12 best youth football shoulder pads

Youth football shoulder pads are a crucial piece of protective gear designed to safeguard young football players during practices and games. These pads are specifically designed to fit the bodies of young athletes, providing protection to the shoulders, chest, and back. Here's what you should know about youth football shoulder pads:

  1. Size and Fit: Youth football shoulder pads are available in various sizes to accommodate different age groups and body sizes. It's essential to choose pads that fit properly to ensure proper protection and comfort.

  2. Construction: These shoulder pads are constructed using a combination of materials like foam padding and hard plastic shells. The foam padding provides comfort and shock absorption, while the plastic shells offer rigid protection against impacts.

  3. Shoulder Protection: The primary purpose of football shoulder pads is to protect the shoulders. They typically feature extended shoulder caps that cover the upper arms and shoulders. These caps help absorb and distribute impact forces during tackles and collisions.

  4. Chest and Back Protection: Many youth shoulder pads also include chest and back plates for added protection. These plates are designed to protect the sternum, ribs, and spine from potential injuries.

  5. Adjustability: Youth shoulder pads often have adjustable straps and buckles to ensure a secure and customized fit. This adjustability is essential to prevent the pads from shifting during play.

  6. Position-Specific Pads: Depending on the player's position (e.g., quarterback, lineman, or receiver), there are different types of shoulder pads available. Linemen, for example, may require more substantial and protective pads, while skill position players may opt for lighter, more flexible pads.

  7. Weight: While protection is crucial, overly heavy shoulder pads can impede a player's mobility and performance. Youth shoulder pads are designed to strike a balance between protection and weight to ensure that players can move comfortably.

  8. Care and Maintenance: Keeping shoulder pads clean and well-maintained is essential for hygiene and durability. Most pads come with removable padding that can be washed separately, and the outer shell can be wiped clean.

  9. Safety Standards: Reputable brands ensure that their youth football shoulder pads meet safety standards set by organizations like NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) to ensure player safety.

  10. Replacement: As youth athletes grow, their shoulder pads may need to be replaced to maintain a proper fit and adequate protection.Regularly checking for wear and tear is crucial, and it's recommended to replace damaged or outgrown pads promptly.

In summary, youth football shoulder pads are vital protective gear for young football players. They offer protection to the shoulders, chest, and back, helping reduce the risk of injuries during practices and games. Choosing the right size and fit, along with considering position-specific needs, is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of youth football players on the field.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best youth football shoulder pads on the market
  

Champro Youth Scorpion Shoulder Pad

CHAMPRO

Based on 285 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Champro Scorpion Shoulder Pads are great for youth players looking for added protection and with a great price point. These shoulder pads provide full protection, along with an easy to release system so your player is able to get these on and off with no assistance. These pads have a great design, look great, and will keep your young player protected all season. Great value and protection for youth players High impact PE arch for protection and durability Cantilever design and tempered steel spring disperses impact Adjustable 1" elastic straps Pre-drilled for accessory attachments

  • DURABLE: Cantilever design disperses impact and shock, maintaining the pad’s shape and structural integrity. High impact polyethylene construction increases the arches’ strength and durability.
  • SECURE FIT: Sliding 1-inch wide elastic straps offer easy adjustment of the pad’s tightness for a comfortable fit. Players will feel secure with pads that conform to their chest and also allow freedom of breath and movement.
  • EASY UNHOOKING: The easy release system helps players unhook the straps, so they can get the pads on and off without assistance.
  • CUSTOMIZABLE: Pre-drilled holes allow players to customize the pads with attachments, such as backplates and neck collars (available separately).
  • SIZE OPTIONS: Available in 7 sizes, the Scorpion shoulder pads are built to fit young players up to 180 pounds.

User questions & answers

Question: My child weighs 50 pounds what size would he neef
Answer: Depending on the level of play, I would say yes, but I do recommend a Varsity Adult set of shoulder pads due impact speed of a much larger opponent (Semi-pro, or Professional level). Make sure you measure the shoulder length of your shoulder points, and your chest circumference size. There is also different types of pads, based on your position (QB, WR, LINEMEN, CB/DB/SAFETY, etc). As with all football equipment, there is that possibility of injury.. I would call customer service at Shutt, as they could help you with specifics. I Hope this helps you in your decision.
Question: What size for a child that weighs 97lbs
Answer: Yes you can return but with a 50% restock fee
Question: What should I order for my son if he is 5,8 and 150 lbs
Answer: My son was 5'7" and around 150lbs,it fit him pretty well,but returned them because he said the shields on the shoulder made him feel restricted. We had ordered a medium.
Question: What would be a perfect size for 110lb 14 year old
Answer: He is 6'0 and 175 and Large fit him good.

Riddell Pursuit Youth Shoulder Pad

Riddell Inc.

Based on 106 reviews Check latest price
  • Youth shoulder pad
  • Flat pad design sits low across the player's shoulder, minimizing interference with the rotational range of the helmet
  • Integrated deltoid pads
  • Z-fit belting System uses high strength nylon clips to increase the ease of putting on and securing a shoulder pad
  • This is an O. E. M. part

User questions & answers

Question: My son is 10 and weighs 84 pounds. What size would work for him
Answer: My oldest son is 10 and 91 pounds and he has a medium but my younger son is 81 pounds and has a small. The fit depends on how wide his shoulders are, older son has wider shoulders and younger son smaller, if that is any help.
Question: Whats the shoulder length of this pads
Answer: Depends on the sizes.
Question: What’s the weight limit on these
Answer: I bought my son a large. He is 5’ 7” and weights 140-145.

Schutt Sports DS Flex 2.0 All-Purpose Youth Football Shoulder Pads, White/Gold

Schutt

Based on 89 reviews Check latest price
  • A lightweight, all purpose design for the exceptional youth athlete looking for varsity style protection
  • Extended body length adds extra protection
  • Designed for all positions on the field
  • Dual-Density padding combined with breathable mesh and 7mm vent holes allows maximum air flow
  • Adjusting elastic belt features attachment to the arches at three points for less movement and consistent protection

User questions & answers

Question: Would an XS fit my 4 yr old that weighs 36 lbs? Also, would a small fit my 9 yr old that weighs 56 lbs
Answer: It depends on the characteristics you're looking for. I chose the flyte because it looked to provide better coverage on the sternum.
Question: Should I get a small or medium for a heavy set 8 year old
Answer: The shoulder pads were only used a few times before my son was injured and stopped playing.
Question: Is x small good for 45 pound 8year old
Answer: Small

Schutt Sports Varsity 4.0 Flex Shoulder Football Pads Sporting goods

Schutt Sports

Based on 152 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tackle heat and moisture with the Schutt Sports Varsity flex 4. 0 shoulder pads. A perforated body cushion combined with breathable mesh and arch vents make this pad supremely breathable. Maximum air flow keeps you cooler and allows you to perform better. Made to fit almost any player on the field, teh Varsity flex 4. 0 all purpose shoulder pad is for the player who is looking for maximum protection and maximum performance.

  • Made to fit almost any player on the field; offers maximum protection and maximum performance
  • Ideal for: linebacker, fullback, defensive end, offensive & defensive line
  • Tackles heat and moisture
  • Perforated body cushion combined with breathable mesh and arch vents for supreme breathability
  • Maximum air flow keeps you cooler and allows you to perform better

User questions & answers

Question: My son is 5'8 200lbs, where is a sizing chart
Answer: Large
Question: My grandson is 5'9 245lbs... shoulders are wide , as he is a big un'... xl or xxl
Answer: In my opinion, these are the best pads for football. I would say yes as long as the player fits the size requirements. In comparison to other pads my sons has had in the past - these are the nicest and most comfortable.
Question: Are these youth or adult sizes
Answer: Yes for sure, lot's on freedom and movement
Question: Son is 5 '8 170 what size adult pads
Answer: Yes.

Product features

Schutt Varsity Flex 4.0 Shoulder Pads

Perforated body cushion combined with breathable mesh and arch vents makes this pad supremely breathable. Maximum air flow keeps you cooler and allows you to perform better.

Schutt Varsity Flex 4.0 Shoulder Pads

The Varsity Flex 4.0 Skill pad set features a deeper cut in the arch design, which gives you complete range of motion and versatility.

Ideal for: Quarterback, Wide Receiver, Running Back, & Defensive Back

Schutt Sports Y-Flex 4.0 All-Purpose Youth Football Shoulder Pads, Small

Schutt

Based on 630 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A lightweight, all purpose design for the exceptional youth athlete looking for varsity style protection.The extended body length adds extra protection. -Dual-Density padding combined with breathable mesh and 7mm vent holes allows maximum air flow. - Adjusting elastic belt features attachment to the arches at three points for less movement and consistent protection. Ideal for: All Youth Football Positions

  • A lightweight, all purpose design for the exceptional youth athlete looking for varsity style protection
  • Extended body length adds extra protection
  • Designed for all positions on the field
  • Dual-Density padding combined with breathable mesh and 7mm vent holes allows maximum air flow
  • Adjusting elastic belt features attachment to the arches at three points for less movement and consistent protection

User questions & answers

Question: What size for a 45 pound 5 yr old
Answer: Small
Question: What size for 5’11 and 155 lbs
Answer: My son was wearing a youth large at 186lbs. There is a sizing chart available on the Schutt which I used as a guide on sizing.
Question: What if I weigh 190, what size shoulder pad would I be
Answer: Adult large
Question: What size for 5’6 123 pounds
Answer: Small. My son was 5-7 145 Medium was good

Product features

Schutt Youth Y-Flex 4.0 Shoulder Pads

A lightweight, all purpose design for the exceptional youth athlete. The extended body length adds extra protection for vulnerable areas.

Positions and Features

A lightweight, all purpose design for the exceptional youth athlete looking for varsity style protection.The extended body length adds extra protection.

-Dual-Density padding combined with breathable mesh and 7mm vent holes allows maximum air flow.

- Adjusting elastic belt features attachment to the arches at three points for less movement and consistent protection.

Ideal for: All Youth Positions

Riddell Surge Youth Shoulder Pad

Riddell Inc.

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price
  • Youth shoulder pad with built-in back plate
  • Flat pad design sits low across the player's shoulder, minimizing interference with the rotational range of the helmet
  • PVC adjustable belts secure the shoulder pad to maintain protective placement for a proper fit
  • Velvet collar for comfort
  • Removable/adjustable bodies

User questions & answers

Question: Can the back plate be removed
Answer: Not unless cut off. It’s rivoted in place and re-attachment will require you to drill holes in the arches. Not recommended.
Question: My eight year old son weighs 56 lb does he need extra small or small
Answer: Most likely XS. My son is 83 lbs, and the S fit him perfectly. I’d measure him to determine the best size for him. Don’t go by his weight alone, that might yield undesirable results.
Question: Is the bottom part removable
Answer: The interior padding attached inside the arch is removable, and held in with Velcro. The attached backplate is attached with rivots, however, and if cut off will not be easily re-attached.
Question: My son is 5:3 and 107 lb what would be the size I should get for him
Answer: Measure his shoulder length between A/C joints and use that to determine proper sizing. Based on height and weight I’d recommend either a Youth Medium or Youth Large, depending on which fit better.

Franklin Sports Youth Shoulder Pads - Perfect for Halloween Costume, Black (6604-5)

12 months and up

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Why simply let your kids cheer on their favorite player or team when you can give them a gift they’re sure to love—lifelike youth football shoulder pads for kids that look just like the ones their favorite athletes wear! While these are not in any way intended for actual football practice, games, or other contact sports, their design gives kids a true outlet for their imagination! Each plastic and foam shoulder pad set is made with quality and pride, so your little ones can cheer on their favorite player or team while wearing an authentic-looking uniform that looks just like the real thing. It also makes a perfect choice for toddler and young children’s Halloween football player costumes. Order yours today, and watch their faces light up!

  • Perfect for Costumes: These lightweight youth shoulder pads make the perfect accessory for costumes and best fit ages 5 to 7, or shirt size 7 for children, they’re great for franklin uniform sets, too
  • Comfort Hit: With comfort first and foremost, see for yourself how our football shoulder pads provide the most realistic sports shoulder pads for dressing up in costume
  • Authentic Look and Feel: While these football shoulder pads should not be used as protective equipment for football or other sports, they are designed to provide a realistic look for a football uniform Halloween costume
  • Game Day Ready: Support your favorite team with a lifelike youth shoulder pad set. Kids will love looking and feeling like their favorite athletes as they cheer them on from the couch
  • Perfect for Kids: Kids will love how authentic these look, and how they can wear shoulder pads just like their favorite players and team, they will love dressing up as the athletes they look up to for a costume or just for fun

User questions & answers

Question: what size is standard
Answer: there's a size chart listed. standard is more of the quality not size.
Question: could this fit a 5' 8" person for a costume
Answer: No...they are tiny....they don’t even fit my 8 and 10 year olds properly.
Question: Will these fit a 9 year old that is tall and skinny for a costume? He's 4'10" and 67lbs. Thanks
Answer: Hello,I do believe that the shoulder pads should fit a 9 year old. Our Deluxe Youth Medium Uniform Set is intended for ages 7-9, and the shoulder pads are ordered with them consistently. Thank you
Question: Any chance I could get these to fit a 2 year old
Answer: I bought if for my grandson he is 3. Fits nice!!
Question: Can you machine wash this
Answer: Yes
Question: Are the inside pockets lined with fleece
Answer: Yes
Question: Will this fit college football players or is this made for high school
Answer: I have a 5’10” lean softball player and this thing is gigantic on her. Cold spring days there are at least two of them inside this and have had up to three. I would think it would fit him fine.
Question: What are the dimensions of this cape? How big a person will if cit
Answer: At least 6’2” boy. I would say it would be useful for any size player.

Xenith Fly Youth Football Shoulder Pads for Kids and Juniors - All Purpose Protective Gear

Xenith

Based on 92 reviews Check latest price
  • VARSITY PROTECTION, YOUTH FIT: Our youth shoulder pads feature varsity protection technology while providing the fit for youth football players.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT PROTECTION: Xenith shoulder pads are designed for the committed athlete; lightweight and low profile allowing for a full range of motion without sacrificing protection.
  • EASY MAINTENANCE: Anti-microbial foam and removable padding makes cleaning and maintenance simple.
  • DURABILITY: Laceless design and buckle straps provide durable and dependable wear every season.
  • RELIABILITY: Belt and buckle size adjustments system eliminates unnecessary bungees and straps and ensures a lock-down fit, every time.

User questions & answers

Question: Size chart
Answer: My son was wearing a youth large at 186lbs. There is a sizing chart available on the Schutt which I used as a guide on sizing.
Question: Should you wear these if your a varsity football player
Answer: Adult large
Question: Are these any good for QBs
Answer: Small. My son was 5-7 145 Medium was good
Question: Can other back plates be attached to these shoulder pads
Answer: Depending on the level of play, I would say yes, but I do recommend a Varsity Adult set of shoulder pads due impact speed of a much larger opponent (Semi-pro, or Professional level). Make sure you measure the shoulder length of your shoulder points, and your chest circumference size. There is also different types of pads, based on your position (QB, WR, LINEMEN, CB/DB/SAFETY, etc). As with all football equipment, there is that possibility of injury.. I would call customer service at Shutt, as they could help you with specifics. I Hope this helps you in your decision.

Youper Sports Shoulder Pads for Kids - Perfect for Halloween Costume

Youper

Based on 558 reviews Check latest price
  • PERFECT FOR COSTUMES: These lightweight youth shoulder pads are not designed for football or any other contact play. They make the perfect accessory for costumes. They’re great for Youper uniform sets, too!
  • AUTHENTIC LOOK AND FEEL: These football shoulder pads can be treated as a dress-up or costume play, which provide a realistic look for a football uniform Halloween costume.
  • GAME-DAY-READY: They are used for under your favorite team's jersey on the football field on game days. Kids will love looking and feeling like their favorite athletes as they cheer them on from the couch!
  • COMFORT FIT: Environmental friendly foam wrapped in Polyester fiber cloth enhances durability and plastic pads provide a very strong appearance.
  • PERFECT FOR KIDS: These shoulder pads are designed for kids, YS size is suitable for ages 4-7 and YL size fits ages 7-11.

User questions & answers

Question: My son is 7 and weighs 55lbs. What size would he need
Answer: My son is that size as well and we got him youth large
Question: will it fit a 10 year old
Answer: Absolutely not. Get some real shoulder pads, size SML
Question: What size would the large vs small fit? My son is 8 65 lbs and skinny
Answer: My son is around 55lbs and I got him a size small and they fit him perfectly
Question: Can this fit a 1 year old
Answer: Heck no waste of money

Adams YT-250 All-Purpose Youth Football Shoulder Pads

Schutt Sports

Product description

Cushions covered in heavy-duty, black, water-resistant material. Tough, durable plastic caps, arches, and epaulets. Dual Density foam cushions. Cantilever design helps disperse impact; T-hook connections for easy on/off. Classic black finish with red logo.

  • Cushions covered in heavy-duty, black, water-resistant material
  • Tough, durable plastic caps, arches, and epaulets
  • Dual Density foam cushions
  • Cantilever design helps disperse impact; T-hook connections for easy on/off
  • Classic black finish with red logo

ADAMS USA Youth Vinyl Coated Shoulder Injury Pad, 1/2-Inch

ADAMS USA

Based on 49 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Adams shoulder injury pad is used under regular shoulder pads for added protection and support. These permit the full use of arms.

  • For use under shoulder pads
  • Added protection for shoulder injuries
  • Laced front and back design
  • Side straps to adjust to size

Product features

Schutt Sports

Players don't play the game. Players attack the game. From all sides. From every angle. Workout after workout. Practice after practice. Play after play. Game after game. There is no stop, only go.

We build gear for players. For nearly a century, we've committed ourselves to developing the most innovative and technologically advanced gear in sports. All with the sole purpose of empowering players to focus and perform at the top of their game.

Gear up your game.

Adams

A proud member of the Schutt Sports family of brands, Adams is committed to staying ahead of the game when it comes to offering you the best gear possible. Whether you're looking for team equipment or official's apparel, Adams has it.

At Adams, the athlete matters most. We are always focused on creating products that will help you perform at your best and give you the competitive edge.

Tucci

Schutt Sports is proud to partner with Tucci. As the bat of choice for over one third of Pro Baseball hitters, all Tucci Baseball Bats are held to the highest standard to sustain peak performance.

After years of combining firsthand knowledge of professional players’ needs, extensive technical development and constant design and manufacturing process refinement, Tucci Baseball Bats have become the gold standard of the industry.

The Science of Domination

At Schutt Sports, we build gear for performance and protection. Decades of technological advancement and dedication have gone into creating the highest-performing and most protective gear possible. Some of our advanced protection technologies include:

  • D30 Cushioning
  • TPU Advanced Impact Absorption System
  • SUREFIT Airliner
  • Titanium Faceguards

Xenith Flyte Youth Football Shoulder Pads for Kids and Juniors - All Purpose Protective Gear

Xenith

Based on 112 reviews Check latest price
  • VARSITY PROTECTION, YOUTH FIT: Our youth shoulder pads feature varsity protection technology while providing the fit for youth football players.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT PROTECTION: Xenith shoulder pads are designed for the committed athlete; lightweight and low profile allowing for a full range of motion without sacrificing protection.
  • EASY MAINTENANCE: Removable padding makes cleaning and maintenance simple.
  • DURABILITY: Laceless design and buckle straps provide durable and dependable wear every season.
  • RELIABILITY: Belt and buckle size adjustments system eliminates unnecessary bungees and straps and ensures a lock-down fit, every time.

User questions & answers

Question: What’s better flyte or fly
Answer: It depends on the characteristics you're looking for. I chose the flyte because it looked to provide better coverage on the sternum.
Question: How used is the shoulder pads
Answer: The shoulder pads were only used a few times before my son was injured and stopped playing.

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