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Body Protection
Best Lacrosse Chest & Shoulder Pads 2026
The best lacrosse chest protectors for goalies and shoulder pads for field players. Every pick tested and ranked.
⭐ TOP PICK
Best Goalie Chest Protector
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STX Lacrosse Shield 600 Goalie Chest Protector
$179.99
The Shield 600 is the gold standard for lacrosse goalies. Full hard-shell coverage across the sternum, ribs, and shoulders with thick foam backing that absorbs even the hardest shots. The adjustable strapping system gives a custom fit, and the ventilation channels prevent overheating. The choice of college and pro goalies everywhere.
Type: Goalie
Shell: Hard plastic
Sizes: S/M/L/XL
Coverage: Chest/ribs/shoulders
Pros
- Full hard-shell chest and rib coverage
- Absorbs 90mph shots comfortably
- Adjustable strap system
- Used by college and pro goalies
Cons
- Heavy — takes getting used to
- Overkill for field players
Free Prime shipping available
4 More Great Options
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⭐ Best Field Player
STX Cell 6 Shoulder Pads
★★★★★
The top shoulder pad for field players. Full shoulder and collarbone coverage with segmented foam for complete range of motion. Works for all field positions.
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💰 Best Budget Field
STX Stallion 200
★★★★☆
Solid entry-level shoulder pad that covers all essentials. Legal for all leagues and adequate protection for first-year field players.
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💰 Best Budget Goalie
STX Shield 200 Goalie
★★★★☆
A more affordable goalie chest protector with hard shell coverage on key impact zones. Great for youth goalies and recreational players.
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👦 Best Youth
STX Stallion Youth Shoulder
★★★★☆
Lightweight shoulder pad designed for youth field players. Easy to put on and comfortable for young athletes still growing into their gear.
Buying Guide
Goalie vs Field Player
Goalies need a full chest protector with a hard shell. Field players wear lighter shoulder pads. Never use a goalie chest protector as a field player — it restricts movement.
Required Equipment
Shoulder pads are required for field players in most leagues. Goalies must wear a chest protector. Check your specific league rules.
Fit for Field Players
Shoulder caps sit squarely on your shoulders. Sternum pad is centered on your chest. Nothing should slide when you swing your arms.
Goalie Fit
Goalie chest protectors should fit snugly with no gaps at the sides. A loose fit means shots can sneak under the protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a chest protector and shoulder pads?
Chest protectors have hard shells to stop shots and are for goalies. Shoulder pads have foam padding to absorb checks and are for field players.
Do field players need a chest protector?
No — field players wear shoulder pads, not chest protectors. Goalies need a full chest protector.
Can a field player wear a goalie chest protector?
Technically yes but it is not recommended — it restricts the movement needed for shooting and passing.
How should shoulder pads fit?
Shoulder caps sit squarely on your shoulders with the sternum pad centered on your chest. Nothing should move when you swing your arms fully.