The STX Stallion series has been a favorite of players since Stallion 600. Many elite players, including Marcus Holman, have used it. STX has released the Stallion 1k, and there is hype. However, reading an STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads review is a must before investing in these premium pads. 

I usually prefer low-profile shoulder pads as I feel restricted hand movement with full coverage. However, higher impact protection is very important. 

So, let’s see if the STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads’ lightweight design offers high protection and comfort or if is it only a cosmetic upgrade. 

Key Features Of STX Stallion 1K Lacrosse Shoulder Pads

Let’s go through the key features of STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads. 

Protection

Protection is the most important aspect of the STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads review.  Usually, lightweight and low-profile designs compromise protection for comfort. However, despite the soft padded feel, these shoulder pads provide elite-level protection. 

STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads feature a thick and stiff chest plate. It’s made up of ND200-22 NOCSAE-approved, D3O material and provides excellent shock absorption, especially for impacts from hard dodges. 

The shoulder caps also offer decent coverage without adding unnecessary bulk, which is nice for staying quick. I tested them for about a month and they performed well in unexpected shoulder-to-shoulder hits.

However, the low-profile design sacrifices some padding in the outer shoulder areas. I felt slightly exposed while taking heavy checks or absorbing frequent hits from larger players. 

Although the articulating protection system ensures mobility, it limits the rigid coverage I expected from shoulder pads marketed as “elite.” 

Therefore, despite strong chest and collarbone protection, these pads may not suit bulky midfielders constantly shifting directions and extending their arms.

Comfort And Flexibility

The Stallion 1K shoulder pads are among the most comfortable lacrosse shoulder pads. The A.M.P. system allows the pads to move with me, so I never felt restricted during the game. 

The STX pads fit snugly and comfortably across the chest. I was initially concerned about whether they would sit comfortably across my chest and shoulders. The large size worked fine, but I would choose an XL for a perfect fit. 

Thus, if you’re between sizes, try both to see what works for your build. Otherwise, they adapted to my movement well when spinning out of pressure and snapping off quick shots or hard checks. 

Besides, traditional designs don’t give you the stiff, clunky feeling, and I never felt like the pads were fighting against my movements. They don’t feel like they’re in the way when dodging defenders or scooping ground balls at awkward angles.

One thing, I want to highlight in the Stallion 1k lacrosse shoulder pads review is that it shifts slightly during extended play. So, if you’re looking for a locked-in feel, try STX Cell VI shoulder pads.

Breathability

The STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads felt lightweight and snug, with no noticeable overheating in moderate temperatures during regular practices. The segmented, fragmented design allows greater airflow than older pads with large, continuous foam pieces. 

Moreover, the gaps between the protective sections provide relief during high-intensity moments on the field. However, I noticed some heat is building up around the chest plate when playing on a hot sunny day. 

Although the articulated design offers great flexibility, it lacks mesh and ventilation panels. Thus, after a hard session, you can expect sweat accumulation. It might not bother everyone but it’s noticeable during prolonged play under hot weather. 

So, if you’re looking for breathable shoulder pads, go for STX Cell VI or Maverik M6. 

Durability

Durability is the highlight of the STX Stallion 1k lacrosse shoulder pads review. Even after several practices and some scrimmages, the Stallion 1K pads have only 5% wear and tear (as per my usage). 

The buckle system stays securely fastened, and the materials feel like they can take a beating without breaking down. Even the chrome badging and carbon treatments, while more aesthetic than functional, seem built to last.

However, the soft, flexible shoulder padding might compress over time. I see these areas wearing down quicker than the chest plate or straps. The chest plate is super stiff and durable and shows no sign of damage despite absorbing impact. 

Hence, the sturdiness of STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads justifies the high price point.  

Comparison With Other Shoulder Pads

Despite being lightweight, the STX stallion offers better shock absorption and protection compared to the Anaform plates of Maverik EKG M6. However, the M6 offers slightly more flexibility and breathability with its ventflow technology.

Moreover, STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads lack full shoulder coverage. It’s best for those who prefer low-profile design for better mobility and speed.  However, STX Cell VI offers b

etter shoulder coverage with mobility. 

The STX Stallion 1K also costs less than the Maverik M6 with its advanced D3O shock-absorbing technology and innovative A.M.P. articulation system. Thus, if you’re an elite player logging thousands of reps, they are worth it. 

Otherwise, this STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads review won’t encourage casual players or those on a budget to buy it. You can scroll through the lacrosse shoulder pads and choose suitable alternatives that provide similar protection under budget. 

People Also Ask

STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads are durable and offer the best protection against lacrosse injuries. The lightweight design doesn’t bog you down during long practice hours. STX has upgraded the quality of the Stallion 900 and created a comfortable and protective shoulder pad. 

However, it’s not suitable for those who like full shoulder coverage and value high breathability. So, if that’s you, don’t invest in these expensive shoulder pads and choose Maverik M6, or STX stallion 800. 

Otherwise, if you’re satisfied with the STX Stallion 1K lacrosse shoulder pads review, go for it.