5 Best Football Back Plates - Aug. 2021

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Bottom Line

Pros

Cons

With its intuitive fit, this back plate is a favorite that encourages athletes to hit the field.

Pros

With its unique curved design, this plate fits many and also protects well. Fits well with most shoulder pads. We love the reviews associated with peace of mind with this protective pad.

Cons

Can fit small for some. Check reviews for size-related information.

Best Bang for the Buck

Schutt

Football Back Plate for Shoulder Pads

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Bottom Line

An adult-sized protection plate with a detailed design and strategic color accent.

Pros

Known for its comfort as well as focused functionality. Colors are chosen not only to look good but are part of game-time strategy as well. Not only absorbs impact but helps football players get back up on their feet after taking a hit.

Cons

While customers love this plate for its protective characteristics, parts of it may come loose after extensive wear.

Riddell Sports

Back Plate Chrome Finish

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Bottom Line

Weighs under one pound, helping athletes focus on the game and not what they're wearing.

Pros

Sturdy chrome-plated coverage can help instill confidence while on the field during practice and games. Arrives with all the necessary parts that produce a well-tuned piece of protective gear. High marks for its protective abilities.

Cons

Rare reports of sizing issues.

Pro-Tec

Cool Varsity Back Plate

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Bottom Line

Brings a bit of simplicity to the complicated world of protecting football players.

Pros

Not only looks great while wearing but performs to high standards as well. Fits well for most body types and above all can offer the protection needed while playing.

Cons

There are several unknowns about this product in regard to durability over the course of a season.

Elite Tek

Universal FIT All Football Back and Sternum Plate

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Bottom Line

Designed for both youth and adult sizes with added flexibility.

Pros

Engineered for the dynamic athlete who not only has to react quickly but absorb impact. Designed with pieces that can rotate, providing protection and range of motion. We also love that this product is machine-washable.

Cons

Information related to overall protection could be more robust.

Football back plates attach to the shoulder pads, providing protection for the lower ribcage and back. Football back plates primarily consist of foam encased in a hard plastic. This configuration allows the back plate to remain lightweight and durable. Because football players may be hit and tackled from behind, the back plate is a necessary piece of protection. You’ll find different sizes of football back plates, matching the height of the player. Some types of football back plates will be machine washable. Because they can become grimy and dirty, the ability to clean these pads easily is important. Back plates are available in a few different shapes, which will help you find the most comfortable fit. Rectangular shapes are the most common, but some have a slightly oval or shield shape.

Battle

Clown Chrome Football Back Plate

Schutt

Sports Varsity Football Back Plate

Shock Doctor

Football Back Plate

Douglas Protective Equipment

Legacy 4" Football Back Plate

Schutt

Sports Neon Football Back Plate

Xenith

Back Plate