Hockey is one of the world’s fastest-paced sports. As the game gains popularity, players are looking for ways to keep up with the exciting nature of the sport. One option is through the use of equipment such as hockey gloves, hockey pants, and helmets. When it comes to the equipment, you’ll note that there are different weights depending on whether you’re playing forward or goalie.
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Hockey Gloves
As a goalkeeper, you’ll need a pair of hockey gloves to keep your hands at the correct temperature. The padding inside the mitts provides good ball protection while also keeping your hands at the right temperature. The padding inside the gloves also provides some shock absorption, allowing the player to feel more comfortable taking quick shots.
As a defenseman, you’ll need a different pair of gloves. The thicker the padding, the more protection is offered. However, the thicker the padding, the heavier the glove. If you’re looking for a very lightweight glove that provides optimal finger movement, go for a synthetic material such as polymers or silica gel. Most importantly, make sure to choose the right color so you can easily identify yourself as a goaltender when playing in a cold climate.
Hockey Pants
Next up is the hockey pants. If you’re playing goalie, you’ll need at least a pair of these to keep your trousers clean. The best option is a drawstring or button closure to easily zip up and down as needed. If your team is using a snap-type system, you can buy a pair of adaptors so that the waistband and cuff can be adjusted to fit most players.
As a defenseman, you’ll need different material to keep your pants clean. A good option is a stretch mesh fabric that provides the necessary freedom of movement for the player. If you’re looking for added security, you can choose a synthetic textile with metal threads.
Hockey Helmet
Last but not least is the hockey helmet. As a goalie, you’ll need a full-face helmet to protect your head from getting banged around when taking difficult saves. When choosing a hockey helmet, make sure to get one that fits your head securely yet comfortably and has the right ventilation holes. One option is the VaporShield technology, which blocks most of the external noises so you can focus on your play instead of being distracted by unnecessary noises.
As a forward, you’ll need a clear or tinted protective covering for your head to prevent injuries from occurring due to high-speed collisions. Some players prefer a flexible coating on the inside of the helmet to improve the comfort while playing. If you’re a beginner, go for a medium size helmet so you can try out different styles and ensure the right fit before committing to a long-term purchase.
Now that you have the basics about the gear required for hockey, you can begin shopping for your next pair of hockey equipment.