Top 4 Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads of 2012
Ice hockey can be a very dangerous sport if players enter the rink without wearing the proper gear to protect their body from injury. While the name suggests the shoulders are the only part of the body protected, shoulder pads also help to protect the chest and back from serious injury. While there are a ton of different options when it comes to buying shoulder pads, like anything else, some brands and models are better than others. Price usually dictates the quality of a product, but that shouldn’t be the sole factor driving your decision. Buyers should consider the types of materials used in the construction of the shoulder pads as well as its overall design. Any of the following shoulder pads will help to protect the body while helping to improve performance through better mobility.
NHL Silver Series Senior Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads
Reebok has a great pair of shoulder pads from their NHL Silver Series Senior Ice Hockey line. They usually sell for $59.99, though the price may vary at certain discount stores. They are lightweight and durable; allowing an individual to move around comfortably without feeling as if there were a ton of bricks on his or her shoulders. Despite the lightweight construction, these shoulder pads are sure to offer the protection every ice hockey player needs. They are made of polyethylene foam and ethylene vinyl acetate construction, have hinged clavicles for easy movement and full range of motion, and have padding throughout.
Synergy ST4 Junior Ice Jockey Shoulder Pads
Easton provides another fantastic pair of shoulder pads for just $49.99. Their Synergy ST4 Junior Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads are in three pieces to allow for better movement. However, players can add segmented chest pieces and a segmented rib wrap to allow further protection without hampering their movements. This particular set of shoulder pads is made out of molded fabric and foam for a lightweight and comfortable wear.
Stealth RS Shoulder Pads
For younger players, Easton’s Stealth RS Youth Shoulder Pads are the perfect choice. They offer the perfect balance and protection young players need when they are just learning how to play this sport. The neck opens and retracts as needed, making it comfortable for children of all sizes. It also comes equipped with covered, molded HDPE low-profile shoulder caps. These generally sell for $24.99, but can be purchased for less from certain retailers. The website HockeyMonkey offers 2012 ice hockey equipment at a discounted price.
Warrior Franchise Senior Shoulder Pads
Warrior is another fantastic brand for shoulder pads. Their Warrior Franchise Senior Shoulder Pads offer pro-level protection while being 10% lighter than most other brands. They have adjustable two-piece bicep protection, removable mid-body and lower-back pad flaps, two-way protective newly shaped shoulder caps, segmented high-density foam collarbone protection, Silver Shield lining to wick moisture and control odor, and independent floating Bone System that provides spine protection. These shoulder pads sell for $129. Although the price may seem a little steep, buyers can rest assured they are worth every penny.
