Football gears have changed massively over the last few years…
And in 2025, your football equipment needs to change too.
Brother, It’s easy to ignore back protection.
After all, you’re playing football, not sitting at a desk, right?
Let’s be honest for a second:
You know the risks.
You’ve seen players get hurt.
You’ve heard about teammates who’ve missed games—or worse, their whole season—because they didn’t have the right protection.
And that’s the reality of not protecting your back properly.
You might think you're invincible (like I was).
You might ask, “But everyone else isn’t wearing one—why should I?”
Here’s the thing:
Football is brutal.
Don’t let peer pressure decide your future.
The players who don’t wear a backplate are gambling with their health.
The truth is, just because your teammates aren’t wearing one doesn’t mean it’s not essential.
Here are the 5 most common misconceptions football players have around football gears and how these are misleading.
1. “Backplates Are Too Heavy and Bulky” – Think Again: Modern Backplates Are Built for Speed
Misconception: “Backplates are bulky, they’re gonna slow me down, right?”
Truth: You’re thinking of the old-school heavy pads. Modern backplates are made from lightweight materials that give you all the protection without weighing you down.
Benefit: With a modern backplate, you’re still fast—you won’t feel bogged down. You get all the protection without feeling like you’re carrying extra weight. You can run, block, or cut without any restriction.
2. “It’s Not That Big of a Deal” – Why Not Protect Your Back from Serious Injury?
Misconception: “I’m tough, I can take a hit to the back. It’s no big deal.”
Truth: That’s the kind of thinking that leads to spinal injuries. Back hits are no joke. Even a minor one can leave you sidelined for weeks or even change the way you move. A backplate is not just for the big hits—it’s for every time you get hit hard in your lower back.
Benefit: A backplate absorbs the impact from those tackles and hits, so your spine stays intact.
3. “No One Else Is Wearing One” – Play Smarter Than Your Teammates by Protecting Yourself
Misconception: “The rest of the team isn’t wearing one, so I don’t need it either.”
Truth: Just because your teammates aren’t wearing backplates doesn’t mean you should follow suit. Not wearing a backplate is like driving a car without seatbelts—it’s a risk.
Benefit: When you wear a backplate, you’re showing your commitment to safety and long-term performance.
4. Boost Your Confidence – Play Fearlessly Knowing You’re Protected
Misconception: “I don’t need extra gear. I’m tough enough to play without it.”
Truth: Confidence isn’t about ignoring protection; it’s about knowing you’ve got your bases covered. When you wear a backplate, you’re mentally and physically ready for whatever comes your way.
Benefit: A backplate gives you the confidence to attack the game without hesitation. You can play your hardest knowing you’ve got the protection to keep you in the game—longer and safer.
5. Protect Your Future – Play Smarter Today for a Better Tomorrow
Misconception: “It’s just one season. I’ll be fine without a backplate.”
Truth: This isn’t just about this season. If you’re serious about playing college ball or even going pro, protecting your back is crucial. A backplate is an investment in your future—not just your present.
Benefit: Wearing a backplate ensures your future in football stays intact. By protecting your back, you’re increasing your chances of playing longer—safely and effectively. Remember, your body is your career.
Conclusion:
Football back plates are lightweight, designed for speed, and offer high-impact protection for your lower back.
They’re built to absorb the impact of those heavy hits and keep your spine safe, so you can keep your head in the game and not worry about injury.
By now, you understand: not wearing a backplate is a risk you can’t afford to take.
Protect your spine, your game, and your future by wearing the best backplate you can find.
Don’t wait for an injury to happen.
So, what’s the one piece of gear you can’t play without?
Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below!
We’d love to hear from you.
P.S. Click to see O Shield Top Picks and make competitors envy you.
Let’s Roll.