate that meets NOCSAE ND200. For an even slimmer fit, look at the ECD Echo Shoulder Pad ($184.99). I've listed more alternatives at BattleLax below.
Key Features of the STX Stallion 1K Shoulder Pads
Here are the key features of the Stallion 1K.
- Level
- Intermediate to advanced
- Chest plate
- D3O, NOCSAE ND200-22
- Shoulders
- A.M.P. articulating system
- Sizes
- M (91–130 lb), L (131–180 lb), XL (181+ lb)
- Price
- About $180
- Straps
- Buckle clips
- Built with
- D3O chest plate
- Low profile
- Segmented padding
- Chrome badging
Pros & Cons
- Light and sturdy
- Excellent impact absorption
- Very flexible and comfortable
- Chest plate built to the NOCSAE ND200 standard
- Low-profile design for better mobility
- Doesn't fit smaller frames as well
- Not very breathable
Protection
Protection is the most important part of any shoulder pad review. Usually, light, low-profile pads give up protection for comfort, but despite the soft, padded feel, the Stallion 1K delivers elite-level protection.
The Stallion 1K has a thick, stiff chest plate made with D3O and built to the NOCSAE ND200-22 standard, which is designed to reduce the risk of commotio cordis from a ball to the chest. It absorbs shock really well, especially on hits when you're dodging hard.
The Stallion 1K's D3O chest plate.
The shoulder caps give decent coverage without extra bulk, which helps you stay quick. I tested them for about a month, and they held up well on unexpected shoulder-to-shoulder hits.
The low-profile design does give up some padding on the outer shoulders, though. I felt a little exposed taking heavy checks or absorbing repeated hits from bigger players.
The articulating A.M.P. system keeps you mobile, but it doesn't give you the rigid coverage I expected from a pad marketed as "elite."
So even with strong chest and collarbone protection, these pads may not be the best fit for bigger middies who take a lot of contact while changing direction and extending their arms.
Comfort and Flexibility
The Stallion 1K is one of the most comfortable shoulder pads I've worn. The A.M.P. system lets the pads move with you, so I never felt restricted during a game.
They fit snug and comfortable across the chest. I was worried at first about how they'd sit across my chest and shoulders. The large worked fine, but I'd go with an XL for a perfect fit. STX sizes them by weight, so check the chart.
If you're between sizes, try both to see what works for your build. Otherwise, they moved with me whether I was spinning out of pressure, snapping off a quick shot or throwing a hard check.
They don't have the stiff, clunky feel of traditional pads, and I never felt like they were fighting my movements. They stay out of the way when you're dodging defenders or scooping ground balls at awkward angles.
One thing I want to point out is that they shift a little over long sessions. If you want a more locked-in feel, try the STX Cell VI, or at BattleLax, the Maverik M7 EKG ($149.99).
The Stallion 1K's fit.
Breathability
The Stallion 1K felt light and snug, and I didn't notice any overheating at regular practices in moderate temperatures. The segmented design lets more air through than older pads with big, continuous foam pieces.
The gaps between the protective sections help when things get intense. Still, I noticed heat building up around the chest plate on hot, sunny days.
The articulated design is great for flexibility, but it doesn't have mesh or ventilation panels, so expect to sweat after a hard session. It might not bother everyone, but you'll notice it during long games in the heat.
If you want more breathable shoulder pads, go with the STX Cell VI or the Maverik M6 EKG. BattleLax carries the M6's successor, the Maverik M7 EKG.
Read more: Best lacrosse shoulder pads
Durability
Durability is the highlight of the Stallion 1K. Even after several practices and some scrimmages, mine showed only minimal wear and tear.
The buckles stay fastened, and the materials feel like they can take a beating without breaking down. Even the chrome badging and carbon-look details, which are more about looks than function, seem built to last.
The Stallion 1K after a month of use.
The soft, flexible shoulder padding might compress over time, though. I can see those areas wearing faster than the chest plate or straps. The chest plate is super stiff and durable and shows no damage despite taking plenty of hits.
All in all, the Stallion 1K's toughness helps justify its high price.
Coach's note: I've watched kids from Ontario box to Virginia Beach and upstate New York buy shoulder pads two sizes too big to "grow into." Don't. A pad that slides around leaves your chest and collarbone open right when you need them covered. Buy the size that fits now, and make sure the chest plate meets NOCSAE ND200.
Comparison with other shoulder pads
Even though it's light, the Stallion 1K gives you better shock absorption and protection than the Anaform plates on the Maverik M6 EKG. The M6 has a little more flex and breathability with its VentFlow tech, though.
Stallion 1K vs. Maverik M6 EKG.
The Stallion 1K doesn't give you full shoulder coverage. It's best for players who want a low-profile pad for mobility and speed. The STX Cell VI gives you more shoulder coverage while still letting you move.
The Stallion 1K costs a bit more than the M6, but you're paying for D3O shock absorption and the A.M.P. articulation system. If you're an elite player putting in thousands of reps, it's worth it.
If you're a casual player or on a budget, I wouldn't push you toward these. Check out our list of the best lacrosse shoulder pads for options with similar protection at a lower price, like the Maverik MX EKG ($99.99).
Alternatives at BattleLax
BattleLax doesn't carry STX shoulder pads, but these are the closest options they stock right now.
| Shoulder pad | Why it's here | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Maverik Shift EKG Shoulder Pad 2025 | Premium, light pad with an EKG chest plate that meets NOCSAE ND200 | $169.99 |
| ECD Echo Shoulder Pad | Slim, low-profile pad for players who want mobility | $184.99 |
| Maverik M7 EKG Shoulder Pad | The next generation of the M6 I compare it to | $149.99 |
| Maverik MX EKG Shoulder Pad 2026 | Budget-friendly pad with Maverik's EKG deflection | $99.99 |
| Warrior Burn Shoulder Pads ('22) | Budget option on sale | $89.99 |
Shop the Maverik Shift EKG at Battle Lax
People also ask
Do lacrosse players wear shoulder pads?
Yes. Men's field players wear shoulder pads to protect against checks, dodges and collisions. Pads like the STX Stallion 1K protect you while staying flexible and comfortable.
How do you choose lacrosse shoulder pads?
Look at protection, comfort, mobility and fit, and make sure the chest protector meets the NOCSAE ND200 standard. Elite pads like the Stallion 1K pair a light build with high impact absorption for competitive play.
What's the difference between hockey and lacrosse shoulder pads?
Hockey shoulder pads cover more of the upper body with heavier padding, while lacrosse shoulder pads like the Stallion 1K are lighter and lower profile, focusing on mobility and targeted impact protection.
How do I pick the right shoulder pads for my game?
Match them to how you play. For mobility with elite protection, a light pad like the Stallion 1K is ideal. Make sure they fit snug and feel good when you move.
Are STX Stallion 1K shoulder pads worth the price?
For elite players who want high-impact protection, flexibility and durability, yes. Casual players on a budget may be better off with a cheaper pad.
Final Verdict
The STX Stallion 1K shoulder pads are durable and give you excellent protection against lacrosse injuries. The light design won't weigh you down through long practices, and STX took the Stallion 900 and made it more comfortable and more protective.
They're not for players who want full shoulder coverage or top-tier breathability, though. If that's you, skip these and go with the Maverik M6 or the STX Stallion 800.
Otherwise, if you like what you've read here, go for it.
