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How to Fit VICIS ARC_V1 Shoulder Pads: Elite (Ratchet Belt Models)Updated 12 days ago

Note: The ARC_V1 Elite features a ratchet belt system and is not available in Youth sizes. If your pads have a traditional buckle-and-strap belt, please refer to the Varsity & Youth Fitting Guide.

This guide covers every adjustment on the ARC_V1 Elite — ratchet belt system, shoulder cap height and angle, backplate position, and final fit verification. Work through the sections that apply to your player.

Before you start: If any hardware is cracked, missing, or will not lock securely — or if the player reports pain, numbness, or restricted breathing — stop and contact customer support before continuing.


Ratchet Belt System ▶ Watch Ratchet Adjustment

Always set the rear straps first. The rear retention clips establish the baseline torso fit before the front ratchets are adjusted.

  1. Unlock the rear retention clips.
  2. Adjust the rear straps to match the player’s torso width.
  3. Lock the rear retention clips completely.
  4. Feed the rigid plastic straps into the front buckles.
  5. Pump the ratchet levers to fine-tune tension.

Game fit: tighten fully. Sideline relief: loosen by 1–2 clicks only.

Trimming excess strap tails

Do not trim until fit is fully confirmed. Leave at least 2 structural eyelets intact past the buckle — those eyelets are required for structural security.

  1. Expose the internal T-nut inside the arch pad. (See routing & trimming video)
  2. Mark the excess strap tail, ensuring at least 2 structural eyelets remain intact past the buckle.
  3. Cut the excess material with scissors.
  4. Feed the remaining strap tail neatly into the internal opening.

Shoulder Cap Height ▶ Watch Cap Height Adjustment

  1. Loosen both external clasp fasteners.
  2. Slide the anchoring strap inward to raise the cap, or outward to lower it.
  3. Position the cap and internal AC cushion so they sit flush against each other with no overlap.
  4. Retighten both clasp fasteners securely.

Shoulder Cap Angle ▶ Watch Cap Angle Adjustment

Access the inner strap side from inside the external arch pad and select the appropriate alignment hole for the player’s position.

HolePositionBest For
Upper holeStandard flatMost positions
Lower holeForward-tiltedPositions with heavy frontal impact

Backplate Adjustment ▶ Watch Backplate Installation

  1. Remove the 2 holding screws and internal T-nuts from the lower rear chassis arch using a Phillips-head screwdriver.
  2. Align the backplate strap grommets with the chassis.
  3. Use the upper strap holes to lower the plate, or the lower strap holes to raise it.
  4. Reinsert the T-nuts inside-out, thread the screws, and tighten until flush. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the chassis.

Final Fit Verification

Run all three checks before declaring the pads game-ready. If any check fails, repeat the relevant adjustment steps above.

  1. Arms up. Have the player raise both arms vertically. The pads should not pinch the neck or ride up excessively.
  2. Rotation check. Have the player twist side-to-side. The chest plates should stay centered over the sternum.
  3. Cap gap check. Visually inspect for any visible gaps between the shoulder cap and the internal AC pad. There should be none.

Do not declare the pads game-ready until all three checks pass.

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