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10 Best Rugby Shoulder Pads 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Riddell JPK+ Shoulder Pad with Back Plate Black/Red Medium

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Padding Thickness
Mobility
Weight

Most important from
31 reviews

Padding Thickness
It has great padding, providing excellent shoulder protection.
Mobility
Movement is restricted, especially for quarterbacks.
Weight
The pads are extremely bulky and feel like they weigh a lot.

The Riddell JPK+ Shoulder Pad with Back Plate is designed for youth involved in high-contact sports such as rugby and football. Made from plastic, it features key technologies aimed at enhancing protection and comfort. The integrated RipKord Technology allows for quick pad removal in emergency situations, which can be a crucial safety feature. The STAC Shoulder Pad System is built to provide additional shoulder protection, and the riveted back plate offers further support to the back area, useful for taking hits from various angles.

The Air Management Liner System ensures that the pads stay breathable and ventilated, reducing sweat buildup during intense play. Additionally, the removable adjustable channels offer a customizable fit, which is essential for comfort and mobility. Weighing in at 1.86 kilograms, these shoulder pads are relatively lightweight, which helps maintain mobility on the field. However, the product is more tailored for football rather than rugby, which may limit its appeal to rugby players looking for sport-specific gear.

The medium size and adjustable straps make it versatile for a range of youth body types, but adults or larger teens may need to look elsewhere. The plastic material, while durable, might not offer the same level of flexibility as other materials like foam or synthetic blends. In summary, the Riddell JPK+ Shoulder Pad with Back Plate is a solid choice for youth engaged in contact sports, offering a good balance of protection, comfort, and mobility, albeit with a slight focus more towards football than rugby.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,267
Padding Thickness
Mobility
Weight

Most important from
31 reviews

Padding Thickness
It has great padding, providing excellent shoulder protection.
Mobility
Movement is restricted, especially for quarterbacks.
Weight
The pads are extremely bulky and feel like they weigh a lot.
#3

Schutt XV Skill Shoulder Pads - Flux

Rating
9.8
Fit and Size
Mobility
Weight

Most important from
13 reviews

Fit and Size
These shoulder pads offer great fit and are lightweight, enhancing mobility on the field.
Mobility
Players can move around easily and make plays efficiently with these pads.
Weight
These shoulder pads offer great fit and are lightweight, enhancing mobility on the field.

The Schutt XV Skill Shoulder Pads - Flux are designed specifically for skill positions such as quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive backs. Made from plastic, these shoulder pads weigh about 3 pounds, which is relatively light, contributing to better mobility on the field.

The split-back arch design and Ultra-Move Arch Technology enhance flexibility and range of motion, allowing for swift and agile movements crucial in rugby. The 4-piece removable air management channels ensure a customized fit, catering to individual comfort and performance needs.

The pads are silver/black, fitting within a medium size range and are equipped with adjustable straps for a secure fit. These shoulder pads are best suited for high school and older athletes looking for durable, flexible, and lightweight protection.

Rating
9.8
Fit and Size
Mobility
Weight

Most important from
13 reviews

Fit and Size
These shoulder pads offer great fit and are lightweight, enhancing mobility on the field.
Mobility
Players can move around easily and make plays efficiently with these pads.
Weight
These shoulder pads offer great fit and are lightweight, enhancing mobility on the field.

Buying Guide for the Best Rugby Shoulder Pads

Choosing the right rugby shoulder pads is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort during the game. Rugby is a physically demanding sport, and shoulder pads can help protect players from impacts and injuries. When selecting shoulder pads, it's important to consider various specifications to find the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specs to look at and how to navigate them.
MaterialThe material of the shoulder pads is important because it affects durability, comfort, and protection. Common materials include foam, plastic, and synthetic fabrics. Foam is lightweight and offers good shock absorption, while plastic provides more rigid protection. Synthetic fabrics can offer a balance of comfort and durability. Choose a material that suits your level of play and personal preference for comfort and protection.
Padding ThicknessPadding thickness determines the level of protection the shoulder pads offer. Thicker padding provides more protection but can be heavier and less flexible. Thinner padding is lighter and allows for greater mobility but may offer less protection. If you play in a position that involves heavy contact, thicker padding might be more suitable. For positions requiring more agility, thinner padding could be a better choice.
Fit and SizeThe fit and size of shoulder pads are crucial for comfort and effectiveness. Shoulder pads should fit snugly without restricting movement. Sizes typically range from small to extra-large, and it's important to measure your chest and shoulders to find the right size. A proper fit ensures that the pads stay in place during play and provide optimal protection. Try on different sizes and adjust the straps to find the best fit for your body.
MobilityMobility refers to how much freedom of movement the shoulder pads allow. Some pads are designed to be more flexible, enabling better arm and shoulder movement, which is important for passing, tackling, and other actions. If your playing style relies heavily on agility and quick movements, look for shoulder pads that offer high mobility. Conversely, if you need more protection and are less concerned about movement, you might opt for pads with less mobility.
VentilationVentilation is important for keeping cool and comfortable during the game. Shoulder pads with good ventilation have mesh panels or breathable materials that allow air to circulate, reducing sweat and overheating. If you play in hot conditions or tend to sweat a lot, look for pads with enhanced ventilation features. This will help you stay comfortable and focused during the game.
WeightThe weight of the shoulder pads can affect your performance. Lighter pads are generally more comfortable and allow for better mobility, while heavier pads offer more protection but can be cumbersome. Consider your position and playing style when choosing the weight of your shoulder pads. If speed and agility are important, opt for lighter pads. If you need maximum protection, heavier pads might be more suitable.

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