Two Versions, One Decision
The STX Cell VI comes in two versions — the full shoulder pad and the shoulder pad liner. Same Cell VI protection platform, same NOCSAE certification, same D3O and CURV technology. The difference is coverage and bulk. Pick the wrong one and you are either overdressed for your position or leaving yourself exposed. Here is exactly how they differ and who each one is built for.
Attack & Midfield — Our Top Pick
STX Cell VI Shoulder Pad
★★★★★
The STX Cell VI Shoulder Pad is the most advanced shoulder pad in the Cell lineup and a massive upgrade over the Cell V. It comes in 17% thinner and 13% lighter than the previous model while improving protection — meeting the updated 2022 NOCSAE ND200-22 cardiac protection standard. Military-grade D3O shock-absorbing foam and CURV composite material deliver elite impact protection at a fraction of the weight of older pads. Adjustable shoulder caps, removable bicep pads, and a premium buckle system that actually stays locked make this one of the best fitting shoulder pads on the market.
Protection: D3O + CURV
Standard: NOCSAE ND200-22
vs Cell V: 17% thinner, 13% lighter
Shoulder caps: Adjustable
Bicep pads: Removable
Sizes: XS–XL
Pros
- 17% thinner and 13% lighter than Cell V
- Military-grade D3O shock absorption
- CURV composite for flexible protection
- Meets updated NOCSAE ND200-22 cardiac standard
- Adjustable shoulder caps — custom fit
- Removable bicep pads — reduce bulk when needed
- Premium buckle system stays locked all game
- Multiple stretch zones for mobility
Cons
- More bulk than the liner version
- Overkill for defenders who need max mobility
- Size up recommended — runs slightly small
→ Check Price on Amazon — Cell VI Shoulder Pad
Free Prime shipping · XS through XL · Attack & Midfield players
Defense & LSM — Low Profile Pick
STX Cell VI Shoulder Liner
★★★★★
The Cell VI Shoulder Liner is the same Cell VI platform stripped down for defenders and LSMs who need to drive their pole, deliver checks, and clear without shoulder caps and bicep pads getting in the way. You still get NOCSAE-certified chest and cardiac protection with D3O and CURV technology — you just lose the bulk around the shoulders and arms. The result is a pad that feels nearly invisible during play while still meeting protection requirements. At $129.99 it is $20 less than the full pad and the right call for any serious defender.
Protection: D3O + CURV
Standard: NOCSAE certified
Profile: Low — no shoulder caps
Shoulder caps: None
Bicep pads: None
Sizes: S–XL
Pros
- Maximum mobility — no shoulder caps or bicep pads
- Same D3O and CURV chest protection as full pad
- NOCSAE certified — league legal
- Feels almost invisible during play
- $20 less than the full shoulder pad
- Ideal for defenders and LSMs
- Premium buckle system stays secure
Cons
- No shoulder cap protection — wrong for attack
- No bicep pad coverage
- Not the right pick for contact-heavy middies
→ Check Price on Amazon — Cell VI Shoulder Liner
Free Prime shipping · S through XL · Defenders & LSM players
D3O and CURV — What Makes These Pads Different
Most shoulder pads use standard EVA foam or hard plastic plates. The Cell VI uses D3O — a military-grade material that stays soft during normal movement but stiffens instantly on impact — and CURV, a high-performance composite used in motorcycle and ski protective gear. Together they let STX make the Cell VI 17% thinner and 13% lighter than the Cell V while actually improving the protection rating.
NOCSAE ND200-22 — Why It Matters
The Cell VI meets the updated 2022 NOCSAE ND200-22 standard for cardiac protection, reducing the risk of commotio cordis from sharp chest impacts. Many leagues now require this standard. Both the full pad and the liner are covered. Always confirm requirements with your specific league before purchasing.
Full Pad vs Liner — The Simple Rule
Attack players and middies absorb regular stick checks and shoulder contact — get the full pad. Defenders initiate contact rather than absorb it, and the extra bulk of shoulder caps and bicep pads actively interferes with how you drive your pole. The liner gives you the chest protection you need without anything slowing you down.
Who Is It For?
✓ Buy This If You Are:
- An attack or midfield player (Full Pad)
- A defender or LSM who needs max mobility (Liner)
- Playing in a league requiring NOCSAE ND200-22
- Upgrading from the Cell V or an older shoulder pad
✗ Look Elsewhere If You Are:
- A beginner — more affordable options exist
- Looking for a budget pad under $75
- A goalie — you need goalie-specific chest protection
How It Compares
| Shoulder Pad |
Price |
Protection Tech |
NOCSAE ND200-22 |
Best For |
| STX Cell VI Full Pad |
$149.99 |
D3O + CURV |
✓ Yes |
Attack / Midfield |
| STX Cell VI Liner |
$129.99 |
D3O + CURV |
✓ Yes |
Defense / LSM |
| Maverik M6 EKG |
$149.99 |
EKG foam |
✓ Yes |
All positions |
| Maverik MX EKG |
$139.99 |
EKG foam |
✓ Yes |
Intermediate |
| STX Cell V |
$109.99 |
GeoFlex II |
Older standard |
All positions |
Final Verdict
The STX Cell VI is the best shoulder pad STX has ever made. Getting 17% thinner and 13% lighter while upgrading to the 2022 NOCSAE cardiac protection standard is a genuine improvement — not just marketing. The D3O and CURV combination delivers military-grade protection at a weight that does not slow you down. Whether you go with the full pad at $149.99 or the liner at $129.99 comes down entirely to your position — both versions are exceptional at what they are designed to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the STX Cell VI Shoulder Pad and the Liner?
The full pad includes adjustable shoulder caps and removable bicep pads — built for attack and midfield players who absorb regular checks. The liner removes those for a low-profile fit with the same chest and cardiac protection — built for defenders and LSMs who need maximum mobility. Both are NOCSAE ND200-22 certified.
Does the STX Cell VI meet NOCSAE requirements?
Yes. Both the full pad and the liner meet the 2022 NOCSAE ND200-22 standard for chest and cardiac protection. Always confirm requirements with your specific league before purchasing.
How does the STX Cell VI compare to the Cell V?
The Cell VI is 17% thinner and 13% lighter than the Cell V while offering better protection. The buckle system has been completely redesigned — the Cell V's hooked buckle was notorious for coming undone mid-game. The Cell VI also adds D3O and CURV technology not found in the Cell V.
Does the STX Cell VI run true to size?
Most players find the Cell VI runs slightly small. If you are between sizes or prefer a more comfortable fit, sizing up one size is recommended. Check STX's sizing chart before ordering.
Can a midfielder use the Cell VI Liner instead of the full pad?
Yes — if you are a two-way midfielder who prioritizes mobility over maximum shoulder coverage the liner is a solid choice. If you play a physical style and regularly absorb contact from defenders, the full pad's shoulder caps provide meaningful additional protection.
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