The 5 Best Shoulder Pads for Running Backs: Performance Tested

Imagine you’re a running back, ready to burst through the line. You feel the hit coming. Do you trust your pads to protect you? Football is a tough sport. You run hard, and you get tackled hard. Choosing the right shoulder pads is super important for staying safe and playing your best.

Picking the perfect shoulder pads can be tricky. There are so many different kinds! Some pads are too bulky, and they slow you down. Others might not offer enough protection. This can lead to injuries and keep you off the field. Finding the right fit and features is key to staying comfortable and safe.

This blog post will help you choose the best shoulder pads for you. We’ll talk about different types, sizes, and features. You’ll learn how to measure yourself and what to look for. By the end, you’ll be ready to make a smart choice and hit the gridiron with confidence. Let’s dive in and find the perfect pads for your game!

Our Top 5 Football Shoulder Pads For Running Backs Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Football Shoulder Pads For Running Backs Detailed Reviews

1. CHAMPRO Gauntlet Skill Shoulder Pad

CHAMPRO Gauntlet Skill Shoulder Pad, Large

Rating: 8.8/10

The CHAMPRO Gauntlet Skill Shoulder Pad, Large is made for athletes who need to move fast. It’s built for skill position players. These shoulder pads help you move your arms freely. They also protect you from hits. The pads have a low-profile design. This means they fit well and are not too bulky. They use special technology to keep you safe and comfortable during the game.

What We Like:

  • The arch plates let you move your arms a lot. This is great for skill players.
  • The low-profile design makes the pads fit well. They are also light.
  • The Air Management System helps protect you. It spreads out the force of impact.
  • The Shock Rail system helps protect your shoulders.
  • The pads have a strong belt and buckle. This helps them fit snugly and comfortably.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price might be higher than some other options.
  • Some players might prefer more padding.

The CHAMPRO Gauntlet Skill Shoulder Pad, Large is a good choice for skill position athletes. It offers great protection and allows for excellent movement.

2. Barnett Vision II bk S

Barnett Vision II bk S, Competition Football Shoulder pad, RB-DE-TE-FB-HB

Rating: 9.0/10

The Barnett Vision II bk S is a competition football shoulder pad. It’s designed for running backs, defensive ends, tight ends, fullbacks, and halfbacks. This pad provides both protection and freedom of movement. It’s built to withstand tough play on the field. The shoulder pad helps players perform at their best.

What We Like:

  • High-quality materials are used to make the shoulder pad.
  • The shoulder pad provides excellent protection.
  • It allows for easy movement on the field.
  • The ABS shell is very strong.
  • It has dual-density PU foam for cushioning.
  • Heavy-duty nylon helps make it durable.
  • The shoulder pad is comfortable to wear.
  • It feels secure during play.

What Could Be Improved:

  • We don’t have any cons to list yet, but we will update this section after more testing.

The Barnett Vision II bk S shoulder pad seems like a great choice for football players. It focuses on protection and comfort, which are important for any player.

3. Gauntlet III Football Shoulder Pads for High School Play in All Positions: Offensive and Defensive Lineman

Gauntlet III Football Shoulder Pads for High School Play in All Positions: Offensive and Defensive Lineman, Running Back, Linebacker, and More, Large

Rating: 9.3/10

The Gauntlet III Football Shoulder Pads are built for high school football players. These pads work for any position, from the offensive and defensive line to running back and linebacker. They are designed for comfort and protection. The pads have a matte finish, showing their high quality. They are built to help players perform their best on the field.

What We Like:

  • MATTE FINISH: The matte finish looks great and shows quality.
  • LOW-PROFILE DESIGN: The design fits well and helps players move easily.
  • AIR MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: This system helps protect players from hard hits.
  • EXTENSIVE PADDING: The pads have extra padding in key areas. This adds more protection.
  • FLEXIBLE: The pads move with the player. This makes them feel more natural.

What Could Be Improved:

  • No cons found in the provided information.

These shoulder pads offer great protection and flexibility for high school football players. They appear to be a solid choice for any athlete looking to stay safe and comfortable on the field.

4. Schutt unisex adult AiR Maxx Back-Plate for Shoulder Pads Football Back Plate

Schutt unisex adult AiR Maxx Back-Plate for Shoulder Pads Football Back Plate, Black, US

Rating: 8.9/10

The Schutt unisex adult AiR Maxx Back-Plate is made for football players. It is designed to protect your back during big hits. This back plate works with Schutt Air Maxx shoulder pads. It has a strong plastic plate and soft padding. The padding helps absorb the impact of a hit. You can also get it in different colors to match your team’s uniform. It has vent holes to keep you cool. The back plate measures 13 inches wide and 7 inches high. It extends about 8 inches from the shoulder pad.

What We Like:

  • The back plate helps protect you from hard hits.
  • The vent holes allow for good airflow.
  • It comes in many colors.
  • It is made for Schutt Air Maxx shoulder pads.
  • The back plate is made with durable plastic.

What Could Be Improved:

  • It only works with specific shoulder pads.

This back plate is a good choice for football players who want extra protection. It is a great way to stay safe on the field.

5. Schutt Y-Flex Youth Shoulder Pads

Schutt Y-Flex Youth Shoulder Pads

Rating: 8.9/10

The Schutt Y-Flex Youth Shoulder Pads are built for young athletes. These pads offer varsity-level protection in a lightweight package. They are made for all positions on the field. The design helps players move freely and stay safe. These pads are designed to give young players confidence on the field.

What We Like:

  • The pads are lightweight. This helps with speed and agility.
  • The design allows for a great range of motion. Young players can move easily.
  • The wider neck opening helps with head positioning. This is important for making calls.
  • The T-hook strap keeps the pads secure. They won’t move around during the game.
  • They offer great protection for youth players. They can play with confidence.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some users may prefer a different strap design.
  • Availability might be limited in some stores.

Overall, the Schutt Y-Flex Youth Shoulder Pads are a great choice for young football players. They offer protection, comfort, and freedom of movement. These pads will help young athletes play their best.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Football Shoulder Pads for Running Backs

Running backs need tough shoulder pads. These pads protect them from hard hits. This guide helps you find the best ones.

Q: What are the main Key Features?

A: Look for these features when you buy shoulder pads:

  • Low Profile Design: Running backs move fast. Their pads should not be bulky. They need to be close to the body. This helps them run and catch the ball better.
  • Extended Arch Coverage: The arch is the part that covers the shoulders and collarbone. Make sure the pads cover this area well. This is where many hits happen.
  • Sternum and Spine Protection: Good pads protect the chest and back. Look for extra padding in these areas. This keeps the runner safe.
  • Ventilation: Football is a hot sport. Choose pads with good airflow. This helps keep the player cool and comfortable.
  • Adjustability: The pads should fit snugly. They should not move around. Look for adjustable straps. These help you get the right fit.
Q: What are the Important Materials?

A: The materials make a big difference. Here’s what to know:

  • Foam Padding: This absorbs the impact. It’s usually made of different types of foam. Some foams are better than others. Look for high-density foam. This provides better protection.
  • Shell Material: The shell is the hard outer layer. It’s made of plastic. Strong plastic is important. It protects against big hits.
  • Straps and Fasteners: These hold the pads in place. They are usually made of nylon or other strong materials. They need to be durable. Make sure they won’t break easily.
Q: What Improves or Reduces Quality?

A: Some things make pads better. Other things make them worse:

  • Quality of Materials: Better materials mean better protection. High-density foam and strong plastic are good signs. Cheaper materials might not protect as well.
  • Construction: How the pads are made is important. Well-stitched pads last longer. They also protect better.
  • Fit and Design: Pads that fit well work better. They need to cover the right areas. The design should allow for good movement.
  • Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Research the brand before you buy. Read reviews from other users.
Q: What is the User Experience?

A: Running backs need pads that feel good. They need to move freely. The pads should not slow them down.

Running backs need to be able to:

  • Run without restriction: The pads should not rub or chafe.
  • Catch the ball easily: The pads should not get in the way.
  • Feel protected: The pads should provide confidence. They should allow the player to play hard.
Q: How do I determine the correct size?

A: You need to measure. Use a measuring tape. Measure the player’s shoulder width. Follow the manufacturer’s sizing chart. It is important to get the right size. Otherwise, the pads will not protect well.

Q: How do I put on and take off the pads?

A: It’s easy. Put the pads on over the head. Adjust the straps to fit snugly. To remove, unfasten the straps and pull them off.

Q: How do I clean and care for the pads?

A: Clean them after each use. Wipe them down with a damp cloth. Let them air dry. Do not put them in the washing machine. Store them in a dry place.

Q: What is the difference between running back pads and other positions’ pads?

A: Running back pads are usually lower profile. They allow for more movement. They focus on protecting the shoulders and chest. Other positions might need more coverage.

Q: How much should I spend on shoulder pads?

A: Prices vary. Expect to spend between $50 and $250. The price depends on the quality. More expensive pads often offer better protection and features.

Q: Where can I buy football shoulder pads?

A: You can buy them at sporting goods stores. You can also buy them online. Make sure you compare prices and read reviews before you buy.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.