Overview
The fast paced world of youth hockey requires many specific pieces of equipment to ensure both safety and optimum performance. Large bags, many on wheels, can be purchased to haul gear to and from the rink. Making sure that all gear is dry and aired out is important as proper care of kid’s hockey gear can save parents from having to provide costly replacements.
Skates
Skates should fit snugly around the player’s foot in order to maximize comfort and skating ability. Skate sizes generally run about one to two sizes smaller than shoe sizes. Though children’s feet are constantly growing, purchasing skates that are too large is not recommended. An adult should not be able to fit more than one finger into the top of the boot with the skater’s foot inside. Skate blades should be routinely sharpened professionally for optimal performance. Players of different positions may prefer different patterns of sharpening to aid their style of play.
Sticks
Hockey sticks consist of a shaft and a curved blade. The stick should measure to the player’s chin, while wearing skates. Adding an end plug to the shaft of the stick can extend its life as young players grow. The player should be able to grip the stick shaft comfortably, with gloves on. Sticks vary considerably in weight based on the stick composition. Choices for weight, curve, and flexibility of a stick are based on playing position, strength and personal preference. Generally, lesser curves and more flexible sticks are suggested for younger players as they develop stick handling and shooting skills. The blade and handle of the stick are usually taped with cloth tape to reinforce these areas and make them more conducive to puck handling.
Helmets
Helmets are required for hockey players of all levels. Helmets are integral in protecting against head injuries and must fit properly to do so. The helmet should not move around on the player’s head and should rest about ½-inch above the eyebrows. Most helmets contain adjustable clips and chin straps to ensure proper fit, but also room to grow. All youth through college level players are required to have a full cage facial protection on their helmet. Junior players may play with only a half visor. Mouth guards may also be required as they help reduce concussions and other facial and head injuries.
Gloves
Gloves provide protection of the hand and wrist. Fit should extend to the bottom of the elbow pad. Players may prefer either tighter or looser gloves, but the end of the gloves should not be more than ½-inch from the fingertips.
Pads
Appropriately fitting pads are essential for preventing injury, while not impeding play. Elbow pads cover the arm from the biceps down to the glove. Elbow pads should allow for comfortable arm movement, without twisting. Shoulder pads protect the upper arms, shoulders, collarbone and upper back. Shoulders should fit into the associated cups, while adjustments can be made to the chest straps. Shin pads are fit based on a measurement from the knee to the top of the skate. Since pucks and sticks are most often at this level, shin pads must fit well to protect without hindering movement.
Clothing
Jerseys cover the shoulder pads and display team affiliation and should be loose enough to allow for proper movement. Pants should be secured at the waist and be long enough to cover the knee. Player socks are worn over the shin guards. Clothing under the pads including athletic supporters, pants, shirt, and skate socks are all based on player preference. They should fit snugly and allow for breathability. These undergarments should be worn when trying on all other gear to ensure proper fit during playing situations.
Goalie Gear
Goaltenders require all of the same gear, plus a few extra pieces, as forwards and defensemen. Skates, sticks, helmets, gloves and pads are all made specifically for goalies. Goalies require a catching glove, or trapper, and a blocker as well as a goalie stick. A helmet with full cage or a goalie mask can be worn as head protection. Leg pads are strapped around the legs and must conform to width requirements of the league. Upper body pads are also stronger to protect the chest and shoulders. When choosing gear for a goaltender be sure the pieces are made specifically for this position, as goalies are more prone to lateral movement than other skaters and require additional protection against incoming pucks.
