Beginner's Hockey Equipment Buying Guide
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Time to read 14 min
Whether you're stepping onto the ice for the first time or outfitting a brand new player in their own set of gear, exploring the multitude of hockey equipment available out there can be overwhelming. From helmets to skates to gloves, each piece plays a crucial role in your performance and safety on the ice. In this guide, we'll break it down to the essentials, so you can find the right gear that can maximize your or your child’s enjoyment of the sport.
Please note this guide is specifically for beginners; what’s suggested here may not necessarily be suitable for more experienced players.
Equipment Levels
You may have seen some hockey equipment labelled things like “Elite” or “Competitive.” These are levels, and they can help gauge the type of equipment you’re looking at.
Elite-level hockey equipment is designed for professional or high-level competitive players who demand the highest performance and protection. This equipment is engineered using advanced materials and technologies to optimize performance while offering maximum protection.
Performance-level is designed for serious amateur or intermediate-level players who prioritize performance and durability. While not as advanced as elite-level gear, performance-level equipment offers solid performance and protection for competitive play.
Competitive-level is designed for recreational or lower-level competitive players who participate in organized leagues or regular play. This equipment offers basic performance and protection suitable for regular gameplay and practice sessions.
Recreational-level is designed for casual or beginner players who play for fun and exercise rather than for competitive purposes. This equipment offers basic performance and protection suitable for occasional play or recreational leagues.
As a developing or young player just starting out, you will likely only need Recreational or at most Competitive -level equipment.
Four Most Important Pieces: Helmet, Skates, Gloves, Stick
Of all the equipment involved in hockey, four stand out as the most important: helmet, skates, gloves, and stick. If just one of these pieces of equipment doesn’t quite fit, it could greatly hinder performance or personal protection. As a beginner, it’s always okay to ask a sales associate for extra help on this gear when deciding what fits you best.
Helmet
You can’t go on the ice for hockey without a helmet— and to keep yourself the safest you can, your helmet needs to fit properly. Essentially, you want it snug but not too tight; when you put the helmet on, it should be tight enough so it doesn’t move, but not too tight that it causes uncomfortable pressure points. Here are some things you’ll want to look out for when picking a helmet:
A good way to gauge tightness is to make sure there is a comfortable gap between the helmet and your temples and ears . Additionally, the gap between the top of the helmet to your eyebrow should be about the size of one finger width.
Make sure the helmet provides adequate coverage to protect the sides and back of your head. It should extend down to the base of your skull without obstructing your vision.
When the chin strap is on, the helmet should stay in place without shifting or wobbling when you move your head from side to side. If the helmet moves excessively, readjust the fit until it feels secure.
Don’t be afraid to ask a sales associate for help with fitting.
Facemasks are required in most leagues, and minor leagues will require caged masks. Even if your league doesn’t have rules regarding facemasks, it is still highly recommended. Never buy a helmet that you or your child can “grow into,” since helmets need to fit properly in order to provide adequate protection.
About Certification: Legal hockey helmets will all include certification for their respective leagues, and different certifications will have different regulations. CSA-certified helmets signify legal use in Canada; this certification does not expire , and the year on the CSA certification only means that the helmet was certified that year. On the other hand, HECC-certified helmets signify legal use in the USA, and they do have an expiration date . You are only required to have the certification for the respective country you are playing in. To make it easier, most if not all modern helmets today will already have all the certification needed.
Skates
Having quality skates matters, but the highest-end models aren't always the best choice if they don't suit your needs. In fact, if you’re just starting, we suggest looking at Recreational or Competitive-level gear instead.
Developing players should avoid Elite-level skates, even though price-wise, they may look like the best option there is in terms of features. However, beyond fit and the cost commitment, Elite and Performance-level skates also tend to be stiffer than Competitive and Recreational skates. Greater stiffness can offer greater stride support to confident skaters, but they can be difficult to skate with and break in if you’re just starting out. If the skates aren’t comfortable, then your performance and enjoyment of the game will be greatly hindered.
For size, you want your toe to barely touch the end, but not too close that they scrunch up or have to bend to fit. The other element of skates is the volume . Most skates will be classified as “Regular” or “Wide,” and occasionally “Tapered.” Bauer’s volume classifications go by “Fits 1, 2, and 3,” but they still refer to the skate volume.
Entry-level skates feature softer boots, though some lower-priced options may lack replaceable blades or thermoforming capability. It’s a good idea to check with a sales associate to decide which skates will be best for your activities.
Kids’ skates have been evolving; many manufacturers are starting to implement extra adjustment systems into Youth equipment, so it can grow with your child. This shift can help make picking out the right fit skatesmuch easier while also helping you save money on skate replacements.
It’s important to note that, for all players, skates will take some time to get used to . Skates require a breaking-in period for all players, with discomfort varying depending on the individual. This adjustment phase can occur immediately or after 30-45 minutes of play. The unpleasant sensation isn’t just exclusive to new players either— even experienced players may encounter discomfort. Your skates should soften up the more you play in them. The Hockey Shop can also take a look at your skates after you’ve had a few ice sessions and punch out any pressure points to lessen that discomfort.
If you continue to feel that same discomfort for a long time (note that it could take even 10-20 ice sessions for some skates to break in), then it may be time to figure out if you need a change. For more info on skates and skate fitting, feel free to check out our guides:
Gloves
Gloves are occasionally overlooked but still some of the most crucial hockey gear. For gloves, protection is still important, but what you’re mostly focusing on is comfort.
Gloves that hinder movement can impede stickhandling and control, making gameplay frustrating. Competitive-level gloves offer a balance of protection, comfort, and style, often with various colour options available.
At the end of the day, gloves are based on preference. For the best results, it’s good to go to the store in person to feel the gloves in your hands when deciding. You want them to fit snugly, not too loose that they’re falling off, and not too tight where they hinder your hand movements.
It will be the same deal with kids— when shopping for gloves, it’s best for them to try the gloves that catch their eye and pick what’s most comfortable and fits best on their hand. Most Youth gloves come in an affordable price and include extra designs that kids will like.
Stick
Choosing a hockey stick can be complex, especially for beginners, but it doesn't have to be so intimidating. Consider your position on the ice: forwards usually prefer low kick sticks, while defensemen might opt for mid kick sticks for more power. This initial decision can help narrow down your options.
If you’re just starting, however, you can also just pick a stick that catches your eye design-wise— hockey sticks are another big preference, and if you don’t like your stick or how it looks, then you may have a harder time enjoying the game.
For kids, all Youth and some Junior sticks will offer the same or similar specs, so your child can pick the one that catches their eye. Youth sticks are all designed to help kids learn how to control their stick and feel the puck, and thus do not specialize in any position.
Feel free to take a look at our stick guides for more specific information about hockey sticks:
Protectives - Shoulder Pads, Elbow Pads, Shin Guards, Pants
Protectives are just that: they are the pads that protect your body from impact, whether that be from the puck, other players, or the rink. This category normally includes shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards, and hockey pants. When selecting these items, prioritize fit, comfort, and budget.
Although parents may be tempted to purchase larger gear for their children to grow into, this can impede movement on the ice and compromise safety. Many manufacturers today have started to design their Youth and some Junior protectives with extra adjustable features, so the gear can grow with your child without the need for frequent replacements.
Like gloves, it’s a good idea to take your children to the store to try on equipment and determine their preferred gear. Youth-level gear from various manufacturers tends to be similar, making it easy for kids to choose based on what catches their eye the most.
Adults can go through pretty much the same process when picking out protectives— focus mostly on what’s comfortable and fits in your budget.
The following are some quick guidelines for picking the right protective equipment.
Shoulder Pads
Of course, shoulder pads should fit comfortably once all the straps are in plase. Ensure the tips of your shoulders align directly under the middle of the shoulder cap; for children, it's acceptable if the tips are under the inner half of the cap. This alignment will help orevent injuries to the clavicles, shoulders, and upper arms. The bicep guards should be positioned no more than halfway down the upper arm; incorrect placement can interfere with elbow pad fit.
Elbow Pads
Elbow pads, especially for young players, can feel uncomfortable initially. Modern designs offer flexibility and protection from all angles, but this movement may feel like they aren’t strapped in correctly. This will be especially true if the pads don’t fit properly, and proper fit is crucial for maximum protection. After selecting the right size, ensure they're securely fastened at the center of your elbows. Test the range of motion for comfort, as the pads should neither shift nor restrict movement. For three-piece pads, the additional bicep pad should move freely.
Shin Guards
The guards should cover the entire shin area, with your knee comfortably in the knee cap, and they should stay secure without twisting or causing discomfort. Comfort is key, so they shouldn’t restrict movement or circulation when strapped in. While higher-priced options may offer more comfort features, they're not always essential for protection, especially for entry-level players. Consider how you'll wear them with your skates; if you’ll be tucking the skate tongue under, add an inch for the best fit.
Pants
Pants are all about comfort and mobility; they should be comfortable and snug around the waist, with the belt sitting above the hips. Make sure they're secure but not overly loose to prevent shifting when playing. Likewise, you don’t want them too tight either, or it could hinder mobility.
Equipment on our online store will also include a size guide under the description for more detailed instructions on finding the right fitting protectives for you.
Other Pieces
Jock/Jill/Garter Belt
A jock/jill protects the groin area, often integrated into baselayer pants or shorts with a garter belt. Whether you need a jock or jill will be dependent on the parts you are protecting; male parts will require a jock, whereas female parts will require a jill. Some older models will only include the jock/jill, but modern variations will conveniently be included in a bottom baselayer with a garter belt , which is a nice bonus. These combo pants will also usually have velcro rather than the clip mechanism, which is a more straightforward option for entry-level players of all ages.
A garter belt is either a separate baselayer or built in, with either velcro or straps that can help hold your socks up.
Stick Tape
Stick tape is always a good idea for all ages, and it’s highly recommended that you tape both the handle and blade of your hockey stick. How you tape it is entirely up to personal preference. For beginners, taping primarily serves to protect the stick, but beyond that, you have creative freedom however you wish to tape.
Neck Guard
In Canada, neck guards are required in all minor and female hockey leagues; however, even if they are optional in the league you’re playing in, it is highly recommended that you still wear one. Neck injuries in hockey are relatively rare, but when they do occur, they can become fatal very quickly. Many players across all leagues are starting to wear neck guards more often, and many professional leagues have also been pushing for players to add them to their equipment.
Mouth Guard
Unlike neck guards, mouth guards are not mandated across all Canadian leagues; however, they are required in U18 and female U19 leagues in the USA. We still suggest wearing one even if your league doesn’t require them. Recent studies indicate that mouth guards may lower concussion risks, contradicting previous assertions claiming that they were ineffective. While initially uncomfortable, especially for newcomers, their safety benefits, especially for young players with more delicate and developing brains and teeth, will greatly outweigh the discomfort.
Jersey/Socks
Some teams will provide a uniform or a way to buy one, but it’s still good to have extras or a separate jersey and a pair of socks. It will obviously be most comfortable to get a uniform that fits perfectly, but if you have to decide between too big and too tight, too big might be better; you can always tuck your jersey in or roll your socks.
Socks today come in multiple versions: traditional knit/wool socks and sublimated/printed socks. Wool socks are softer and stretchier but more susceptible to wear and tear. Sublimated socks usually have more freedom in the design and colours and are tougher than wool, but that toughness also makes it harder for them to stretch. If you are using a velcro garter, there will be more space for the velcro to fit, whereas sublimated will have specific patches on the inside that can hold velcro.
Suggested Equipment
These items aren't essential, but they can enhance your experience, particularly if you're already enjoying yourself and intend to continue playing in the long run.
Baselayer: Undershirt, Bottoms, Socks
Having baselayer apparel under your hockey equipment can help keep you or your child cool and comfortable while you play. Many baselayer apparel options are made of softer, more absorbent material than cotton, and are also much lighter and form-fitting. Baselayer can also protect you from rubbing and chafing from your equipment.
Accessories
As you or your child becomes more involved in hockey, you'll start to recognize more of the accessories and essentials you might need. Some we suggest to start out with or look into are sock tape, wax, a water bottle, skate guards, and a skate towel.
Water Bottle: In hockey, staying hydrated is crucial due to the intense physical activity involved. While some teams may provide bottles, having your own ensures access to water, especially if team bottles are unavailable or forgotten, or if you or your child gets sick. Even outside of the rink, having a water bottle in-hand is a great way to encourage hydration habits; drinking before and after will help with preparation and post-game recovery.
Skate Guards: Skate guards are available in hard and soft types, catering to individual preferences and use. Soft skate guards will help absorb additional moisture after wiping them down, but they can also tear easier if you walk on them too often. Conversely, hard guards are durable and easier to walk in but may occupy more space in your bag and be less flexible for storage; they also do not absorb moisture.
Skate Towel: You can replicate the function of a skate towel with extra hockey socks or any other soft, absorbent material in your hockey bag, but using something else can wear it down quicker. Skate towels are used to wipe your skate after your ice session.
Sock Tape: The purpose of sock tape is to keep your socks in place and so they don’t fall down; that said, if your garter belt is doing a good job already of keeping your socks up, you don’t necessarily need to use sock tape. We still suggest having one roll of sock tape in case you need tape in a pinch, whether that be for socks or something else.
Wax: Wax is a bit more niche and not necessary for you to play well with your stick, but it may be worth exploring after a few ice sessions. Young kids won’t need wax on their sticks until they start taping their own hockey sticks.
Is the Higher Price Point Always Better?
Hockey gear can be a bit of an outlier— the highest price point might include the most features, but that may not necessarily mean the gear is best for you. As someone just starting out, you likely won’t be needing too many fancy features.
It’s best to pick the gear that fits you best, is comfortable, and sticks to your budget. You don’t need the highest-end protectives for the greatest protection for example. Gear that’s comfortable and fits your style is much more important when it comes to decking yourself out in hockey gear.
Higher-end equipment is generally harder to use and more niche, the biggest examples being skates and sticks. Once you play the game more, you’ll start to know and recognize more of the niche equipment that will work best for you.
Further Reading
“A Parent’s Guide to Kid’s Hockey Equipment.” City of Surrey. Soure Link.
Andrejev, Alex. “Examining hockey neck guard rules around the world, changes after Adam Johnson’s death.” The Athletic, 4 Dec 2023. Source Link.
Kolstad, Ash T. et al. “Protective equipment in youth ice hockey: Are mouthguards and helmet age relevant to concussion risk? Concussion for mouthguard wearers.” British Journal of Sports Medicine, vol. 57, no. 10, 2023. Source Link.
“Reminder Regarding Hockey Helmet Certification and BNQ-Certified Neck Protectors.” Hockey Canada, 2024. Source Link.
Hockey Canada Playing Rules. Hockey Canada, Rule 3.6, 2024. Source Link.
USA Hockey Rulebook. USA Hockey, Protective Equipment, 2024. Source Link.
