Selection of hockey uniforms by size. How to choose hockey equipment for a child? Shoe numbering systems
Hockey is a tough game in which not only technical but also power techniques are used to fight for the puck. The risk of injury while playing or training is very high. Collisions with other players, puck hits, hits with a skate blade and stick are dangerous.
Only high-quality, properly selected equipment can protect the player from injuries. You need to think about buying it first. Every hockey player should know how to choose hockey equipment: not only price and quality are taken into account, but also some other parameters. The choice must be approached with all responsibility, because the health and sometimes the life of an athlete depends on it.
How to choose the right hockey equipment
Equipment for hockey consists of basic and additional elements of protection. The main ones include gloves, elbow pads, helmet, shields, armor and shorts. Additional features include straps for protectors, groin shells, braces for shorts, neck protectors, etc.
To ensure safety, you need to choose each element correctly.
Rules for choosing hockey equipment:
- Gloves. Fingers should bend without difficulty, the product should be comfortable, durable and light. It is advisable to choose models with length adjustment - they can be customized to fit other elements. Measure the distance between your fingertips and bottom elbow pad, there should be no gap between the glove and the elbow pad.
- Elbow pads. They consist of several parts, are upholstered on both sides, the main element is a hinge with a protective cup for the elbow. Measure the distance from the top edge of the cuff to the bottom of the protector, choose a model that covers the arm along the entire length. Elbow pads should be comfortable, securely fastened and not interfere with movements.
- Helmet. Measure the circumference of your head and check how snug it fits your head. The distance from the eyebrows to the edge of the helmet should be 20-30 mm, it should be comfortable and not hang on the head.
- Shields. Used to protect the knees and shins, they must be hinged, have a softening lining, protection under patella and calf. Measure the distance from the top edge of the ridge to the middle of the cup. Measurements must be taken while sitting.
- Shell. Protects chest and back. Measure your bust and choose the model according to your size. There should be no gap between the elbow pad and the biceps protector, contact should not cause discomfort.
- Shorts. Shorts protect the hips, lower back and coccyx from injuries, they are equipped with plastic lining. Made from high strength nylon. You need to select shorts by size, preferably with a fitting.
All protection elements must be securely fastened and not cause discomfort during the game. There should be a minimum distance between them; these should be high-quality, durable and lightweight products, selected according to individual parameters.
Rules for fitting and selecting hockey skates
- The size of hockey skates is usually 1 - 1.5 sizes smaller than the size of regular shoes. After determining the size using a special ruler, if possible, try on skates half a size smaller, because. the boot of the skate should be as tight as possible.
Put on the skate, vigorously move the foot back, lace up the boot. If the heel moves freely and does not press tightly against the heel counter, try on a skate that is smaller or less full. Get up and walk for 5-10 minutes.
In a boot of the right size, the foot should not move forward or move from side to side. The boot should "sit" tightly on the leg, while not causing discomfort, the toes should only lightly touch inside the cape of the boot, but do not press or interfere. The fulfillment of these conditions means that the size is chosen absolutely correctly. - The size of children's skates is selected taking into account the growth of the foot during the season by a maximum of 1 size.
ATTENTION! By virtue of design features Sizes of GRAF, CCM, RBK, BAUER, NIKE and EASTON amateur and professional skates may vary slightly, so NEED QUALIFIED HELP IN SELECTING SIZE AND TRY ON SKATES CAREFULLY BEFORE PURCHASING!
Skate Size Chart
Adults/SR
| Russia | 38.5 | 39 | 39.5 | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 41.5 | 42 | 42.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | ||
| EASTON US | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | ||
Adults/SR (continued)
| Russia | 43 | 43.5 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 45.5 | 46 | 46.5 | 47 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | ||
| EASTON US | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | ||
Junior/JR
| Russia | 32.5 | 33 | 33.5 | 34 | 34.5 | 35 | 35.5 | 36 | 36.5 | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 38.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
- | 1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | ||
| EASTON US | - | 1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | ||
Baby/YTH
| Russia | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28.5 | 29 | 29.5 | 30 | 30.5 | 31 | 31.5 | 32 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
Y08 | Y09 | Y10 | Y11 | Y12 | Y13 | - | ||||
| CCM US RBK US |
Y8 | Y9 | Y10 | Y11 | Y12 | Y13 | |||||
| EASTON US | Y09 | Y10 | Y11 | Y11.5 | Y12 | Y12.5 | Y13 | Y13.5 | |||
How to determine the size of skates
Determining the size of shoes
- Place both feet (in socks) on a piece of paper and circle with a pencil (you can also measure the insole of the shoe you wear)
- Measure from heel to toe.
- If the lengths of the right and left legs differ, choose the largest.
FULLNESS OF THE LEGS
For skates, there is D (R) - a narrow foot (often used by professionals), EE (W) - a fuller foot (for most amateurs, also mainly for Russia).
SHOE NUMBERING SYSTEMS
In Russia (CIS countries), the number of shoes is considered to be the size of the foot, measured in millimeters, excluding decorative allowances for pads, warm socks, and other things. The length of the foot is measured from the most protruding point of the heel to the most protruding toe.
In the French system, shoe size is the length of the insole. The unit of measurement is a stroke, which is equal to 2/3 of a centimeter. The length of the insole is usually longer than the length of the foot by the so-called decorative allowance, which can be from 0 to 15 mm long, which introduces some confusion in the translation from one numbering system to another. Today it is accepted equal to 10 mm.
English system - inch (1 inch is equal to 2.54 cm). The zero size is four inches from the heel rounding of the insole, that is, the standard size of a newborn's foot, and the numbering goes through 1/3 inch from 0 to number 13, and then again from 1 to 13.
The American system is similar to the English system, but compared to it is shifted to zero by 1/12 inch (2.1 mm). Thus, in the English and American systems, there are pairs of the same size.
There is another American system - for women. It is even more shifted to the beginning of the measurement in the direction of decreasing and also has numbering from 1 to 13, but only for large numbers.
Rules for fitting and selecting figure skates
- When choosing skates, it is of paramount importance right choice size. Size figure skates usually half a size smaller than regular shoes. Do not take skates that are big or small for you, just strictly in size. The leg should feel comfortable inside. This will save you from painful wearing, rubbing and distortion of movements.
- Try on the skates with the socks you will be skating in. Put on an unlaced boot, place your foot on the heel and press the heel firmly in the direction of the heel of the boot. The boot should "sit" tightly on the leg, while not causing discomfort, the toes should only slightly touch the inside of the toe of the boot, but not press or interfere. The fulfillment of these conditions means that the size is chosen absolutely correctly.
- Having chosen your boots, learn how to lace them correctly - weaker at the toe of the boot, stiffer in the instep area (for maximum heel fixation and protection of the ankle from injury) and weaker again at the top hooks. If the lacing is correct, the heel should be firmly fixed and not move up and down. Stand up, make sure that the skates are level - the ankles should not turn outward. The shoe should not hang around the ankle, but also put pressure on it.
Size chart for men's figure skates
Adults/SR
| Russia | 38.5 | 39 | 39.5 | 40 | 40.5 | 41 | 41.5 | 42 | 42.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | ||
| EASTON US | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | ||
Adults/SR (continued)
| Russia | 43 | 43.5 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 45.5 | 46 | 46.5 | 47 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 13 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | ||
| EASTON US | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | ||
Junior/JR
| Russia | 32.5 | 33 | 33.5 | 34 | 34.5 | 35 | 35.5 | 36 | 36.5 | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 38.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | ||
| CCM US RBK US |
- | 1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | ||
| EASTON US | - | 1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 | 3.5 | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | ||
Baby/YTH
| Russia | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28.5 | 29 | 29.5 | 30 | 30.5 | 31 | 31.5 | 32 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GRAF US BAUER US Nike US MISSION US |
Y08 | Y09 | Y10 | Y11 | Y12 | Y13 | - | ||||
| CCM US RBK US |
Y8 | Y9 | Y10 | Y11 | Y12 | Y13 | |||||
| EASTON US | Y09 | Y10 | Y11 | Y11.5 | Y12 | Y12.5 | Y13 | Y13.5 | |||
Size chart for women's figure skates
Adults/SR
| Russia | 36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 | 41 | 42 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCM US Nike US RBK US |
5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 |
Junior/JR
|
Russia |
32 | 33 | 34 | 35 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CCM US Nike US RBK US |
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Junior/JR
| Russia | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCM US Nike US RBK US |
Y8 | Y9 | Y10 | Y11 | Y12 | Y13 |
Helmet Size Chart
Measure your head circumference and find the appropriate size in the table.
PROTECTION: A hockey helmet should fit snugly around the head to prevent twisting and maximize protection.
COMFORT: You should feel comfortable wearing the helmet. Try on helmets from different brands and choose the one that you feel most comfortable in.
FIT: The helmet should sit on the head so that, snug against the head, its edge is a finger's width above the eyebrows.
ATTENTION: The dimensions of the helmets given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| SIZE US | X-Small | Small | Medium | large | X-Large |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HEAD CIRCUM, cm | 50-53 | 53-56 | 56-58 | 58-60 | 60-63 |
Glove size chart
Measure the distance between your fingertips and the bottom edge of the elbow pad.
To ensure safety during the game, when choosing gloves, pay attention to the absence of a gap between the elbow pad and the glove. Players who prefer shorter glove styles should opt for longer elbow pads.
ATTENTION: The sizes of gloves given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| GLOVES | YOUTH\KIDS | JUNIOR | SENIOR\ADULTS | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SIZE | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| LENGTH cm | 18-20 | 20-23 | 23-28 | 24-27 | 25-30 | 30-33 | 33-36 | 38+ |
Carapace Size Correspondence Table
Measure your bust and find the appropriate size in the table.
Player chest size is the primary parameter, height is secondary.
To ensure safety, when choosing a shell, pay attention to the absence of a gap between the lower border of the protector of the biceps of the shell and the elbow pad. But, at the same time, the biceps protector should not intersect with the elbow pad - this will hinder movement during the game.
ATTENTION: The dimensions of the shells given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| SHELL | SIZE | SIZE US | BREAST VOLUME, cm | GROWTH, cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YOUTH/CHILDREN | 1 | Small / Medium | 56-66 | 100-125 |
| 1 | Medium / Large | 61-71 | 115-140 | |
| JUNIOR | 2 | Small | 66-76 | 130-140 |
| 2 | Medium | 71-81 | 135-145 | |
| 3 | large | 76-86 | 140-150 | |
| SENIOR/ADULT | 4 | Small | 86-97 | 150-175 |
| 5 | Medium | 97-107 | 170-180 | |
| 6 | large | 102-112 | 175-185 | |
| 6 | X-Large | 107+ | 180-190 | |
| 6 | XX Large | 107+ | 185+ |
Elbow size chart
Bend your arm and measure the length of the upper arm/forearm from the bottom of the carapace bicep protector to the top of the glove cuff.
Find the appropriate length in the table and determine your size.
To ensure safety during the game, when choosing protection, pay attention to the absence of unprotected places between the lower border of the protector of the biceps of the shell and the elbow pad, as well as between the elbow pad and the glove. Players who prefer shorter glove styles should opt for longer elbow pads.
ATTENTION: The dimensions of the elbow pads given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| ELBOW PADS | SIZE | SIZE US | LENGTH cm | GROWTH, cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YOUTH/KIDS | 1 | Small / Medium | 18-20 | 100-125 |
| 1 | Medium / Large | 20-23 | 115-140 | |
| JUNIOR | 2 | Small | 23-27 | 130-140 |
| 2 | Medium | 25-28 | 135-145 | |
| 3 | large | 26-30 | 140-150 | |
| SENIOR/ADULTS | 4 | Small | 30-33 | 150-175 |
| 5 | Medium | 33-36 | 170-180 | |
| 6 | large | 36-38 | 175-185 | |
| 7 | X-Large | 38+ | 180-190 |
Shield size chart
Measure the length of the shin from the middle of the kneecap to the top of the skate.
Find the appropriate length in the table and determine your size.
Calf length is best measured while sitting.
Player's calf size is the primary parameter, height is secondary.
ATTENTION: The dimensions of the shields given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| SHIELDINGS | SIZE | SIZE US | SHIN LENGTH, cm | GROWTH, cm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YOUTH/KIDS | 8 | Yth. S | 20-23 | up to 110 |
| 9 | Yth. L | 23-25 | 110-120 | |
| JUNIOR | 10 | Jr. S | 25-28 | 120-130 |
| 11 | Jr. M | 28-30 | 130-140 | |
| 12 | Jr. L | 30-33 | 140-150 | |
| 13 | Jr. XL | 33-36 | 150-160 | |
| SENIOR/ADULTS | 14 | Sr. S | 36-38 | 160-170 |
| 15 | Sr. M | 38-41 | 170-180 | |
| 16 | Sr. L | 41-43 | 180-190 | |
| 17 | Sr. XL | > 43 | > 190 | |
| 18 | Sr. XXL | > 43 | > 190 |
Short Size Chart
Measure your waist and find the appropriate size in the table.
FIT: The bottom of the shorts should reach the player's knee and the top should cover the kidneys and lower ribs.
ATTENTION: The sizes of the shorts given in the table should be taken as recommendations only. Dimensions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
| SHORTS | SIZE US | WAIST, cm |
|---|---|---|
| YOUTH/KIDS | Yth. S | 53-55 |
| Yth. M | 55-58 | |
| Yth. L | 58-61 | |
| JUNIOR | Jr. S | 61-66 |
| Jr. M | 66-71 | |
| Jr. L | 71-76 | |
| SENIOR/ADULTS | Sr. S | 76-81 |
| Sr. M | 81-86 | |
| Sr. L | 86-91 | |
| Sr. XL | 91-96 | |
| Sr. XXL | 96-102 |
Very often, clients turn to us with a request - to help pick up equipment for a beginner-lover. Especially for this, we have written this short article that will help you choose a hockey uniform.
Among amateurs, there are two camps with the opposite opinion - some advise buying a lighter and less expensive uniform for the first time, and only then, if you need to update it, the second group assures that you should immediately buy a pro-level kit. There is no single answer to this question. Everyone has different conditions, financial opportunities, but you should not try to save on everything ...
It's up to you to decide.
Let's start in order..
1) First, you need to define what is meant by the word newbie.
A person who does not know how to skate at all, or a person who is confident on skates, but has hardly played hockey??!
If you are in the first category, then you are at high risk of injury due to lack of skills and training, in which case you should purchase a kit. hockey uniform with improved protection since it is more likely that you will fall on the coccyx - it is necessary to take shorts with improved protection of the coccyx, kidneys and hips, but it is desirable that they are not very heavy. When choosing shorts with a limited budget, we also advise you to pay attention to bu, but of a good level, they will serve you faithfully for a long time.
Also, you will crash into the sides if you don’t have braking skills, then don’t skimp on the shields, and it’s better to buy a helmet with a mask so that you don’t spend money on a dentist later. Beginners tend to swing the stick like a scythe..
If you are going to play at a decent amateur level, then you should think about the pads above the average, or the top level (which is the case with the most throws on the pads),
2) Remember that you need to buy only what is comfortable in - this is the most important thing in buying a uniform. No need to go cheap
3) It is desirable to measure everything. When buying a uniform, pay attention to the joints between the elements of the equipment.
4) The most important thing is to choose the right skates, which should not be saved on, cheap skates easily break through even with a slight throw, the consequences of which can be disappointing. The biggest mistake when buying skates for the first time is choosing the size. You need to focus not on the model or company, but on your own feelings - the comfort of the foot in the skate.
5) During the use of the form, sooner or later the process of updating and improving it comes, this is an inevitable process. So get ready for it
6) When buying the first set of a hockey uniform without the advice of specialists or already playing comrades, it is not worth going shopping. Also, you should not take the first kits in general sports stores, so to speak, non-specialized stocks, most of whose consultants do not have sufficient knowledge in the field hockey equipment especially for hockey skates
7) Save wisely and not on quality. Cheaper uniforms are less durable, as a result of lower quality workmanship, equipment smells faster, and is usually heavier. In part, this may affect its strength.
Children's hockey equipment is needed for every young novice hockey player. Hockey stores in Minsk offer to buy the necessary things. But before buying inventory, they are determined not only with the size, but also with the configuration and parameters of the products.
What is children's hockey equipment made of?
The purpose of hockey equipment is to protect the child from possible bruises, falls and injuries on the ice. The composition of the standard set consists of:
- helmet
- bibs;
- elbow pads;
- shields;
- gloves
- T-shirts, shorts, underwear.
Separately, special equipment for the goalkeeper is sold, since it must have a bandage, a goalkeeper's trap. And, of course, all athletes must be equipped with skates and clubs.
Protecting the face
A helmet is an important piece of equipment in hockey, so choose it carefully. The main rule is that the product should sit tightly, but not pinch the head. The front part is usually located 2 cm above the eyebrows.
You need to choose a helmet depending on the shape of your head. Many companies make helmets suitable for players with oval heads. Products from the brands Reebok, Bauer, Easton are suitable for children with a round shape.
To protect the face, masks in the form of nets (usually made of stainless steel) are used.
Bandage and armor
Breastplate - equipment that helps protect the chest, shoulder joint, waist. The bib is fixed on the sides of the sternum and around the shoulders.
The bandage prevents inguinal injuries. The standard model of the product is a body-shaped shell with a belt (elastic) and 2 straps. The bandage should have a built-in belt for the leggings. Well-known brands create body underwear with an additional shell and gaiter fixation, which allows you to buy three items in one.
Elbow pads and pads
Elbow pads - protection elbow joint at the moment of collision, fall. For the correct selection of the size of this piece of equipment, they are repelled from the open area between the uniform on the elbows and the bib.
Both adult and children's hockey equipment consists of shields that protect the knee and shin at the time of falls, from cuts by the sharp part of the skates. It is easy to pick up shields: they must correspond to their length (the unit of measurement is an inch).
There are 2 versions of the shields - wide and narrowed. The wide ones are used so that they fit on top of the boot, provide reliable protection. The option is considered narrowed when the tongues of the skates are obtained from the outside, and the shields are closed from above by the leggings. It is up to the young players themselves to decide what form of pads to buy.
Gloves
The second name of gloves is leggings, they help in protecting the wrist, the back of the hand, and fingers. Product size is its length in inches. When choosing leggings, pay attention to how it sits on the limb. Fingertips should not touch the glove. The best option is for the cuff to slightly cover the lower fragment of the elbow pad. good glove one that does not restrict movement, does not interfere with the retention of the club.
Criteria for choosing skates
Having put on skates, the child should feel that the heel is tightly planted, the model is comfortable. It is better to sit down, fix the skate with the blade to the floor, pull the heel back in one movement, until it stops. Then they lean forward, push off so that the fingers drop back a little. If the product squeezes, the size does not fit, you need to choose other shoes.
Skates for children are usually bought half a size larger because the foot will still grow.
hockey sticks
The stick is not an element of protection, it is used by hockey players to dribble the puck. Products come in 3 types: INT, YTH and JR (they are formed depending on the age of the player). Models are of different rigidity, height. The level of hardness (Flex) shows how flexible or rigid the product is.
A simple choice of stick length - it is bought if it reaches the athlete's nose when he is not skating or touches the chin if he is skating. If there is no suitable length, it is better to purchase a longer one and shorten it yourself.
Hockey underwear
A classic underwear is a jumpsuit with a zipper on the stomach. But they buy separate options: shorts, tights, T-shirts with different types sleeves. Socks are chosen so that they do not sit loose, this will provoke the appearance of corns.
T-shirts are chosen large, loose, they are worn over hockey uniforms. Usually players have three types of jerseys: training, away and home. On the back indicate the number of the hockey player. The color is chosen one for the whole team.
Hockey stores from the TAM.BY catalog offer you children's hockey equipment from leading manufacturers, which will allow the player to feel comfortable in it.
End of September. For some fans, the hockey season has already started, for some it will start very soon. It is quite possible that now some hockey players are thinking about changing their equipment ... Today the HockeyScience blog will share with readers simple and understandable tips related to choosing various attributes of a hockey player's equipment.
- Helmet:
The main functional purpose of the helmet is to protect the player's head from injury. To do this, the helmet must fit perfectly on your head, be light and have reliable fasteners. Naturally, when choosing a helmet, you can’t do without trying it on ...
When trying on a helmet, you should not feel discomfort, pressure on any area of the head, especially on the temporal parts. At the same time, for maximum protection, the helmet should sit on the head steadily, without dangling. After all, a casually sitting helmet - bad defense and therefore a high risk of injury. By fit, the helmet should sit on the head so that, tightly fitting to the head, its edge is a finger's thickness above the eyebrows.
After purchase, adjust the helmet. Use a standard screwdriver to loosen the adjustment screws on the top side of the helmet and move the helmet to its largest position. Then put on the helmet, and slowly begin to slide it on your head. Having reached a comfortable position, fasten the screws and check the result: the worn helmet should sit tight, not allowing the head to turn inside its structure, but any pressure on the skull should be excluded.
You should choose head protection from serious brands that receive HECC and CSA certification for their helmets. These, for example, include the brands Bauer, CCM, Reebok, Easton and Warrior ... Also, when choosing a helmet, you must immediately choose a special face protection for it - a visor or a mask. I recommend choosing a full-fledged grille, because it protects not only the eyes, but the entire face.
- Leggings:
First, decide for what purpose you are buying leggings. If you are buying them for yard hockey or other non high level games, then pay attention to inexpensive models of gloves - they are quite light and will definitely protect your hands from non-critical blows. If you have a fairly high level of play and the risk of injury is higher, then I recommend that you look at models of a higher class - their level of protection is higher, and the materials are more perfect.
The main thing in choosing hockey cuffs is the comfort of fit and the reliability of gloves. When choosing leggings, I recommend paying attention not only to the leggings of famous brands, but also to the leggings of more or less well-known manufacturers. In the store, try on several models from different manufacturers. Leggings should not fit snugly against the elbow pad, because. it will hinder your movements; but there should not be a gap between the leggings and the elbow piece - otherwise the risk of injury will increase. Look for the most comfortable gloves.
The inner surface of the leggings should fit under your arm and be as comfortable as possible. They should not hinder movement, interfere with the work with the club. Fingers in gloves should easily bend and unbend. But do not forget about the safety of gloves. Leggings should not be too soft, because for comfort and softness, you can pay a high risk of injury.
- Bib:
Hockey bib designed to provide protection chest and the back of a hockey player. It consists of front and rear protectors and special shoulder pads. A number of models are equipped with reinforced side inserts and adjustable or removable belly and lumbar protectors. And the main requirement for the bib is a high degree of protection with maximum mobility.
Conditionally bibs can be divided into two categories - for forwards and for defenders. Strikers usually prefer models with minimal weight to maintain maneuverability and top speed, but sacrificing security. Defenders, on the other hand, choose models with the maximum level of protection, agreeing to not the lightest weight.
Choose the most comfortable and secure bib. Try to choose a bib with the highest level of protection for your chest, back, ribs, and biceps. Also note that there are no gaps between the bicep protector and the elbow pad; at the same time, the biceps protector should not intersect with the elbow pad - this will hinder movement during the game.
- Elbow pads:
The choice of hockey elbow pads complete with a hockey bib will be the most optimal. These elements of protection must necessarily be combined with each other so that the hockey player does not feel difficulties when moving, and also in order to avoid the formation of unprotected places on the player's body.
As with the choice of chest pads, when choosing elbow pads, attackers usually prioritize the minimum weight, while defenders choose models with the maximum degree of protection. As for brands, when choosing a bib and elbow pads, I recommend paying attention to the products of market leaders: Bauer, CCM, Reebok, Easton and Warrior.
- Underpants:
Hockey shorts are required to protect the hip area, coccyx and kidneys of a hockey player in case of falls, collisions and puck hits. Also, as in the two previous items of equipment, hockey shorts can be divided into models for forwards and models for defenders.
Forwards prioritize light weight and speed, defenders prioritize security and reliability. In addition, cowards are divided into professional and amateur. The first have a high degree of protection with a relatively small weight. The second ones are a more simplified version with a lower degree of security and are designed for a lower level of play.
Hockey shorts must reliably protect the hips, waist and coccyx of the player. Make sure that the protection in these places is of a good level. There should be no wide unprotected areas between the hockey bib and the belt guard. The cup of the shield should be partially under the protector of the thigh. It is important that there should not be any discomfort in this place when bending and unbending the knee joint... Well, don't forget to buy a shell!
Remember, the most important factor in choosing hockey shorts is personal feeling. The comfort and convenience of a single model depends on the individual characteristics of the player's physique. Choose the most comfortable outfit...
- Guards:
Hockey pads consist of two main parts: a cup and a shin guard. They must reliably protect the lower leg, knee-joint and caviar of a hockey player. Distinguish shields on wide and narrow.
Wide shields have a large inner radius at the bottom of the shield. They are designed for players who prefer to place their skate tongue under the guard. Shields of this type are more massive and cover most of the ankle joint providing reliable protection.
Narrow ones, in contrast to wide-shaped shields, have a smaller inner radius. They absolutely do not hinder movement, allowing you to make sharper maneuvers. They are located under the tongue of the skate. Narrow shields cover a smaller surface of the ankle joint when compared with wide ones.
Shields should be securely protected in all areas, be comfortable and not heavy. No gaps should be created in the area of \u200b\u200bthe joints of the shields with skates and shorts. Not bad if there is an additional side protector on the shields. Otherwise, pads should be chosen based on the individual characteristics and preferences of the player.
- Skates:
Hockey skates are one of the key elements of hockey equipment. Their choice must be approached very carefully. It is necessary to choose the most comfortable boot last and at the same time the skates must have a good level of protection. To do this, you need to try on different models of skates from different manufacturers.
It is necessary to choose those skates that will be most comfortable. The fitting technology should be as follows: put on shoes, drown your foot well in the shoe, then lace up. You need to measure the boot on the sock in which you plan to ride. It is selected depending on the temperature "overboard" - on a closed rink, the legs will be warm even in a thin sock; but to play outside, at minus 25-30 degrees, you need something warmer - I recommend choosing special thermal socks.
It is pointless to sit passively in skates when trying on. In laced skates, you need to walk around, trample, assessing the sensations in the legs, and how well the boot fixes and supports the ankle, and whether it restricts mobility where it is needed. When trying on shoes, they should not squeeze the foot, the fingers should not rest against the toe of the shoe from the inside ...
In general, there should not be any discomfort. It is also worth deciding what you are buying skates for. If this is a visit to the hockey rink in the yard once a week, then amateur-level skates will suit you. Another thing is if you can play hockey 4-5 times a week, and even in a team. In this case, good skates will serve you well and make the game easier.
In particular, one of the advantages of higher-level skates is the molding of the boot. I must say right away that it is not used in all models, but if it is used, it helps a lot. Its meaning is the most complete conformity of the boot to the shape of the owner's foot. It is not a means of adapting any skate to any foot, but serves as a final fit of known to fit boots, and reduces the time to get used to them.
Remember: there are no universal skates suitable for everyone and cannot be, by definition. Each model of skates of each company has its own block. You need to select the most convenient model. Skates should also hold your foot well and should not be too soft. Choose skates from well-known manufacturers such as Bauer, Reebok, Graf, CCM and Easton.
I also recommend that those who will choose skates watch the video below. In it, a consultant from the Canadian online hockey equipment store Ice Warehouse talks about some models of skates and clearly demonstrates what you need to pay attention to when choosing them.
- Hockey stick:
A hockey stick is the main weapon of any hockey player. The production of clubs in the world is constantly improving, specialists use more and more new materials, introduce new technologies, which allows meeting the growing needs of players. Choosing the right club is one of highlights in the selection of hockey equipment.
The very first thing a hockey player is determined with when choosing a stick is a grip. If, with a comfortable grip on the club, the player’s left hand is lower, then you have a left grip; if vice versa - right. It is noticed that in Russia the majority of players have a left grip, and in North America there are almost the same number of players with a right and left grip.
Next, you need to decide - a wooden club or a composite one. Wooden sticks are cheap, give you good feel and control of the puck; however, they are short-lived and heavy. Composite sticks are more durable, lighter in weight but more expensive. I recommend wooden sticks for beginner hockey players, but for more experienced players it is more useful to choose composite options.
Clubs are also divided into solid and composite. For a compound club, the pipe and hook are purchased separately and then connected. The one-piece club is sold with elements connected by the manufacturer. The advantages of composite clubs are the low cost of operation (in the event of a breakdown of such a club, only the hook needs to be replaced) and the ability to experiment with different hooks; the disadvantage is lower playing qualities compared to solid composite ones.
After trying on the length of the club. In order to choose the correct stick length, the player must be on skates. If you do not have the opportunity to wear skates, then do not forget that you will be taller in skates. When trying on, the club should be parallel to your body, resting the nose of the hook on the ground.
The length of the hockey stick is usually chosen from personal preference. With a standard length, the club should reach up to your nose. The style of the game also affects this characteristic. Defenders and grenadiers are more suited to a long stick. Dribblers and nimble forwards are more suitable for a short stick. For all-round players and beginners, sticks of medium length are suitable ...
The next thing to consider when choosing a stick is stiffness. It is determined mainly by the weight of the player. The standard stick flex is half your weight in pounds (so at 180 lbs, you want 90 flex). Also consider your style of play: if you are a big player and often make powerful shots, then you need a stiffer stick (+ 5-10 flex); if a technical player with smaller dimensions, then a softer one is needed (- 5-10 flex). For playing outdoors, you should choose a stick with a high level of rigidity (+ 5 flex).
Blade bend is another nuance to consider when choosing a stick. The choice of its form depends solely on the individual preferences of the hockey player. With a properly chosen angle, the stick fits comfortably on the ice with the entire edge of the hook ... I note that usually a stick with a small hook and a bend more than average is more suitable for attackers; and for the defender, a larger-than-average hook with a slight kink.
Summing up, I will say that your club should be as convenient as possible for you. First of all, you need to proceed from your personal preferences and impressions of the stick. When choosing a club, consider your experience, level of play, physical data. Remember exactly what hockey stick most accurately reflects the personal characteristics of the player, his personality ...
That's all. Thank you for your attention. See you soon!
