How to Size Goalie Gloves

Sports are big business, for both the pros and for the weekend warriors. Equipment can come with a hefty price tag for those rec leaguers that sweat it out a few evenings a week---even more so for ice- and roller-hockey goalies, whose investment can tally well over $2,000 for top-shelf gear. Smart shopping and knowledge of proper fit will help save money and frustration, especially when it comes to selecting the catcher and blocker, the goaltender's much-used gloves.

Things You'll Need

  • Several catcher and blocker glove sets (if available) Cloth or vinyl tape measure (optional) Photocopies of your hands (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consider your age and level of play when approaching the store racks. Like all equipment, the gloves are sized to appropriate age groups and levels: youth, intermediate and senior. Pro-level gloves are senior sized with all of the "bells and whistles" one would expect from expensive gear, including additional padding in the palms and the blocking surfaces and "pro specs," meaning customers can purchase the same gloves made to NHL player standards.

    • 2

      Try on the catch glove of your choice and fasten all straps and buckles. The tips of your fingers should touch the ends of the internal stalls. Anything bigger or smaller and the glove will not close properly, resulting in a loss of catching performance. Try several gloves, regardless of manufacturer or color scheme, until your choices are reduced to only a few.

    • 3

      As with the glove, try on the blocker. Pick up a goalie stick if possible to see how the blocker balances on your hand. Your fingers should touch the ends of the blocker glove. Flex your wrist with the wrist strap fastened snug but not overly tightened to ensure the blocker doesn't shift excessively.

    • 4

      If access to the equipment isn't an option, many online retailers can do the sizing for you. Simply contact them with your age, play level and, in many cases, photocopies of your hands. You can also measure your hands from the tip of your middle finger to the base of your wrist for an accurate measurement.