Best Hockey Shoulder Pads

From the new skater joining their first hockey league to the seasoned veteran looking for their next shoulder pad, we are here to help you find the shoulder pad that suits your skill level! Each category has the best pick for 'Overall Performance', which is chosen purely based on tech and spec. The other pick is based on 'Best Value', giving players a shoulder pad with price in mind.

$189.99 MSRP for Junior (MD, LG)
$219.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

CCM delivered an incredible JetSpeed line this year and the FT6 Pro has truly set the bar for mobility and breathability. Within its featherlight protection package, CCM's AER-TEC Thermoregulation System is an all-new technology that drastically keeps a player's body temperature regulated. Strategically placed mesh liners and ventilation ports increase airflow, sweat evaporation, and air circulation, all working together to reduce hotspots and improve player performance under fatigue.

Boasting lightweight foams throughout each area, the FT6 Pro provides a low-profile fit that's geared for the east-to-west player. Paired with the Amplified Mobility Design, players will never have to worry about their gear restricting their range of motion when shooting, passing, or stick handling.

$139.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$159.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

Sherwood's Rekker Legend 1 Shoulder Pad is a clear winner for Best Value, offering elite-level protection at a price that just can't be beaten. For the quick and agile player who is seeking low-profile shoulder pads but needs protection for battles in front of the net and along the boards, the Legend 1 is the perfect choice.

Strategically placed in the ribs and collarbone for puck battles is Viconic Impact Protection, an elite-level impact-absorbing material. Along with Sherwood's AIZ, Anatomical Isolated Zone, the torso construction wraps the player's body for a premium fit. Unique to Sherwood is their Customizable Impact Protection, which is located in the bicep guards. Players can dial in their fit and coverage like no other shoulder pads on the market.

The Warrior Alpha LX Pro Shoulder Pads boast incredible mobility thanks to Warrior's Fantom Stretch, a design in the rear panels that increases mobility and provides a more natural contoured fit. It also has plentiful coverage and solid impact protection for the hard, warrior-like player.

Players who rely on their speed and agility and play in highly competitive leagues can turn their sights on the True AX9 Shoulder Pads. They feature a trio of protective technologies for the physical game but don't sacrifice mobility or weight. Another key feature they provide is the ability to fine-tune the coverage of the collarbone, shoulder caps, bicep guards, and belly guard.

$104.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$119.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

For the competitive player seeking high-end performance and features without spending a fortune can rely on the CCM JetSpeed FT680 Shoulder Pads. Ideal for a variety of skill levels and players, the FT680 Shoulder Pads utilize a featherlight construction for the speedy, crafty player.

For players who look to battle along the boards and in front of the net, Sherwood's Code TMP 2 Shoulder Pads are an affordable choice. They display maximum coverage and large shoulder caps so players can dish out a big hit, all built without sacrificing a player's range of motion to make the next play.

Offering incredible adjustability with hits of elite-level protection, the True AX7 Shoulder Pads are designed for the competitive player on a budget. They feature impact-absorbing foams and come with adjustment points in both the shoulder caps and bicep guards, allowing players to fit the protection perfectly on the body.

$69.99 MSRP for Junior (SM, MD, LG)
$79.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL)

For the recreational or brand-new player, the CCM Next Shoulder Pad is a stand-out choice. With a lightweight fit, they come built with great impact protection in key areas such as the sternum, shoulders, biceps, and spine. A standout feature is the length adjustable bicep guards, a design that allows players to seal any gap in coverage between the elbow pads.

$54.99 MSRP for Senior (SM, MD, LG, XL, XXL)

This list isn't complete without the Sherwood 5030 Hall of Fame Shoulder Pads. Its classic construction and featherlight design have kept this shoulder pad around for 70+ years. The protection is ideal for the casual, entry-level player and at a price that can't be beaten.

The Sherwood Rekker Element Four Shoulder Pad offers some of the best protection for the price, giving the recreational hockey player a ton of value. A standout feature is a three-piece front and rear panel design, which is not usually found at this price. This construction allows the Element Four Shoulder Pads to easily contour and move with the body while the floating sternum and spine stay in place in order to protect and cover those two vital areas.

For the brand-new player, the Warrior Alpha LX 40 Shoulder Pad has a ton of coverage and uses molded plastic in key impact areas such as the shoulder caps and biceps. This protection is ideal for when a player accidentally takes a spill to the ice, the boards, or with another player.

If you are unsure how to select the right size or having trouble deciding which level of play best suits your game, head over to our dedicated learning centers by using the buttons below!