Are you a new to hockey parent? It can be a little
overwhelming to try and figure out what you need for equipment and how its supposed to fit. We’re here to
help!
The Basics of Hockey Equipment
To begin their hockey adventure, your child will need a
range of equipment to stay safe and fully engage in the game. The following
list highlights the essential items your young hockey player will need:
- Helmet: A certified hockey helmet is a non-negotiable
piece of equipment. It protects your child's head from potential impacts and
falls on the ice.
- Skates: Proper-fitting ice skates provide stability
and mobility. Look for skates that offer ankle support and are comfortable for
your child to wear.
- Shoulder Pads, Elbow Pads, and Shin Guards: These
protective gear pieces shield your child's upper and lower body from impacts
and collisions while on the ice.
- Gloves: Hockey gloves provide grip on the stick and
protect your child's hands from the cold and sticks, pucks and skates.
- Hockey Pants: These padded pants offer additional protection
for the hips and thighs. They are designed to minimize injuries from falls and
collisions.
- Practice Jersey and Socks: Your child will need a
team jersey and socks. As part of our programming these are provided to all
players. Our U5 and U7 programs will all receive Timbits jerseys and socks but
it is good to have spares in your player’s hockey bag.
- Hockey Stick: A hockey stick is a crucial tool for
gameplay. Without skates on, experts recommend a stick that touches underneath
the nose but no lower than bottom of the chin when stood upright, shaft
perpendicular to the ground. (see diagram below)
- Mouthguard: A mouthguard helps protect your child's
teeth and mouth from accidental injuries. It is also often instinct to bite
down before an impact, and a mouthguard gives a player something to bite into.
Mouthguards have a secondary function, though, as a shock absorber. Any
significant blow to the chin can result in a force that travels from the chin
to the jaw bone, into the teeth and facial bones.
- Neck Guard: This piece of equipment is designed to
protect the neck and throat area from stray pucks, sticks and skates. A BNQ
Certified neck guard is required by all players under Hockey Canada.
- Jock or Jill Strap: For boys, a proper-fitting jock
strap and for girls a Jill strap provide essential protection.
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Getting Started
To assist with the proper fitting of the equipment listed above,
what this equipment fit guide by Hockey Canada.
How to buy?
To help you get started, Canadian Tire offers a
comprehensive selection of hockey equipment kits tailored to beginners. These
kits often include a combination of the essential gear mentioned above, making
it convenient for parents to acquire all the necessary items in one go. You can
find these kits on the Canadian Tire website CLICK HERE to View.
Other retailers offer these types of kits as well. Feel free to do you homework here.
Used equipment can be a cost effective way to proceed as well. Facebook Marketplace and retailers such as Stroud Sports (located at IRC) and Play it Again Sports offer used equipment that can help lighten the cost. We highly recommend a new helmet for all beginner players. We do not recommend purchasing used helmets.
Equipping your child with the right hockey gear is a crucial
step towards a safe and enjoyable hockey experience. With the proper equipment
in hand, your young player can focus on developing their skills, making
friends, and falling in love with the game of hockey. Remember to prioritize
safety and comfort when choosing equipment. Get ready to watch your child hit
the ice with confidence and enthusiasm!