in the early days, football pads were too large and heavier than they are today. This was because the game was much more physical and violent than it is now. The players were tackling each other with high energy. the chance of the jury was high. There were no adequate rules applied at that time.
if we talk about safety, there was no major equipment developed to protect the injury. Thicker pads and larger size was the only way to reduce the injury. This was because of a lack of technology and limited manufacturing company.
The football pads evolved features with the best security options over time.it became more flexible, lighter, and safer.
Let’s understand the factors that make the pads lighter and smaller.
Technology: Rapid changes in technology are a major factor in today’s pads, new material innovation and additional features made it more advanced and effective.
Awareness of safety: The national-level football organization took steps to make the game more safe and exciting. They made changes in playing rules and allowed the verified equipment only.
Organized Game Play: In recent times games are passing-oriented games, players continuously pass the ball to another player. It is also a very effective game strategy to make score.
Benefits of Smaller Football Pads
Enhanced Mobility: Smaller pads allow you to move freely and change direction quickly. Players can cut, pivot, and sprint easily. Players also escape easily from the opponent player’s crowd
Improved Comfort: Smaller pads provide comfort, such as Today’s pads are shaped according to your body, and necessary and important materials are only used in the pad to protect your body.
Customization: Small pads are easy to customize, and players do not need more time to remove and add the extra accessories to the football pad.
Better Ventilation: These are free from unnecessary items, so Players get better ventilation due to the small in size. They get free air naturally. It reduces the heat-related disease
Reduced Weight: No doubt, players become free from heaviness, smaller pads are very light in weight which allows them to run fast and cut easily.
Drawbacks of Smaller Football Pads
Less Coverage: Small pads are unable to cover the body, The player has to wear additional football pads and gear to protect from injury. But the large football pads cover the body parts properly. For example, a shoulder pad does not cover the neckbone, so The players have to wear an extra collar pad.
Limited Thermal Insulation: Particularly in the colder season, The player needs some heat but the small pads do not provide the player Thermal Insulation. it affects their performance.
Reduced protection: small pads are risky in some specific positions where the chance of collision is high such as Running Back offensive line and wide receiver.
Cost: These may be more expensive than larger ones because Small pads are made of high-quality material to prevent injuries
Conclusion
finally, you will get more advantages to wearing small pads. The new technology and highly protective material make the pads very useful and comfortable.
