4 Factors on How to Choose a Youth-fit Football Backplate

4 Factors on How to Choose a Youth-fit Football Backplate

Sorry to start this email on a downer but…

Let’s talk about missed opportunities. (YAY?)

Whether you’re picking or gifting a football backplate, there’s a hidden leak that’s quietly draining away your potential game performance:

Not enduring extreme-impacts. not feeling plush comfort. Not standing out. No Drip. No Drip. No Drip.

But what if you could fix this once and for all, without having to do any of the work yourself?

Imagine having a highly-curated backplate in place that captures durability, performance, and style.

No more scrambling, no more wasted brittle backplates—just an elite backplate that endures through the seasons.

One bad hit is all it takes. 

Is your youth backplate ready for the impact? 

Keep reading to find out what gear you need to avoid the sideline nightmare.

Look.. you’ve probably thought about the basics when it comes to youth football gear—helmet, pads, shoes..

But what about the one piece of gear that’s just as crucial to their protection and performance? 

That’s right, we’re talking about the backplate. 

If you’ve never really considered it, you’re not alone. 

Many players overlook this piece of equipment—but it’s time to start paying attention.

Football is a tough, fast-paced game. Every time a youth player steps onto the field, there’s a risk. 

Especially when they’re still in the game, running at full speed, tackling, or being tackled.

The thing is, a lot of backplates out there aren’t built to withstand the hits and provide the right kind of protection. 

They’re either too bulky, too stiff, or just don’t cover the most vulnerable parts of your child’s body. 

The result? 

Your kid doesn’t feel confident in their gear and is constantly worried about taking a hit in the wrong spot. 

Worse, you’re left hoping you’ve done enough to keep them safe—hoping their gear is as tough as the game they’re playing. What happens if it isn’t?

Or, "I just want to make sure they’re safe out there. I know the risks of every game, but the last thing I want is to see youth players struggling to get up after a hard hit. I need to know I did everything I could to protect them—without holding back their game.”

Also, “The youth-fit gear is already fine—why change it now?” Or maybe you’ve seen cheaper options that seem like they’ll do the trick..

However, what most people don’t realise is that generic backplates just aren’t made to stand up to the intensity of youth football.

They don’t provide the same level of protection or comfort, and they certainly don’t offer the sleek design that young players want. 

The truth is, sticking with low-quality gear could leave your kid vulnerable when it counts the most.

But WAIT..

Imagine this: You step onto the field with a backplate designed specifically for youth players—lightweight, flexible, and, most importantly, built to absorb impacts and protect their spine and kidneys. 

Let’s cut through the noise.

If you want to keep the youth safe and give them the freedom to play at their best, the right football backplate is a must-have. 

Football is rough—you know it, and even youth players know it. 

Hits to the lower back and spine are a big deal, and without the right backplate, they’re left wide open. 

The best football backplates for youth are made with top-notch padding that absorbs shock and protects those vulnerable spots.

With that said..

Here’s why it matters and how to pick the best one.

 

#1: Lightweight Design That Won’t Slow Them Down

Nobody wants gear that weighs them down. If your kid complains about stiff or heavy pads, it’s because old-school backplates are a drag. 

The latest youth football backplates are lightweight and low-profile, letting players move naturally without feeling like they’ve got a brick strapped to their back.

Remember.. 

Speed and Agility Without the Bulk.

Pro Tip: Choose a backplate with ventilation holes to keep them cool when the game heats up.



#2: Highly-curated Backplates to Show Off Their Style

Youths want to stand out on the field, and a custom backplate does just that. 

Whether it’s their jersey number, a cool design, or their name, personalising their gear isn’t just about looks—it’s about the feeling of standing out.



 

How to Pick the Perfect Football Backplate for Youth

Choosing the right backplate doesn’t have to be complicated.

Here’s what to look for:

  1. Protection Level: Go for thick padding that covers the lower back and spine. Check for high-impact foam materials.
  2. Comfort and Fit: Make sure the backplate contours to their body shape and doesn’t restrict movement.
  3. Highly-curated Options: Let your kid choose a design or number that represents them.
  4. Durability: Look for strong, flexible materials that can handle rough play all season.

 


Conclusion:


You know youth safety comes first, but you also want them to play with everything they’ve got. 


Choosing the right backplate isn’t just about protection—it’s about setting them up to play their best game every time. 


Materials to keep your child moving freely and fast, while also providing the maximum protection they need in the spine and lower back areas. 


Plus, highly-curated options, they’ll be rocking a look that’s unique to them—because confidence starts with feeling great in your gear.


What’s the one feature you wish your kid’s football gear had? 


Drop your thoughts below—we’d love to hear from you.


P.S. Click to see O Shield Top Picks and make competitors envy you.
Let’s Roll.

Back to blog

Leave a comment