Hockey shin pads offer more comprehensive protection than regular shin pads, covering both the shin and knee with extra padding and hard plastic shells to withstand high-speed impacts. They are designed for flexibility during skating and are secured with straps. In contrast, regular shin pads, like those for soccer, are lighter and shorter, focusing mainly on the shin and providing less coverage and impact resistance. Overall, hockey shin pads are heavier and built for extreme impacts, while other shin pads are simpler and meant for less intense contact.
The ideal length of your shin pads for hockey is measured under the skate tongue, from the top to the middle of the kneecap. If you wear them over the skate tongue, measure from one inch below the top of the tongue to the middle of your kneecap.
Hockey shin liners are worn underneath the shin guard to provide an under layer which cushions your leg while wicking away the moisture formed between your leg and the shin pad. They also help prevent the shin guard rubbing and chaffing your leg by providing this first layer of comfort.
