Equipment 101

Hockey equipment sizing varies by item, but generally, you'll need to measure your body and compare it to manufacturer-specific size charts. Key areas to measure include waist, chest, height, and hand circumference for items like pants, shoulder pads, helmets, gloves, and shin pads. For skates, aim for a snug fit, about 1-1.5 sizes smaller than street shoes. If you ever have a question about equipment ask your coaches. They should have insight on general sizing, quality, and details especially around skates and sticks.

Helmets

Should fit snugly, with the helmet sitting level on your head and the front edge above your eyebrows. 

Shoulder Pads

Ensure they cover your collarbone, chest, and abdomen, extending to the wrist. 

Elbow Pads

Measure from the middle of your forearm to the middle of your bicep, ensuring it overlaps with your shoulder pad and glove. 

Gloves

Measure the circumference of your dominant hand at its widest point (across the knuckles) and the length from your middle finger to your wrist. 

Shin Pads

The kneecap should be centered in the shin pad cup, and the pad should extend down to the top of your skate. 

Pants

Measure your waist and compare it to manufacturer charts, ensuring they overlap the shin pads by 1-2 inches and are snug but comfortable at the waist. 

Skates

Fit 1-1.5 sizes smaller than your street shoes, with your toes lightly touching the toe cap and minimal heel lift. 

Sticks

When standing, the stick should reach between your chin and nose. On skates, it should be around your chin. If you have questions about what stick flex, size, or age to purchase consult your coach.

Specific Considerations

Youth, Junior, and Senior

Sizing differs between these categories, with junior sizing generally being larger than youth and smaller than senior. 

Goalie Pads

Sizing is more specialized and based on a combination of skate size, instep to knee measurement, and desired thigh rise. Make sure to ask a professional either via Goalie Coaches, other goal tenders, or at a specialty store.

Fitting in Person

It's highly recommended to try on equipment in person, especially skates and pants, to ensure a comfortable and protective fit. 

Overlap and Coverage

Ensure adequate overlap between different pieces of equipment, such as shin pads and pants, and that protective areas are fully covered. 

Adjustability

Many items, like pants and shin pads, have adjustable features to fine-tune the fit. 

Break-in Period

Some equipment, particularly skates, may require a break-in period to conform to your foot.