How hockey gear should fit, and how to care for it

Hockey gear is a big purchase of time and effort for a family, and a poor fit is the most common reason kids are uncomfortable on the ice. This guide covers how to check that equipment fits, how to look after it so it lasts and what to ask a coach or a skilled shop employee. It stays general because sizing and safety standards differ by brand, age group and league. Our equipment checklist lists the pieces; this guide is about getting them to work well.

Fit principles that apply to every piece

• Gear should be snug, not tight. Pads that slide around cannot protect.
• Your child should be able to move freely, skate in a crouch and turn their head.
• Do not buy much too large so a child can grow into it. Oversized gear can shift and leave areas uncovered.
• Try gear on with the base layer and socks your child will wear.
• Ask for help from a coach, equipment manager or an experienced shop staff member.
• Not sure which pieces you need first? Our goalie guide covers the extra gear goalies use.

Helmet and face protection

The helmet is the most important piece to get right. It should sit level on the head, with the front just above the eyebrows, and not slide when your child shakes their head. The chin strap should be fastened and snug under the chin. Look for the certification label your league requires. Many leagues require a face cage or visor, and many require them for all youth players, so check the rules for your program. Replace a helmet that has taken a hard hit or shows cracks, and ask the manufacturer's instructions about how long to keep it.

Skates

Skates cause more fit problems than anything else. A skate should feel firm around the heel and ankle with just enough room for the toes. A skate that is too big makes it hard to balance, and one that is too small causes pain. Many beginners wear thick socks, which can cause the foot to slip or squeeze, so wear thin or moderately thin socks. A skilled fitter can check the fit and show you how to lace. Ask them how the boot should feel when laced.

Sharpening

The blade needs to be sharpened from time to time so it grips the ice. How often depends on how much a child skates and how hard the ice is. If your child's skates feel slippery or the blade has nicks, ask the rink pro shop about sharpening. Do not use skates on concrete or other hard surfaces, and use guards when walking.

Shoulder, elbow, shin and pants

• Shoulder pads should cover the collarbone and chest without limiting arm movement.
• Elbow pads should cover the point of the elbow and stay in place when the arm bends.
• Shin guards should sit just below the kneecap and run down to the top of the skate.
• Hockey pants protect the hips, tailbone and thighs and should not restrict movement.
• Gloves should allow the hands to grip the stick, with padding that covers the back of the hand and the wrist.

Protective cups and similar items are also part of a typical set. Ask the league which items are required.

Choosing a stick

A stick that is too long or too heavy makes it hard to control the puck. Length and flex are personal, so have your child hold a few sticks and notice which feels easiest to control, and let a coach or fitter guide the final choice. Which way a player shoots, left or right, is usually found by trying both. Ask the coach if you are unsure, and try borrowed sticks first. Because the stick can break, avoid buying an expensive stick for a beginner.

Caring for gear

Hockey gear gets wet and sweaty. If it stays in a closed bag, it can smell and some materials wear out faster. After each use, open the bag, hang pads and gloves or lay them out to dry in a ventilated area. Dry skates after wiping the blades with a towel, and keep guards on when walking. Wash jerseys, socks and base layers regularly following the care labels. Do not put pads in the dryer unless the label says it is safe, as heat can damage the material.

When to check fit again

Children grow quickly, so check the fit at the start of each season and any time your child complains of pain, pinching or slipping. Look for pads that have shifted away from the bones they protect, a helmet that now sits too high, or skates where toes are pressed against the front. Check straps, laces, buckles and cage hardware for wear. Replace worn laces and loose screws promptly; a small fix now prevents bigger problems at the rink.

Common mistakes

• Buying gear that is too big.
• Leaving wet gear zipped in a bag.
• Walking on hard floors with bare blades.
• Skipping the chin strap or a damaged helmet.
• Replacing everything with the newest items when the used ones still fit well.

Saving money without cutting corners

Many clubs run gear swaps or loaner programs, and some shops buy and sell used equipment. Used gear can be fine when it fits and is not damaged, but be careful with helmets and anything with visible cracks or compressed padding. Before you buy, check which items your league requires. If you are choosing a program, see how to choose a youth hockey program.

Sources and further reading

1. Ice Hockey HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics)
2. Ice Hockey Injuries and Prevention AOSSM StopSportsInjuries.org
3. Information for New Hockey Parents USA Hockey

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Frequently asked questions

How should a hockey helmet fit?

It should sit level on the head, not slide, and have a snug chin strap. Check your league's certification and cage or visor rules.

How should hockey skates fit?

They should feel firm at the heel and ankle with room for toes, and not hurt. A skilled fitter can check the fit and lacing.

How often should hockey skates be sharpened?

It depends on how much your child skates, so ask a pro shop. Get them checked if they feel slippery or have nicks.

How do I stop hockey gear from smelling?

Take it out of the bag after each use and let it dry in a ventilated space. Wash soft items according to their labels.

Is used hockey gear okay for beginners?

Often yes if it fits and is not damaged. Be careful with helmets and any gear with cracks or flattened padding.