Getting Started With Youth Hockey

Skates — Purchase skates that will fit your child today with no more than 1/2" allowed for growth. Seek adequate protection in the ankle, toe and instep areas, improperly fitted skates will hamper your child’s ability to skate.

Helmet — Must be of a design and construction approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC). Must be sized at the time of purchase to fit properly. The chin strap must always be fastened.

Facemask — Must be of a design and construction approved by the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC).

Mouthpiece — Required for players in the 12 & Under (youth) and 8 & Under (girls) through Junior age classification. USA Hockey encourages players of all ages and ability levels to use a mouthpiece.

Stick — Length should generally extend from the ice to the players chin (with skates on). Quality and price differ greatly, so the choice is yours.

Shin Pads — Check for proper lengths so they protect the knee and skin completely.

Supporter and Cup – Essential protective equipment.

Gloves — Check for proper fit with good finger and hand mobility.

Shoulder Pads — Adjust to fit the individual at the time of purchase. A fiber cap is extremely important in preventing shoulder separations and should extend to the tip of the shoulder.

Pants/Breezers — Held in proper position by suspenders. Pants provide protection for the lower spine, hips and thighs.

Elbow Pads — Properly fitted so they do not slide.

Goaltender Equipment — The goaltender's equipment is especially important, so seek advice from a knowledgeable source.  Special equipment is necessary such as gloves (catching and stick), chest and stomach protection, goalie skates (with protective shell), leg pads and shoulder and arm protectors.

A complete set of hockey equipment can be purchased for a relatively reasonable cost.

Shop around for the best values and remember that you need not buy the most expensive equipment. Inquire about local equipment swaps and team discounts, but keep in mind the equipment must fit properly to provide the maximum protection.