How to Easily Put On Kids Hockey Gear for Beginners

Are you a beginner parent or coach trying to figure out how to get your kids’ hockey gear on correctly? Look no further! Putting on hockey gear can be a daunting task for first-timers, but with the right guidance, it can become second nature. With patience, practice, and a step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to equip your kids with ease in no time.

The proper fitting and positioning of hockey gear can make all the difference in both performance and safety. That’s why in this article, we’ll guide you through the correct way to put on each piece of hockey gear, from skates to helmet, and provide some tips to ensure the perfect fit. We’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid, so you can help your kids be prepared for the ice.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to put on your kids’ hockey gear like a pro. So, let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Guide for Putting on Hockey Skates

Putting on hockey skates can be challenging, especially for beginners. However, with the right techniques, it can be a breeze. The following steps will guide you through the process of putting on hockey skates:

Step 1: Start by loosening the laces and pulling the tongue forward.

Step 2: Place your foot in the skate and push your heel back into the heel cup.

Step 3: Pull the tongue up and centered over your ankle.

Step 4: Begin lacing up your skate from the bottom, making sure that the laces are snug but not too tight. Repeat this process with the top half of the skate, making sure that the laces are tight enough to provide support, but not so tight that they cut off circulation.

By following these steps, you’ll have your hockey skates on in no time. But don’t forget, a good fit is important, so take your time to adjust your skates as needed before hitting the ice!

Preparing Your Skates for Fitting

1. Remove any covers or guards on the blades, and check for any damage or wear and tear on the skate itself.
2. Loosen the laces of the skates and make sure the tongue is centered.
3. Slide your foot into the skate, ensuring your heel is at the back and the ball of your foot is snug against the widest part of the boot.
4. Tighten the laces starting from the bottom and working your way up. Use the right amount of tension and make sure the skate is secure but not too tight that it cuts off circulation.
5. Check that the skate is securely fastened by testing the ankle support and giving the skate a wiggle.

Before stepping onto the ice, it’s also recommended to do a few quick laps to make sure the skate is properly fitted and comfortable. Taking the time to fit your skates correctly can prevent injury and improve your overall performance on the ice.

Lacing Your Skates for Optimal Comfort and Support

Once your skates are properly prepared, it’s time to lace them up for optimal comfort and support. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best fit possible:

1. Start at the bottom: Begin by threading the laces through the bottom eyelets of the skate, making sure they are evenly distributed on each side.
2. Criss-cross the laces: Cross the laces over each other, alternating sides as you work your way up the skate.
3. Don’t lace too tightly: While it’s important to have a snug fit, lacing your skates too tightly can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.
4. Double-knot the laces: Once you reach the top of the skate, double-knot the laces to ensure they stay in place.
5. Check for comfort: Take a few steps in your skates to ensure they feel comfortable and provide the necessary support.

Properly lacing your skates is crucial for both performance and safety. Take your time and adjust the laces as necessary to achieve the perfect fit.

Final Adjustments for a Perfect Fit

Once you have laced up your skates, it’s time to make final adjustments to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.

Tightness: Stand up and take a few steps around to make sure your skates feel snug but not too tight. Adjust the tightness of the laces as necessary to achieve the desired fit.

Ankle Support: Make sure that the tongue is centered and snug against the top of your foot. This will provide additional support to your ankles and prevent any unnecessary wobbling on the ice.

Toe Wiggle Room: Your toes should have enough wiggle room to move freely inside the skate. This will allow for proper circulation and prevent your feet from going numb during play.

• Heel Lock: Check that your heel is securely locked in place by pressing down on the heel of the skate. Your heel should not lift up more than a quarter inch.
• Padding: Make sure all of the padding is in place and providing the necessary protection for your feet.
• Blade Alignment: Ensure that your blades are properly aligned and centered under your feet. This will allow for maximum stability on the ice.
• Walk Around: Take a few more steps around to make sure everything feels comfortable and secure. Don’t forget to test out your stride and make sure you have proper range of motion.
• Repeat: Repeat these steps with your other skate until you have achieved a perfect fit with both skates.

With these final adjustments, you should be ready to hit the ice with confidence and comfort. Now that you have learned how to put on and adjust your skates, the rest of the gear should be a breeze!

Correct Way to Put on Hockey Pants and Shin Guards

Properly fitting hockey pants and shin guards are essential for protecting young players on the ice. Before putting on the gear, ensure that the player is wearing their base layer and jock or jill strap. Hockey pants should sit at the waist and cover the top of the shin guards. They should be tight enough to stay in place but allow for a full range of motion.

To put on the shin guards, loosen the straps and slide the guard down the leg. The top of the shin guard should sit just below the knee cap, and the bottom should reach the top of the player’s skates. Tighten the straps in a criss-cross pattern to secure the guard in place. Make sure that the shin guard does not twist or move around during play.

Putting on hockey pants can be a bit tricky. Hold the pants by the suspenders and slide them up over the player’s thighs. The front of the pants should be centered over the player’s body, and the suspenders should be adjusted to ensure a snug fit. Next, pull the pant legs down and over the shin guards. Finally, secure the pants in place by tightening the belt or using the built-in fasteners.

Remember, the right fit is crucial for both comfort and safety. Be sure to check that the gear is adjusted correctly before the player hits the ice. This will help prevent injuries and allow for better mobility on the rink.

Proper Sizing and Fit for Hockey Pants and Shin Guards

When it comes to hockey pants and shin guards, proper sizing and fit are crucial to ensure safety and comfort on the ice. Make sure to measure your child’s waist and hips to find the right size for their hockey pants. The pants should fit snugly but not be too tight, and should cover the top of the shin guards to provide adequate protection.

Shin guards should also be properly sized to provide maximum protection without limiting movement. The bottom of the shin guard should rest just above the top of the skate tongue, and the knee should fit snugly in the kneecap protection. Make sure to fasten all straps securely to prevent any shifting during play.

It’s important to note that as your child grows, their gear will need to be adjusted or replaced to maintain proper fit and protection. Regularly check their gear to ensure it’s still providing optimal safety and comfort on the ice.

How to Properly Put on Shoulder Pads and Elbow Pads

Shoulder pads and elbow pads are two essential pieces of equipment for hockey players of all ages and skill levels. They protect the upper body from injury during physical play, collisions, and falls. But how do you properly put them on?

Start by choosing the right size. Shoulder pads and elbow pads come in different sizes, so it’s essential to get the right fit for maximum protection and comfort.

Next, put on your shoulder pads. Start by slipping your arms through the arm holes and then fastening the straps around your chest and back. Adjust the straps until the pads fit snugly against your shoulders and chest.

Finally, put on your elbow pads. Slip your arms through the arm holes and then fasten the straps around your forearm and bicep. Adjust the straps until the pads fit securely but allow for full range of motion.

Following these simple steps will ensure that your shoulder pads and elbow pads fit correctly and provide maximum protection on the ice.

Ensuring the Right Fit for Maximum Protection

Size Matters: It’s crucial to select shoulder and elbow pads that fit well. Make sure the pads cover the intended area, without leaving any gaps. Shoulder pads should cover the collarbone, shoulder joint, and upper arm, while elbow pads should cover the entire elbow and forearm.

Proper Adjustments: Adjust the straps on the shoulder and elbow pads to ensure a snug fit. The pads should not be too loose or too tight. Adjust the bicep guards and forearm guards to sit comfortably on your arms without impeding your movement. Make sure you can move your arms and shoulders freely without any restrictions.

Safety First: Double-check that all straps and buckles are secured properly. Loose or poorly secured pads can shift during play, leaving you exposed to injury. Always make sure to wear your pads correctly to prevent any injuries.

Now that you know how to put on shoulder and elbow pads correctly, it’s time to get on the ice and start playing! Remember, wearing properly fitting protective gear is crucial to staying safe while enjoying the game of hockey.

Proper Strap Adjustment for Shoulder Pads and Elbow Pads

• Step 1: Put on your shoulder pads and adjust the straps over your shoulders. The pads should sit comfortably on your shoulders and cover your collarbone and upper chest.
• Step 2: Fasten the chest strap securely. It should be tight enough to keep the pads in place but not so tight that it restricts your breathing.
• Step 3: Adjust the bicep straps on your elbow pads so that they fit snugly but do not restrict movement. The pads should cover your entire elbow and a portion of your forearm.
• Step 4: Fasten the forearm straps securely. They should be tight enough to keep the pads in place but not so tight that they cut off circulation to your hands.
• Step 5: Double-check that all straps are adjusted correctly and make any necessary adjustments for comfort and mobility.

Remember to wear your shoulder pads and elbow pads every time you play to protect yourself from injury. Proper adjustment ensures maximum protection and comfort, so take the time to get it right before hitting the ice!

Checking for Full Range of Motion After Putting on Pads

After putting on your shoulder and elbow pads, it’s important to check that you have a full range of motion. Stand in front of a mirror and lift your arms over your head, swing them forward and backward, and rotate them in circles. Your pads should move with your body, not against it.

If your pads are too tight or restricting your movement, try adjusting the straps. Loosen or tighten them until you find the perfect fit that allows for maximum movement without sacrificing protection.

It’s also important to practice skating and stickhandling with your pads on before hitting the ice. This will help you get used to the added bulk and ensure that your range of motion is not hindered during gameplay.

Tips for Putting on Hockey Gloves and a Helmet

Gloves: When putting on your hockey gloves, make sure your fingertips reach the end of the glove while your wrist is fully covered. The cuff of the glove should overlap the elbow pad to prevent any gaps.

Helmet: First, adjust the chin strap so it’s snug but not too tight. Then, adjust the ear flaps to cover your ears, and the back strap so it sits at the base of your skull. Finally, check that the visor or cage is secure and won’t obstruct your vision.

Putting it all on: Once your gloves and helmet are on, put your jersey over your head, making sure the shoulder pads are on top of the jersey. Tuck the bottom of the jersey into your pants, making sure it doesn’t bunch up and affect your mobility.

Final touches: Check that your equipment is properly fitted and adjusted, and that there are no exposed gaps. Take a few practice strides and moves to ensure everything feels comfortable and secure.

Pre-game prep: It’s a good idea to put on your gloves and helmet first, as they can take longer to adjust. Keep spare gloves and a backup helmet on hand in case of any equipment malfunctions during the game.

Choosing the Right Gloves and Helmet for Your Child

When it comes to hockey gear for children, it’s important to choose equipment that fits properly and provides adequate protection. Comfort is also a key factor to consider, as ill-fitting gear can hinder your child’s performance on the ice.

Hockey gloves should fit snugly and allow for full range of motion. Make sure the gloves cover the wrists and fit securely under the cuff of the hockey jacket.

Helmets are perhaps the most important piece of protective equipment for a young hockey player. Look for a helmet that has a proper fit, comfortable padding, and strong chin strap. Check for certification stickers to ensure the helmet meets safety standards.

Remember to replace your child’s equipment as they grow and develop. Gear that fit properly last season may not fit properly this season and may not provide adequate protection. Check with your local sporting goods store or hockey association for fitting advice and gear recommendations.

Lastly, make sure your child is comfortable wearing the gear before they hit the ice. Encourage them to wear their gloves and helmet around the house to get used to the fit and feel.

With the right equipment and proper fit, your child can safely enjoy the excitement and physical challenge of playing hockey.

Fitting Your Child’s Gloves and Helmet Properly

Measure and Try On: Measure your child’s head and hand to ensure you get the proper sizing for the helmet and gloves. Have your child try on the helmet and gloves to ensure they fit snugly but not too tight.

Adjust the Chinstrap: The chinstrap on the helmet should fit snugly under the chin and should not be loose. It should also not be so tight that it causes discomfort or difficulty breathing.

Adjust the Helmet: The helmet should sit level on the head and not tilt backward or forward. Make sure the helmet does not obstruct your child’s vision.

Check for Full Range of Motion: Have your child move their head and neck to ensure they have a full range of motion while wearing the helmet. Make sure they can also move their hands and fingers freely while wearing the gloves.

Make Adjustments as Needed: If the helmet or gloves feel too loose or too tight, make adjustments until you achieve a comfortable and secure fit. Remember to periodically check the fit throughout the season as your child grows.

Adjusting Gloves and Helmet for Maximum Comfort and Protection

Once your child has the correct gloves and helmet, it’s important to ensure they fit properly. First, adjust the chinstrap on the helmet so that it fits snugly but not too tight. The helmet should sit level on the head and cover the forehead and back of the head.

Next, adjust the gloves by pulling the cuff over the elbow pads and making sure the gloves fit snugly without restricting movement. The fingertips should reach the end of the gloves, but not be too tight or too loose.

Make sure to adjust the gloves and helmet before each game or practice to ensure maximum comfort and protection. Tightening straps and repositioning the helmet as necessary will help prevent injury and ensure your child can focus on the game.

Ensuring the Right Fit for All Hockey Gear

Fit is everything when it comes to hockey gear. Improperly fitting gear can lead to discomfort, reduced mobility, and even injury. It’s important to take the time to make sure each piece of gear fits correctly.

Try before you buy. It’s tempting to buy gear online, but it’s always best to try it on first. Go to a store and try on different sizes and brands of gear. This will help you find what fits best.

Follow manufacturer guidelines for sizing. Every brand has its own sizing chart, so make sure to check the manufacturer’s website or the tag on the gear for sizing information. Don’t assume that you wear the same size in every brand.

Regularly check for fit as your body changes. Kids grow quickly, and adults may gain or lose weight over time. It’s important to regularly check the fit of your gear to make sure it’s still providing the proper protection.

Importance of Proper Sizing and Fit for All Gear

Having properly fitting hockey gear is crucial for both safety and performance on the ice. Poorly fitting gear can lead to discomfort, hinder mobility, and even cause injury. To ensure your gear fits correctly, take accurate measurements and try on different sizes before purchasing.

Each piece of equipment, from skates to helmets, has its own specific sizing and fit requirements. Ignoring these requirements can lead to a less effective piece of gear that does not provide the necessary protection. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for sizing and fitting.

Children’s growth can also affect the fit of their hockey gear. Regularly checking and updating gear ensures that they are still properly protected as they grow. Proper fitting gear can also boost a child’s confidence and comfort on the ice, allowing them to focus on their game.

Finally, always remember to re-adjust gear as needed during use. Straps may loosen or shift during play, and ensuring a proper fit throughout the game can prevent injury and maintain comfort.

How to Measure Your Child for Proper Sizing

Measuring your child for proper hockey gear sizing is crucial for their safety and comfort on the ice. Here are some tips to help you measure:

• Chest: Measure around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape measure parallel to the ground.
• Waist: Measure around the natural waistline, which is usually just above the hip bones.
• Hips: Measure around the fullest part of the hips.
• Height: Have your child stand up straight against a wall and measure from the floor to the top of their head.
• Weight: Weigh your child on a scale.

It’s important to note that each brand may have slightly different sizing charts, so always refer to the specific brand’s size chart when making a purchase.

Properly fitting gear is crucial to your child’s safety and performance on the ice. Take the time to measure your child and ensure they have the right size gear for their body type.

Checking for Proper Fit Before Hitting the Ice

Once you’ve got your child’s gear on, it’s important to do a quick check to ensure everything is properly fitted. Start by having your child stand up straight and making sure the shoulder pads are covering their shoulders without leaving any gaps. Then, check that the elbow pads cover the entire elbow joint without any exposed skin.

Next, make sure the pants are pulled up high enough to protect the lower back and sit comfortably on the waist. Check that the shin guards cover the entire shin bone and are snugly secured with the straps. Finally, have your child put on their skates and make sure they are laced up tightly and fit snugly without any gaps.

If any gear is not properly fitted, adjust it accordingly or consider getting a different size. Properly fitting gear is essential for protecting your child from injury on the ice.

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Putting on Kids Hockey Gear

Rushing: One of the biggest mistakes parents make when putting on their child’s hockey gear is rushing through the process. Taking the time to properly fit and adjust each piece of gear can ensure maximum protection and comfort on the ice.

Skipping pieces: Another mistake is skipping pieces of gear, such as shin guards or elbow pads. Each piece of gear is designed to protect a specific area of the body, and leaving any piece out can increase the risk of injury.

Incorrect sizing: Gear that is too big or too small can be uncomfortable and compromise its protective capabilities. It’s important to ensure that each piece of gear is properly sized and adjusted to fit your child’s body.

Poor quality gear: Investing in high-quality hockey gear is important for your child’s safety and performance on the ice. Cheaper, low-quality gear may not offer adequate protection and can wear down quickly, compromising its effectiveness over time.

Rushing the Fitting Process and Sacrificing Safety

One of the most common mistakes parents make when putting on kids’ hockey gear is rushing the fitting process. This can lead to improper sizing and a lack of protection during play.

It’s important to take the time to ensure that each piece of gear fits properly, including helmets, skates, and gloves. Don’t sacrifice safety for convenience.

Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to any discomfort or signs of improper fit during practice or games. Make adjustments as needed to ensure that your child is always properly protected on the ice.

Remember, taking the time to properly fit your child’s hockey gear is crucial for their safety and enjoyment of the game. Don’t make the mistake of rushing the process and risking injury.

Frequently Asked Questions