How to Fit Football Shoulder Pads
Properly fitted shoulder pads are essential to providing the football player a safe playing environment and preventing injuries. Professional and collegiate athletes enjoy the luxury of having professionally trained equipment managers outfitting them safely. From youth leagues to high school, this important task is performed by coaches and parents. Learning the correct procedure to properly fit a shoulder pad to a player isn't complicated. It just takes a little preparation and awareness.
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Instructions
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Determining Shoulder Pad Size
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1
Have the player stand up straight with arms outward to form a T.
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2
Measure between the player's shoulder blades using the soft-cloth tape measure.
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3
Youth sizes only: Have the player take a normal breath and hold it. Measure the player's chest circumference at the nipple line.
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4
Youth sizes only: Have the player step on a weight scale. Record the proper weight.
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5
Choose a properly fitted shoulder pad based on these measurements.
Proper Fit of Shoulder Pad
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6
Make sure the laces are centered and snugly tied. Inspect the straps underneath the shoulder pad. Make sure all the slack is taken out and that the pad fits snugly.
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7
Inspect the top of the shoulder pad to make sure that the player's collarbone is sufficiently covered.
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8
Check the caps on the outside of the shoulder pad. They should extend one-third of the way to halfway down the arm.
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9
Make sure the arches adequately cover the pectoral area.
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10
Check the player's range of motion. The player should be able to raise and lower his arms without the pad riding up into the neck opening.
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Tips & Warnings
Secure the front and back of the shoulder pad straps with athletic tape after the final fitting. This prevents the loss of hooks and also keeps straps in the adjusted position.
For additional shoulder protection, purchase "shoulder shocks," a foam pad that is worn under the shoulder pad.
Consult your equipment provider if you have addtional questions or concerns.
