Sports Unlimited Stealth vs. Riddell Smoke Adult Football Shoulder Pads - Skill Position

Design & Fit

Both the Sports Unlimited Stealth and Riddell Smoke Adult Football Shoulder Pads feature a low-profile, flat pad design that promotes mobility and minimizes bulk. The Stealth includes swivel front and back connectors along with a 1.5-inch belt and a 14-hole strap system, allowing for a highly adjustable fit. It also offers a removable liner for easier cleaning. The Smoke pads also incorporate a swivel front for added flexibility and use 1-inch PVC belts for secure fastening. Their swim cut arches are specifically shaped to enhance arm range of motion, especially beneficial for skill position players. While both prioritize movement, the Stealth offers more customization in its fit.

Protection & Padding

Each pad has a unique approach to protection. The Stealth uses air management foam, designed to disperse impact over a wide area, and includes built-in clavicle channels along with removable or adjustable deltoid pads for added shoulder support. The Riddell Smoke, meanwhile, focuses on streamlined protection with a short arch design and a pre-attached back plate for lower back coverage. While the Stealth emphasizes dispersing impact and adjustability, the Smoke pads maintain a lightweight structure while still offering key protective features.

Positions & Best Use

Both shoulder pads cover a range of positions but with slightly different focuses. The Stealth is designed to accommodate players across all positions—including linemen, linebackers, backs, and receivers—making it a versatile option. The Riddell Smoke pads, labeled for skill positions, are particularly suited for quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive backs, where agility and arm mobility are crucial. Though both support multiple roles, the Smoke is tailored more to speed-focused players, while the Stealth is built to serve a broader spectrum of field positions.

Aesthetic & Build

In terms of appearance and construction, both shoulder pads have sleek, athletic designs. The Stealth has a minimalist black look with padded epaulets and an optional attachment point for a back plate. Its removable liner adds convenience for cleaning. The Smoke features a similar sleek profile and comes with a pre-attached back plate as part of its build. Durability is a focus for both, with the Smoke using biothane belts and the Stealth incorporating sturdy adjustment hardware. Each pad is built to hold up through tough gameplay, with design choices that cater to different preferences.

Summary

The Sports Unlimited Stealth and Riddell Smoke Adult Football Shoulder Pads both offer strong performance, but they do so in distinct ways. The Stealth emphasizes adjustability, broad protection, and versatile positioning, while the Smoke focuses on enhancing mobility and fitting the needs of skill position athletes. Both are built for adult players and balance comfort with durability, offering features that cater to different playing styles and positional demands.