How to Measure Hockey Goalie Pads

The goaltender's pads comprise one of the most personalized pieces of equipment in ice hockey. Pads can be custom-made to reflect the team's colors. There are a variety of brands, styles and colors on the market, so it's important to decide what type you need before you buy.

Hockey players are required to wear proper-fitting equipment. The requirements for goaltending equipment changed in 2008, making goalie pads a maximum of 11 inches wide and 2.5 inches thick. The size of the catcher and blocker were also reduced, making it tougher for the goaltender to stop shots and increase scoring chances.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Paper and pencil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your leg from the instep of the foot to the middle of the kneecap with a measuring tape. You should be standing in an upright goalie stance so your knees are slightly bent. Use the pencil and paper to record this number.

    • 2

      Determine how high you want the thigh rise of the pad. Most goalies like an overlap between the pad and the pants. A good rule of thumb is to have an overlap of 7 to 8 inches. Put on the pants and make a mark of where the bottom of the pant leg hits your on the thigh.

    • 3

      Measure from the middle of the kneecap to the midpoint of the thigh to determine the height of the thigh rise of the pad. This doesn't have to be measured exactly to the midpoint of the thigh, as the thigh rise is more of a goalie preference--some may prefer shorter thigh rises. Determine how high you want the thigh rise in comparison to the earlier mark you made when wearing the pants.

    • 4

      Add the numbers from Step 1 and Step 3 together. This is the size leg pad you will need to purchase. If you are between two numbers, you should go for the larger number because it will offer you more protection in a game.

    • 5

      Try on the leg pad. Your knee should fit snugly in the knee cup when the pad is tied to the skate. When your leg is strapped in properly, the pad should bend right at the knee and ankle for optimal performance.