How Many Square Feet is an Ice Hockey Rink? Discover the Standard Size

Welcome to our blog post on the standard size of an ice hockey rink. Whether you’re an avid hockey fan or new to the sport, understanding the dimensions of an ice hockey rink is essential. In this article, we’ll explore the square footage of ice hockey rinks, including the regulation size, dimensions for international competitions, and indoor vs. outdoor rink size comparison.

But why is it important to know the size of an ice hockey rink? Understanding the standard size is crucial for players, coaches, and officials to ensure fair and safe gameplay. Additionally, spectators can enjoy a better viewing experience when they know the dimensions of the rink.

Are you ready to discover the square footage of an ice hockey rink? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the different rink sizes and how to measure them.

Regulation Ice Hockey Rink Size

Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in North America, Europe, and Russia, and it’s played on an ice rink. The standard size of an ice hockey rink is crucial to ensure a fair and safe game. The National Hockey League (NHL), the world’s leading ice hockey organization, has set regulations for the size of an ice hockey rink. These regulations are followed by other professional and amateur leagues worldwide.

The standard size of an ice hockey rink for the NHL and international competitions is 200 feet by 85 feet. This size allows for a fast-paced and exciting game while providing enough room for players to skate and maneuver around the rink. The ice rink is divided into three zones: the offensive zone, defensive zone, and neutral zone, with two blue lines and a center ice red line that divides the rink in half.

However, some non-professional or recreational leagues may have smaller or larger rinks. These smaller or larger rinks can affect the game’s speed and style, but they can also be beneficial for developing players’ skills, especially for young players.

It’s essential to note that ice hockey rinks come in various sizes and shapes, and the size of the rink can impact the game’s speed, style, and skill development. Therefore, understanding the standard size of an ice hockey rink can help players, coaches, and fans appreciate the game better and enjoy the experience.

Size and Layout

Section	Measurement (feet)	Measurement (meters)
Length	200	61
Width	85	26
Total Playing Area	17,000	1,580
Corner Radius	28	8.5
Goal Line to End Boards	11	3.35
Goal Crease Area	19.7 x 11	6 x 3.35

The size of an ice hockey rink is regulated to ensure a consistent playing area across all rinks. The length of a regulation ice hockey rink is 200 feet (61 meters) and the width is 85 feet (26 meters), resulting in a total playing area of 17,000 square feet (1,580 square meters). The corners of the rink have a 28-foot (8.5 meters) radius, and the goal line is 11 feet (3.35 meters) from the end boards.

Additionally, there is a designated area for the goal crease, which is 19.7 feet by 11 feet (6 meters by 3.35 meters). The goal crease is where the goaltender can play the puck, and other players cannot enter this area unless they are retrieving a loose puck. Understanding the size and layout of an ice hockey rink is essential for players, coaches, and officials to ensure a fair and safe game.

While the size of a regulation ice hockey rink is consistent, there can be slight variations in the layout, such as the placement of the benches or penalty boxes. However, these variations do not affect the size of the playing area and are not significant enough to impact gameplay.

Dimensions of Goal and Goal Area

Aside from the rink dimensions, there are specific measurements for the goal and goal area in ice hockey. The goal itself measures 6 feet wide and 4 feet tall, while the goal posts and crossbar should be no more than 2 inches in diameter. The goal sits on a painted crease that is 8 feet wide by 11 feet long.

Within the crease is a trapezoid-shaped area called the goalkeeper’s zone, which extends out 28 feet from the goal line and 8 feet wide at the end boards. This is the area where the goaltender can touch the puck with their stick. However, if a goaltender leaves this area with the puck in their possession, they will receive a minor penalty for delay of game.

In addition, there are specific markings on the ice that determine where players can and cannot play the puck. For example, the goal line is the line that extends across the width of the rink at the back of the goal crease. The puck must completely cross this line for a goal to be scored. The face-off circles are another important marking, where play resumes after a stoppage in play. They are located in the center of the rink and in each team’s defensive zone.

Ice Hockey Rink Dimensions for International Competitions

While regulation ice hockey rinks follow a set of standards, international competitions have their own specific dimensions. These competitions, including the Olympics and the World Cup, require a larger rink to accommodate the fast-paced, skilled play of professional athletes.

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) mandates that international rinks must measure between 59 and 60 meters in length and 29 and 30 meters in width, which is roughly 193 to 197 feet by 98 to 100 feet. This larger size allows for more skating room, giving players more opportunities to make plays and score goals.

In addition to the larger size, international rinks also have different markings, including larger goal creases, wider neutral zones, and a wider blue line. These markings are designed to help facilitate the fast-paced, skilled play of professional athletes and add another level of excitement to the game.

IIHF Standard

The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) is the governing body for international ice hockey competitions, including the Olympics and the World Championships. The IIHF has established a set of regulations for ice hockey rinks used in international competitions.

The IIHF standard rink size is slightly larger than the NHL rink, with dimensions of 200 feet (60 meters) by 100 feet (30 meters). The IIHF also requires a larger neutral zone, measuring 22.97 meters, as well as wider blue lines, measuring 5 feet (1.5 meters).

In addition to rink size, the IIHF also has specific requirements for the dimensions of the goal crease, the location of the faceoff circles, and the height of the boards and glass surrounding the rink.

Standard Ice Hockey Rink Size for Youth and Recreational Leagues

While regulation-sized ice hockey rinks are generally reserved for professional and international competitions, youth and recreational leagues often utilize rinks that are smaller in size. These smaller rinks allow for easier play and accommodate players of all ages and skill levels.

USA Hockey, the governing body for amateur ice hockey in the United States, recommends rinks for players under the age of 8 to be approximately 85 feet by 40 feet, while rinks for older youth players can range from 100 feet by 50 feet to 85 feet by 85 feet.

Hockey Canada recommends a rink size of 100 feet by 50 feet for players aged 13-14 and older, and 85 feet by 50 feet for players aged 8-1

Smaller rinks also make it easier for communities to establish and maintain ice rinks for their local youth and recreational hockey programs, making the sport more accessible to a wider range of participants.

USA Hockey Guidelines

Guidelines	Description	Recommendation
Physical distancing	Players should maintain a distance of at least six feet from each other when possible.	Encourage players to avoid contact with others off the ice.
Face coverings	All players, coaches, and officials are required to wear a face covering at all times, including during games and practices.	Make sure all players and coaches have access to a face covering that fits them properly.
Sanitization	All equipment and frequently touched surfaces should be sanitized regularly.	Assign a person to be responsible for sanitizing equipment and surfaces before and after each game or practice.
Symptom monitoring	Players, coaches, and officials should monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and stay home if they feel sick or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive.	Encourage all members of the team to report symptoms or close contact to the coach or team manager.
Travel	Minimize team travel and limit out-of-state travel when possible.	Plan ahead and book accommodations that allow for physical distancing and other safety measures.
Gameplay modifications	Modify gameplay to limit close contact, such as eliminating faceoffs and modifying penalty procedures.	Communicate modifications to all players, coaches, and officials prior to the start of the season.

USA Hockey has implemented guidelines to ensure the safety of players, coaches, officials, and spectators during the COVID-19 pandemic. These guidelines include physical distancing, face coverings, sanitization, symptom monitoring, travel restrictions, and modifications to gameplay.

One of the most important guidelines is physical distancing. Players should maintain a distance of at least six feet from each other when possible to reduce the risk of transmission. This can be challenging during gameplay, but it is important for players to avoid contact with others off the ice as well.

Another important guideline is face coverings. All players, coaches, and officials are required to wear a face covering at all times, including during games and practices. It is essential to ensure that all players and coaches have access to a face covering that fits them properly.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Ice Hockey Rink Size Comparison

Ice hockey is a beloved sport enjoyed by millions of people around the world. The size of the rink can vary depending on whether it is played indoors or outdoors. The difference in size can impact the style of play and overall experience for the players and spectators.

Indoor ice rinks are typically smaller than outdoor rinks, as they are limited by the size of the building they are located in. The standard size for an NHL rink is 200 feet long by 85 feet wide, while international rinks are typically 197 feet long by 98.4 feet wide.

Outdoor rinks, on the other hand, can vary greatly in size depending on the location and purpose. The largest outdoor rink in the world is located in Canada and measures 12,000 square feet. Outdoor rinks can also be found in backyards, parks, and even on frozen lakes and ponds.

When it comes to the style of play, the larger size of an outdoor rink allows for a more open game, with players having more room to skate and maneuver. Indoor rinks, on the other hand, require more precision and control due to the limited space.

Spectator experience can also differ depending on the size of the rink. Indoor rinks provide a more intimate atmosphere, allowing spectators to be closer to the action. Outdoor rinks, however, offer a unique outdoor setting, with spectators able to enjoy the beauty of nature while watching the game.

In conclusion, while the basic rules of ice hockey remain the same regardless of whether it is played indoors or outdoors, the size of the rink can have a significant impact on the style of play and overall experience for both players and spectators.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Indoor Ice Rinks

• Climate Control: One of the main advantages of indoor ice rinks is the ability to control the temperature and humidity, which ensures a consistent playing surface.
• No Weather-Related Closures: Unlike outdoor ice rinks, indoor rinks can remain open year-round without the risk of weather-related closures.
• Accessibility: Indoor ice rinks are often located in urban areas and are easily accessible by public transportation, making them more convenient for players and spectators alike.
• Increased Costs: One of the main disadvantages of indoor ice rinks is the higher operating costs due to the need for refrigeration and climate control systems.
• Limited Space: Indoor ice rinks require a significant amount of space and are often limited by the size of the building they are located in, which can limit the number of rinks or available ice time.

Overall, indoor ice rinks offer a number of advantages over outdoor rinks, including climate control, year-round availability, and accessibility. However, they also come with some disadvantages, such as higher operating costs and limited space. Ultimately, the choice between indoor and outdoor ice hockey rinks depends on a variety of factors, including location, climate, and budget.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Outdoor Ice Rinks

Cost-effective: Outdoor ice rinks are typically less expensive to construct and maintain than indoor rinks. The open-air design of outdoor rinks means that they require less cooling and ventilation equipment, resulting in lower energy bills and maintenance costs.

Weather-dependent: Outdoor ice rinks are at the mercy of the weather. Extreme temperatures, snow, and rain can all affect the quality of the ice and make it difficult or impossible to play hockey. This can lead to frustration and disappointment for players who were looking forward to a game.

Plentiful: Outdoor ice rinks can be found in many public parks and recreation areas, making them easily accessible to hockey players of all skill levels. This can help to promote the sport and create a sense of community around it.

Seasonal: Outdoor ice rinks are typically only available during the winter months, when temperatures are low enough to keep the ice frozen. This can limit the amount of time that players have to enjoy the rink and can make it difficult to schedule games and practices.

Scenic: Outdoor ice rinks can provide a beautiful and picturesque setting for playing hockey. The natural surroundings and fresh air can add to the enjoyment of the game and create a unique experience for players.

Why is it Important to Know the Size of an Ice Hockey Rink?

Knowing the size of an ice hockey rink is crucial for players, coaches, and referees alike. The dimensions of the rink have a significant impact on the game’s pace, strategy, and overall play.

For instance, different leagues and levels of play have varying ice rink sizes. This means that players and coaches must adapt their strategies and styles of play based on the rink’s dimensions. Moreover, referees must enforce the rules based on the size of the rink and ensure player safety.

Furthermore, the size of the ice rink also affects the game’s viewing experience for fans. Sitting in the stands or watching on television, fans need to understand how the rink’s size impacts the game’s flow and strategy. This knowledge allows fans to appreciate the nuances of the game and follow the action better.

Player Safety

• Injury prevention: Knowing the size of an ice hockey rink can help prevent injuries to players. With the proper rink dimensions, players are less likely to collide with the boards or other players, reducing the risk of serious injury.

• Proper equipment: The size of the rink also affects the equipment needed to keep players safe. For example, larger rinks require more protective padding around the boards and glass to absorb impact and prevent injuries.

• Risk assessment: Understanding the size of the rink can help coaches and trainers assess the risk of injury to players. By considering the size of the rink, the level of play, and the skill level of the players, coaches can make informed decisions about training, conditioning, and injury prevention strategies.

How to Measure the Square Footage of an Ice Hockey Rink

Knowing the square footage of an ice hockey rink is important for various reasons, such as planning and building a new rink, calculating the costs of maintenance, or organizing tournaments. The size of an ice hockey rink is determined by its width and length, which are measured in feet.

The standard size of a professional ice hockey rink is 200 feet by 85 feet. To measure the square footage of an ice hockey rink, you need to multiply the length by the width. For example, a rink that is 200 feet by 85 feet would have a total square footage of 17,000 square feet.

Measuring the square footage of a non-standard ice hockey rink can be a bit trickier. For example, an Olympic-size ice hockey rink is 200 feet by 100 feet. To determine the square footage, you would still use the same formula and multiply 200 by 100, which equals 20,000 square feet.

Tools Needed for Measuring Ice Rink Size

To measure the size of an ice hockey rink accurately, you will need several tools. Here are three essential tools that you will need:

Tape Measure: The tape measure is the most critical tool for measuring the dimensions of the ice rink. A retractable tape measure is ideal, but any tape measure that is long enough to measure the length and width of the rink will suffice.

Chalk or Spray Paint: To mark the corners and center of the rink accurately, you will need chalk or spray paint. These markers will make it easy for you to measure the distance between the markers and calculate the square footage of the rink.

Ladder: A ladder will come in handy when measuring the height of the boards surrounding the rink. You will need to measure the height of the boards to calculate the cubic footage of the rink, which is essential when determining the amount of refrigerant needed to maintain the ice surface.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measure Ice Rink Size

1. Clear the Ice Surface: Remove any debris or obstacles from the ice surface before measuring. This ensures accurate measurements and prevents tripping hazards.

2. Measure the Length and Width: Using a long tape measure, measure the length and width of the ice surface. Start from one end of the rink and extend the tape measure to the other end.

3. Measure the Corners: Using a right-angle tool, measure the corners of the rink to ensure that they are at perfect right angles. If not, adjust the rink as necessary.

4. Measure the Radii: Using a radius measurement tool, measure the radii at the corners of the rink. This ensures that the rink is the correct shape and size.

5. Calculate the Square Footage: Multiply the length and width measurements to calculate the total square footage of the rink. This will help you determine the appropriate rink size for different purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions