NAERA Football Shoulder Pad Care Recommendations

DOWNERS GROVE, ILLINOIS (October 17, 2024) – The National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association (NAERA) recommends football teams send all shoulder pads used during the past season to a NAERA member for reconditioning once the season is over.

During the reconditioning process, the NAERA member will inspect the plastic for cracks or weak points, inspect the cushions for tears and clean and sanitize each
pad. NAERA further recommends that you have a routine in-season maintenance plan that includes checking for broken or missing parts, cleaning and sanitizing, per the manufacturer’s guidance.

Even with regular maintenance and reconditioning, high-impact equipment requires regular rotation for aging equipment. NAERA recommends schools, organizations and teams have a system to remove aging shoulder pads from their inventory according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

NAERA is a member of the National Sporting Goods Association (NSGA).