Shop Shoulder Pad Accessories

How to Choose Football Shoulder Pad Accessories

Shoulder pad accessories can expand your existing setup, but they do not replace properly fitted or undamaged football shoulder pads. Before ordering a back plate, rib protector or neck roll, first check which shoulder pad you use and which mounting options are available on that exact model.

Important factors include:

• shoulder pad manufacturer
• exact model name
• youth or adult version
• available mounting points
• spacing between mounting holes
• required screws, straps or brackets
• final position of the accessory on the body
• sufficient freedom of movement after installation

Not every accessory is automatically compatible with every football shoulder pad.

Football Back Plates for the Lower Back

A football back plate is normally attached to the rear section of the shoulder pad and extends coverage below the main back section of the pad.

Depending on the model, back plates differ in:

• size
• shape
• width and height
• padding thickness
• shell construction
• ventilation
• mounting system
• height adjustment
• youth and adult versions
• design and color

What Size Back Plate Should You Choose?

The back plate should cover the intended lower-back area without constantly pressing against the waistband or hips while running, bending or sitting.

Depending on the product, options may include:

• youth sizes
• adult or senior sizes
• different height settings
• adjustable mounting straps

A larger plate is not automatically the better choice. A more compact model may be more suitable for smaller players or skill positions, while other players may prefer a larger coverage area.

How Should a Back Plate Be Positioned?

After installation, the back plate should:

• sit centrally below the shoulder pad
• not tilt excessively to the left or right
• not swing uncontrollably during movement
• not rest permanently on the waistband
• not sit so low that it presses against the hips in a football stance
• fit comfortably beneath the jersey

Youth or Adult Back Plate?

The choice should not be based on age alone. Body height, back length, shoulder pad size and mounting options are also important.

A large adult back plate may be oversized for a small youth shoulder pad. On the other hand, a very small youth version may sit too high or provide an unsuitable fit for a larger player.

Which Positions Use Back Plates?

Back plates are worn at many different positions. The decision depends less on a fixed position rule and more on the desired additional coverage, body size and personal equipment setup.

Back plates are commonly seen on:

• running backs
• wide receivers
• quarterbacks
• defensive backs
• linebackers
• tight ends
• offensive and defensive linemen

For skill players, weight and a compact fit may also be important. Linemen and other contact-intensive positions should pay particular attention to whether the plate presses against the pants or hips in a low stance.

Football Rib Protectors

A football rib protector extends coverage around the sides of the torso and rib area. Depending on the construction, the system may also extend around part of the lower back.

Different designs include:

• rib protectors attached directly to the shoulder pad
• combined rib and back protector systems
• separately worn rib vests
• flexible padding systems
• models with rigid or semi-rigid protective elements

Shoulder-Pad-Mounted Rib Protectors

Direct-mounted models are connected to the shoulder pad using screws, straps or dedicated mounting points.

Before purchasing, check:

• whether suitable mounting points are available
• which mounting hardware is required
• whether the protector matches the youth or adult pad size
• how low the protector sits on the torso
• whether enough space remains between the protector and football pants

Rib Vest

A rib vest is worn separately around the upper body and is therefore not necessarily dependent on the mounting points of the shoulder pad.

Important factors include:

• chest circumference
• body length
• fit underneath the shoulder pad
• space beneath the jersey
• unrestricted breathing
• freedom of movement while running and rotating

Rib Protectors and Breathing

A correctly adjusted rib protector should not significantly interfere with normal breathing. If the system feels extremely tight or places strong pressure on the ribs or abdomen, the adjustment or size should be checked.

Neck Rolls and Restrictors

Neck rolls, neck restrictors and similar accessories are mounted around the upper back or neck area of the shoulder pad.

Depending on the construction, they may alter the relationship between the neck, shoulder pads and helmet or limit certain movements. The exact function can differ significantly between a traditional padded neck roll and a rigid restrictor system.

Always check the product description for the exact model.

What to Check Before Buying a Neck Roll

• is the system compatible with the shoulder pad?
• are suitable mounting points available?
• is additional mounting hardware required?
• how does it change the space between the helmet and shoulder pad?
• does sufficient head movement remain possible?
• is the system suitable for the player’s position?
• is its use permitted under the applicable rules?

Always Test It with the Helmet

After installation, a neck roll or restrictor should always be tested together with the football helmet.

Check:

• head movement to the left and right
• ability to look up and down
• space between the lower edge of the helmet and the accessory
• fit in an upright position
• fit in a football or blocking stance

A severe or unexpected restriction of head movement should not be ignored.

Does Every Shoulder Pad Accessory Fit Every Pad?

No. Even accessories described as universal should be checked against the exact shoulder pad before purchase.

Mounting-Hole Spacing

Back plates and other screw-mounted accessories require suitable mounting points. The spacing between the available holes can differ between models.

Position of the Mounting Points

Even when the hole spacing appears similar, the mounting position may end up too high, too low or too far to the side.

Screws and Mounting Hardware

Depending on the product, installation may require:

• screws
• nuts
• washers
• mounting plates
• straps
• clips
• manufacturer-specific brackets

Always check which mounting parts are included with the accessory.

Youth and Adult

Youth accessories may differ from adult accessories not only in size but also in mounting-point spacing.

Combining Shoulder Pad Accessories from Different Brands

An accessory does not necessarily need to come from the same manufacturer as the shoulder pad. However, combining different brands only makes sense when the mounting system and final position are actually compatible.

Before combining brands, check:

1. the mounting points on the shoulder pad
2. the accessory’s hole spacing
3. the required hardware
4. the position after installation
5. freedom of movement
6. fit with the helmet and jersey

A brand name or the term “universal” does not replace a compatibility check.

2in1 Back Plates and Accessories

With the 2in1 system, keep in mind that the shell and the compression vest worn underneath form a modular setup.

For accessories, the shell and its designated mounting points are particularly important.

Check:

• which 2in1 shell is being used
• which mounting points are available
• which back plate or accessory is intended for the system
• whether the required screws are included
• whether the accessory can be positioned correctly after installation

Shoulder Pad Accessories for Kids and Youth Players

For youth players, accessories should match the player’s current body size and the shoulder pad being used.

With a back plate in particular, make sure that it:

• is not significantly too wide
• does not sit too low on the football pants
• does not swing excessively while running
• is not selected as an unnecessarily oversized option for future growth

The entire equipment setup should also be checked again after a noticeable growth spurt.

You can find suitable pads in the Kids & Youth Football Shoulder Pads category.

How to Install a Football Back Plate

The exact installation process depends on the back plate and shoulder pad. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific accessory.

A typical process may include:

1. Check compatibility between the shoulder pad and back plate.
2. Identify the designated mounting points.
3. Position straps or brackets evenly.
4. Use only suitable screws and mounting hardware.
5. Center the back plate.
6. Adjust the height to the player’s body size.
7. Check all mounting points.
8. Put on the pad and perform a movement test.
9. Check the position with football pants and jersey.

Do Not Overtighten Screws

Mounting hardware must hold securely. Excessive tightening, however, may damage mounting parts, plastic sections or threads.

When manufacturer-specific hardware is used, follow the corresponding installation instructions.

Do Not Drill Additional Holes

Additional mounting holes should not be drilled independently into structural sections of the shoulder pad. Use the designated mounting points or approved systems.

Movement Test after Installation

After installing or adjusting any accessory, perform a short movement test.

1. Raise both arms fully overhead.
2. Rotate the upper body to the left and right.
3. Move into a low football stance.
4. Simulate several short sprints or starts.
5. Perform position-specific movements.
6. Test the setup with the jersey.
7. For neck accessories, also put on the helmet.

The accessory should not swing excessively, rub against the body, create strong pressure points or significantly block the movements required for the player’s position.

Back Plate or Rib Protector?

Can You Wear a Back Plate and Rib Protector Together?

Depending on the construction, combining both accessories may be possible. The important point is that the two systems do not interfere with each other during installation.

Check in particular:

• whether both products require the same mounting points
• whether sufficient space is available for both mounting systems
• whether the components overlap
• whether the jersey still fits correctly
• whether the upper body can still move freely

When several accessories are combined, the complete setup should be tested especially carefully.

Football Jerseys and Shoulder Pad Accessories

Back plates and rib protectors increase the amount of space required beneath the football jersey.

After installation, check whether:

• the jersey can be pulled completely over the shoulder pad and accessories
• the shoulder elements are not compressed excessively
• the back plate can hang freely
• the rib protector is not pressed too tightly against the body
• the jersey does not constantly catch on the accessory during movement

Care for Back Plates and Shoulder Pad Accessories

Accessories should be checked and dried together with the rest of the equipment after practice and games.

Basic care includes:

• removing loose dirt
• cleaning shells with a soft, damp cloth
• using suitable mild cleaning products
• allowing padding to dry completely
• checking straps
• checking screws and mounting points for secure attachment
• avoiding strong direct heat

When Should Shoulder Pad Accessories Be Replaced?

An accessory should be inspected or replaced when important components are damaged or a stable attachment can no longer be achieved.

Warning signs include:

• cracked or broken shells
• torn mounting holes
• torn straps
• damaged buckles
• missing screws or brackets
• severely damaged padding
• sharp edges
• permanent deformation
• an accessory that continues to move excessively despite correct installation

Common Mistakes When Buying Shoulder Pad Accessories

Choosing Only by Brand

Two shoulder pads from the same manufacturer may still use different mounting points.

Assuming “Universal” Means “Fits Everything”

Even accessories designed for broad compatibility should be checked for mounting-hole spacing, size and final installation position.

Buying Adult Accessories for Small Youth Pads

An oversized accessory may sit incorrectly or interfere with movement.

Choosing Only by Design

Color and design matter for appearance, but size, compatibility and mounting must come first.

Not Testing Accessories after Installation

An accessory may technically be mountable but still sit poorly in a football stance or during sprinting.

Assuming Everything Shown in the Product Image Is Included

Screws, brackets or other components may be sold separately. Always check the stated package contents.

FAQ – Football Shoulder Pad Accessories

Shop Football Shoulder Pad Accessories

Choose back plates, rib protectors, neck rolls and other components based first on your existing shoulder pad rather than only on appearance or brand.

Check the model, size, mounting points, required hardware and final position of the accessory. After installation, test the complete setup with your football jersey and, for neck accessories, also with your helmet.

You can find the matching base equipment in the Football Shoulder Pads category.

For more information about sizing, fit and shoulder pad construction, visit our Football Shoulder Pad Guide and Football Shoulder Pad Buying Guide.

Compatibility, mounting systems, sizing and package contents vary by manufacturer and model. Always refer to the specifications of the exact shoulder pad and accessory.