VICIS logo
VICIS logo

All articles

How to Fit VICIS ARC_V1 Shoulder Pads: Varsity & Youth (Traditional Belt Models)Updated 12 days ago

Note: The ARC_V1 Varsity and Youth models use a traditional slide-hook and belt system. If your pads have a ratchet "Shift Belt," please refer to the Elite Fitting Guide.

This guide covers the adjustments for ARC_V1 Varsity and Youth models — including the traditional belt system, shoulder cap positioning, and final fit verification. Work through the sections to ensure proper player protection.

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.


Traditional Belt System ▶ Watch Belt Adjustment

The Varsity and Youth models utilize a secure slide-hook and belt routing system to establish the core torso fit.

  1. Unclip the front belt hardware on both sides of the chest.
  2. Place the pads over the player's head, ensuring the neck opening sits comfortably without pinching.
  3. Feed the belt hardware into the appropriate locking receptacle on the front chest plate.
  4. Pull the excess belt strap forward to tighten. The fit should be snug against the ribs without restricting deep breathing.
  5. Feed any excess strap through the strap retainers to prevent dangling.

Shoulder Cap Adjustment ▶ Watch Cap Adjustment

Varsity and Youth caps can be adjusted to ensure the AC joint is properly covered based on the player's build.

  1. Locate the under-arch connection straps securing the shoulder cap to the main chassis.
  2. Loosen the strap to allow the cap to sit lower on the arm, or tighten it to pull the cap higher up the shoulder.
  3. Ensure the internal cushioning sits directly over the player's AC joint.
  4. Secure the straps tightly once the ideal position is found.

Backplate Installation (Optional) ▶ Watch Backplate Installation

  1. Align the backplate strap grommets with the pre-drilled holes on the lower rear pad chassis.
  2. Insert the provided T-nuts from the inside of the pad facing outward.
  3. Thread the mounting screws through the backplate straps and into the T-nuts.
  4. Tighten with a Phillips-head screwdriver until flush. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the plastic 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. Coverage check. Ensure the front arch fully covers the sternum, the rear arch fully covers the scapula, and the caps adequately cover the shoulder joint.

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

Was this article helpful?
Yes
No