USA Hockey Buying Guide

For beginners, getting started with ice hockey can be a daunting task. There are many different types of equipment to choose from, and the cost can be intimidating. However, the good news is that you don't have to break the bank to get started with ice hockey. In this guide, we will take a look at some of the essential equipment you will need to play the sport and help you make informed decisions when buying USA hockey equipment.

Ice Hockey Skates

The first piece of equipment you will need is a good pair of ice hockey skates. There are several different styles of skates available, but it is essential to get the right pair of skates for your foot. When buying USA hockey skates, you will want to consider factors such as the fit, comfort, and support. Sizing is critical as the wrong size skates will cause discomfort and impede your ability to learn and enjoy the sport.

A good rule of thumb is to try on several pairs of skates and choose the one that fits your foot the best. A proper fit means that your toes should be able to wiggle, and your heels should be snug. Additionally, skates should be comfortable to wear and provide a good amount of support for your ankles.

Ice Hockey Stick

The next essential piece of equipment you will need is an ice hockey stick. When buying a stick, there are several factors to consider, including length, flex, and curve. Generally, sticks come in two lengths - senior and junior. Junior sticks are shorter and thinner, geared towards younger players or those who need shorter lengths to accommodate their height. Senior sticks are longer and thicker.

The length of a stick is measured from the heel of the blade to the top of the shaft. Typically, a stick should come up to your chin when you stand upright with shoes on. Some players prefer a longer stick for added reach, while others prefer a shorter stick for better control and mobility.

The flex of a stick refers to the amount of bending the shaft can withstand. More flexible sticks are suitable for players who want to work on their skills, while stiffer sticks are suitable for players who want to take hard slap shots. The curve of a stick refers to the angle of the blade. Different types of curves provide varying degrees of lift, giving players more control when handling the puck and shooting the puck.

Ice Hockey Gloves

Ice hockey gloves provide essential protection for your hands and wrists. They also ensure you have a firm grip on your hockey stick. When buying gloves, you'll want to consider factors such as size, protection, and mobility. Size is critical, as gloves that are too small or too large will reduce mobility and protection.

Good-quality gloves should provide ample protection for the back of the hand, fingers, and palms. Gloves that are well-padded and flexible will allow for a better grip and maneuverability. It is essential to try on several pairs of gloves to find the pair that fits your hands best and provides optimum protection.

Ice Hockey Helmet and Visor

The helmet is an essential piece of equipment that provides protection for your head and face. When buying a helmet, you will want to consider factors such as size, comfort, and adjustability. A good helmet should fit securely, have adequate padding for comfort, and provide full head and face protection. The helmet should also be adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit to your head size and shape.

Visors provide protection for your eyes and face while allowing for clear visibility. When buying a visor, you will want to consider factors such as size, shape, and material. A good visor should fit securely to the helmet and provide an unobstructed view of the ice. It should also be made from a durable material that can withstand contact with other players and pucks on the ice. Glass visors may look clear but can shatter on impact. Clear polycarbonate or Lexan visors offer more protection and durability than glass.

Ice Hockey Shin Guards

Shin guards provide essential protection for your lower legs, ankles, and feet. When buying shin guards, you will want to consider factors such as size, protection, and mobility. It is essential to choose a pair of shin guards that cover the entire length of your leg and provide ample protection for both the front and sides of your legs.

Good-quality shin guards should have adequate padding, be comfortable to wear, and allow for a range of mobility. It is necessary to try on several pairs of shin guards to find the ones that fit your legs best and provide optimum protection.

Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

Shoulder pads provide essential protection for your upper body, including your chest, back, and shoulders. They also ensure you have proper support for your collarbone and neck. When buying shoulder pads, you will want to consider factors such as sizing, protection, and mobility.

Good-quality shoulder pads should provide ample protection for both the front and back of your upper body. They should also be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to wear. Mobility is essential, so look for shoulder pads that allow for a wide range of movement, ensuring you can make passes, take shots, and check opponents without restriction. It is necessary to try on several pairs of shoulder pads to find the ones that fit your upper body best and provide optimum protection.

Ice Hockey Pants

Ice hockey pants provide essential protection for your hips, thighs, and tailbone. They also ensure you have freedom of movement while skating and playing. When buying hockey pants, you will want to consider factors such as sizing, protection, and mobility.

Good-quality hockey pants should provide ample protection for your hips, thighs, and tailbone. They should also be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to wear. Mobility is essential, so look for hockey pants that allow for a wide range of movement, ensuring you can make passes, take shots, and check opponents without restriction. It is necessary to try on several pairs of hockey pants to find the ones that fit your lower body best and provide optimum protection.

Ice Hockey Bag

A good ice hockey bag is essential for transporting all your equipment to and from the hockey rink. When shopping for an ice hockey bag, you will want to consider factors such as size, durability, and comfort.

A good hockey bag should be large enough to accommodate all your equipment, including your skates, helmet, and stick. It should also be made from durable materials, such as nylon or canvas, that can withstand regular use and exposure to moisture. Comfort is also essential, so look for a hockey bag that has padded shoulder straps, making it easier to carry your equipment to and from the rink.

Conclusion

Starting ice hockey can be an overwhelming task. Still, with the right equipment and mindset, it can also be a rewarding and enjoyable activity. By investing in a few essential pieces of equipment, you can be sure that you're giving yourself the best possible chance to succeed on the ice. Follow this guide to ensure you are choosing the right USA hockey equipment and getting the best value for your money. Remember to choose carefully and always prioritize safety and comfort when making your purchases.