Commotio Cordis has been the center of NOCSAE's attention for years now. As one of the sports with a high risk of heart failure, lacrosse has adequately enhanced the safety measures to prevent this from happening.
Because of the nature of their position, goalies often get hit by a ball that can develop the speed of 100 miles per hour; hence they need the most protective gear. With that in mind, major lacrosse brands have been producing the lacrosse goalie chest protectors to comply with the latest standards.
Stay with us to learn what the best lacrosse goalie chest protector is and the strong and weak points of each.
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Best lacrosse goalie chest protectors for all players: My top 7 picks
$$ - STX Shield 400 Goalie Lacrosse Chest Protector - Most durable chest pad, offering the best overall protection while on the field. The best protection from all injuries.
$ - Maverik Lacrosse MX EKG Goalie Chest Protector - Best safety features and protective benefits to keep your body optimal on the field. Adjustable for various players.
$ - STX boys Blend Boy s Lacrosse Chest Protector - Most reliable unit with easy-to-manage composition, making the players free to operate on the field easily.
$$ - Unequal Lacrosse Goalie CC Chest Protector - Most comfortable lacrosse item with premium quality to ensure you can play freely and adjust the straps to fit your needs.
$ - STX Shield 200 Goalie Lacrosse Chest Protector - Best for youth players, helping them develop strength and sturdiness while playing goalies.
$$ - STX Shield 600 Goalie Lacrosse Chest Protector - Best for improving performance and advanced play, as it creates an extra layer of protection without restringing your body and moves.
$ - Maverik Lacrosse Max EKG Goalie Chest Protector - Most adjustable model with an exceptional system that will not restrict your movements while playing.
What we have here is another STX product from the Shield line of goalie chest protectors, this time the upgraded 400 model. At first glance, this protector seems identical to the previous 200 Shield, yet it includes some innovative features, so let's see what these are.
When compared to its predecessor, STX Shield 400 seems a bit tighter with more plastics and padding incorporated. However, it is not the case. While Shield 200 includes hard plastic throughout the chest pad, Shield 400 includes a floating chest plate for improved flexibility and more movement.
It also includes a removable stomach pad and shoulder caps for more safety in the game, while adjustable straps offer a comfortable fit and customization.
Customers are thrilled with this protector. Although it is predominantly bought by youth, players end up using the padding season after season, for it exhibits fantastic durability.
I couldn't find any serious complaint. A player did notice that the shield is a bit bulky, yet he claimed it did not influence the quality of his performance in any way.
Personally, the most important segment is that the padding provides protection and offers decent mobility, and this mode definitely does.
- A floating chest plate
- Adjustable straps
- Removable stomach pad
- Durable
- Mobility
- Bulky
What’s so special about the Maverik lacrosse goalie chest protector? First, the lacrosse chest protector offers the most reliable design and safety standards.
As you’ll see, the sturdy and reliable material prevents different severe injuries as you are the main target for attackers and midfielders of the opposing team. So, you will suffer multiple shots with different strengths and velocities. But, the lacrosse chest protector will keep your body optimal in the challenging game.
In addition, the Maverik lacrosse goalie chest protector is an ideal choice for all goalies, as the lacrosse equipment meets and exceeds all NOCSAE standards. Thus, the tool will be safe for extended use and different playing conditions. The item complies with regulations and safety rules to ensure maximum use and performance.
Due to its adjustable design and manageable strap, you can wear the goalie chest protector whatever you like.
In addition, its adjustability will allow maximum movement with minimal, almost no bunching when making different movements. So, the lacrosse goalie chest protector will not restrict you in any way, and you can fully operate on the lacrosse field.
The composite materials will last an extended period, and the lacrosse goalie chest protector ensures a prolonged lifespan for different conditions and various playing needs.
So, you can keep up with the good work and perform seamlessly on the field in your designated area, on the defensive side of the lacrosse field. But, the protection will be exceptional for pro players, as they need the most protective standards.
- durable
- sturdy
- reliable
- protection
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Why should you choose the STX lacrosse goalie chest protector as your top choice? There are many benefits, so read below to find all of them.
Firstly, the lacrosse goalie chest protector meets and exceeds all required safety standards and rules. The lacrosse equipment complies with all NOCSAE standards for chest protection; therefore, it will offer maximum protection and safety standards for your playing needs. However, the safety standards do not stop here.
Hard plastic throughout the chest plate and shoulder caps will increase the overall protection, making you safe and sound on the lacrosse field. Even if some hard and fast balls are coming towards you, they cannot injure your body so quickly. You will be optimal to continue with the game as long as you wear the chest protector. So, your safety will be exceptional.
In addition, the lacrosse goalie chest protector uses multiple hinges for enhanced fit, so the lacrosse equipment will allow unrestricted mobility.
As a result, you will not be limited in any way, and you can smoothly perform different operations while on the goal. Thus, you can quickly move around freely, and the lacrosse goalie chest protector cannot create additional pain, pressure, or discomfort when using it.
The lacrosse goalie chest protector uses the optional stomach pad for extra coverage. It’s not obligatory, but you should wear it to protect your body fully and prevent severe injuries and suffering. So, it would be better to wear full equipment.
- durable
- sturdy
- reliable
- stable
- /
The Unequal lacrosse goalie chest protector offers both the SEI certification and the NOCSAE standards for the best protection on the lacrosse field. Thus, the lacrosse pads reduce the risk of commotio cordis and are recommended as the best HART CC pads.
So, you will get the maximum safety standards once you wear the chest protector on the field. You won’t suffer any injuries.
In addition, the Unequal lacrosse goalie chest protector provides the patented four-layer composite content, made with aramid fiber, airline, impact shield, and acceleron.
Unlike regular shields and chest protectors, the Unique lacrosse chest protector is ideal for all goalies, as it dissipates, disperses, and absorbs impact energy better.
Thanks to its non-restrictive narrow design, engineered with brand-new construction features, the lacrosse goalie chest protector will not limit your motion or restrict you in any other way. As a result, there won't be any pain, pressure, or discomfort to your body and use.
Besides, the protector was made in accordance with Brian Doherty - a famous Hall of Fame goalie.
The goalie chest protector will not negatively impact arm movement when holding the lacrosse stick, and the extendable pad will also protect your abdomen. So, it’s always a good idea to wear the extra part for maximum safety features.
The removable rib pad is also adjustable, and you can manage the strap to ensure the proper fitting and safety standards to make you secure on the field. And you can check the size chart for all three types.
- adjustable
- reliable
- safe
- stable
- durable
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The STX Shield 200 chest protector is the ideal chest pad for beginner goalies who need a protective shield that won't limit their movement yet will perform well. It's a budget offer, very affordable to high school and college students, so I recommend it to all entry-level players.
It's imperative to mention that this chest protector meets the NOCSAE standard. Its smart design provides protection to all critical areas yet keeps the equipment light to allow unlimited mobility.
When it comes to protecting itself, this padding includes a hard plastic plate throughout the chest pads and shoulder pads. Also, you can add a stomach pad to reinforce the level of safety further.
I love that the padding includes multiple hinges so lacrosse goalies can adjust the fit to have more or less mobility. Also, the strap system provides vertical adjustability, making the equipment even more customized.
You can find this lacrosse chest protector in small, medium, and large size, and only one color. As I mentioned, the price is very reasonable, perfect for youth players.
- Adjustable
- Provides mobility
- Meets NOCSAE standards
- Multiple hinges
- Optional stomach pad
- Beginner level
Here we have the last goalie chest protector from the STX's Shield line, improved and immensely efficient. STX is proud to present its upgraded design, engineered to allow more mobility and minimize chances for injuries.
Before we discuss the peculiarities, it's essential to mention that the STX's top lacrosse chest protector meets the NOCSAE standards, equipping the players with the highest level of protection.
It includes a floating chest plate designed for flexibility. This is essential for goalies, as they move a lot and need the gear that won't impede their mobility. Additionally, the strategically placed stretch zones allow even more freedom to move.
This model has a compression molded design, which means it has a low profile and does not look bulky as the STX 400 does. Plus, the strap system can be adjusted vertically and horizontally for more comfort and a personalized fit.
The innovation that the STX Shield 600 brings is the padding on the inside. It is more stout than the one in the previous model. In such a way, Shield 600 complies with the 2021 Commotio Cordis Standard.
- Low profile silhouette
- Upgraded design
- Flexible
- More mobility
- Complies with the latest standards
- Expensive
Last but not least lacrosse goalie chest protector includes the Mavrik model. This model is exceptional for multiple benefits, so ensure you take notes carefully.
The Maverik lacrosse goalie chest protector is an exceptional model for its security benefits.
The chest pad offers superior protection and safety features for extended uses and different playing conditions. It will protect your body from all hard and fastballs, especially when playing a tough game. Even if you get tired and lose focus, the protector will keep your body optimal for the best performance.
In addition, the Maverik lacrosse goalie chest protector is durable, sturdy, and reliable enough to ensure your body will be safe and optimal inside the protector.
The composite materials and overall construction cannot damage so soon, and you can use them for an extended period. The protector will have a prolonged lifespan for multiple seasons, so it’s not limited to only one. The polyester material will be ideal for an extended time.
Thanks to the adjustable strap type, you can manage the chest pad to fit your needs and size, and the lacrosse item is ideal for all players wearing S, M, or L sizes. So, you won’t have any issues with wearing the pad, and it will not create additional pain, pressure, or discomfort while wearing it on the lacrosse field.
Besides, the lacrosse chest protector will not limit your movements or restrict you in any other way. So you can use it freely.
You can also adjust the abdomen protector and make sure you use both parts to protect your body entirely.
- durable
- reliable
- sturdy
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What you must comprehend about the best lacrosse goalie chest protectors?
Commotio Cordis is a cessation of the heart rhythm that may occur when someone is suddenly hit in the area right above the heart at a critical moment in a heartbeat cycle.
Even though this phenomenon is not that common, the measures of precaution have been taken in sports where there is a high probability for commotio cordis to happen. These sports are baseball, lacrosse, softball, rugby, football, etc.
Lacrosse goalies are the most vulnerable lacrosse field players because they are directly exposed to the shots that sometimes can be extremely forceful. For this reason, goalies, especially youth, are required to wear protective padding and heart guard that can prevent injuries.
But what differentiates an efficient heart guard from the low-quality gear?
To ensure your lacrosse goalie chest protector is designed for maximum protection, check if it complies with ND200 NOCSAE standard. This is a new standard, in force as of 2020, demanding that all lacrosse goalies must wear chest protectors that are designed to protect the players from the shots in the heart area and consequently remove the chances for commotio cordis to happen. As of 2023, this standard will apply to field players as well.
High-end products usually have a thick impact-absorbing foam padding in the torso area and a hard chest pad/plate. In such a way, shots are dispersed, and the energy is spread throughout the padding, leaving you intact.
Superior gear also includes shoulder pads with a high coverage and abdomen guard for maximum protection. You can find some models that make these extensions removable so that you can customize the equipment how you like it.
Other categories that make a difference in protection and performance are flexibility, adjustability, and breathability. These things are a matter of preference, but they seriously affect your performance and make you feel more comfortable on the field.
Lacrosse goalie chest protectors that do not have a one-piece design tend to be more flexible and offer better mobility on the field. However, these models usually have thinner shoulder protection without the hard caps that are a critical segment of your lacrosse gear. This is not a rule, though, so as long as your goalie gear allows mobility and protection at all essential areas, it's good.
Adjustability depends on the straps. Adjustable strap design allows vertical and horizontal modifications that enable the player to customize a perfect fit. Best lacrosse goalie chest protectors should be designed to allow at least some degree of adjustability.
Finally, the size is what matters too. Don't miss to carefully check the size guide to know exactly what category you fall into. Here is a video size guide you can look into.
If you follow the categories we listed above, there is no doubt you will get the most efficient protection gear on the market. And as you can see, each product listed above exhibits top quality, a wide size range, and efficient design.
So, whatever pads from our list you eventually choose, you can't go wrong.
FAQs
How should a lacrosse goalie chest protector fit?
The properly sized chest protector should cover the front torso, neckline to below the navel. The collar should lie flat on the collar bones with straps attached to provide a snug but comfortable fit. The chest protector should not be too tight since it would limit the movement, nor too loose as it would allow the pads to move and expose you to injuries.
Here is a very informative video on how to fit the goalie equipment.
What is the best lacrosse chest protector?
The best goalie chest protector contains thick padding and preferably a chest plate that absorbs the forces and disperses them to protect your heart. It should not be too stiff as you wouldn't be able to move properly, but also not too loose, because in that case, you won't get the appropriate protection.
The best one is the STX Shield 400 Goalie Lacrosse Chest Protector for the best overall performance.
Is lacrosse goalie chest protector working?
Definitely yes! According to players' feedback, a high-quality lacrosse goalie chest protector can diminish the high-speed shots' forces completely, leaving the players without a scratch.
Maverik's EKG line has proven especially efficient, but many positive reviews have been noted for the Brine King chest pads.
What size chest protector should I get?
You need to measure from the base of your neck to the top of your waist in inches and then refer to the size charts to find the best model and proper fit.
What are the new lacrosse chest protector rules?
The new rules are that all goalies - boys and girls - must wear chest protectors, and they must meet the NOCSAE standards NS200.
Do college lacrosse players wear chest pads?
Yes, all players - and college are no exception - must wear the chest protectors, according to the new rules.
Do women lacrosse players wear chest pads?
Yes, effective January 2021, all players - and women as well must wear lacrosse chest protectors while playing.
Final thoughts
Goalies are the cornerstone of men's lacrosse, and as such, they deserve the gear that guarantees protection. As a goalie, one of the essential pieces of gear you need to get right away is the best lacrosse goalie chest protector. It guards your shoulders, abdomen, and most importantly, heart, and even if you don't consider it essential, the new standards oblige you to get one.
The final winner is the STX Shield 400 Goalie Lacrosse Chest Protector. The chest pad is ideal for its durability and effective design, offering better performance and keeping you safe on the goal. In addition, it’s affordable to all players, so check it out now.
The chest pads are mandatory for all players - no exceptions, and they come in various models. Ensure you read the reviews thoroughly to find the best solution to your lacrosse needs. Once you do, you can take the game to the next level with maximum protection.
- Lacrosse goalie chest protector for advanced players
- Meets NOCSAE standard for chest protection
- Floating chest plate offers flexibility and mobility
- Removable stomach pad and shoulder caps for optional, additional coverage
- Strap system allows for a wide range of adjustability
Freddy is the heart and soul of Lacrosse Runner. As a former athlete, Freddy is very passionate about Lacrosse. He keeps up with the sport’s changes and innovations and often tests the new equipment released by the leading manufacturers. Read more here