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Lacrosse Elbow Pad Review
STX Cell VI Elbow Pad Review — Which Version Is Right For You?
Updated May 2026Category: Elbow Pads3 Versions: $69.99 – $114.99
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Three Versions, One Decision
The STX Cell VI comes in three versions built for three different types of players. Same Cell VI platform underneath — different coverage depending on your position. Pick wrong and you either have too much bulk restricting your stick work or not enough coverage leaving you exposed. Here is exactly what each version does and who it is built for.
Most Protection
Cell VI Arm Guards
$114.99
Attack
Full forearm coverage from wrist to elbow. Maximum protection for players who take the most checks. Built for attackmen who live in traffic.
The Cell VI Arm Guards are the maximum protection option — built for attack players who take the most punishment. Full-length forearm coverage from the wrist all the way to the elbow means every slashing check, every poke, every body contact is absorbed. If you are running the crease, driving to the cage, or playing in heavy traffic consistently, this is the version you want. The extra coverage does add some bulk but STX engineered it to stay mobile enough that your stick work does not suffer.
Free Prime shipping · Full forearm coverage · Built for attack
Midfield Players
Cell VI Arm Pads
★★★★★
$89.99
on Amazon
The Cell VI Arm Pads are the sweet spot of the lineup — built for players who need solid protection but do not want to be weighed down by full arm guard coverage. Middies play both ends of the field, run the most, and need gear that does not slow them down. The arm pad covers the elbow and a portion of the forearm giving you meaningful protection on checks without the full-length bulk of the arm guards. This is the most versatile version and the best choice if you are not sure which to get.
Free Prime shipping · Best all-around version · Built for midfield
Defense Players
Cell VI Elbow Caps
★★★★☆
$69.99
on Amazon
The Cell VI Elbow Caps are the minimal coverage option — protection focused entirely on the elbow cap with nothing extending down the forearm. Designed for defenders who need maximum arm mobility to check, drive their pole, and clear the ball. Defenders rarely take direct forearm checks the way attack players do and the elbow cap gives you the protection that matters most while keeping the rest of your arm completely free. At $69.99 it is also the most affordable version in the lineup.
Free Prime shipping · Minimal coverage · Built for defense
Performance Scores — Arm Guards
Protection
9.5
Mobility
7.2
Value
8.5
Fit & Comfort
9.0
Durability
9.2
How To Pick The Right Version
Think about where you take checks. Attack players constantly absorb slashing checks directly on the forearm — you need full arm guard coverage. Defenders use their arms to deliver checks, not absorb them — the elbow cap is all you need and the extra mobility is a real advantage when driving your pole. Middies fall in between — the arm pad gives you meaningful protection without slowing you down for the defensive end.
If you are unsure which version fits your style of play, the arm pad at $89.99 is the safest choice. It is the most versatile version of the three and works well across every position.
Who Is It For?
✓ Buy This If You Are:
An attack player in heavy traffic (Arm Guards)
A middie who needs balanced protection (Arm Pads)
A defender who needs max mobility (Elbow Caps)
Someone who wants a reliable fit that stays in place
✗ Look Elsewhere If You Are:
On a tight budget — other options exist under $50
A beginner who does not yet need premium arm protection
A goalie — you need specialized arm protection
How It Compares
Version
Price
Coverage
Best Position
Mobility
Cell VI Arm Guards
$114.99
Full forearm
Attack
Medium
Cell VI Arm Pads
$89.99
Elbow + forearm
Midfield
Medium-High
Cell VI Elbow Caps
$69.99
Elbow only
Defense
Maximum
Maverik M4 Arm Pad
$49.99
Elbow + forearm
All positions
Medium
Warrior Evo Pro Arm Pad
$79.99
Elbow + forearm
All positions
Medium-High
Final Verdict
The STX Cell VI elbow pad lineup is one of the most well-thought-out offerings on the market because STX built three versions for three specific types of players instead of trying to make one pad work for everyone. Attack players get the arm guards, middies get the arm pads, defenders get the elbow caps — and every version delivers the same quality Cell VI protection underneath. Whatever your position, there is a Cell VI version built for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the STX Cell VI Arm Guards and Arm Pads?
The Arm Guards provide full-length forearm coverage from wrist to elbow — maximum protection built for attack players in heavy contact. The Arm Pads cover the elbow and partial forearm — solid protection with more mobility, built for middies. Both use the same Cell VI foam platform.
Can a midfielder use the Arm Guards instead of the Arm Pads?
Yes — if you play a physical style and prioritize protection over mobility, you can go with the arm guards. Most middies prefer the arm pads because the extra length can restrict movement on the defensive end, but it comes down to personal preference.
Are the STX Cell VI Elbow Caps enough for attack players?
No. Attack players take consistent forearm checks from defenders, and the elbow caps leave your forearm completely exposed. Attack players should always go with the Arm Guards or, at a minimum, the Arm Pads.
Do the STX Cell VI elbow pads run true to size?
The Cell VI lineup runs true to size. Measure your arm at the elbow and reference STX's size chart. If you are between sizes, size up for a more comfortable fit.
