Ice Hockey Equipment

Getting started with hockey means investing in the right gear to stay safe, comfortable, and effective on the ice. For skaters, the essential gear includes a helmet with a cage or visor, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, padded pants or a girdle with shell, shin guards, skates, and a stick. A protective cup and mouthguard are also strongly recommended.

Many beginners opt for starter kits, which bundle most of the key protective pieces, though helmets and skates are often sold separately. Trusted brands like Bauer, CCM, Warrior, and TRUE offer high-quality options for players of all ages and skill levels.

Goalie gear, however, is entirely different and specialized to handle the demands of blocking pucks. It includes a larger helmet or mask with a reinforced cage, a chest and arm protector, a catcher glove, a blocker, leg pads, a goalie stick, and skates designed with flatter blades for stability. Goalies also wear different pants and often have additional neck and knee protection. Leading brands for goalie gear include Vaughn, CCM, Bauer, and Brian’s, all offering equipment tailored for safety, mobility, and performance in the crease. Whether starting as a skater or a goalie, having the right gear is essential for playing confidently and protecting yourself.

For street or inline hockey, you'll also need durable outdoor wheels and a stick with an ABS blade. No matter your level or playing surface, choosing quality equipment ensures safety, comfort, and a better overall experience on the ice or pavement.

Hockey sticks are essential tools that significantly influence a player's performance on the ice. One critical aspect to consider is the stick's flex rating, which measures how much force is needed to bend the shaft one inch. A general guideline is to divide the player's weight (in pounds) by two to determine an appropriate flex rating. For instance, a 180-pound player might start with a 90 flex stick. However, factors like height, strength, and position can necessitate adjustments. Forwards often prefer lower flex ratings for quicker shots, while defensemen might opt for higher flex ratings to enhance slap shot power. 

Blade patterns also play a pivotal role in stick performance. The curve's location—heel, mid, or toe—affects puck control and shooting style. For example, a mid-curve like the P86 offers versatility, making it suitable for various shots and passes. Toe curves facilitate quick puck elevation and are beneficial for close-range shots, while heel curves can enhance slap shot accuracy. Players often experiment with different patterns to find the best fit for their style.

Modern composite sticks like the CCM FT Ghost incorporate advanced technologies to optimize performance. The FT Ghost Junior version provides younger players with similar benefits tailored to their needs. Exploring second-hand hockey sticks can be a cost-effective way to access high-quality gear for those interested in professional-grade equipment. Notably, NHL star Kirill Kaprizov utilizes a custom Kirill Kaprizov stick, tailored to his specifications, highlighting the importance of personalized equipment. Additionally, for collectors and fans, items like the Bauer Twitch Mystery Mini sticks offer a unique glimpse into the sport's culture.

Unlike regular footwear, hockey skates are designed to provide a snug, supportive fit that transfers energy efficiently from the foot to the ice. Choosing the right skate depends on your skill level, skating style, and foot shape.

Skating style plays a big role in selecting a skate. Players who rely on quick cuts, acceleration, and agility—like forwards—often prefer skates with a tapered fit and a low-profile boot, such as the Bauer HyperLite skates or CCM Ribcor 100K Pro. These are designed for dynamic movement and quick edge transitions. Power skaters who focus on long, strong strides—often defensemen or more physically dominant players—benefit from stiffer, supportive skates like the Bauer Supreme Shadow or CCM Tacks AS3 Pro, which help maximize force transfer with each stride. 

Skate width is crucial in achieving proper fit and comfort on the ice. For players with wider feet, selecting extra-wide hockey skates, such as those labeled with EE or Fit 3 widths, ensures adequate room, prevents discomfort, and enhances performance.

Advanced players typically look for lightweight composite boots, replaceable steel runners, and stiff construction for better responsiveness, while beginners or recreational players may prefer slightly softer, more forgiving boots for comfort and ease of use.

Leading brands include Bauer, CCM, TRUE, and Nike hockey skates, each offering skate lines designed for different skating mechanics and fit preferences. Opting for second-hand skates can be a smart choice, especially for growing players or those new to the sport, as they offer significant cost savings and often come pre-broken-in, providing immediate comfort and reducing the break-in period.

The best hockey gloves balance protection, mobility, and comfort, allowing your hands to move freely without sacrificing safety.

There are two main fit profiles to consider: tapered and traditional. Tapered gloves, like the Warrior Covert or Bauer Vapor 3X, have a snug fit through the fingers and backhand with a more flexible, anatomical feel—ideal for players who prefer a close-to-the-hand fit. Traditional four-roll gloves, like the CCM Tacks or Warrior Alpha Pro, offer a roomier design with more airflow and a classic look. 

Pro stock gloves are an excellent option for those seeking premium performance and durability at a discounted price. Initially made for professional players, pro stock gloves often feature custom specs, high-end materials, and reinforced palms—though they may lack brand logos or retail packaging. These gloves can offer superior value for players who don’t mind minor cosmetic differences and understand their fit preferences.

Top brands like Warrior, CCM, and Bauer offer glove lines at every level—from youth to senior—ensuring every player can find the right mix of fit, function, and protection.

Unlike player equipment, goalie gear is highly specialized and includes leg pads, blockers, catch gloves, chest and arm protectors, goalie masks, goalie skates, and often pants and knee guards. 

Here’s a breakdown of what to look for in each piece of goalie equipment:

• Leg Pads: These are designed to block shots while allowing lateral movement during butterfly saves. Key features include strapping systems (traditional leather vs. quick-clip), pad stiffness, and sliding surface speed. Youth and recreational pads are softer for ease of use, while senior-level pads offer stiffer construction and customizable sizing. Look for CCM Axis, Bauer Vapor, or Vaughn V9 for high-quality options.

• Blockers: Worn on the dominant hand, blockers help direct pucks away from the net. Good blockers should feel well-balanced and provide a strong rebound off the board. Look for an adjustable wrist strap, reinforced finger protection, and a high-quality palm that maintains grip over time. Bauer and CCM are well-known brands that offer lightweight builds.

• Catch Gloves: Also known as the trapper, this glove catches pucks and protects the hand from high-speed shots. Important factors include glove break angle (e.g., 580, 590, 600), pocket depth, and backhand protection. Players should try different break styles to find what feels most natural. Popular models include the CCM Axis, Vaughn V6, and Bauer 2X.

• Chest & Arm Protectors: This piece protects the upper body while allowing for a full range of motion. Look for coverage in the collarbone, ribs, and arms, and adjustable strapping that ensures the chest guard doesn’t shift during play. Pro-level gear often includes molded HD foams or reinforced plastics for better impact protection.

• Goalie Masks: More than just a helmet, a goalie mask must protect against direct shots to the head and provide clear vision. Look for masks made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, or Kevlar for top-tier safety, and make sure the cage is HECC/CSA certified.

• Goalie Skates: These differ from player skates with a lower boot profile and a flatter blade to provide better stability and edge control. They also offer additional foot protection and a more solid toe cap. Look for heat-moldable boots with quick-release runners and reinforced impact zones.

• Goalie Sticks: Goalie sticks differ from player sticks with a wider paddle and reinforced shaft. Key considerations include paddle length, weight, grip texture, and blade curve. Heavier sticks absorb more impact but can tire the arm, while lightweight sticks are more agile but may chip easier. Bauer Supreme Mach, CCM EFlex 5, and True Catalyst are trusted options.

Many brands also offer goalie gear sets. These sets often include leg pads, blockers, and gloves in a matching design. Ideal for players who want a consistent feel and aesthetic, full sets sometimes offer better value than buying each piece separately. These sets are available at various levels—from beginner to pro stock—and often include customization options for color and fit.

Hockey pants and girdles provide essential protection for the hips, thighs, and tailbone, with key differences in fit and design. Traditional player pants offer a loose, all-in-one design with ample padding, ideal for players seeking full coverage and easy mobility. Top options include Bauer Nexus, CCM Jetspeed, and Warrior Alpha, each known for reinforced thigh guards and adjustable belts.

Girdles, on the other hand, provide a closer, more contoured fit with segmented padding, making them popular among players who prioritize speed and agility. Brands like CCM and Bauer offer elite-level girdles, often paired with lightweight outer shells for added abrasion resistance and team color coordination.

For roller hockey, inline pants from brands like Mission and Bauer are designed with breathable materials and reinforced knees for added durability on asphalt and sport courts. 

Protective hockey gear is designed to absorb impact and prevent injuries without sacrificing mobility. Essential pieces include shoulder pads, shin pads, elbow pads, and neck guards.

Shoulder pads shield the chest, spine, and collarbone with multi-layered foam and plastic inserts, while shin pads protect the knees and shins, fitting securely over skates without shifting. Elbow pads cover the elbow joint and forearm, preventing gaps between gloves and shoulder pads. Additional protective options like neck guards, wrist guards, and padded shirts provide extra coverage against slashes and high-impact collisions. Leading brands like CCM, Bauer, and Warrior offer lines tailored for different levels of play, from lightweight, flexible designs for quick skaters to heavier, reinforced gear for shot blockers and more physical players.

Helmets protect against concussions and facial injuries. Fit is paramount—helmets should sit low on the forehead and be snug without causing discomfort. Features to consider include tool-free adjustment, ventilation, and cage or visor options. Helmets are often sold with or without face protection. Bauer, CCM, and Warrior offer modern models that meet HECC and CSA certification standards, with advanced liners and shell designs for impact absorption. For those who appreciate a more classic look, check out the Bauer 4500 or Jofa helmets. 

Starter kits provide an all-in-one solution for new players, bundling essential gear like gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, pants, shin guards, and a gear bag. These sets are ideal for youth players and beginners, offering convenience and cost savings while ensuring comprehensive protection. When choosing a starter kit, focus on fit and adjustability—young players grow quickly, so adjustable straps and multiple size options are crucial for comfort and longevity. 

Brands like CCM, Bauer, and Winnwell are known for producing well-rounded starter kits that cater to ice and street hockey, with models for different age groups and playing surfaces. For street and inline hockey, some sets also feature lighter, more breathable gear designed for hot weather and rough surfaces, ensuring players stay protected and comfortable regardless of where they play.