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Back plates, or back plates for football, have become increasingly popular over the years.
While quarterbacks often choose to wear rib guards, skill players (such as wide receivers and running backs) often wear the more stylish back plate.
Back plates come in different sizes. Some are designed for young athletes, others for adults.
The quality of a back plate depends on its material, construction process, durability and effectiveness in fulfilling its function.
For this article, I went looking for the best back plates to protect your lower back.
Protection comes first, of course, but style is also important and perhaps price. It is crucial that you get a back plate that is well put together and that will last all season.
The last thing to do is buy a stylish back plate that you like to show off, but that doesn't offer you the right protection.
Before I present you the best back plates, I want to give you a sneak peek of my favorite model: the Battle Sports Back Plate. The Battle Sports back plate is selling very well. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns and is arguably one of the best and thickest back plates on the market today.
Below you will find my top four back plates to help you American Football to replenish gear.
| Best back plate | Image |
| Best back plate overalls: battle sports | 
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| Best back plate for a threatening impression: Xenith XFlexion | 
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| Best Back Plate With Vintage Design: Riddell Sports | 
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| Best back plate for ventilation: Shock doctor | 
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What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
What do you take into account when buying a back plate?
A back plate, also called a 'back flap', is an extra protection for the lower back, which is attached to the back of the body the shoulder pads will be confirmed.
They support the lower spine and reduce the impact on the lower back.
Back plates are great for protection, but they have also become a fashion statement for players over the years.
They allow them to show their creativity as players can personalize their back plates with stickers.
Just like buying other American football gearsuch as gloves, cleats or helmets, there are a number of things that should be thoroughly considered before purchasing a back plate.
Below you will find an explanation about the factors that you should take into account when purchasing your next back plate.
When choosing a back plate, you should consider all aspects before purchasing.
Choose protection
Wearing the right protective equipment – such as a back plate – can reduce the risk of serious injury.
The back plates can protect your lower back, spine and kidneys from any trauma that could have been very dangerous in other cases.
Players wear back plates to protect themselves from blows to the lower back.
Wide receivers are most at risk of being hit in the lower back. Whenever they catch a ball, they expose their lower back and spine to the defender.
With recent targeting rules and penalties, players are more likely to avoid high tackles and target the lower back or legs.
Back protectors help reduce the impact on the lower back.
However, back protectors are not a mandatory part of the equipment as shoulder pads en a decent helmet that are, for example.
Players can choose to wear a back plate if they see fit.
fashion statement
With the recent growth of the Battle brand, players are more likely to wear a crescent-shaped back plate - rather than the traditional square plates - to make a fashion statement.
This is somewhat similar to the way players wear Nike shoes in combination with Nike socks.
Another example is the black stickers under the eyes with letters and/or numbers - worn more for 'swag' than to keep the sun or light out of the eyes.
Combine a back protector with bicep bands, a towel, sleeves, flashy cleats and your speed – that's intimidating!
The style where players let the back plate hang out from under the jersey has become illegal in most competitions.
NCAA rules force players to tuck their jerseys into their pants, requiring the backplate to be hidden. This is a rule enforced by all umpires.
They may even send a player off the field of play until he has tucked his shirt in.
Overall quality
The quality of a back plate depends on, among other things, the materials it is made from, the construction process, durability and effectiveness in performing its function.
To ensure these factors, it is always advisable to buy from reputable brands that only sell quality protective gear.
Brands such as Schutt, Battle, Xenith, Riddell, Shock Doctor, Douglas and Gear-Pro are good examples of this.
Shape and size
Consider the size and shape of the desired back plate.
Size and shape are important because they determine how well the back plate covers your back and how well the back plate fits your height and build.
The larger the back plate, the more your lower back is covered and the better it is protected. Make sure that the back plate offers sufficient protection to your lower back and kidneys.
Weight
The back plate should generally be lightweight. A light back plate will keep you moving well during the game.
A back plate should never restrict your freedom of movement.
The weight of the back plate has a direct impact on your performance on the pitch.
Before you buy a back plate, make sure it is as light as possible. It should not weigh down a player on the field.
A heavier back plate will make your game much more difficult because you will move slower and have trouble turning.
Weight and protection are somewhat related. A back plate with thicker and better protective foam will of course also weigh more.
Back plates are usually made with EVA foam for shock absorption and have very simple designs. In principle, the thicker the foam, the better the shock absorption.
So you'll have to find the right balance between performance and protection on the pitch.
If you want to lose as little speed as possible, you will have to go for a lighter back plate and (unfortunately) have to sacrifice some protection.
Strength and durability
The stronger and more durable, the better protected you will be. You need a really strong one that can protect you from the ill effects of collisions, tackles and falls.
The strength and durability depend on the materials used.
Don't go for a back plate that's too thin, as it can break and lose its function even after just one impact. In addition, choose one that is comfortable enough to let you move with ease.
A durable backplate will maintain its physical integrity and aesthetics for longer. Also, it will provide consistent protection during use.
Material
A back plate must be made of resistant material and it is also recommended to choose a filling with high shock absorption.
Padding will also make a back plate more comfortable.
Your back plate should be of good quality as your safety will be compromised if it is not.
A simple collision or a heavy fall can render it useless and affect your game.
Ventilation
You will sweat a lot during a training or competition.
This is normal, so you should look for a back plate that wicks away sweat well, so that your body can regulate its temperature and you don't suffer from overheating.
If possible, go for a back plate that is equipped with certain ventilation and circulation systems. At the very least, make sure the back plate has ventilation holes.
This is how body fluids are removed. It is important to let your skin breathe properly.
Manufacturers have suggested several ideas to make wearing this gear as comfortable as possible, such as making small holes to allow air to pass more easily, giving the plates a more rounded design, etc.
As a result, many of the backplates you find in stores today are much more comfortable than those that used to be available.
Mounting holes
This factor is often overlooked. Still, it is important to take the mounting holes into account.
Some backplates have only a single column with mounting holes on each strap, while others have multiple columns.
Obviously if you have four sets of vertical mounting holes the back plate will fit a wider variety of shoulder pads.
In general, the more holes the back plate has, the more shoulder pad models it will fit.
In addition, you can adjust the height of the back plate in different ways.
It is true that backplates have flexible straps so you can actually attach any backplate to any pair of shoulder pads.
However, you may have to twist and bend the straps a lot to attach the back plate to your pads, which can negatively affect the durability of the straps.
In addition, it is possible that the back plate does not fit well against your back.
It is therefore recommended to take a back plate that fits well on your shoulder pads, to make your life (as an athlete) easier and to ensure that the back plate fits well against your back.
In general, back plates and shoulder protectors from the same brand combine well with each other.
Some brands also indicate with which shoulder protectors their back plates can best be combined.
Choose the right size
The size is essential when making a final purchase decision.
You choose the right size by measuring the length and width of your lower back. Then check the manufacturer's size chart.
The size of your back plate also depends on the degree of coverage you want (the larger, the more protection).
In general, back plates are more suitable for high school/college athletes and older, and not for younger football athletes.
The size must be perfect, because the back plate should not hang too low or too high.
Style and colors
Finally, you consider the style and colors, which of course have nothing to do with the degree of protection a back plate offers.
However, if you care a bit about style, you'll want to coordinate the back plate with the rest of your football outfit.
Besides, when it comes to aesthetics, a single brand is often chosen for your total equipment.
also look at the best chin straps for your American Football helmet reviewed
The best back plates for your American football equipment
You should now know exactly what to look for when buying your (next) back plate.
Then it's time to take a look at the best-selling models of the moment!
Best Back Plate Overall: Battle Sports
- Inside of impact-resistant foam
- Curved design
- Maximum energy dispersion and shock absorption
- Universal fit for players of all ages
- Hardware included
- Comfortable and protective
- Many colors and styles available
- Adjustable in length
My favorite back plate, one that sells very well, is the Battle Sports back plate.
Battle is a leader in American football gear. They have designed stylish and sturdy back plates that will last a whole season.
The back plate is available in different colors/patterns, namely white, silver, gold, chrome/gold, black/pink, black/white (with the American flag) and one in the colors black, white and red with the text 'Beware of the dog'.
The Battle back plate is one of the best and thickest back plates you can find on the current market.
It therefore offers much better protection than other back plates, but on the other hand it can weigh a bit heavier.
The slim, curved design ensures that any impact on the back is minimized.
Thanks to the high-quality, impact-resistant foam on the inside, this back plate offers really good protection. In addition, the sturdy fastening straps keep the protection in place.
The straps are adjustable thanks to the 3 x 2 inches (7,5 x 5 cm) large mounting holes on both straps.
Another impressive feature is its sleek, curved design. This design ensures that any impact of a blow is minimized and that your back is always effectively protected.
With this back plate you are protected against the hardest blows on the field. The back plate is also comfortable and fits both adults and youth players.
The price you pay for such a back plate varies between $40-$50, depending on the color or pattern. These are normal prices for a back plate.
You can also personalize your back plate with Battle. This is how you really distinguish yourself from other players!
The only drawback may be that it can sometimes be a bit difficult to attach shoulder pads to the plate. You should be able to attach the back plate to almost all shoulder pads.
Since the product is available for adults and younger players, you will have no problem finding a Battle back plate that offers a good fit.
The youth size is for players with a height under 162.5 cm and a weight under 45 kg.
This is THE back plate if you want to make a statement and if you are looking for an eye-catcher. If you want to stand out on the pitch, this might be your best option.
But that is not everything. The quality and degree of protection are excellent. The Battle back plate lets you move freely.
Not only is your lower back safe, but so is your spine and kidneys, which are very vulnerable during football matches.
Battle's back plate is comfortable, inexpensive and adds style to your outfit. Recommended!
Best back plate for a threatening impression: Xenith XFlexion
- Suitable for all Xenith shoulder pads and most other brands
- Available in sizes small (youth) and large (varsity)
- Strong, adjustable nylon-coated straps
- Excellent quality
- Light weight
- Available in the colors white, chrome and black
The XFlexion back plate can be attached to all Xenith shoulder pads and most other brands. The adjustable straps of this back plate are made of durable nylon.
They allow easy and secure attachment to your shoulder pads.
The Xenith back plate offers superior protection for the lower back meaning you have less to worry about on the pitch - as long as you wear it correctly.
Thanks to the different mounting positions, you can adjust the distance between the straps completely to your height.
In this way the Xenith back plate would be compatible with most shoulder pads on the market, even the Douglas pads which often have narrow mounting holes
The quality and construction of the Xenith back plate are excellent. In fact, for its price, this is one of the best-rated back plates you can find (at least, on Amazon).
Not only is this product very functional, it also has a quite stylish design. It is available in white, chrome and black colours.
Chrome and black are more serious colors, so if you like to leave a threatening impression on your opponents, these colors would be perfect for that.
Other than these things, the lightweight model makes it easy to run with this back plate without feeling like it's slowing you down.
So the Xenith back plate is a great high quality option for athletes with Xenith shoulder pads.
But don't worry if you have pads from another brand: thanks to the adjustable straps, this back plate should work with most shoulder pads on the market.
A drawback? Perhaps the fact that this back plate is only available in the colors white, chrome and black. If you are looking for something more striking, the Battle back plate is probably a better choice.
The choice between the Battle back plate and this one from Xenith is more a matter of taste and may also depend on the brand of your shoulder pads – although both back plates should again be compatible with all types of shoulder pads.
Best Back Plate With Vintage Design: Riddell Sports
- Universal: can be attached to most shoulder pads
- Hardware included
- Available in varsity (adult) and junior sizes
- Chrome finish
- Great quality and protection
- Unique vintage design
- Thick, protective foam
- Adjustable in length
The Riddell Sports back plate: many athletes love its vintage design. Design aside, the Riddell back plate is of high quality and features thick foam for protection.
The back plate is adjustable and designed to fit most players. However, for the players who are smaller or larger than average, the sizing may differ. This can be a drawback.
But if the size turns out to be perfect for you, the triangular shape of this back plate will give you good back coverage.
The back plate is highly recommended for athletes with a pair of Riddell shoulder pads, but they should also fit great on shoulder pads from other brands.
The hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon indicate that this is a great product. If you like the chrome color and the design, then this is a great option.
If you are looking for a back plate with a different design or with more striking colors, the Battle back plate may be a better idea.
Best Back Plate for Ventilation: Shock Doctor
- Maximum protection
- Comfortable
- Sustainability
- Ventilating and breathable
- 100% PE + 100% EVA foam
- Slightly curved design
- Universal fit: suitable for all shoulder pads
- Comes with hardware
- cool design
The Shock Doctor back plate has a cool design, namely the American flag.
The back plate protects the lower back, kidneys and spine. Shock Doctor is a leader in protective sportswear.
The contoured foam interior is designed to both absorb impact and sit comfortably on your lower back. It will not limit your movement, speed or mobility.
The back plate features ventilated air channels that give off good heat to keep you cool and comfortable on the pitch. So heat will not hinder your game.
Show yourself; it's 'show time!' The Shock Doctor back plate combines legendary performance and protection with exclusive designs.
shock doctor, known for their mouthguards, has entered the back plate industry.
Their back plates are great for both style and lower back protection from high impact.
The back plate has a universal fit for athletes of all sizes. It features 100% PE + 100% EVA foam, which is the most versatile foam.
The foam interior is able to absorb a strong impact.
The back plate comes with the necessary hardware and can be attached to all shoulder protectors. It is available in different versions.
Perhaps the only drawback is that the back plate is relatively expensive. If you don't have a budget, then one of the other options is probably a better choice.
Are you looking for a back plate with a cool design and do you have some money to spare for the right back protection, then this one from Shock Doctor is perfect.
FAQ
What are football back plates used for?
In football, backplates have the very important task of providing the players with (extra) protection while they are on the field.
We all know how dangerous football can be and therefore certain equipment is required to play it, such as a helmet, shoulder pads and protection for knees, hips and thighs.
All these accessories play an important role and the back plate is no exception. However, a back plate is not a mandatory part of the equipment.
A back plate can reduce the impact a player feels when tackled from behind or even from the side.
The best back plates absorb much of the force of a blow and spread it over a wider area, keeping the player safe.
As a result, if you are tackled, the amount of force you feel from the impact is much less.
Which AF positions wear back plates?
Players in any position can wear a back plate.
Usually, it is the players who carry or catch the ball who wear back plates; but any player who wants to protect the lower spine can choose to wear a back protector.
The back plate is, just like the neck roll, not a mandatory part of your gear, but rather a piece of luxury that a player can add to protect themselves.
Players who play on the defensiveIdeally, such as linemen or fullbacks will go for a protective and perhaps slightly heavier plate, while the running back, quarterback and other skill positions will prefer a light version to maintain enough mobility.
The back plate can be used by attaching it to the shoulder pads.
How do I attach my back plate to my shoulder pads?
Back plates are often attached directly to the shoulder pads with screws.
Players can also use tie-wraps to keep the back plate in place – however, tie-wraps can break during gameplay.
I therefore recommend that you always buy screws from the manufacturer in case you have lost the screws that came with the purchase.
First of all, you need to find the two metal holes that are located at the bottom back of the shoulder pads. The next step is to align the holes of the shoulder pads with those of the back plate.
Then insert the screws through the holes and make sure they are tight. Make sure you do this right or else it could be more of a danger than a help.
Do back plates come with screws and nuts?
In most cases, highly reputable brands such as Schutt and Douglas provide screws and nuts that are essential when attaching the back plate to your shoulder pads.
In case you don't get them, you can also buy the screws and nuts needed to fix the back plate in the store.
Conclusion
If you often get hit in the lower back, or just like to give your lower back extra protection, a football back plate is simply a must-have.
When buying a back plate you have to pay attention to several things. Think of the shape, the strength, the filling and the weight.
In addition, you also need to know what personal needs you have in order to make the right choice.
In case you are replacing an old back plate, are there aspects that you would like to have different? And when you buy a back plate for the first time, what is important to you?
With the tips from this article, I'm sure you can make an informed choice!
Read also my comprehensive review of the top 5 best American Football visors
