There is a reason why hockey goalies wear all black and never show any color: They don’t want to highlight their equipment, because they know how much it weighs. It is said that a hockey goalie’s gear can weigh up to 15 pounds, and during a game, this might not seem like a problem. However, during practice, you will quickly discover how much this really is. The reason why it is so heavy is that every piece of equipment used during a game has to be highly functional and comfortable, but light enough to be mobile. This article is going to tell you everything you need to know about the gear of a hockey goalie, from the helmet to the pants.
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The Gear You Need To Have In Your Home
Like any other sports activity, playing hockey takes a lot of equipment. The key element is of course the gear. You will need a helmet, goggles, and gloves to play. You will also need pads and a stick. In addition to these items, you may want to consider investing in a water bottle and energy drink, as these are essential for keeping the body hydrated and energized during the game. To keep track of all these things, it is best to keep a list, which you can find at the end of this article.
The Goalie Helmet
This is the helmet you will use for hockey. Like other helmets, it will protect your head in case of injuries. In addition to this basic function, many goalie helmets come with additional features that can improve your gameplay. Some of these features are adjustable straps, a chin protector, or a shock-absorbing pad, as seen in the picture below.
The most important thing to look for in a goalie helmet is the weight. If it is too heavy, it will make it difficult for you to move around, and this will impact your play. As a general rule of thumb, always choose a lighter weight helmet. In some instances, even the 7.5-pound model is too heavy. Always check the owner’s manual to find the correct weight for your head.
The Goalie Goggles
These are the sunglasses you will need for playing hockey. Like most other sunglasses, they will protect your eyes from injuries and prevent dust and debris from entering the interior. When choosing a pair of these goggles, make sure to check the weight, as they should be light enough to be mobile during gameplay. There should be no metal in the frame or on the interior lenses, as this could cause a clash with the puck or ball when playing.
The Goalie Pants
These are the protective pants you will wear when playing hockey. Like other types of pants, they will keep you warm during the game. In addition to this basic function, some goalie pants come with an additional stretchable panel at the front, which will allow you to adjust the fit to accomodate any changes in the level of tightness. Check the weight of the pants as well, as they should be light enough to be mobile during gameplay. Another important factor to consider is the material used to make them. Many players prefer a material that is both strong and flexible, as these are important qualities to have if you want to play at a high level. In some instances, a mesh material on the interior of the pants can help maintain ventilation and keep the player cool and comfortable during long periods of gameplay.
The Overhead Protector
This is the piece of equipment that will protect you and your goal from getting hit in the head with the puck or ball during play. The main purpose of this piece of equipment is to prevent injuries to the head, so make sure to put it on before you begin playing. This piece of equipment will also protect you from neck strain, as it will prevent the head from rotating too much when making sudden jerky movements. In some instances, it will even help with blocking low shots, as it will prevent the puck or ball from entering your forehead or nose area.
The Goaltimateck Sti
This is a combination of the Stingray Technology and instuctor’s instinct. The stinger-shaped device will be attached to your helmet and will provide you with extra responsiveness and control over the puck or ball. In some instances, the goaltimateck sti may help improve your performance by making you a more dynamic goal-stopper. In most cases, it will prevent injuries to the head and face during gameplay, making it essential equipment for any hockey player.
The Goalie Pads
These are the pads you will need for playing hockey. They are designed to cushion the blows to your head and neck, protecting you from injuries. Like all other pads, they will increase your overall comfort level during gameplay. Some of these pads have a built-in head protector, which will further improve your protection from head injuries. In most cases, you will only need a pair of these pads, as having multiple pairs will make you more comfortable during gameplay.
As for the material used to make the pads, make sure to choose a soft, comfortable material that allows you to move around easily. Some players prefer a memory foam pad, while others like a gel pad, as these are known for their responsiveness and ability to retain a molded shape, making them ideal for blocking shots. Regardless of the material used, make sure to put these pads on before you play, as they will make a massive difference in the way you feel while playing.
The Practice Mask
This is the protective mask you will wear during practice sessions. This mask will prevent injuries to the eyes and face during training drills or scrimmages. In most cases, this will be a choice between a full face mask or a cage mask. The full face mask will provide better protection, but it can be more difficult to move around with. In addition, the cage mask will improve your overall comfort during practice sessions.
As for the material used to make these protective masks, make sure to choose a soft, comfortable material that allows you to move around easily. Many players prefer a gel mask during practice sessions, as they can feel more connected to their body and the game. Even during a practice session, you should always wear protective gear, as there is no way of knowing when you will be hit in the head with a puck or ball during a game, which can cause serious injuries. Many high-quality hockey helmets will be the difference between a serious injury and a non-serious injury, so always choose the best quality helmet you can afford.
The Adjustable Shoulder Strap
This is the adjustable strap you will use for playing hockey. You will need to choose the right length according to your needs, as there is no set length for this strap. Shorter for younger players and taller for older ones. In most cases, the adjustable shoulder strap will improve your gameplay by keeping the pads in place, preventing them from moving around, and keeping them close to your body, preventing them from moving away or being damaged during a game. These straps can also be used for carrying gear or holding a hockey bag, as seen below.
As for the material used to make these adjustable shoulder straps, make sure to choose a high-quality one that will not break or stretch out after a few months of use. Some players prefer a leather shoulder strap, while others like a nylon one. If possible, it is best to choose a combination of these materials, as this can provide you with the best of both worlds: softness and abrasion resistance.
The Body Armor
This is the body armor you will wear for playing hockey. It is designed to protect your torso from injuries. Like other types of body armor, it will improve your safety and overall comfort level during gameplay. The main purpose of this particular piece of equipment is to protect the goalie from injuries to the head, neck, and face, as these are the body parts that are most often hit and injured during play. In most cases, this will be a combination of a hard hat and a chest protector. In some instances, it will also consist of a hard hat, a neck guard, and a face mask.
As for the material used to make this body armor, make sure to choose a hard, flexible material that provides you with high safety standards. Many materials used to make body armor for hockey players are made from plastic, metal, or a combination of both, as seen below.
The Water Bottle And Energy Drink
This is the water bottle you will need for playing hockey. Like most other water bottles, it will keep your body hydrated during the game. Some water bottles even have a built-in hydration device, which will provide you with drinkable water at all times, as seen below.