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As you know, football can be quite aggressive at times because it is a contact sport.
That is why it is important to protect yourself as much as possible against injuries. Your lower body in particular must be well protected.
Football girdles are the unsung heroes of your football equipment.
I have a top five best American Football girdles formulated for all types of athletes. I will discuss these models one by one later in the article.
Although I do want you a little sneak peek teaching one of my favorite girdles: the Schutt ProTech Varsity All-in-One Football Girdle† I wear this girdle myself and so speaking from experience: it is the best girdle I've ever had.
I play wide receiver, and this girdle is perfect for this position.
It features integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors and it also has an internal pocket for optional insertion of a protective cup (at the crotch area).
The girdle is ventilating and made of compression and antimicrobial stretch fabric.
What I also really like is that I can throw the girdle in the washing machine (and dryer) and that it provides maximum freedom of movement. Because that is very important as a wide receiver.
Were you looking for something a little different – perhaps because you play in a different position – or are you curious about the other options?
Then read on!
| Best American Football Girdles | Image |
| Best American Football Girdle for Wide Receivers: Schutt ProTech Varsity All-in-One |  (view more images) |
| Best American Football Girl for running backs: Champro Tri-Flex 5-Pad |  (view more images) |
| Best American Football Girl with knee protection: Champro Bull Rush 7 Pad |  (view more images) |
| Best American Football Girl for defensive backs: McDavid Compression Padded Shorts with HEX Pads |  (view more images) |
| Best American Football Girl for linebackers: Under Armor Gameday Pro 5-Pad Compression |  (view more images) |
What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
- 1 American Football Girdle Buying Guide
- 2 My top 5 best American football girdles
- 2.1 Best American Football Girdle for Wide Receivers: Schutt ProTech Varsity All-in-One
- 2.2 Best American Football Girdle for Running Backs: Champro Tri-Flex 5-Pad
- 2.3 Best American Football Girdle With Knee Protection: Champro Bull Rush 7 Pad
- 2.4 Best American Football Girdle for Defensive Backs: McDavid Compression Padded Shorts with HEX Pads
- 2.5 Best American Football Girdle for Linebackers: Under Armor Gameday Pro 5-Pad Compression
- 3 What is an American Football Girdle?
- 4 Integrated vs traditional football girdles
- 5 FAQ American Football Girdles
- 6 Conclusion
American Football Girdle Buying Guide
What should you pay attention to when choosing girdles?
When you're looking for the perfect football girdle, you have to pay attention to a number of important factors that I will explain in detail below.
Position
One girdle is more suitable for certain positions than the other.
For example, a wide receiver must have a lot of freedom of movement and it is very important for a running back to have extra protection at the hips.
Material
Materials are an essential criterion to consider when choosing a football girdle.
The material should be very stretchy and comfortable. High-quality materials often demand the highest prices.
There are three prominent materials that football girdles are generally made of: polyester, spandex and nylon.
Spandex gives girdles the necessary elasticity, so you can move freely in your pants without worrying about wear or tear.
It also ensures that the pants form around your body.
Fit
The last thing you want is a girdle that isn't comfortable. The girdle should fit snugly over the hips and thighs, but should not be too tight or too loose.
A girdle that is too tight can limit your freedom of movement. A girdle that is too loose can distract you from your game and the protection will not (stay) in the right place.
Because girdles are snug against the skin, they can wick sweat and draw excess heat away from your body, keeping you cool and dry.
If you opt for a girdle in which you place the protection yourself (traditional girdle, read more below), you have to make sure that everything fits properly and is in the right place.
However, these types of girdles are not often used anymore.
seams
The quality of the seams should also be considered before purchasing a football gidle.
Many girdles don't have proper seams, causing irritation that can eventually lead to a rash.
Moisture wicking
It's not a pleasant feeling to have sweat in your pants while you play, not to mention the uncomfortable feeling when your girdle gets soaked in the rain.
That is why it is important to go for a football girdle that has good moisture-wicking properties.
Some brands also supply their girdles with antimicrobial properties, which greatly reduce all forms of inflammation and odor.
Ventilation
All modern football girdles are made of polyester/spandex or nylon/spandex, materials that are generally highly breathable, so you stay cool and dry.
However, the most breathable football girdles also feature special mesh for better ventilation where it is needed most. For example, around the crotch and the inner thighs.
A breathable football girdle is very important, even if you almost always play at low temperatures.
Trust me - polyester or nylon in direct contact with extremely sweaty skin is not very comfortable.
The best material for ventilation (and moisture wicking) is actually polyester, because it dries faster. It is also more durable. However, it is not as flexible as nylon.
Padding/filling
The filling is perhaps the most important criterion when choosing a girdle.
The main reason you buy a football girdle at all is to be protected against drops and bumps.
So if you are going to buy a girdle, you better be sure that it is equipped with optimal padding.
It's up to you to decide how much padding you want; this depends a lot on what position you're playing.
For example, if you play a receiver, it is advisable to take a girdle that is both protective and flexible.
The padding absolutely does not limit you in your movements, because you will have to run a lot.
I generally recommend EVA padding as it provides the highest quality protection. EVA is the most popular filling.
It is super lightweight, offers excellent protection and will flex with your body; exactly what you want.
Plastic pads, on the other hand, are often cheaper, but harder and bulky.
Some integrated football girdles have a hard, plastic outer layer on top of the foam padding.
While these designs offer better shock absorption, they can feel a little clunky.
In addition to the amount of padding, it is equally important to consider where the pads are placed. In general, 5 pads (thighs, hips and tailbone) should suffice.
However, depending on the position and level at which you play, you may need to choose additional pads (at the knees, for example).
Washing machine safe
Another criterion is whether the girdle is machine washable without affecting the stylish design, size and other critical components.
Hand washing girdles can be a very strenuous ordeal. Believe me: after an exhausting match of a few hours you really don't want that.
Girdles that are machine washable can save you a lot of time and energy.
Most girdles should be washed in a delicate manner, as nylon/polyester materials are quite fragile when exposed to high heat.
Always let your girdle air dry. Putting it in the dryer will wear the foam/padding.
Length
Football girdles are available in different lengths. The most common lengths are mid-thigh, just above the knee, and just below the knee.
Take into account the pants that you have to try to fit over the girdle and make your choice accordingly.
Weight
Of course you don't want your girdle to be so heavy and padded that it slows you down.
Speed is the difference between a good athlete and a great athlete, so don't buy equipment that will make you heavier and hinder your speed.
The right size
Know your size and in particular your waist size.
Measure around your waist, around your stomach just above your navel. Make sure to exhale to get an accurate reading.
Sometimes it is also recommended to measure your breast size. In such cases, wrap the tape measure just under the armpits and make sure the tape is tight around your chest at the widest point.
Use the manufacturer's size chart to find the right size.
If you're in between sizes, always go one size smaller, unless other buyers/reviewers advise otherwise.
This is because the spandex, the material normally found in football girdles, can stretch a bit. However, girdles that are too large can sag during gameplay.
To make sure you have taken the right size, check that the pads are in the right place.
If they fit snugly on the hips and thighs and don't shift, then you know you've picked the right one.
You have to be sure that you can play the entire match comfortably and not be distracted by a loose-fitting girdle.
Pricing
Fortunately, you don't have to spend a lot to get a good girdle. There are several options with great prices.
Also read: all American football rules and penalties explained
My top 5 best American football girdles
Football girdles are available from different brands and there are different models. There is therefore always one that perfectly suits you and your playing style.
But how do you know which girdle suits you best? Let's find out together! In this section you will learn all the pros and cons of each product.
This will make it much easier for you to make an informed decision.
Best American Football Girdle for Wide Receivers: Schutt ProTech Varsity All-in-One
- With integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors
- With internal pocket for cup (optional)
- Ventilating
- Compression stretch fabric
- 80% polyester, 20% spandex
- Antimicrobial Agent
- Enough freedom of movement
- Available in the colors black and white
- Washing machine safe
With this girdle from Schutt you are perfectly protected from your hips to your knees. It features the same advanced cushioning technology you've come to expect from the brand.
The girdle has integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors that are sewn in for easy-to-use, all-in-one lower body protection.
The girdle fits easily under a uniform or training pants and is provided with an extra, internal pocket at the crotch for the optional addition of a protective cup (which is not included).
The air-permeable fabric of the girdle lets your body breathe, cools and wicks away excess sweat and moisture.
The perforated pads provide better airflow and ventilation. You mustn't be slowed down by a sweaty girdle, you must score touchdowns!
The compression stretch fabric moves with your body and helps reduce muscle fatigue and soreness, prevent strains and increase strength and agility.
The Schutt girdle is the best football girdle for wide receivers because it allows enough movement and flexibility.
As a receiver, you don't want to be restricted in your freedom of movement. Tenths of a second can be the difference between running free or being tackled.
The girdle is made of 80% polyester and 20% spandex. The fabric also has an antimicrobial treatment to prevent bad odors.
The girdle is also easy to maintain, you can throw it in the washing machine and even in the dryer (on a low setting). You can choose from the colors black and white.
The only drawback of this girdle is that the hip area is a bit limited by the hip protectors.
Nevertheless, you have enough freedom of movement to complete your tasks on the field without any problems.
Check prices and availability here
Best American Football Girdle for Running Backs: Champro Tri-Flex 5-Pad
- With integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors
- Extra protection at the hips
- 79% Polyester, 21% Spandex
- Tri-flex system for protection and flexibility
- Dri-gear technology that wicks away moisture
- Compression stretch fabric
- Maximum freedom of movement
- EVA foam pads
- With internal pocket for cup (optional)
- Ventilating
- Available in the colors black and white
One of the most popular—and best—girdles today is the Champro Tri-Flex Integrated 5 Pad, which is perfect for running backs.
The Tri-Flex system offers the ultimate combination of protection and flexibility; it uses padding that can bend to conform to the player's body.
The seams are designed to move with you as you sprint forward, change direction or step back.
The girdle is made of a polyester/spandex blend and a 4-way stretch fabric with a high compression fit.
All this ensures that you remain as agile as possible, without compromising the durability of the girdle.
Agility is essential for a running back, as this player will often have to deal with tasks such as catching the ball, blocking opponents, as well as suddenly having to change direction.
But running backs also have a lot to do with physical contact, which is why this girdle offers extra protection.
Like Schutt's girdle, this Champro girdle also has integrated pads. The pads themselves have a kind of hybrid design.
They are made of EVA foam and will not get sweaty. The padding on the thighs features hard plastic shock plates for a little extra protection.
They give you a large area of protection, but without getting in the way.
The ventilated hip protectors come above your waist and protect a large part of your hips.
They provide that extra bit of protection for the vulnerable part of the hips that regular football girdles can't cover.
This is a big advantage for running backs. Tackles often arise at the hips, so extra padding there is not a superfluous luxury.
The cup pocket also gives you the option to add extra protection at the crotch area.
Another advantage is that the girdle is simply very comfortable. It fits neatly, is extremely flexible and protective.
The dri-gear technology keeps you dry as it transfers moisture to the surface of the garment where it quickly evaporates.
Moreover, the girdle is offered at a great price and the product is available in the colors black and white.
Protect your lower body with this Champro Tri-Flex 5 Pad girdle.
The difference between this and the Schutt girdle is that the Champro girdle offers more protection to the hips, which is especially important for running backs.
Champro's girdle also seems a bit longer. In terms of price, they cost almost the same, and match in many other properties.
The best choice for wide receivers in the Schutt, and the Champro girdle for running backs.
Best American Football Girdle With Knee Protection: Champro Bull Rush 7 Pad
- With integrated coccyx, thigh, knee and hip protectors
- Polyester/Spandex
- Dri-Gear technology that wicks away moisture
- With internal pocket for cup (optional)
- Compression stretch fabric
- Enough freedom of movement
- Available in black or white
- Great price
Do you want an extended football girdle with knee pads, but at the same time good hip/thigh protection?
The Champro Bull Rush 7 pad football girdle is a great, must-have girdle. The 4-way stretch fabric with a high compression fit allows players to keep moving with ease.
The built-in protection is designed to support the hips, thighs, knees and your tailbone. The enveloping padding offers maximum protection to the thighs.
The pads may be slightly larger than most other girdles, but thankfully add little extra weight and maximize protection.
Due to the somewhat larger pads, this girdle does feel a bit different; he is a bit bulky. But if you're looking for extra protection or warmth, it can definitely be worth it.
The girdle is very comfortable thanks to the Dri-Gear technology that wicks away moisture, so you always stay dry.
The built-in inner cup pocket offers space to add extra crotch protection.
Also, this accessory has a relatively friendly price compared to other top brands on the market.
However, the durability leaves something to be desired – the seams are not of the best quality.
Be sure to wash the girdle on a gentle cycle to extend the useful life of the product.
The girdle is available in black and white. A black pair is always useful if you are afraid that a white pair will look dirty in the long run.
The big difference between this girdle compared to that of Schutt and the Champro Tri-Flex, is that it is longer and equipped with knee protection.
It is also cheaper than the other two. However, this seems to be less durable compared to the previous two options.
Whether you prefer a short girdle, where you can still buy separate knee protection, or one that comes with all protection included, is a matter of preference.
Some athletes find the longer girdle inconvenient and prefer a short model.
Other athletes prefer a girdle where you no longer have to buy extra knee protection.
Check prices and availability here
Best American Football Girdle for Defensive Backs: McDavid Compression Padded Shorts with HEX Pads
- With integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors
- 80% nylon, 20% spandex/elastane and polyethylene foam
- HexPad technology for protection and comfort
- McDavid's hDc Moisture Management System
- Lightweight, flexible and breathable
- Compression
- 6-thread flatlock technology for tight seams
- With internal pocket for cup (optional)
- Suitable for multiple sports/activities
- Available colors: black, white, charcoal
- Available sizes: youth to adult 3XL
- Washing machine safe
The widely used McDavid girdle can be used by both linebackers and defensive backs, but I recommend the girdle mainly for DBs, simply because it gives more flexibility than, say, the Under Armor Gameday Pro-5 (which I'll discuss next).
The McDavid girdle features the patented HexPad technology for protection and comfort.
The HexPad is a hexagonal pattern mesh of flexible fabric that offers extra protection to your tailbone, hips and thighs.
The pads have a redesigned shape for more precise protection.
Traditional padding was bulky and uncomfortable to wear. The thickness of the material often left the wearer feeling warm, sweaty and uncomfortable.
McDavid's hDc Moisture Management System wicks away sweat and moisture to improve comfort and ensure a cool and odor-free activity.
Moisture removal is extremely important and is something I cannot emphasize enough for a good girdle!
The girdle is designed to adapt to every movement for continuous protection at the hips, tailbone and thighs.
It is also lightweight, flexible and breathable. Compression technology supports large muscles to reduce cramps and fatigue
The McDavid girdle is made of 80% nylon and 20% spandex/elastane with polyethylene foam. The five pads provide ultimate protection without sacrificing freedom of movement.
This is very important, because you should not be slowed down by your girdle if you have to cover a fast receiver.
Imagine getting canned just because your girdle slows you down… yuck! Thankfully, that won't happen with the McDavid!
The 6-thread flatlock technology is for strength at the seams, which also makes the girdle very durable.
The girdle comes with an internal pocket for a cup if you want extra protection at the genitals.
The girdle is made of the highest quality materials and the most innovative technology has been used.
The Padded Compression Shorts are designed for athletes who seek protection and comfort through improved circulation and advanced protection, without compromising their freedom of movement.
The filling follows the contours of the body perfectly.
The girdle is made for all activities that require padding/protection on the hips, thighs and tailbone: in addition to football, the product is therefore also suitable for sports such as basketball, hockey, lacrosse, skiing, snowboarding and much more.
The girdle also helps to prevent chafing.
The pants are available in three colors: black, white and charcoal. Available sizes range from youth to adult 3XL.
To find the right size, stand up straight with your stomach relaxed. Measure the smallest circumference (the slimmest part) of your waist. Then check which size you need:
- Small: 28″ – 30″
- Medium: 30″ – 34″
- Large: 34″ – 38″
- XL: 38″ – 42″
- 2XL: 42″ – 46″
- 3XL: 46″ – 50″
The sizes are always shown in US sizes (inches). Converting inches to cm is done by multiplying the number of inches by 2.54.
The only drawback of this girdle is that the product is on the expensive side. The McDavid girdle is nevertheless a choice of many top athletes because you simply get a lot for your money.
The McDavid Pants are perfect for players who play on the defensive, such as defensive backs. With these pants you are better protected when tackling your opponent, among other things.
In case you're attacking and your job mainly consists of scoring TDs, then either the Schutt ProTech Varsity (wide receiver) or the Champro Tri-Flex 5-Pad (running back) is a better option.
If you are looking for a complete girdle with knee protection, the Champro Bull Rush 7 Pad Football Girdle is probably the best choice.
Best American Football Girdle for Linebackers: Under Armor Gameday Pro 5-Pad Compression
- With integrated coccyx, thigh and hip protectors
- HEX padding for more stability
- HeatGear Tech for sweat wicking
- 82% polyester, 18% spandex
- Padding: 100% polyethylene
- Sustainability
- Enough freedom of movement
- Compression stretch fabric
- Suitable for multiple sports
- Youth and adult sizes available
- Available in the colors black and white
There is no doubt that the Under Armor Pro 5-Pad is also one of the most popular girdles on the market. The product is super flexible and fits well.
The girdle is the best for linebackers. This is due to its superior HEX technology padding. It applies steady pressure around your waist, thighs, hamstrings and groin.
It provides ultimate protection and pain relief from sprains, strains, muscle cramps and more. Stay ahead of injuries with this girdle!
The girdle is also equipped with HeatGear Tech. This means it's made from a performance fabric that keeps you "cool, dry and light" in warm weather.
You could play with this girdle even under the hot sun with 35 degrees Celcius and feel just fine.
The HeatGear technology also wicks away sweat and moisture and is essentially waterproof. Sweaty girdles are very unpleasant…
All Under Armor products are developed with the best quality materials, dyes, finishes and printing.
The girdle is made of 82% polyester and 18% spandex. The padding, or foam, is made of 100% polyethylene.
With this girdle you will break records and look great at the same time. Enjoy exceptional support while maintaining optimal performance and full freedom of movement.
You'll never really be a good linebacker if you can't move fully. Like all the best girdles, this one is made from a compression stretch fabric that allows unrestricted movement.
The pads can withstand a lot and the girdle is very durable and therefore lasts a long time.
The youth sizes are available in medium or large. The adult sizes range from small to XX large.
As this is a compression product, the fit should be tight but without causing pain or loss of movement.
The girdle is not only suitable for football, but also for baseball, basketball, cross fit, football, rugby, volleyball and more. The product is available in the colors black and white.
Disadvantages of this girdle are that it is on the expensive side and has some large pads on the thighs. The latter need not always be a disadvantage, by the way; after all, it offers more protection.
The girdle is therefore perfect for linebackers, and can also be used by defensive backs. Unfortunately, the girdle is a bit more expensive than average.
The girdle is also less suitable for players who play on the attack and have a lot to do with catching the ball, running and scoring touchdowns.
Again, it is important to consider your position when purchasing a football girdle.
As you can read in this article, there are girdles available for different positions.
What is an American Football Girdle?
An American football girdle is a tight-fitting short that is worn under football pants to protect your lower body during the game.
Girdles feature pads (protective foam) strategically placed around the thigh, hip, tailbone, and sometimes the knee.
There are also girdles that have a protective cup in the middle of the pants.
Furthermore, girdles offer a comfortable compression fit against your skin. The pants will mimic every move you make.
Girdles give you extra stability, especially at the hips and groin; areas often prone to muscle strains and other related injuries.
A girdle therefore not only offers maximum protection, but also stability.
With today's advanced technologies, today's football girdles are very comfortable, breathable and not restrictive at all.
You have to be 100% focused on the game, and you don't have time to worry about uncomfortable equipment.
Integrated vs traditional football girdles
Have you had a traditional girdle before, where you could remove the pads from the pants?
Traditional football girdles have slots in which to place the protective padding.
Nowadays, however, people more often opt for 'ready-made' protection. With these integrated football girdles, the padding is already there – sewn into the actual pants.
These are the best girdles for those looking for convenience.
Almost every football girdle on the market in 2022 is an integrated girdle.
There are also semi-integrated girdles, some of which pads are removable (usually the knee pads).
Unless you already have individual pads that you want to reuse, nine times out of ten it is best to get a football girdle with integrated pads.
It's less hassle, and usually less expensive.
Most football girdles have 5, 6 or 7 pads in the following locations:
- right thigh
- left thigh
- right hip
- left hip
- tailbone
- Cross area
- left knee
- right knee
The last three are normally optional.
If you go for a girdle with knee pads, it will of course be a bit longer, which means it can feel a little warmer.
Which one you choose is a personal choice, but keep in mind the climate you play in, how often you tend to hurt or scrape your knees, and the rules of the league you play in.
FAQ American Football Girdles
What's the best way to clean football girdles?
Set the washing machine on a cold program and add a mild detergent. This is to keep the pH level below 10.
After washing, hang the girdle upside down to dry on the two leg openings. Do not hang the girdle in direct sunlight.
In addition, make sure that the girdle is completely dry before storing it.
Is a girdle necessary for football?
Football is a sport that involves aggressive contact, agility and speed; hence the need for safety and protection, which the girdle can offer you.
What size football girdle should I take?
Based on the size of your waist (and sometimes also your chest), you can choose the corresponding size via the size chart.
However, the tables may differ between brands. So always take the size chart of the brand of your girdle, if it is available.
Conclusion
In this article you were introduced to some great football girdles. Proper equipment can make a huge difference in this sport.
Do not forget; the time you have to play football is limited and nothing is guaranteed, so always go for gear that will protect you well. It's worth it 100%.
A good girdle is very important for football players. Because let's face it: protection simply has to be the top priority.
Don't regret the money you invest in a girdle now; at least you don't have to pay for unwanted injuries that can arise later on the field.
I hope you learned more about football girdles with this article and that you now know exactly which girdle is right for you.
Finally, don't forget that the quality of a girdle cannot be judged solely on the basis of the price tag!
