STX always launches newer technology to reduce the bulk weight and improve protection. However, the STX Cell series has a different full-coverage design than the Stallion series. So, if you didn’t like the low profile design of Stallion 1k lacrosse shoulder pads, check out my STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads review. 

STX Cell VI has a high-quality chest plate and bulky design with removable bicep pads. 

So, let’s see if it offers better mobility even with this heavy padding around the shoulder. 

Key Features Of STX Cell VI Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

Before the STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads review, here are the key features for better insight. 

Protection

STX significantly improved Cell V with a sewn-in heat guard rather than floating, while Cell VI has the same design. The design team has infused the D3O and CURV protection technologies in the sewn-in heart guard. I immediately noticed the difference when I took a hard shoulder check in transition.

I was a fan of the Maverik exoskeleton design, but mark this STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads review as I like this one better. It absorbed shoulder-to-shoulder hits without shifting or digging into my chest.

Besides, the floating sternum pad with D3O technology is good at dispersing the force without making me feel weighed down. Despite weighing less than STX V, it meets the NOCSAE standard and keeps you safe in high-stakes situations. 

However, some players will find the fixed heart guard placement slightly limiting. It doesn’t fit perfectly, as the heart guard is placed inside the padding. 

Yet, the strap system has improved the fitting compared to its predecessor. Otherwise, the shoulder coverage and cardiac protection are strong enough to absorb shock and distribute the impact. 

Still, if you like low-profile designs try STX Stallion 1K or a shoulder pad with a removable chest plate.

Comfort and Flexibility  

STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads offer a comfortable and softer feel and lightweight design. Although the shoulder caps provide a snug fit, they don’t restrict arm mobility. 

Moreover, the flexible cap adjustment system allows easy customization for shoulder widths. I set it slightly lower for better protection during fast-paced games. 

Usually, I feel restricted with bicep pads, but this one is weightless and doesn’t strain my arms. I played with and without bicep pads, but my STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads didn’t change the comfort. 

Furthermore, the stretch zones around the shoulders and torso provide added flexibility, allowing easy sprints and turns while cradling in traffic. The flex points make it easier to make quick cuts and adjustments during the game.

However, you need to be careful about sizing for more comfort. If you used to wear a medium, note that the Cell VI is more snug. Thus, you will likely need to buy a size up for better mobility. However, the Cell VI large should still fit fine even if you have gained some bulk. 

Besides, STX is offering 5 different sizes. Hence, younger players can also add it to their protection gear. 

Breathability  

Some people are more sweaty than others. Therefore, I checked several STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pad reviews to confirm whether they were breathable enough. Well, everyone found them quite breathable. 

After defending for about an hour under the sun, I realized I wasn’t as drenched in sweat as I’d typically be. The aerated design circulated body heat and kept me sweat-free even at 32°C. 

Besides, the heavily padded chest area also maintains adequate sweat absorption. The inside mesh layer efficiently reduces moisture, allowing quick drying, and keeping my body temperature in check. 

The combination of mesh and strategic padding ensures that sweat doesn’t pool, which can often make other pads uncomfortable. I’ve noticed that even after extended periods of play, the ventilation and fabric construction maintained a cooling effect.  

Thus, I didn’t experience that usual heavy, sweaty discomfort. Instead, I felt cooler and far less distracted by heat buildup.

Durability  

Durability is another highlight of the STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads review. They still look fresh after several weeks of intense practices and tough games. There is no loose stitch, especially around the heart guard and sternum pad.

Besides, despite absorbing impacts for three months, the chest guard didn’t show major dents or scratches. Although the back mesh is delicate, it has no wear and tear. 

However, the padding has lost some softness in some areas that experienced the most pressure. It hasn’t affected performance significantly but will be noticeable over extended use.

The straps at the bottom are also very sturdy. Although they can start to loosen slightly during long sessions, regular adjustments keep them snug. Thus, if you like a perfect clamp, try the Maverik EKG M6 with velcro adjustment.

Comparison

Most STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pad reviews have claimed it to be lighter and thinner than Cell V. However, I didn’t feel a significant difference in the cushioning around the chest plate and shoulder caps. 

Initially, I thought both chest plates were the same, but the D30 technology offers a lighter and more flexible chest plate. Yet, it didn’t compromise protection. 

Besides, the STX cell VI has an improved strap system for a better fit than the weird chest bulk in Cell V. I had difficulty adjusting the chest plate with Cell V, as it’s sewn-in the padding, but STX has simplified it 80% with the adjustable strap system. 

Moreover, the STX Stallion 1K offers better mobility and unrestricted hand movement than Cell VI. Thus, if you feel restricted with bigger shoulder caps and heavy protection with Cell VI, go for STX Stallion 1K.

The STX Cell VI is also costlier than Stallion 1K and Cell V. Otherwise, it offers better breathability, protection, and flexibility and is worth the money. 

People Also Ask

At the end of the STX Cell VI lacrosse shoulder pads review, I would say it’s one of the best shoulder pads meeting chest guard standards. STX has done a good job of improving the predecessor, which allows protection and comfort for long practice hours. 

The newer airflow technology also keeps the player sweat-free on hot days. Just make sure you check sizing before purchasing these shoulder pads. 

Since I don’t prefer overly fit shoulder pads, I choose a size up despite being a size medium. 

Moreover, although I like Cell VI better, you might find it bulky if you are more comfortable with the exoskeletal design of the Maverik M6 EKG. 

So, compare the two shoulder pads according to your comfort zone.