How to Buy a Good Goalie Mask

A hockey goalie's mask has evolved over the decades, going from some rather simple face coverings to the fiberglass composite masks of 2010. Goalies have a few considerations when it comes to buying a mask.

  1. Sizes

    • Masks off the shelf or in the catalogs come in a few different sizing options, based on general head circumference. Senior (ages 14 to adult) and junior (ages 11 to 14) sizes are common, but manufacturers also size their masks in small, medium, large and extra large offerings to accommodate players of all sizes.

    Considerations

    • Consider your level of play when purchasing a new mask; although it'll provide more than enough protection, spending several hundreds of dollars on the pro model may not be warranted if you only play pickup or house league hockey.

    Rules

    • Dependent on your league/age, the cage on the front of the mask will differ according to the rules. Generally, Canadian Sports Authority (CSA) approved cages that look like grids are mandatory in many travel and semi-pro leagues, meaning cat's-eye cages like the pros' aren't allowed.

    Budget

    • Masks are available at different price points to accommodate nearly every budget. Generally speaking, semi-pro and most amateur models retail between $100 to $300, with most pro models costing from $500 to well over $1000.

    Personalization

    • Most masks come in black or white; depending on the manufacturer, other colors may be offered, and some come with pre-existing design patterns. Such masks will add some color to your on-ice presentation, but these masks are also more expensive that the standard ones.