Top Lacrosse Goalie Chest Protectors for Ultimate Protection and Mobility
For lacrosse goalies, chest protectors must provide maximum protection, especially in the chest and stomach area, while also allowing enough mobility to make quick saves. Here’s a list of some of the top chest protectors for goalies, focusing on safety, comfort, and range of motion:
1. STX Shield 600 Goalie Chest Protector
Features: This protector offers high-impact absorption with additional padding across the chest, shoulders, and abdomen. Its floating chest plate provides flexibility, which is crucial for goalies.
Pros: Excellent protection, comfortable fit, and mobility.
Cons: It’s on the higher end of the price spectrum.
2. Maverik Max EKG Goalie
Features: Compliant with NOCSAE standards, the Maverik Max EKG offers extra cardiac protection and uses ANAFORM technology to provide a close fit. It’s designed to absorb heavy impacts while allowing full mobility in the arms and torso.
Pros: High protection level, cardiac safety, and a secure, adjustable fit.
Cons: Slightly bulky for goalies who prefer lighter equipment.
3. Warrior Nemesis Pro Goalie Chest Protector
Features: The Warrior Nemesis Pro is lightweight and provides a solid level of protection with dual-density foam padding. It’s also built with Warrior’s VPS foam, which allows airflow to prevent overheating.
Pros: Lightweight, good ventilation, and impact protection without limiting movement.
Cons: May feel a bit restrictive in the shoulder area.
4. STX Lacrosse Shield 400 Chest Protector
Features: This protector focuses on mobility with AeroShield technology for breathability. It’s designed to provide chest and abdominal protection while maintaining a low profile, making it ideal for goalies who prioritize quick movement.
Pros: Lightweight, ventilated, and doesn’t restrict movement.
Cons: Less padding on the upper chest, which may be a drawback for goalies who prefer maximum coverage.
What to Look for in a Goalie Chest Protector
NOCSAE Compliance: Many leagues require chest protectors that meet NOCSAE standards for heart protection, so make sure the model you choose is compliant.
Impact Protection: Goalies face constant, high-impact shots, so chest protectors with dense padding and impact-absorbing materials are essential.
Mobility: Goalies need flexibility in their arms and upper body, so look for protectors with segmented padding that allows for a natural range of motion.
Breathability: Goalies can benefit from protectors with airflow technology to keep them cool, especially during intense games.
