Hockey players don't exactly travel light. Between the helmet, pads, gloves, pants, skates, and everything else, getting dressed for a game can feel like putting on a suit of armor. Every piece of equipment has a specific purpose, from protecting players against impacts to helping them move efficiently on the ice.
Helmet
The helmet protects a player’s head from impacts with the ice, boards, sticks, pucks, and other players. Hockey helmets are designed specifically for the types of impacts that can happen during play and are one of the most important pieces of protective equipment.
Shoulder/chest pads
Shoulder pads protect the chest, shoulders, back, and upper body. They’re designed to absorb and distribute impacts while still allowing players enough freedom of movement to skate, pass, and shoot.
Elbow pads
Elbow pads protect the elbows and forearms from falls, sticks, pucks, and contact with other players. They also help prevent injuries when a player goes down onto the ice.
Gloves
Hockey gloves protect the hands and wrists while still allowing players to grip and control their sticks. Good gloves need to balance protection, flexibility, and comfort.
Pants
Hockey pants protect the hips, thighs, and lower torso. They provide padding in areas that are especially vulnerable during falls and contact while also giving players room to move freely.
Shin guards
Shin guards protect the lower legs and knees from pucks, sticks, skates, and collisions. Since players spend so much time battling for the puck with their sticks and feet, this protection is essential.
Skates
Hockey skates are built for speed, quick turns, sudden stops, and rapid changes of direction. Unlike recreational ice skates, hockey skates have a shorter blade profile that helps players maneuver quickly.
Stick
The hockey stick is used for almost everything involving the puck: passing, shooting, carrying, and controlling it. Players choose sticks based on factors such as length, flex, blade pattern, and personal preference.
Why so much gear?
Hockey combines speed, hard ice, sharp blades, sticks, a very hard puck, and physical contact. Protective equipment helps reduce the risk of injuries while allowing players to play confidently and aggressively. It may look like a lot, but once you're wearing it, each piece starts to feel like a normal part of playing.
The Hockey Bag
- Tape
- Extra laces
- Water bottle
- Skate guards
- Spare socks
- Water bottle
- Jerseys
- Practice clothes