If you are a fresh face on the ice hockey scene, then you might not know all the ins and outs of what’s required in terms of equipment.
To get you out on the ice with complete confidence and safety, here are some tips that you should definitely take onboard before your debut.
Choosing Skates
Skates are arguably the most important element of a hockey player’s kitbag. If you’ve never owned any before, make sure that you pick a pair that fit well while still providing total comfort. Heading to bricks and mortar supplier can be helpful in this respect, especially when it comes to sizing your feet accurately.
You’ll also need skate sharpeners if you want to keep yours in good condition over time, as the blades will wear down and you don’t need to replace an entire skate when a quick bit of maintenance is all that’s required.
As with any piece of kit, if you go for a budget option, you can expect to save money in the short term, but ultimately lose out over time, as replacement skates will be needed more regularly for bargain basement buys.
Looking After your Legs
Once your feet are sorted, you’ll want to invest in a kit that covers your shins and thighs. Shin pads are an essential buy, and it’s best to make sure that the ones you select are sizeable enough to protect as much of your lower leg as possible, because a lot of impacts and injuries can occur if not.
Pants designed specifically for playing hockey, complete with extra padding and support for all of your vital areas, will take care of the upper part of your legs, as well as your lower back and stomach. A cozy fit is key since you do not want your pants to slip down as you play and leave some part of you exposed unnecessarily.
Protecting your Torso
Slipping into some shoulder pads to play hockey, even if it’s a part of a casual game with friends, can be a really reassuring thing. Good shoulder pads will not only shield your shoulders themselves, which are the most regularly injured part of a hockey player’s body, but also take care of your chest and upper back if a stray stick or a speedy puck comes flying.
For your arms, you’ll need elbow pads and gloves. Make sure these provide adequate flexibility so that your movement is not overly restricted, while still being sturdy enough to absorb damage.
If you’re still young enough to have a bit more growing to do, remember that you might need to replace hockey kit if it gets too tight. If you’re already an adult, then there’s no need to leave any leeway when choosing equipment.
Saving your Head
Your head is a very fragile part of your body, and in a game like hockey there’s every likelihood that it might get put in harm’s way. That’s why a helmet is a must-have to avoid all-too-common concussions, and there are lots of options.
You might not be required to have lower-face protection as part of your helmet, but getting one with a metal cage can save a lot of grief and trips to the hospital.
You’ll also want to pop in a mouth guard when you play, as your teeth won’t grow back if they get smashed out and dental work can be expensive.
Selecting a Stick
This is perhaps the place where it makes sense for beginners to save money; if you don’t yet have the skills and experience to make good use of an expensive stick, don’t bother splashing out.
