Ice Hockey Equipment Guide

Ice hockey stands apart from most of its competitive sports brethren in that players must learn a different mode of transportation in order to play. The related equipment that a player needs to compete varies in size and function, but its purpose remains the same: to protect players while they skate after a hard rubber puck. For goalies, the equipment allows them to actively block or trap the puck while keeping their bodies safe.

  1. Cost

    • If you're looking to outfit yourself or a youngster in a set of hockey gear, realize that the expense associated with equipment is far greater than that of other competitive sports. Also consider the level of play; children and beer leaguers don't need pro-level, top-shelf stuff to play. The average-sized player, meaning older teens to adults, can expect to spend in excess of $600 for decent equipment. Younger players' gear is less, but the cost increases as the child outgrows the equipment and needs to be sized up. Equipment can often be purchased second hand, but buyers should take care as to where they're spending their money and on what on. Gloves and shin guards are often fine if having been gently used, but helmets should be purchased new to avoid irreparable cracks or hard-to-spot damages.

    Forwards & Defensemen

    • Whether you or your child plays as a center, wing or defenseman, the gear requirements are the same. From the floor up, skates are an obvious need, whether for ice or roller hockey. The general rule is to fit skates a size smaller than a shoe size. For example, a size 9 in a men's shoe would equal an 8 in skate size. Shin guards should cover the knee cap, extend down the shin and stop at the top of the skate. The best idea to ensure accuracy is to measure while sitting. Pants are the same as any pants and fit accordingly. For gloves, measure from the fingers to the elbow; that's the corresponding glove size although different manufacturers may have differences with the same size. Elbow pads usually come in small, medium, or large, as do shoulder pads and helmets. Try on as many pieces of equipment as possible to ensure a proper fit, both for safety and game enjoyment.

    Goalies

    • Goaltenders are considered a rare breed and their gear reflects that notion. New goalies (or their parents) can expect to spend from $1,200 to more than $2,000 for equipment, depending on the level of play. Goalie equipment is sized and priced from pee-wee, intermediate, senior or professional, with professional level featuring such extras as customization and additional padding. Goalie skates feature flat blades and heavier protective boots, and are measured the same as player skates. Leg pads, generally the most expensive item, come in a gaggle of colors and patterns, so the choices are endless. Goalies are a fairly finicky bunch, too, so last year's pad models often sell for hundreds of dollars less once a new hockey season begins and goalies flock to the latest designs. Pants are sized the same as regular pants, as are the bulky chest and arm protectors. The goalie's gloves, the blocker and catch glove, are best fitted by trying them on. Players want them snug yet somewhat loose. Goalie masks and helmets have the same size options as most players' helmets: extra small to extra large and everything in between.

    Sticks

    • Sticks come in a variety of lengths and blade patterns, but the best way to measure for a proper player or goalie stick is to stand in your stocking feet with the stick vertically positioned in front of you. If the blade touches the floor and the top of the shaft touches the tip of your nose, the stick is the acceptable playing length.