2in1 Shoulder Pads Review: Still the Lightest, Now Even Better
Introduction
Two years ago, we reviewed the original 2in1 Shoulder Pads and crowned them some of the best on the market. Now, 2in1 has made a few key upgrades, and they sent us their updated model to test out. While a lot of the fundamentals remain the same, these new tweaks make an already great product even better. Let’s break it all down.
Comfort
Just like their helmets, 2in1’s pads bring elite comfort. It starts with the padded compression vest—a soft, breathable, and lightweight base layer that hugs your torso and doubles as a 7on7 pad on its own. You can tell this vest was made to be worn all day. They even reversed the velcro so the hard side is on the vest, preventing damage to the shell and extending longevity.
Where these really shine is how light they feel. The carbon fiber shell is paper-thin but strong, and when combined with the vest, it creates the lightest pad setup available today. You almost forget you’re wearing full pads. On top of that, they breathe incredibly well. Thanks to the low-profile shell and ventilated vest, heat escapes easily and you stay cool even in hot conditions.
Fit
The fit on these pads is as locked-in as it gets. I went with a Small/Medium and it hugged my frame exactly how you want pads to. The vest naturally compresses your torso and once you strap on either of the shells, the system becomes one with your body.
2in1 also introduced a new clip system on the carbon shell, replacing traditional belts. These magnetic clips snap securely and don’t release unless you hit both side buttons—easy to put on, tough to come off unintentionally. Even though the photos on their website still show the old belt system, our updated pair came with this improved tech.
A word of caution: don’t just pick the same size you wear in other pads. The vest sizing is precise. If you’re too big for the vest, it simply won’t fit correctly. Measure first, then order. If you size it correctly, these will be the best fitting pads you’ve ever worn.
Range of Mobility
These pads have the best range of motion I’ve ever experienced. Because the pads stay completely planted and don’t ride up, your arms move freely, and you don’t feel resistance when reaching, running, or adjusting mid-play. I threw passes, reached overhead, and made quick breaks in them—no restriction at all. If you’re a quarterback or skill player, that freedom is a game-changer.
Protection
While I haven’t run them through full-contact drills, everything about these pads suggests excellent protection. The carbon fiber shell is lightweight but rigid, doing a great job of dispersing impact. Inside, the modular padding—a combination of high-quality foam and soft air-cushioned segments—covers all the key areas: chest, back, shoulders, and even upper arms.
There’s extra side padding under the arms, though it’s a bit thinner than the rest and would let you feel a direct helmet shot. That said, the lower extension of the vest gives you more rib coverage than most shoulder pads on the market—a big win for protection.
Carbon vs. Poly Shell
Both shell options are great, but here are the key differences:
Weight: The carbon fiber shell is even lighter than the poly version.
Flexibility: The carbon shell offers more flex, conforming more easily to your body.
Clips vs. Belts: The carbon version comes with new magnetic clips. The poly uses standard belt straps.
Backplate Mounts: Both now come with backplate mounting holes (a new addition for the carbon model).
Style
These might be the cleanest-looking pads you can wear. The carbon fiber weave looks insane in person and the gold accents throughout the pad system elevate the design even more. These pads aren’t just functional—they’re stylish too.
Under a jersey, they look incredibly low-profile. NFL players like Stefon Diggs, Jalen Ramsey, and Trevon Diggs have all been spotted wearing them, and when you watch them on the field, it barely looks like they’re wearing pads at all. They’re that sleek.
Best Position Fit
These pads are built for skill players. Quarterbacks, receivers, DBs, and running backs will love how light and mobile they feel. That said, any position could wear them if they want something minimal and low-profile. Linemen or bigger linebackers might want something more substantial, but even that’s becoming less common.
Price
Here’s the current price breakdown:
Vest + Carbon Shell: $725
Vest + Poly Shell: $350
Vest Alone: $200
Carbon Shell Alone: $550
Poly Shell Alone: $180
Backplate: $50
Youth Poly Shell: $125
Youth Vest: $185
As you can see, 2in1 offers several combinations and tiers, so whether you want to go all out or build over time, there are options.
Final Verdict
2in1 made some smart upgrades to an already elite product. Between the new clip system, improved protection, and the same lightweight, ultra-comfortable feel, these shoulder pads are still one of the best options in football. If you want something that fits like a second skin and delivers both mobility and protection, the updated 2in1 Shoulder Pads should be at the top of your list.
Whether you’re an elite skill player or just want the most comfortable and mobile pads on the field, this is the shoulder pad system that’s setting the standard in 2024.
