With all the possible ways that hockey players can get hurt, ranging from falls to sticks in the faces, they don't need to risk additional injury from faulty equipment. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, shoulder injuries account for about 10 percent of all injuries in the sport and can be prevented with proper shoulder pads.
Basics
Shoulder pads are designed to protect your collarbone, upper back, chest, upper arms and the entire shoulder in its full range of motions. Shoulder pads with extended fronts also provide protection against the stomach. Effective shoulder pads are reinforced in the areas that typically receive significant blows such as the sternum and shoulder socket. According to Skating Fitness, high-density foam is packed in those high-impact areas of the pads. Reinforced foam plates in the chest and back also are highly desirable manufacturing technology features for an effective pair of shoulder pads.
Sizes
The size and fit of shoulder pads for playing hockey make a difference in how you play and how much protection you receive. According to Skating Fitness, hockey shoulder pads that offer less protection because of their size provide additional mobility because you won't have as much equipment in your way as you move. Pads that are too big stifle your mobility, but offer additional padding and protection. Defensive players who hit the boards regularly and use their bodies to block shots often opt for larger shoulder pads.
Specialization
Since goalies must be able to stop pucks traveling at speeds up to 100 mph, the technology in their pads must be even more protective than the other players. According to the Hughston Sports Medicine Foundation, goalie pads are made of synthetic materials that are as sturdy as the old heavy leather pads they wore in the early days of the sport. The shoulder pads are lighter and less absorbent than heavy leather pads but offer more protection and allow the goalie to retain more mobility.
Considerations
In addition to protection and size, other considerations when choosing shoulder pads include range of motion and absorbency. Rigid polyethylene combined with the latest high-density foam materials makes shoulder pads up to 15-percent lighter, allowing more range of motion. Stretch zones built into the shoulder joints of the padding have been improved with split articulated high-density foam to provide maximum mobility when moving. The newest technology also provides antimicrobial treatments that keep players dry and kill germs that lead to infections and odors.
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