Andy S

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I'll keep the core training in mine. I decided to go with a pair of higher end CCM Tacks. With both impacts, it was the old buckle on the CCM M-SP4 pads that really punched in with impact. First time it was just a bit sort for a few weeks (i.e. kept playing, no bit deal, healed fine). With the second (other side) it was really sore for about a week, then the day before my next game I was bending down towards that side to pick something up and I felt a pop. It was a bit more back then where the impact had been -hurt like hell. Well, stupid me tried to play on it the following night and that really screwed everything up (i.e. whole rib area really painful just to lie down, twist, etc.). Nothing broken, slow to heal. Just started riding stationary bike last week, which was fine. Tried a light jog, but impact with the ground made it a bit sore afterwards. Getting old sucks. lol

I’m in my mid 40s and started playing again about a year and a half ago after a long hiatus. After two rib injuries in the past six months, I’m looking to upgrade my shoulder pads (CCM Supra M-SP4 that I’ve had since college). Both times I injured myself from falls after overextending on the play, catching an edge, and hitting flat on the ice (I still play somewhat aggressive, even for non-check/one step up from beer league). I’m 6’, 210 lbs and playing hockey again has been the best decision all around. But I don’t heal like I did in my 20s and I need something that will provide enough protection to let me continue to play on the aggressive side, but not screw myself up. This past injury had me sidelined almost two months and it’s killing me not being able to play or even stay in shape. Honestly, I have no idea where to begin in picking out new pads even after watching reviews on YouTube and searches online. For example, what’s better Warrior AX1 or QX3 in terms of protection? I have no clue. How do different brands compare in terms of protection (CCM, Bauer, or Warrior)? I have no idea. I’m not worried about cost, I’d rather spend a little more cash than lose ice time to bruised ribs again (or other injury). Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. P.S. If it matters, I’ve never been a big goal scorer (I have hands of stone). But I’m a solid skater and smart player whose almost never out of position. I mostly play RW and am more of a shutdown/grinder who ties opponents up/forces turnovers and sets up our better guys. This means that invariably I take a tumble or two every game when I’m beaten by a player 10-20 years younger than me. And no, I cannot dial it down a notch, that goes out the window as soon as the puck drops.