The 5 Best Low Profile Hockey Shoulder Pads For 2023

One of the most important pieces of equipment for a hockey player is their shoulder pads. It's not just the protection that they provide but also the way they can improve your stickhandling and shooting performance.

Most players low-profile want shoulder pads that will protect them from falls and impacts but they also don’t want bulky, cumbersome pads that can sacrifice performance and mobility. Enter low-profile shoulder pads. They not only provide a closer fit with less pronounced shapes, but they're packed with advanced technologies so you're still protected.

With that said, the popularity of low-profile shoulder pads has skyrocketed in recent years and therefore we've decided to compile a list of the best low profile hockey shoulder pads that you need to look out for.

5. Bauer Supreme 1S

Starting off at number 5 we've got the Bauer Supreme 1S.

With FleXorn for better, more lightweight protection alongside XRD padding for impact absorption, the Supreme 1S is yet another in a long line of low-profile, Bauer supreme shoulder pads.

1S shoulder pads work to help, not hinder your range of motion.

4. Easton Stealth

At number 4 we've got the Easton Stealth.

The Easton Stealth shoulder pads are one of the most popular shoulder pads in hockey. The reason why they are called Stealth is they have a very sleek, streamlined profile almost like that of some high-tech stealth fighter jet. Built with low-profile hybrid HD EVA foam for long-lasting lightweight protection together with an HDPE shield that gives enhanced comfort, the Stealth is an excellent choice for any position.

3. Bauer Vapor 1X

The Bauer Vapor 1X is a shoulder pad that delivers a tapered, protective fit.

If you’re a competitive hockey player looking for a low-profile pad that’ll provide players with pro-like mobility, the Bauer Vapor 1X could be the ideal option. The Vapor 1X is built low-profile to provide better mobility. Infused with Free Flex technology and breathable transfer mesh, the Vapor 1X's design eliminates extra bulk at the shoulders.

The lightweight construction of these pads is a huge selling point as well. Most low-profile designs for pro players have been built much heavier than their previous counterparts along with being more mobile, but Bauer has been able to avoid making the shoulder pads too heavy without sacrificing protection.

2. Bauer Supreme 2S Pro

Next up is a shoulder pad precisely tailored to players in need of exceptional low-profile protection: the Bauer Supreme 2S Pro.

The Bauer Supreme 2S Pro hockey shoulder pads are an excellent new model in the line of Bauer's signature shoulder pads. The Supreme 2S Pro implements cutting-edge technology and precision to bring you the most innovative, pro-grade shoulder pads available. Crafted with a low profile design for a comfortable fit that helps you improve your mobility, alongside Poron XRD foam for enhanced protection, the 2S Pro has it all. With a contoured design for a better fit advanced, long-lasting Curv Composite construction, Bauer guarantees superb performance no matter your position on the ice.

1. CCM U+

Finally, rounding out our list at number 1 we've got the CCM U+.

With shoulder pads, you want padding that doesn't restrict your movements and that won't feel overly bulky. CCM makes this possible with their U+ shoulder pads. Featuring U Foam technology for lightweight protection alongside adjustable molded texture U foam allowing for a customized fit, the U+ is specifically made to meet the needs of hockey players for which lightweight, low-profile shoulder pads are a must.