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.
- Unlock the rear retention clips.
- Adjust the rear straps to match the player’s torso width.
- Lock the rear retention clips completely.
- Feed the rigid plastic straps into the front buckles.
- 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.
- Expose the internal T-nut inside the arch pad. (See routing & trimming video)
- Mark the excess strap tail, ensuring at least 2 structural eyelets remain intact past the buckle.
- Cut the excess material with scissors.
- Feed the remaining strap tail neatly into the internal opening.
Shoulder Cap Height ▶ Watch Cap Height Adjustment
- Loosen both external clasp fasteners.
- Slide the anchoring strap inward to raise the cap, or outward to lower it.
- Position the cap and internal AC cushion so they sit flush against each other with no overlap.
- 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.
| Hole | Position | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Upper hole | Standard flat | Most positions |
| Lower hole | Forward-tilted | Positions with heavy frontal impact |
Backplate Adjustment ▶ Watch Backplate Installation
- Remove the 2 holding screws and internal T-nuts from the lower rear chassis arch using a Phillips-head screwdriver.
- Align the backplate strap grommets with the chassis.
- Use the upper strap holes to lower the plate, or the lower strap holes to raise it.
- 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.
- Arms up. Have the player raise both arms vertically. The pads should not pinch the neck or ride up excessively.
- Rotation check. Have the player twist side-to-side. The chest plates should stay centered over the sternum.
- 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.