How to Choose the Right Hockey Gear
How to Choose the Right Hockey Gear
Blog Article
How to Choose the Right Hockey Gear: A Complete Beginner’s Guide
If you're just getting into hockey—whether ice or inline—choosing the right gear can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, styles, and price points, it’s easy to get lost in the options. But your gear isn’t just about looking like a pro—it’s about safety, performance, and confidence on the ice or rink. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best hockey equipment for your needs.
Skates: Your Foundation
Fit First
slot gacor deposit 5000 Your skates are arguably the most important piece of hockey gear. They need to fit snugly but not cause pain. You shouldn’t be able to wiggle your toes much, and your heel should stay locked in place.
Types: Ice hockey skates vs. inline hockey skates. Choose based on where you’ll play.
Brands: Bauer and CCM are the industry leaders. Try multiple models to find the best fit.
Sizing Tip: Hockey skates usually run 1 to 1.5 sizes smaller than your regular shoe size.
Key Features
Stiffness: Beginners may prefer more flexible boots for easier movement.
Blade Holder & Steel: Replaceable steel is a plus if you plan on sharpening skates often.
Ankle Support: Look for good padding around the ankles to prevent injuries.
Helmet: Safety First
A helmet isn’t just mandatory—it’s your main protection against concussions and head trauma.
Fit Guidelines
It should be snug without being tight.
The front should sit one finger above your eyebrows.
The chin strap should be secure but comfortable.
Cage vs. Visor vs. No Shield
Full cage: Recommended for beginners and younger players.
Visor: Popular in adult leagues for more visibility.
No shield: Only in pro leagues or high-level play (not beginner-friendly).
Recommended Brands
Bauer RE-AKT, CCM Tacks, and Warrior Covert are reliable, safety-certified options.
Shoulder Pads: Upper Body Protection
Shoulder pads protect your collarbone, chest, back, and shoulders. Even in non-contact leagues, falls and flying pucks make them essential.
Fit Tips
Should cover your collarbones and extend over your ribs.
Shouldn’t restrict arm movement.
Straps should hold everything snug without digging in.
Features to Look For
Moisture-wicking liners
Adjustable bicep guards
Ventilation zones for cooling
Elbow Pads: Protect Your Joints
Elbow pads shield your elbow bone and forearms, which are common contact points during falls.
Fit Guidelines
Pads should sit tightly over your elbow, not sliding when you move your arm.
Overlap your gloves and shoulder pads to avoid exposed gaps.
Bonus Tip
Some elbow pads come with built-in slash guards, useful if you’re playing a physical game.
Gloves: Grip and Protection
Your gloves protect your hands and wrists while giving you control over your stick.
Choosing the Right Size
Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger, then add the wrist-to-elbow distance.
Gloves should overlap your elbow pads slightly.
Features to Consider
Flexibility in the fingers
Reinforced palm areas
Breathability to reduce sweat build-up
Popular Picks
Bauer Vapor, CCM Jetspeed, and Warrior Alpha series offer a range of fits and protection levels.
Pants: Hip and Thigh Protection
Also called breezers, hockey pants protect your hips, thighs, and tailbone.
Fit Advice
Should sit just above the knees and extend to your lower back.
Not too tight—they should allow full mobility on the ice.
Features to Look For
Adjustable belts and suspenders
Foam padding in key impact zones
Lightweight yet durable shell materials
Shin Guards: Lower Leg Armor
Shin guards protect your knees and shins from pucks, sticks, and falls.
Sizing
Measure from the center of your kneecap to the top of your skate boot.
Should fit comfortably under your hockey socks.
Make sure they don’t rotate or slip during play.
Protection Features
Hard outer shell
Dense inner foam
Knee cap mobility and ventilation
Base Layers and Jocks
Your base layers keep you warm, dry, and comfortable under all your gear. They’re also easier to wash than full pads.
Key Items
Compression tops and bottoms
Jock shorts or jill shorts (with built-in protective cup or pelvic guard)
Moisture-wicking fabric
Bonus: Look for integrated Velcro straps to hold up your hockey socks.
Stick: The Right Tool for Your Playing Style
Your stick is your main instrument for passing, shooting, and puck handling.
Size Matters
When upright on the ground, the stick should come up to your nose without skates, and chin with skates on.
Youth, junior, intermediate, and senior sizes depend on age and height.
Flex Rating
The flex rating determines how much force is needed to bend the stick.
Beginners usually do well with a lower flex rating (50–70).
Stronger players may opt for 85–100.
Curve and Blade
Each curve type (like P92 or P28) affects puck control, lifting, and shooting. Try a few before settling.
Accessories and Extras
You may also want to consider these:
Neck Guards: Protect against stray sticks and pucks—mandatory in some leagues.
Mouthguards: Help prevent dental injuries and even concussions.
Hockey Socks: Cover shin guards; usually held up by jock shorts or garters.
Equipment Bag: Wheels or backpack-style? Depends on your preference and amount of gear.
Skate Guards & Soakers: Protect your blades from dulling when off-ice.
Used vs. New Gear
If you’re just starting out, buying all new gear can get expensive fast. Here are some tips:
Buy new for helmets and skates for safety and hygiene.
Used gear is fine for shoulder pads, pants, and gloves—just make sure there’s no damage.
Clean everything well if it’s second-hand.
Local hockey shops and online marketplaces like SidelineSwap or Play It Again Sports are great sources.
Fitting Tips and Final Thoughts
Layer up: Try gear on while wearing your base layers for an accurate fit.
Move around: Bend, twist, and crouch to ensure mobility.
Check regulations: If you're joining a league, ask about required gear standards.
Always prioritize comfort and safety over looks or brand names. The best gear is what fits you well and allows you to play your best.
Where to Buy Hockey Gear
Local Pro Shops: Great for fittings and trying on multiple brands.
Online Stores: Pure Hockey, HockeyMonkey, and Ice Warehouse offer wide selections.
Used Gear Stores: Check community boards, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay.
Look for end-of-season sales to save money without sacrificing quality.
Choosing the right hockey gear doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little knowledge and the right fit, you’ll be geared up and game-ready in no time. Whether you're heading into your first pickup game or joining a league, the right equipment will boost your confidence and protect you on every shift.