IF YOU’VE NEVER PLAYED HOCKEY, ALL THE GEAR IS A MYSTERY. And even if you have, it’s still easy to forget or lose something, particularly in the chaos of a crowded locker room. Whether you’re shopping for new gear for a new player or checking over your own stuff, use this handy hockey gear checklist.
On the Body
*See the Total Hockey Grow the Game “Gear Guide” for details on items that both players and goalies use.
Q&A Goalkeeper Leg Pad Measurements
Question: I’ve seen referees stop NHL Goalkeeper Blocker games and measure the goalies’ leg Measurements pads. Do I need to worry about that?
Answer: While most of the equipment available for purchase should be “legal” for youth hockey, it can’t hurt to become familiar with Rule 303 Goalkeeper’s Equipment in the USA Hockey 2011–2013 Official Rules of Ice Hockey book available in PDF form at www.usahockey.com . According to the rule, “With the exception of skates and stick, all the equipment worn by the goalkeeper must be constructed solely for the purpose of protecting the head or body, and he must not wear any garment or use any contrivance that would give him undue assistance in keeping goal.” Since the goalkeeper can receive a minor penalty for equipment violations,28 USA Hockey read the rule carefully and consult the Equipment Diagrams starting on page 26 of the Official Rules of Ice Hockey.
