Best Skill Position Football Shoulder Pads

From Quarterback to Tight End, our list of best-selling skill position shoulder pads has something for everyone. We work with players and gear experts to review shoulder pads for protection (how well they protect against impacts), mobility (the pad’s freedom of movement), and comfort/fit (how well they fit a variety of body types). We update our rankings weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.

Meet Our Experts

1

Xenith Flyte

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pads for:
Intermediate-level players that require unrestricted movement and protection.

The Xenith Flyte football shoulder pads are designed to deliver optimal protection without sacrificing mobility. Featuring a sleek, low-profile design and high-performance impact foam, these pads offer superior comfort and confidence on the field. The Flyte's versatile fit accommodates multiple positions, making it a great choice for young athletes looking to elevate their game. With a focus on both safety and performance, the Flyte provides protection while allowing players to move freely and make plays with ease.

The Xenith Flyte is a total game-changer for skill positions. It's insanely light but packs a serious protective punch. What sets it apart is how it fits like a glove without restricting movement. The ShockShield tech does a fantastic job of absorbing hits and distributing impact. You'll stay cool and comfortable even in the thick of things.

Devon Murray

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2

Xenith Velocity 2

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3

Riddell Power SPX

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pads for:
Linemen seeking maximum impact absorption or skilled players demanding unrestricted movement.

The Riddell Power SPX football shoulder pads offer protection and performance. Featuring the innovative Stac-Shoulder System, these pads provide a customized fit for optimal comfort and impact absorption. The low-profile, flat pad design maximizes coverage while allowing for unrestricted mobility, making the Power SPX ideal for players at all positions. With advanced features like an Air Management Liner System for cooling and swivel fronts for enhanced range of motion, these shoulder pads deliver performance on the field.

The Power SPX is a classic choice for a reason. It's tough, reliable, and offers great protection. The Shock Absorption System is a standout feature, soaking up big hits and keeping players safe. While it might be a bit bulkier than some newer options, it's a tried-and-true pad perfect for players prioritizing protection over pure mobility.

Devon Murray

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4

Xenith Fly

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5

Schutt 02 Pro

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6

Riddell Power SPK

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pads for:
Linemen or players in positions that involve frequent, heavy contact.

The Riddell Power SPK+ football shoulder pads deliver protection and performance for skill-position players. Featuring Riddell's innovative RipKord Technology, these pads offer quick and easy removal in case of injury. The Stac-Shoulder System ensures a customized fit for optimal comfort and impact absorption. With a focus on mobility and protection, the Power SPK+ provides players with the confidence to perform at their best.

The Riddell Power SPK is a classic choice. It's tough, reliable, and offers great protection. The Shock Absorption System is a standout feature, soaking up big hits and keeping players safe. While it might be a bit bulky and heavy, it's a tried-and-true pad perfect for players prioritizing protection over pure mobility.

Devon Murray

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7

Xenith Pro Skill

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8

Schutt SI 750

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9

Other Xtech

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10

Other Carbontek

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11

Schutt DS Flex

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pad for:
Players such as QB, RB, and WR who require freedom of movement to make quick cuts and perform at their best.

The Schutt DS Flex football shoulder pads offer a superior blend of protection and flexibility. Featuring Flex-Tech material, these pads provide an exceptional range of motion without compromising player safety. The Shock Sorb padding system absorbs and disperses impact forces, ensuring optimal protection in key impact zones. Designed for athletes seeking a balance of performance and coverage, the DS Flex delivers comfort and confidence on the field.

The Schutt DS Flex is a game-changer for skill players. It's insanely light and flexible, letting you move like you're wearing nothing. The ShockSorb foam does a decent job of protecting you, but expect a lower level of coverage than a bulkier pad. If you prioritize speed and agility, these pads are worth a look. Just be aware they might not be the toughest option out there.

Devon Murray

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12

Champro Gauntlet

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13

Riddell JPK+

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14

Douglas Legacy

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15

Riddell PHENOM SK

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16

Riddell Power JPX

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17

Riddell Pursuit

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pads for:
Younger players looking for a balance of protection and mobility.

Riddell Pursuit Shoulder Pads offer a lightweight and comfortable option for young athletes. The flat pad design and integrated deltoid pads provide essential protection without compromising mobility. The Z-Fit belting system ensures a secure and easy-to-adjust fit, while the removable/adjustable bodies allow for customization. With its blend of comfort, protection, and versatility, the Riddell Pursuit is a great choice for aspiring young football players.

The Riddell Pursuits are easy to get on and off and extra breathable. They have pulls for tightening the sides which helps youth players adjust the fit on the fly. If you're a competitive youth player who needs protection and mobility, the Pursuit is well worth it.

Devon Murray

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18

Douglas QBK

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19

Champro Scorpion

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Protection
Mobility
Comfort/Fit
Perfect pads for:
Young athletes who are just starting their football journey or players seeking a reliable and affordable option.

The Champro Scorpion football shoulder pads offer reliable protection and comfort for young athletes. Featuring a cantilever design that disperses impact and high-impact polyethylene arches for added durability, the Scorpion provides a solid defense against hits. The adjustable elastic straps ensure a secure and customizable fit, allowing for optimal comfort and freedom of movement. With its focus on protection and adaptability, the Champro Scorpion is a dependable choice for developing football players.

The Champro Scorpion is a solid choice for young players seeking basic protection. It's a no-frills pad that does the job without breaking the bank. The cantilever design is a standout feature, helping to distribute impact away from the body. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end pads, the Scorpion offers dependable protection for kids just starting in football.

Devon Murray

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20

Xenith Velocity Pro Light

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21

Riddell XForce

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22

Schutt XV HD

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23

Gear Pro Tec Z-Cool

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