How to Size Youth Hockey Gear

For young athletes, picking out equipment and gear can be an exciting process toward beginning your sport. When it comes to youth hockey, it can be a more difficult task than most would think. There are helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, hockey pants, shin guards, skates and even mouth guards. For the best outcome, it's helpful to make a trip to the sporting goods store with an experienced hockey mentor or a parent who is aware of the specifics.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexible tape measure
  • Hockey socks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin by choosing helmets. Try them on until you find one with a snug, secure fit. Do not buy a loose helmet, since this is one of the most important pieces of hockey equipment.

    • 2

      Wearing your hockey socks, try on skates that are one to one-and-a-half sizes smaller than your street shoes. If you are shopping for Mission brand skates, they are the same size as your regular shoes. Continue until you find a pair of skates that are snug and fit well.

    • 3

      Using the inches side of your flexible tape measure, begin from below the armpits and measure around the chest of the player. In order to provide protection from upper body injuries, shoulder pads should fit firmly and securely while making movements.

    • 4

      According to the Hockey Giant website, elbows must fit snug into the cup of the elbow pads. Measure with the tape from the middle of the biceps to the edge of your hockey glove.

    • 5

      Place your hands into the hockey gloves. Move your fingers and twist your wrists to see how well you can move your hands. Choose gloves that are secure and snug, not tight and confining. This can actually damage your hands more if you cannot move them well.

    • 6

      Place the flexible tape measure into the inner waistline of the hockey pants. The pants should be about the same waist length as a youth's regular pants. Try on the hockey pants until you find a pair that fits like a pair of jeans.