What protects a quarterback’s most valuable assets—his throwing arm and his body—on the gridiron? The answer lies in the right set of shoulder pads. As the field general, the QB faces constant pressure. He needs protection, but he also needs complete freedom to throw dimes downfield. Finding the perfect balance between heavy-duty armor and lightweight agility can feel like a championship game in itself!
Choosing quarterback shoulder pads presents real challenges. Too bulky, and your throwing motion suffers. Too light, and you risk injury from hard hits. Many players simply guess, leading to discomfort, poor performance, or worse. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great QB pad stand out.
By the end of this article, you will know the essential features to look for, from mobility to padding design. Stop worrying about gear that slows you down. Get ready to discover the shoulder pads that will keep you protected and your throwing arm lightning-fast. Let’s dive into finding your perfect fit!
Top Football Shoulder Pads For Qb Recommendations
- 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
- Small + Super Skill Combination: Configured with - Super Skill Arch, Super Skill Epaulets, Super Skill Cups and a Skill 3/8” Shoulder Foam. Each shoulder pad and size combination is uniquely configured by our experts to ensure maximum safety and performance for your exact needs on the field.
- Pad of the Pros: More than 80% of pro football players and the majority of D1 programs wear XTECH performance enhancing pads on game day
- Performance Enhancing Technology: The X2 leverages 8 patents, advanced plastics, XRD foam production technology, and over a decade of working with the game’s most elite athletes to deliver unmatched safety and performance in a lightweight, breathable, flexible, water-resistant, and comfortable pad that just happens to look amazing.
- Safety & Performance: Advanced lightweight materials and patented design allow for maximum safety on impact without sacrificing mobility whether its for the most elite or high school players
- Made in the USA: Designed, manufactured, and assembled by our expert craftsmen with more than a decade of experience right here in the USA
- Medium + Super Skill Combination: Configured with - Super Skill Arch, Super Skill Epaulets, Super Skill Cups and a Skill 3/8” Shoulder Foam. Each shoulder pad and size combination is uniquely configured by our experts to ensure maximum safety and performance for your exact needs on the field.
- Pad of the Pros: More than 80% of pro football players and the majority of D1 programs wear XTECH performance enhancing pads on game day
- Performance Enhancing Technology: The X2 leverages 8 patents, advanced plastics, XRD foam production technology, and over a decade of working with the game’s most elite athletes to deliver unmatched safety, performance in a lightweight, breathable, flexible, water-resistant, and comfortable pad that just happens to look amazing.
- Safety & Performance: Advanced lightweight materials and patented design allow for maximum safety on impact without sacrificing mobility whether its for the most elite or high school players
- Made in the USA: Designed, manufactured, and assembled by our X TECH expert craftsmen with more than a decade of experience right here in the USA
- Designed for the skill positions: QB-WR-RB-DB.
- High quality shoulder pad. Protection and ease of motion.
- Clamping through 4 elastic strips
- Very resistant ABS shell, dual density PU foam.
- Cushions with heavy duty nylon. Very comfortable and secure.
- Impenetrable Advantage: LEGION stands alone as the only shoulder pad featuring a custom-molded, dual-density, beaded foam body. Unlike traditional pads, LEGION pads resist the absorption of water, sweat, and other fluids, keeping athletes drier and lighter.
- Designed for the skill positions: QB-WR-DB
- High quality shoulder pad. Protection and ease of motion.
- Clamping through 2 elastic strips
- Very resistant ABS shell, dual density PU foam.
- Cushions with heavy duty nylon. Very comfortable and secure.
- X-Small + Skill Combination: Configured with - Skill Arch, Skill Epaulets, Skill Cups and a Standard ½” Shoulder Foam. Each shoulder pad and size combination is uniquely configured by our experts to ensure maximum safety and performance for your exact needs on the field.
- Pad of the Pros: More than 80% of pro football players and the majority of D1 programs wear XTECH performance enhancing pads on game day
- Performance Enhancing Technology: The X2 leverages 8 patents, advanced plastics, XRD foam production technology, and over a decade of working with the game’s most elite athletes to deliver unmatched safety, performance in a lightweight, breathable, flexible, water-resistant, and comfortable pad that just happens to look amazing.
- Safety & Performance: Advanced lightweight materials and patented design allow for maximum safety on impact without sacrificing mobility whether its for the most elite or high school players
- Made in the USA: Designed, manufactured, and assembled by our X TECH expert craftsmen with more than a decade of experience right here in the USA
- Air Management foam cushions allow more energy dispersed over a broader area
- Flat pad design has a low profile and combines with swivel front and back connectors to promote a greater range of motion
- Adjustable and removable deltoid pads to set up pad how you prefer. Protective football pads for adults at any position on the field.
- Removable liner system for easy washing
- Built in clavicle pads, 1.5" belt and buckles plus a 14-hole strap system to help you get a perfect fit
Choosing the Perfect Football Shoulder Pads for Your Quarterback
Quarterbacks need special protection on the field. They face tackles and hits even though they throw the ball. Good shoulder pads keep your QB safe. They also let him move freely. This guide helps you pick the best pads.
Key Features to Look For
1. Fit and Sizing
The most important thing is a good fit. Pads should hug the shoulders tightly. They should not slide around when the QB moves. Check the size chart carefully. A loose pad offers less protection. A too-tight pad restricts breathing and throwing motion.
2. Mobility and Range of Motion
A QB must throw the ball well. Big, bulky pads stop this. Look for pads designed for skill positions. These pads have fewer arches over the bicep area. This allows the QB to raise their arm fully without rubbing the pads.
3. Ventilation and Weight
Football is hot. Good pads have lots of air holes or mesh panels. This keeps the QB cool. Heavy pads cause fast fatigue. Lighter pads help the QB stay quick throughout the game.
4. Neck Opening Size
The neck hole must be wide enough. This prevents rubbing and chafing around the neck. A comfortable neck opening improves the overall wearing experience.
Important Materials in QB Shoulder Pads
Outer Shell Materials
Most pads use hard plastic for the outer shell. This plastic absorbs big impacts. Good quality plastic resists cracking over time. Cheaper pads might use thinner plastic that breaks easily.
Padding Materials
Inside the shell, you find padding. High-density foam is common. This foam compresses upon impact, slowing down the hit. Some advanced pads use memory foam or gel inserts. These materials offer superior shock absorption.
Liner Materials
The part touching the skin matters too. Moisture-wicking fabrics are best. These materials pull sweat away from the body. This keeps the QB drier and reduces skin irritation.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters
- Adjustable straps: Straps that use Velcro or buckles allow for a custom fit.
- Removable/Washable liners: This feature keeps the pads smelling fresh after hard use.
- Low-profile design: Pads that sit close to the body offer protection without bulk.
Quality Reducers
- Fixed padding: If the padding cannot be adjusted or removed, cleaning becomes hard.
- Cheap stitching: Poor stitching causes straps to tear off during rough play.
- Hard edges: Pads with sharp or poorly molded edges can dig into the body.
User Experience and Use Cases
Practice vs. Game Day
For heavy game days, a QB might need maximum protection. For light practice drills, a smaller, less restrictive pad works well. Some players own two sets: one light set and one heavy set.
Comfort Over Long Periods
A QB wears these pads for hours. If the pads rub the collarbone or pinch the ribs, the player will complain. Always try pads on with the jersey they usually wear. Comfort directly affects focus on the field.
Compatibility with Helmets
Ensure the shoulder pads do not push the helmet up too high on the head. The chin strap should fit snugly without the shoulder pads interfering. This is crucial for neck safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About QB Shoulder Pads
Q: Do all quarterbacks need the same size pads?
A: No. Sizing depends on the player’s chest size and build, not just height. Always measure chest circumference.
Q: Are youth pads different from adult pads?
A: Yes. Youth pads are often lighter and focus more on general protection. Adult pads offer more specialized impact zones for higher-level play.
Q: Should I buy pads that cover my ribs more?
A: QBs usually prefer pads that end around the lower rib cage. Too much rib coverage restricts bending and leaning necessary for pocket presence.
Q: How often should I replace my QB shoulder pads?
A: If you notice the plastic cracking or the foam collapsing after a hard hit, replace them immediately. Usually, one good season is the lifespan for most high school players.
Q: Can I wear regular lineman pads as a QB?
A: You can, but it is not recommended. Lineman pads are much bulkier and severely limit arm movement needed for throwing.
Q: What is the best way to clean football pads?
A: Use a damp cloth and mild soap on the exterior. If the liners are removable, hand-wash them in cool water and let them air dry completely. Never put them in a machine dryer.
Q: Do I need to wear a girdle with these pads?
A: A girdle protects the hips and tailbone, which shoulder pads do not cover. It is highly recommended for overall lower body protection.
Q: How do I know if the pads are too heavy?
A: If the player tires quickly or complains about shoulder strain after just a light jog, the pads are likely too heavy for their strength level.
Q: Is high-end padding always better?
A: Not necessarily. The best padding is the one that fits the player perfectly and matches the level of contact they expect to receive.
Q: What is the difference between “skill position” and “all-purpose” pads?
A: Skill position pads (like QB pads) are low-profile and maximize throwing motion. All-purpose pads offer more general protection but might feel slightly more restrictive for throwing.