Best Football Rib Protectors to Protect You on the Field 2022

The best football rib protectors are essential for any football player because these are among the items that can protect them while they are on the field. Remember that football is a physically demanding sport. Without proper protection, you might end up harming yourself.

In most cases, your decision to wear standard football equipment, like lower body pads, shoulder pads, and helmets can give you protection but there are also instances when doing such will leave other vital body parts exposed to harm.

Shielding such body parts might require you to invest in certain accessories, too – one of which is the football rib protector. Also called a rib guard, a rib protector provides some sort of protection around your ribs whether you are in the offensive or defensive line or you are a receiver, running back, or quarterback in the field of football.

This protector serves as the perfect addition to your football shoulder pads. It should be noted that the rib protector comes in two common types – the wrap-around style, which you can use by attaching it to your shoulder pad, and the vest guard, which you need to put on in the same way you put a standard vest on.

It is also available in different sizes. The decision, therefore, when making a choice should be based on your personal preference. Here are short football rib protector reviews of 10 of the best products in this industry.

Best Football Rib Protector Reviews 2019

1. Schutt Varsity Rib Protector

Schutt Sports Varsity Ventilated Football Rib Protector, Medium , Black

Check Price on Amazon

One of the top 10 football rib protectors that left a good impression on me is the Schutt Varsity Rib Protector. I can even say that it is the ideal equipment for protecting your ribs and the surrounding area while you are playing the demanding game of football.

One thing that I’m really impressed with in this Schutt rib protector is that it provides 360-degree complete protection not only for the ribs but also for the stomach area. It also comes with a harness, allowing you to wear it separately. Alternatively, you can wear it by attaching it with the aid of the provided straps.

Such guarantees a more secure fit. I love the fact that it is easy to remove once the game is over in case it is attached to the shoulder pads. It is also compatible with various shoulder pad models and brands out there. It is also one of the most comfortable rib protectors you can find.

I think that the comfort it provides can be attributed to its ventilated high-density EVA material as well as its highly breathable fabric. It is built to offer comfort to football players while ensuring that they still protected all throughout the game. It even offers protection to all sides, including your back.

2. Schutt Sports Varsity Air Maxx Football Rib Protector

Schutt Sports AiR Maxx Football Rib Protector, Large

Check Price on Amazon

Another excellent option that I would recommend to anyone who wishes to invest in the most reliable football rib protector is the Air Maxx Football Rib Protector offered by Schutt. What I really like about this equipment is that it uses an air management style and falls under the varsity level.

Such style makes the equipment more capable of protecting not only your ribs but also your lower back. You can choose to attach it to your shoulder pad or wear it using the provided harness. With the air management system exclusive to the Schutt brand that this rib protector uses, you can stay comfortable and cool all throughout the game.

Another impressive fact about this football rib protector is that it is equipped with raised corrugations that I find really effective in improving the strength and durability of the equipment. It also has an inner lining designed in such a way that it gives adequate padding so your body will stay comfortable.

Another favorable advantage of this rib protector is that it can handle both low-impact and high-impact hits considering the fact that it has an outer shell constructed out of an impact-resistant material. You can get it in various sizes, too. Each size also fits the sizes of its corresponding shoulder pad.

3. CHAMPRO Adult Football Rib Protector

Sale

Champro Adult Large Rib Protector, Black - Fits Players Approximately 160 lbs. and Up

Check Price on Amazon

Another product I would like to recommend is the CHAMPRO Football Rib Protector designed for adult users. One thing I noticed about it is that it offers a really customized fit. I think that is mainly because of its loop closure and adjustable hook – both of which can help let the equipment stay in its position no matter how demanding the game is.

It is available in a wrap-around design, too, which I find really favorable as it means that it can offer the highest level of protection for your sides, back, and ribs. Additional protection is also provided by its outer shell constructed out of high-impact plastic. The strength of this material also further enhances the protector’s durability.

I am also glad that this rib protector can be easily attached to its shoulder pads. It even comes with all the hardware needed to attach it securely and correctly. It is a solid and well-constructed rib protector, too – one that is designed in such a way that it can serve its users for a long time.

Offered at a really reasonable price with all the features that you need for ultimate protection, it is safe to say that this rib protector is indeed one of the best in the industry.

4. Gear 2000 Youth Football Rib Protector

Sale

Gear 2000 Youth Rib Protector (Medium)

Check Price on Amazon

Another football rib protect that I think is really worthwhile to check out is the Gear 2000 Youth Football Rib Protector. It is mainly designed for youth football players, offering them as much protection as possible.

What I like about this product is that it is constructed by Gear, which is a really reputable product. In fact, it already gains an excellent reputation in the field of manufacturing premium quality tools and equipment designed for various sports.

Another reason why I really like this rib protector is that it is lightweight. This means that users will never feel like their movements will be limited once they wear the protector. The material used in the overall construction of this rib protector is also highly durable. There is a guarantee that it can last for quite a long time.

5. Douglas Adult Football Adjustable 4-inch Battlefield Rib, Spine, and Back Pads Combo

Douglas Football Adult Adjustable SP Series Rib/Back Protector Pad Combo (6" Rib Protector)

Check Price on Amazon

If you are looking for a rib protector designed to give you real value for the specific amount you paid then this combo pack from Douglas is definitely for you. What I really find so enticing about this product is that it combines various pads designed to protect not only your ribs but also your spine and back.

With such protection on various parts of your body, playing the game will definitely be enjoyable for you. I like the fact that this Douglas rib protector is available in a wrap-around style. Such style ensures that it is capable of giving you protection in all parts of your body that it covers.

In fact, it offers maximum protection to your torso. It can even protect the vulnerable lower sides of your body from harmful hits. I am also happy with the extra grommets incorporated into this product. Such grommets make it possible for the player to lower or raise the rib combo into a convenient position.

Furthermore, it is compatible with the majority of shoulder pads offered in the market. This means that whatever brand of shoulder pad you have, there is a chance that it will fit this rib protector combo. It is also an effective rib protector for those who are in the running backs position.

6. Schutt Sports Youth Football Rib Protector Vest

Schutt Sports Lightweight Football Rib Protector Vest, Large, Youth

Check Price on Amazon

This is another Schutt youth rib protector that I always suggest to anyone looking for a high-quality product in this category. I am really impressed with this football rib protector vest because it offers a significant amount of protection to your ribs and back. I am happy that it comes in a vest form, too.

With such style, I find it easy to remove and put on. It is quite similar to a life jacket designed for those who can’t swim. I also realized how advantageous it is once I realized that it is made to be adjustable. It comes with adjustable straps, allowing you to get the right and the perfect fit for you.

You can also secure the fit with the aid of its sturdy buckles. Another reason why I find this rib protector vest remarkable is that it has proper and enough airflow because it makes use of a perforated fabric on the topmost part. Such ensures that the vest provides a high level of breathability that will let you stay dry and cool during each game.

The bottom part of the vest provides a high-impact EVA foam cushion, which is effective in protecting both your ribs and your lower torso. This rib protector vest is also designed in such a way that it can protect you from high-impact hits with the aid of its hard exterior shield.

7. Schutt Hard Shell Football Rib Protector Vest

Schutt Sports Hard Shell Football Rib Protector, Large (34" - 40"), Black

Check Price on Amazon

Another product from Schutt that instantly got my attention is the Schutt Hard Shell Football Rib Protector Vest. It is well-made and designed in a way that it supplies additional protection beneath your shoulder pads without causing any restrictions on your mobility. I assure you that it will never weigh you down.

I am impressed with the hard exterior shell used in the vest as it really performs well in offering protection to your lower back and ribs. It has sizes for both the youth and adults, which means that it is suitable for youth and adult football players.

One benefit that really got my attention in this rib protector vest is the inclusion of the EVA-perforated foam padding in its interior. I find this foam a big advantage because it is effective in absorbing all force taken from any form of impact and hits. With that, I noticed its effectiveness in keeping both your back and ribs fully protected.

I am also impressed with the fact that this rib protector vest has proper ventilation so rest assured that you can wear it for a long period of time without the discomfort as it does not get too hot.

8. TUOY Padded Compression Shirt Football Rib Protector

TUOY Men's Padded Compression Shirt Protective Shirt Rib Chest Protector for Football Paintball Baseball

Check Price on Amazon

I am also glad that there is what we call the TUOY Padded Compression Shirt Football Rib Protector. I noticed the versatility of this rib protector right away. It is versatile in the sense that it does not only work for football players. It also serves as an effective rib protector in other sports, like rugby, basketball, snowboarding, and paintball.

I also noticed that it makes use of a genuinely breathable material. Such breathability gives users the highest level of comfort. Moreover, it is made to offer additional support and padding not only to your ribs but also to your back, shoulders, and chest. It also has a snug fit, particularly to your back.

One more thing I like about this football rib protector is that it provides both stability and sturdiness to your waist. It even provides adequate muscle support, making it effective in boosting your performance regardless of the sport you are taking part in. The fact that it makes use of an antibacterial material also minimizes its risk of having an odor.

The rib protector can also be expected to stay in place all throughout your game. You do not have to worry about it sliding down. It is also long-lasting in the sense that it is capable of retaining its ideal shape even after washing it several times.

9. Jellybro Padded Football Protective Gear Training Suit Rib Protector

Jellybro Men's Padded Football Protective Gear Set Training Suit for Soccer Basketball Paintball Rib Protector (Black, Medium)

Check Price on Amazon

Another way to protect your ribs and other exposed parts of your body when playing the demanding sport, football, is the Jellybro Padded Football Protective Gear Training Suit Rib Protector. I am so glad that I came across this rib protector because it has the right combination of flexibility and protection.

I think both its flexibility and high level of protection can be attributed to the fact that it makes use of a highly elastic and light EVA-emulsion cushion system. Combine that with polyester material and you will surely find this rib protector truly amazing in terms of giving you a light and convenient protection.

It is lightweight, too, which means that the protector will never cause you to limit your movements. It is light enough, giving you comfort as you take each of your moves while on the field. Another favorable benefit associated with the use of this protector is that it is waterproof.

It also offers the right level of protection for your knee, heart, and elbow with its thicker pad. Moreover, it makes use of a quick-dry and highly breathable system, so you will never feel uncomfortable each time you are on the field.

10. Zicac Sports Rash Guard Compression Protective Vest

Zicac Men's Sports Shock Rash Guard Compression Padded Shirt Soccer Basketball Protective Gear Chest Rib Guards (X-Large, Short Sleeve)

Check Price on Amazon

Lastly, I would like to recommend this product, especially if you are in need of specific equipment designed to offer you protection while you play contact sports, like football. What I instantly find so favorable about this training vest is its flexibility. It is flexible in the sense that it is suitable for different sports.

You can use it not only in football but also in paintball, rugby, basketball, soccer, skiing, snowboarding, and any other contact sports. It also makes use of a combination of truly comfortable and sturdy materials. These include polyester, EVA foam, and polyester. The fabric used in the product is highly elastic.

It can also wick sweat, which means that it is effective in ensuring that the wearers stay dry and cool until they finish their game. With its UV-protection properties as well as anti-collision particles, I am pretty sure that you will feel at peace, knowing that you are safe while you are on the field.

Another thing that I really find impressive in this product is that it has a tight compression. Such compression is tight enough that you will experience a more locked-in feel, which is actually beneficial if you want to improve your speed and flexibility when playing your chosen sport.

It is also designed in such a way that it offers additional padding and support not only to your ribs but to your shoulders and chest, too.

What to Look For When Buying a Football Rib Protector

Choosing the most appropriate football protector for you should be done in a careful manner. Note that your goal should be to protect yourself without limiting your movements. Some important factors that should have a say in your final buying decision are the following:

Type

Remember that the rib protector designed for football comes in different types and styles. You have to figure out which among these types can benefit you the most. As far as protecting your ribs is concerned, note that your options include the padded compression shirt or vest and the traditional rib protector.

The padded compression shirt or vest is usually constructed out of a compression material and a padding integrated into your ribcage area. The traditional rib protector, on the other hand, comes with a harness, straps, or both, allowing you to apply this accessory to your football equipment.

In some cases, the compression vest also comes with integrated pads designed for the shoulder tops. The inclusion of such pads provides extra padding beneath your shoulder pads. Figure out which between the common types of rib protectors can give you the benefit you wish to attain by studying the purpose of each before making your choice.

Intended purpose

Another factor that you have to keep in mind when shopping for the ideal football rib protector for you is the intended purpose. Yes, the main purpose of this item is to protect your ribs but you should also consider other things that you may want to get from this piece of equipment.

In case your goal is to obtain extra padding over your upper body then you may want to choose the compression vest with integrated padding as this ensures that it can give you the kind of security you wish to attain. If you wish to use a protective equipment with some bulk to it then go for the traditional rib protector.

Durability

Another important factor that should contribute to your final buying decision is the durability of the rib protector. Ensure that it is constructed out of a material, which is durable enough that it is capable of lasting for a long time.

Also, remember that football is physically demanding so you need a protector, which is solid and sturdy enough that it won’t break down with just a simple hit.

Ease of use

The perfect football rib protector for you is also that, which you can easily wear while also being effortless to use. It should give you the utmost protection without making you feel overloaded.

It has to be easy to wear and use that it will never cause restrictions on your movements once you get to the field. Also, it should let you stay active and move with ease while remaining safe.

Uniqueness

Look for a unique rib protector, too. Make it a point to look for one, which comes with unique and distinctive features in such a way that it lets you stand out from the other players and become more recognizable once you start playing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to attach Schutt rib protector to shoulder pads?

Most Schutt rib protectors provide you with all the screws you need to attach them to your shoulder pads. What you have to do is to locate the two holes found at the bottom part of the two sides of your shoulder pad.

Once you locate the holes, check the corresponding holes on the rib protector and align them in there. Use the provided flat screws and screw them in. Use a screwdriver when doing this. Once done, check whether the whole attachment on both sides is secure.

Your goal is to ensure that the attachment is stable and secure to prevent the Schutt rib protector from falling down once you start playing the game.

How to choose the right size of football rib protector?

Choosing the right size of football rib protector is actually dependent on your height and body frame. Since different manufacturers offer different sizes and styles of products, ensure that you check out their size chart to determine the most suitable size of the rib protector for you.

Also, ensure that you pick a football rib protector, which is perfectly compatible with the model and size of your shoulder pad.

Conclusion

All football players need some form of protection once they are out on the field playing the game. One way to gain such protection is by wearing the best football rib protectors. With the help of this protective equipment, you can survive the impact from your opponent and the demanding football game, itself.

The rib protector helps to protect your ribs, thereby allowing you to survive the physical demands of the game while enjoying it until the end. Good football rib protectors are also designed in such a way that they absorb shocks and impact caused by collision, thereby lessening the impact that it causes to the contact area.

Henry Moller

Hi You Guys! My name is Henry Moller –  CEO Founder NationsFootballClassic. I spent my youth on football. It’s so gorgeous and because of football, I married my wife and have 2 kids now. With that experience, sure that you guys will find some interesting stuff here about football.