Hockey pants aren’t just for keeping your pants clean while on the ice. They play an important role in your overall hockey look. After all, you can’t have effective puck-handling skills if your skating is hampered by uncomfortable and restrictive clothing. It’s crucial that you have the right equipment so that you can perform at your best. That’s why we’re going over some important considerations when choosing your hockey pants.
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Material And Style
The first thing to consider when choosing your hockey pants is the material and style. This is going to depend on what you are looking for. If you want something that’s going to protect your legs from getting chapped from the dry wind as you rush past at full speed, then you should go with something more natural fiber like wool or cotton. These materials offer the best blend of breathability and warmth. They allow you to perform at your best without risking discomfort due to inadequate protection.
However, if you are looking for something that’s going to last a long time and don’t want to worry about washing it often, then synthetic materials like polyester or acrylic are your best option. These materials resist water and wear well. They don’t feel itchy like some other natural fibers, which is great if you have sensitive skin or are prone to skin irritations. You can also find a trade-off between comfort and protection by varying the thickness of the material. Thicker materials offer better protection but are more restrictive when it comes to moving around comfortably. So you can find a perfect match between the two depending on your needs.
Fit
The next thing to consider when choosing your hockey pants is the fit. This is going to depend on your body type and the style of the pants you are choosing. If you have a larger frame and like your knits to fit loosely around you, then you should go with a classic fit. These pants are going to hug you in the right places and leave some space for the wind to flow through. If you have a smaller frame and like your pants to be form-fitting, you should go with a slimmer fit. This type of fit is going to feel confining and hot, especially in the summer. So it’s crucial that you are able to select the right pair that’s going to be comfortable for you.
If you are new to the world of hockey, it might be a good idea to start off small and work your way up to the bigger sizes. This way, you can find the right pair of pants without worrying about sacrificing mobility. If possible, it’s also a good idea to get some assistance from a professional fitters. They are going to help you determine what size and style of pants are going to be best suited for your body type. Don’t worry, you’re not going to look like a complete wimp in front of the guys. You’re still going to have the same confidence that you always had on the ice.
Color
The next thing to consider when choosing your hockey pants is the color. It’s crucial that you are able to determine the right shade to go with depending on the style and material of your pants. If you are going for a classic look, then darker shades like navy or black are going to give you that traditional appearance. However, if you are going for a more modern look, then lighter shades like white or pale blue are going to be your best bet. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, so you might want to wear what you feel most comfortable in.
Some other things to keep in mind when choosing your hockey pants are the length and the style of the pockets. You want your pants to be comfortable and have the right amount of room for your wallet, cell phone, or pucks. If you are going for a more traditional look, then taller pockets aren’t going to be a big issue. However, if you are going for a more modern look, then shorter pockets are going to be perfect. You can also find a compromise by having a smaller pocket on one side and a larger one on the other.
Durability
The last thing to consider when choosing your hockey pants is the durability. This is going to depend on how many cycles you’re going to go through before you have to replace them. If you’re planning on playing at a high level and are going to be hopping from game to game, then you’re going to want to look for materials that are both durable and flexible. This way, you’re not going to have to worry about breaking down after just a few games. This type of material can withstand a lot of wear and tear. They are also highly resistant to stains and water damage. So don’t expect your pants to look their best after just one wash. You’re going to have to do some frequent washes if you want them to look clean and new.
Hopefully, this article was helpful in providing you with some basic advice on how to choose your hockey pants. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to what type of material or color to choose. It depends on you and what you are going for. When it comes to fit, however, there are general rules which most hockey players abide by. A too-big fit won’t work for you. You’re either going to be able to move around comfortably or hinder your performance due to the extra clothing. So it’s best to either stay true to your size or go with something that’s a bit bigger. A good rule of thumb is that if you aren’t sure what size to choose, then you probably should choose a bigger size. This way, you’re not going to have to worry about the material feeling itchy or restricting your movement. If you do end up with an itchy material, then it’s probably best to wash it while on the road. In the meantime, be sure to dry the area around the waistband and the knee with some fabric softener sheets. This is going to help keep the material from irritating your skin.
Also, make sure to have a pair of warm-up pants in your equipment bag. You never know when you’re going to need them. Even if you’re just going for a short stroll before the game, you might end up needing some assistance from the wardrobe department. So be sure to bring a couple pairs with you. If you have a bigger bag, then you might want to bring a couple of extra pairs. In case one of them gets wet or stolen, you’ll be relieved that you have another.
Remember, the best piece of equipment you have is your mind. If you practice regularly, then you are going to be able to perform at your best. With the right pair of hockey pants, you’re going to be able to control the puck and move smoothly on the ice. This will enable you to become a better player, which in turn, makes you feel more confident on the ice. This is what’s been missing from your game for years and now, with the help of some quality hockey equipment, it’s finally within your reach to change that.