What is the best way to measure for football shoulder pads? The best way to measure for football shoulder pads is to take accurate measurements of your chest circumference and shoulder width, then compare these to a football pad chart to find the right size. This guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring a correct shoulder pad fit every time. Getting the right fit for your football shoulder pads is crucial for both protection and performance. Ill-fitting pads can restrict movement, chafe, and offer less effective protection, leaving you vulnerable on the field. This detailed guide will help you navigate the world of football equipment measurements to achieve the perfect shoulder pad fitting.
Why Proper Sizing Matters in Football Shoulder Pads
Wearing the wrong size shoulder pads is like wearing a suit that’s too big or too small – it just doesn’t work. When you’re out on the field, your shoulder pads are your first line of defense against hard hits. If they don’t fit correctly, they can:
- Limit Your Mobility: Pads that are too large can hang down, making it difficult to raise your arms, throw, or tackle effectively. Pads that are too small can feel restrictive, hindering quick movements.
- Cause Discomfort and Chafing: Improperly fitted pads can rub and chafe your skin, leading to painful sores and distractions during gameplay.
- Reduce Protection Effectiveness: The primary job of shoulder pads is to absorb impact. If they aren’t positioned correctly on your shoulders, they can’t do their job effectively, leaving you exposed to injuries.
- Affect Performance: A player constantly adjusting ill-fitting equipment is a player not focused on the game.
This football gear fitting guide is designed to help you avoid these pitfalls and ensure you have the best possible experience on the field. Knowing how to size your shoulder pads correctly is a fundamental skill for any football player.
Gathering Your Measuring Tools
Before you start, make sure you have the right tools for the job. You won’t need anything fancy, just a few common items:
- Measuring Tape: A flexible fabric measuring tape is ideal. Avoid using a metal tape measure, as it can be stiff and difficult to get accurate measurements around your body.
- A Friend or Teammate: Having someone else help you take the measurements will ensure accuracy, especially for the shoulder width measurement.
- Pen and Paper (or your phone): To record your measurements.
Key Measurements for Determining Shoulder Pad Size
There are two primary measurements you need to take to determine your football pad sizing: chest circumference and shoulder width.
1. Measuring Your Chest Circumference
This is the most critical measurement for determining shoulder pad size. It helps ensure the pads fit snugly around your torso.
How to Measure Your Chest Circumference:
- Stand Tall: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, relaxed.
- Find the Right Spot: The measuring tape should go around the fullest part of your chest. This is typically just below your armpits and across the widest part of your chest, over your nipples.
- Keep the Tape Level: Make sure the tape measure is parallel to the floor all the way around. It shouldn’t dip in the back or ride up too high.
- Snug, Not Tight: Pull the tape measure snug enough so it’s flat against your body, but not so tight that it digs in or makes you feel like you can’t breathe. You should be able to slip a finger between the tape and your body.
- Read the Measurement: Note the measurement in inches. If your tape measure has both inches and centimeters, use inches as most football pad charts use inches.
Important Note: Wear a thin t-shirt or no shirt when measuring. Wearing a bulky jersey can add extra inches and lead to an inaccurate measurement.
2. Measuring Your Shoulder Width
While chest circumference is often the primary factor, shoulder width is also important for ensuring the pads sit correctly and don’t overlap or leave gaps.
How to Measure Your Shoulder Width:
- Stand Up Straight: Again, stand relaxed with your shoulders back.
- Locate the Shoulder Bone: Find the bony point at the very top of your shoulder, where your shoulder muscle meets your arm. This is your acromion bone.
- Measure Across the Top: Have your friend place the end of the measuring tape at the outer edge of one shoulder bone.
- Keep the Tape Straight: The tape should go in a straight line directly across the top of your shoulders to the outer edge of the other shoulder bone. Avoid curving the tape down your back.
- Record the Measurement: Write down this measurement in inches.
Using Your Measurements to Find the Right Size
Once you have your chest circumference and shoulder width measurements, you can use them to find your correct size.
Consulting a Football Pad Chart
Every brand and manufacturer of football shoulder pads will have its own sizing chart. These charts are essential for translating your body measurements into the appropriate pad size.
How to Use a Football Pad Chart:
- Locate the Chart: You can usually find a football pad chart on the product packaging, the manufacturer’s website, or on reputable sports equipment retailer websites.
- Find Your Chest Measurement: Look for the range that includes your chest circumference measurement.
- Check for Shoulder Width (if provided): Some charts might also consider shoulder width, so see if your shoulder measurement falls within the recommended range for that size.
- Determine Your Size: The chart will indicate which size (e.g., Small, Medium, Large, XL, etc.) corresponds to your measurements.
Example Football Pad Sizing Chart (Illustrative – Always check specific brand charts):
| Size | Chest Circumference (Inches) | Shoulder Width (Inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Youth S | 26-30 | 14-15 |
| Youth M | 30-34 | 15-16 |
| Youth L | 34-38 | 16-17 |
| Adult S | 34-38 | 16-17 |
| Adult M | 38-42 | 17-18 |
| Adult L | 42-46 | 18-19 |
| Adult XL | 46-50 | 19-20 |
Note: These are just examples. Football pad sizing can vary significantly between manufacturers. Always refer to the specific brand’s chart for the most accurate results.
What If Your Measurements Fall Between Sizes?
This is a common scenario. If your chest measurement falls between two sizes on the football pad chart, here’s what to consider:
- Leaner Build: If you have a leaner build and your shoulders are not particularly broad, you might lean towards the smaller size.
- Muscular Build: If you have a more muscular build or broader shoulders, the larger size might offer a better fit.
- Padding Preference: Some players prefer a slightly snugger fit, while others like a little more room. Consider how much freedom of movement you prioritize.
- Try Them On If Possible: If you have the opportunity to try on pads before buying, this is the best way to make the final decision.
The Importance of Trying Them On (If Possible)
While measurements are a great starting point, nothing beats physically trying on the shoulder pads. This allows you to assess the shoulder pad fitting in real-time.
What to Look for When Trying On Pads:
- Comfort: Do the pads feel comfortable against your skin? Are there any pinching or rubbing points?
- Coverage: Do the shoulder caps adequately cover your shoulder joint? Is there too much overlap on your chest or back, or are there gaps?
- Mobility: Can you raise your arms fully? Can you rotate your arms freely? Try simulating movements you’d make during a game, like throwing a ball or performing a tackling motion.
- Straps: How do the internal or external straps feel? Are they easy to adjust? Do they keep the pads securely in place?
- No Gaps: Ensure there are no significant gaps between the shoulder caps and your body, or between the front and back pieces of the pad.
- Rib Protection: Check if the lower portion of the pads provides adequate coverage for your ribs.
Adjusting the Fit
Most modern football shoulder pads have adjustable straps to fine-tune the fit.
- Internal Straps: Many pads have elastic or Velcro straps on the inside that connect the shoulder caps to the sternum and back pieces. Adjust these to snug up the fit.
- External Straps: Some pads also have external straps that go around your torso or under your arms. Tighten these to secure the pads firmly.
The goal is a snug, secure fit that doesn’t restrict your movement.
Specific Considerations for Different Positions
While the fundamental measurement process remains the same, certain positions might have slightly different preferences for how their pads fit.
Linemen (Offensive and Defensive)
Linemen often experience direct, forceful impact. They typically prefer pads that offer robust protection and a secure, slightly more substantial fit.
- Focus: Maximum protection and stability.
- Fit Preference: Snug but not overly restrictive. They need to be able to drive and block effectively.
Running Backs and Fullbacks
These players are often involved in both blocking and carrying the ball, requiring a balance of protection and agility.
- Focus: Protection with good mobility for running and evasive maneuvers.
- Fit Preference: A close fit that allows for a full range of motion for cutting and changing direction.
Quarterbacks and Wide Receivers
Agility and a full range of motion are paramount for these positions, especially for quarterbacks needing to throw and receivers needing to catch.
- Focus: Freedom of movement and comfort. Protection is still vital, but a less bulky pad might be preferred.
- Fit Preference: A streamlined fit that doesn’t interfere with throwing mechanics or catching the ball.
Defensive Backs and Linebackers
These players need to be able to move fluidly, pursue the ball carrier, and make tackles.
- Focus: Mobility for pursuit and agility for coverage.
- Fit Preference: A fit that allows for quick changes of direction and tackles without hindering arm movement.
Even with these positional nuances, the core principle of accurate measurement for a correct shoulder pad fit remains the most important factor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring
Even with a good guide, it’s easy to make mistakes. Be aware of these common pitfalls:
- Measuring Over Bulky Clothing: As mentioned, always measure over a thin shirt or no shirt.
- Not Measuring Tight Enough: A loose chest measurement will lead to pads that are too big.
- Not Measuring Straight: An uneven tape measure will give inaccurate results.
- Guessing: Never guess your size. Take the time to measure properly.
- Ignoring the Brand’s Chart: Relying on general sizing can be misleading. Always use the manufacturer’s specific football pad chart.
- Forgetting Shoulder Width: While chest circumference is primary, shoulder width can influence the overall feel and fit.
Maintaining Your Shoulder Pads
Once you have the perfect fit, proper care will ensure your shoulder pads last and continue to provide optimal protection.
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe down your pads with a damp cloth to remove sweat and dirt. Allow them to air dry completely. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Store your shoulder pads in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid crushing them under other equipment.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect your pads for any signs of damage, such as torn straps, cracked plastic, or damaged padding. Replace them if they are compromised.
Frequently Asked Questions About Football Shoulder Pad Sizing
Q: How do I know if my shoulder pads are too big or too small?
A: If your shoulder pads are too big, they will likely slide around, feel loose, and may hang too low, potentially covering part of your neck or restricting arm movement. If they are too small, they will feel tight, pinch your shoulders, and might not provide adequate coverage, leaving parts of your shoulder or upper arm exposed.
Q: Can I wear my shoulder pads over my pads?
A: No, shoulder pads are designed to be worn directly against the body or a thin t-shirt. Wearing them over other padding will significantly affect the fit, making them too large and compromising their protective capabilities.
Q: How often should I replace my football shoulder pads?
A: Football shoulder pads can last for several seasons if properly cared for. However, you should replace them if you notice any damage, such as cracks in the plastic, torn straps, or significant wear and tear on the padding that compromises their protective function. If you’ve outgrown them, you’ll need new ones anyway.
Q: Does the position I play affect how my shoulder pads should fit?
A: While the fundamental measurements are the same, different positions might have slight preferences. Linemen might prefer a snugger, more robust fit for heavy contact, while skill players like receivers or quarterbacks might prioritize a more streamlined fit for maximum mobility. However, a good, secure fit that allows for freedom of movement is always the goal.
Q: What if my chest measurement is exactly between two sizes on the football pad chart?
A: If you fall between sizes, consider your build. If you’re leaner, the smaller size might be better. If you’re more muscular or have broader shoulders, the larger size could offer a more comfortable fit. If possible, try both sizes on to see which feels more secure and allows for better movement.
Q: Should I measure with my shoulder pads on?
A: Absolutely not. Measurements should always be taken with minimal clothing, directly against your skin, to get the most accurate body measurements for determining shoulder pad size. Wearing pads during measurement will lead to incorrect sizing.
By following these steps and paying close attention to the details, you can confidently measure yourself and select football shoulder pads that offer the best protection, comfort, and performance on the field. Remember, proper football pad sizing is an investment in your safety and your game.