Discover the Shin Guards Worn by Professional Hockey Players

Hockey is a rough and tumble sport, and players need to be prepared for anything on the ice. One of the most important pieces of protective gear for a hockey player is their shin guards. In this article, we’ll explore the shin guards worn by professional hockey players. From the materials used to make them, to the brands favored by the pros, we’ll give you an inside look at the gear that keeps the best players in the world safe on the ice.

Shin guards are an essential piece of equipment in any hockey player’s gear bag. They protect the shins from the sharp blades of other players’ skates, as well as from pucks and sticks. For professional players, choosing the right shin guards is crucial to staying safe on the ice and performing at their best.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the sport, learning about the shin guards worn by the best hockey players in the world can help you make an informed decision when it comes to buying your own gear. So, read on to discover everything you need to know about hockey shin guards and take your game to the next level!

Why Do Hockey Pros Wear Shin Guards?

Hockey is a fast-paced, high-contact sport that requires protective gear to minimize the risk of injury. Among the most important pieces of equipment for a hockey player are their shin guards, which provide protection for the lower leg and knee area. For professional hockey players, wearing high-quality, well-fitting shin guards is crucial for safety and performance on the ice.

One reason why hockey pros wear shin guards is to protect themselves from the impact of pucks and sticks during gameplay. These impacts can cause severe injuries, including bruises, fractures, and even deep cuts that may require stitches.

Another reason why hockey players wear shin guards is to protect against accidental collisions with other players. In a sport where players can reach speeds of over 20 miles per hour, collisions are common and can result in serious injuries if players aren’t properly protected.

Finally, shin guards are worn to provide support and stability to the leg while skating. They are designed to fit snugly around the leg, providing a secure fit that helps prevent the player’s shin pad from shifting during gameplay.

If you’re a hockey player, whether you’re a pro or just starting out, it’s essential to wear the proper protective gear. Keep reading to learn more about what makes hockey shin guards different from those used in other sports, and how to choose the best shin guards for your position on the ice.

Protection from Injuries

1. High-Impact Sport: Hockey is a high-impact sport where players are constantly in motion, making it prone to injuries. Shin guards act as a protective barrier between the player’s shins and the puck, sticks, and skates of other players, reducing the risk of injuries.

2. Cut Protection: The blades of ice skates can be very sharp, and players can suffer serious cuts if they get hit in the shins by a skate blade. Shin guards protect the player’s shins from these sharp blades and reduce the risk of serious cuts.

Shin guards also protect players from getting hit by the puck, which can travel at speeds of up to 100 mph. The padding in shin guards helps absorb the impact of the puck, reducing the risk of serious injuries.

Improved Confidence on the Ice

Wearing shin guards can also lead to improved confidence on the ice. Players know that they are protected from potential injuries, which can allow them to focus on their performance rather than worry about getting hurt. With confidence in their abilities and protection, players may be more likely to take risks and make bold moves, which can lead to scoring opportunities and overall success for the team.

Without shin guards, players may feel hesitant to block shots or go into the corners for fear of getting injured. This can limit their effectiveness on the ice and hinder their ability to make important plays for the team. With the added protection of shin guards, players can feel more comfortable and confident in their ability to play their best.

Furthermore, wearing shin guards can also help prevent injuries to other players. Players who feel more confident and protected may be less likely to accidentally injure an opponent, as they are able to play with more control and precision.

• Confidence: Shin guards can improve a player’s confidence on the ice
• Risk-taking: Protection from shin guards may encourage players to take more risks and make bold moves
• Effectiveness: Hesitation caused by lack of protection can limit a player’s effectiveness on the ice

Overall, shin guards are an essential piece of equipment for any hockey player looking to improve their confidence and performance on the ice.

Required by Professional Leagues

It’s not just a matter of choice for professional hockey players whether they wear shin guards or not. The NHL and other major leagues actually require their players to wear them. The rules of the game mandate that players must wear protective equipment, and shin guards are included on that list.

The NHL has specific regulations regarding the size and shape of shin guards, as well as the level of protection they provide. These rules are in place to ensure the safety of players and to make the game as fair as possible.

What Makes Hockey Shin Guards Different from Other Sports?

Hockey-specific Design: Hockey shin guards are specifically designed to protect players from the types of impacts and injuries that are common in hockey, such as pucks, sticks, and hard hits into the boards.

Full Coverage: Hockey shin guards are typically larger and provide more coverage than those used in other sports, such as soccer or basketball, due to the increased risk of injury in hockey.

Strapping System: Hockey shin guards have a unique strapping system that helps keep them securely in place during gameplay, preventing them from shifting and exposing the player’s legs to potential injury.

Flexibility and Mobility: While hockey shin guards are designed to provide maximum protection, they also need to allow players to move freely and quickly on the ice, so they are made with materials that are both flexible and lightweight.

Customization: Hockey players often have specific preferences for their shin guards, such as the level of protection, the amount of coverage, and the style of the strapping system, which can be customized to fit each player’s unique needs.

Specifically Designed for Hockey Movements

Hockey shin guards are designed with the sport’s specific movements in mind. The game of hockey involves a lot of quick, sudden movements, and players need gear that can keep up. Shin guards for hockey are designed to be flexible, so they can move with the player’s leg without restricting movement.

The shin guard’s shape and size are also specifically designed to protect the areas most vulnerable to injury. Unlike other sports, hockey involves a lot of contact with sticks and pucks, so shin guards must be able to protect the player’s shins and knees from direct impact.

Another important feature of hockey shin guards is their ability to stay in place during gameplay. Hockey players need to be able to move freely, but they also need their protective gear to stay in place to avoid injury. Shin guards for hockey are designed with straps and other features to ensure they remain firmly in place during gameplay.

Thick Padding to Absorb Impact

Hockey is a high-impact sport, and shin guards are an essential piece of equipment for protecting players from serious injuries. The thick padding in hockey shin guards is designed to absorb impact from pucks, sticks, and collisions with other players. The padding is typically made of foam or other shock-absorbing materials that can lessen the force of a blow and help prevent injuries like bruises, cuts, and even fractures.

The padding on hockey shin guards is also strategically placed to offer maximum protection. The front of the shin guard has the thickest padding, as this is the area that is most likely to take a direct hit. Some shin guards also have additional padding on the sides or around the ankles, which can help protect against injuries from errant sticks or skates.

Additionally, many shin guards have a hard plastic shell that covers the padding. This shell provides an extra layer of protection and can help deflect pucks and sticks away from the player’s legs.

Shin guards are also available in different sizes and thicknesses to accommodate players of different sizes and playing styles. For example, a defenseman may prefer a thicker shin guard with more padding, while a forward who relies on speed and agility may prefer a lighter, more streamlined design.

Overall, the thick padding in hockey shin guards is crucial for protecting players from the high-impact collisions and stray pucks that are common in hockey. Without proper protection, players risk serious injuries that could keep them out of the game for weeks or even months.

Extended Coverage to Protect Knees and Ankles

Aside from protecting the shins, hockey shin guards also provide coverage for the knees and ankles. These areas are vulnerable to injury, especially in a sport where players move at high speeds and make sudden stops and turns. Hockey shin guards have extended padding that wraps around the sides of the knee and ankle to offer additional protection from impacts and collisions.

The extended coverage of hockey shin guards also helps prevent injuries from sticks and pucks. When a player falls, the legs often spread out, exposing the knees and ankles. The extra padding on hockey shin guards can cushion the impact of a stick or puck, reducing the risk of injury.

Players who have experienced knee or ankle injuries in the past may opt for shin guards with even more extended coverage, such as knee pads or ankle guards. These additional pieces of equipment can provide extra support and protection for players who are prone to injury.

The Most Popular Brands of Hockey Shin Guards among Pros

Bauer is a well-known and respected brand in the hockey world, producing high-quality equipment, including shin guards. Their Vapor and Nexus lines are particularly popular among professional players for their lightweight design and superior protection.

CCM is another trusted brand in the hockey community, known for its innovative technology and attention to detail. Their Jetspeed and Tacks models are popular among pros for their comfortable fit and exceptional protection.

Warrior is a newer brand in the hockey world, but has quickly gained popularity among professional players. Their Alpha DX and Covert QRE models are known for their advanced technology and customizable fit.

Sher-Wood has been producing hockey equipment for over 70 years and is a trusted brand among players at all levels. Their Rekker EK50 and Code V models offer top-notch protection and comfort.

True is a newer brand in the hockey equipment industry but has quickly gained a following among professional players. Their A6.0 and XC9 models are known for their lightweight design and superior protection, making them a popular choice among pros.

Bauer

• History: Bauer has been producing high-quality hockey equipment since 1927 and is one of the most recognized brands in the sport.

• Technology: Bauer shin guards feature a 3-piece design with a removable liner for easy cleaning and ventilation. Their patented Vent Armor foam technology provides excellent protection while allowing for maximum airflow.

• Popular Models: Bauer offers a wide range of shin guards to fit different playing styles and preferences, including the Vapor 2X Pro, Supreme 2S Pro, and Nexus 2N.

• Pros Who Use: Many NHL players trust Bauer shin guards for their protection and durability, including Patrick Kane, Sidney Crosby, and Alex Ovechkin.

C.C.M.

Established brand: C.C.M. is a long-standing hockey equipment brand, founded in 1899, and is well-respected by many hockey players and professionals.

Lightweight design: C.C.M. is known for creating lightweight equipment that is easy to move in, and their shin guards are no exception.

Customizable fit: C.C.M. shin guards are designed to be adjustable to ensure the best possible fit for the player’s leg shape and size.

Affordable options: C.C.M. offers a variety of shin guard models at different price points, so players can find a high-quality option that fits their budget.

What Materials Are Used to Make Hockey Shin Guards for Pros?

Hard Plastic: Hard plastic is typically used to create the outer shell of hockey shin guards for maximum protection against impacts and hits from sticks or pucks.

Foam: Foam padding is used to cushion the leg and provide additional protection against impacts. The thickness and density of the foam can vary depending on the player’s preferences and position.

Moisture-wicking materials: The inside of the shin guard is often lined with moisture-wicking materials to keep the player’s leg dry during intense gameplay.

Elastic straps: Elastic straps are used to secure the shin guard to the player’s leg. They are adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit and prevent the guard from slipping or moving during play.

Plastic

Plastic is the most common material used for the shells of hockey shin guards. It is lightweight, durable, and can withstand hard impacts. Some shin guards have a hard plastic outer shell to provide additional protection.

The thickness and quality of the plastic used can vary between brands and models, but professional-grade shin guards often use high-quality, impact-resistant plastic to ensure maximum protection for players.

Plastic shin guards are also relatively easy to clean and maintain. They can be wiped down with a damp cloth or cleaned with mild soap and water to remove dirt and sweat.

Foam

Foam is a crucial material used in making hockey shin guards, especially for the inner layer. The foam provides cushioning for the player’s legs, making it more comfortable to wear the shin guards during games or practice.

There are various types of foams used in hockey shin guards. One of the most popular is ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, which is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for use in the shin guard’s padding. Another foam type used in hockey shin guards is memory foam, which is designed to conform to the shape of the player’s leg for a more customized fit and better protection.

Some high-end hockey shin guards also feature composite foam, which is made by bonding layers of different types of foam together to create a more advanced level of protection. Composite foam is more expensive than other types of foam, but it provides a higher level of protection.

Another foam material used in hockey shin guards is open-cell foam, which is lightweight, breathable, and allows for airflow to keep the player’s legs cool and comfortable during the game or practice.

Kevlar

Kevlar is a synthetic fiber that is commonly used in the production of hockey shin guards. The material is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to abrasions. It is also lightweight, making it an ideal choice for hockey players who need to move quickly on the ice.

One of the primary benefits of Kevlar is its ability to absorb and disperse impact energy, which can help reduce the risk of injuries to the shin and knee areas. Kevlar is also resistant to cuts and punctures, which can be important in a fast-paced game like hockey.

While Kevlar is a highly effective material for hockey shin guards, it can also be expensive. As a result, many manufacturers use Kevlar in combination with other materials, such as plastic or foam, to create a more affordable yet still protective product.

How to Choose the Best Shin Guards for Your Hockey Position

Choosing the right shin guards for your hockey position can greatly impact your comfort and performance on the ice. First and foremost, consider your position and the type of play involved. Defensemen, for example, may want longer shin guards for additional protection, while forwards may opt for shorter shin guards for better mobility.

Next, consider the fit and level of protection you need. Shin guards should fit snugly, with no gaps between the guard and your leg. Look for shin guards with adjustable straps for a custom fit. Additionally, the level of protection needed can vary based on position and play style. Goalies, for instance, may require more extensive padding for blocking shots.

The materials used in the shin guards also play a role in their effectiveness. Plastic shin guards are lightweight and offer good protection, while foam shin guards offer more cushioning and shock absorption. Kevlar shin guards are the most durable and offer the highest level of protection, but can be heavier and more expensive.

Lastly, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as ventilation for breathability or additional ankle protection. Some shin guards even come with removable liners for easier cleaning and maintenance.

Overall, finding the right shin guards is a personal decision based on individual needs and preferences. Take the time to try on different styles and brands to find the perfect fit for your position and playing style.

Consider Your Position and Playing Style

When choosing hockey shin guards, it’s important to consider your position and playing style. Forwards who are more focused on speed and agility may prefer shorter shin guards that allow for more mobility. Defensemen who block more shots may prefer longer shin guards that provide more coverage.

Goalies have their own unique needs when it comes to shin guards. They require wider, more protective shin guards that cover a larger surface area. Some goalies also prefer shin guards with additional padding around the knee and calf.

Look for Proper Fit and Coverage

Fit: Shin guards should fit securely without sliding around or shifting during play. They should cover the entire length of your shin and fit snugly around your calf and ankle.

Coverage: The amount of coverage you need will depend on your position and playing style. Defensemen and forwards who play aggressively may prefer longer shin guards that provide additional coverage, while forwards who prioritize speed and agility may prefer shorter guards that allow for more mobility.

Ankle protection: Look for shin guards with added ankle protection to prevent injuries from accidental collisions with sticks and pucks.

Calf protection: Shin guards with added calf protection can provide extra coverage for players who are more likely to take hits in that area.

Try before you buy: Different brands and models of shin guards may fit differently, so it’s important to try them on before making a purchase to ensure a proper fit and adequate coverage.

Expert Tips for Maintaining Your Hockey Shin Guards

Air out after use: After each use, wipe down your shin guards and let them air out completely. This will prevent moisture buildup and bacteria growth.

Hand wash: Avoid machine-washing your shin guards, as this can damage the padding and exterior. Instead, hand wash with a gentle soap and cool water.

Avoid extreme heat: Keep your shin guards away from direct sunlight, radiators, or other sources of extreme heat. High temperatures can warp the plastic or foam padding, affecting their effectiveness.

Repair as needed: Regularly check your shin guards for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, such as a tear in the padding or loose straps, repair or replace them before using them again.

Store properly: Store your shin guards in a cool, dry place away from any sharp objects that could damage them. You can also use a mesh bag or hang them up to allow air circulation and prevent any musty odors.

Wipe Them Down After Each Use

One of the simplest ways to maintain your hockey shin guards is to wipe them down after each use. This will help prevent sweat and odor buildup, as well as reduce the likelihood of bacteria growth.

Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe away any dirt or debris from the surface of the shin guards. If there are any particularly stubborn spots, use a gentle soap and water solution.

Once you have finished cleaning the shin guards, make sure to let them air dry completely before storing them away. Never put damp shin guards in your hockey bag, as this can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Avoid Storing Them in a Damp Environment

Moisture can cause bacteria growth and odors on your shin guards. Therefore, it is essential to avoid storing your shin guards in damp environments.

Once you have finished playing, take your shin guards out of your hockey bag and let them air dry in a well-ventilated area.

Do not leave your shin guards in your bag or a locker where they can become damp and musty. Instead, hang them up or place them on a drying rack to dry thoroughly before storing them.

Frequently Asked Questions