Football Shoulder Pad Size Chart
Shoulder pads are sized by your chest measurement, and their style is set by your position. Get both right and the pads protect without slowing you down.
Football shoulder pad size chart
- 24–26" chest: Youth X-Small
- 26–28" chest: Youth Small
- 28–30" chest: Youth Medium
- 30–34" chest: Youth Large
- 34–38" chest: Adult Small
- 38–42" chest: Adult Medium
- 42–46" chest: Adult Large
- 46–50" chest: Adult X-Large
How to measure
Measure chest circumference around the widest part of the chest, under the arms, with the tape level. Also measure shoulder width from the bony tip of one shoulder to the other across the back — some brands use that as a cross-check.
How they should fit
The epaulets (the flaps over the shoulders) should sit right at the shoulder tips. The pads should cover the top of the chest and back and the shoulder caps, without pinching the neck or blocking the arms overhead. If you cannot raise your arms freely, the pads are too big or the wrong style.
Style depends on position
The chart gives the size; your position gives the style — low-profile pads for skill players, cantilever pads for linemen. See football shoulder pads by position, then use the Shoulder Pad Size Finder.
How do you measure for football shoulder pads?
Measure chest circumference around the widest part, and shoulder width from the tip of one shoulder to the other across the back. Chest size maps to the pad size; position decides the pad style.
How should football shoulder pads fit?
The pads should cover the shoulder tips and the top of the chest and back without restricting arm movement. The epaulets should sit at the shoulder tips, with no pinching at the neck.
What size shoulder pads for a youth player?
It depends on chest size, not just age. Most youth players fall between Youth Small (26 to 28 inches) and Youth Large (30 to 34 inches) chest. Measure the chest to be sure.