Tips For Buying Hockey Equipment

Do you want to be the next Jarome Iginla? Before you dominate the rink, you have to make sure you have the right equipment! Here are some tips on buying some of your hockey gear.

Hockey Equipment - Sticks

Unless used as a weapon, your hockey stick will be your tool to success during the game. Th length of the stick is super important. Make sure you get a stick that is at the least as tall as your collar bone but no taller than your mouth. You should be measuring this while your skates are on, of course. When it comes to the quality of a stick, start with a wooden one because they are less expensive ($20-$30 US) than aluminum ($30-$100 US) sticks. If you are a beginner, don’t worry too much about the curve on the stick’s blade. A slight curve is okay, but nothing higher, until you have perfected that wrist shot.

Hockey Equipment - Skates

If your going to lead the league in goals, you gotta have good skates, right? It is crucial you have skates with good stability and strong ankle support. Also take note on the exterior, because skates should protect your feet from other skates and the puck. Fit and comfort are big factors as well. Typically, you want to buy a skate that is one size smaller than your shoe size. Beginner skates usually cost about $75 US, while high end skates are priced around $350 US. Blades should be sharpened regularly (every 6-8 hours of practice or game time). You don’t want them too sharp, so be sure to take them to a qualified skate sharpener (they are usually located at your local rink).

Hockey Equipment - Buy Used!

Unlike basketball, where you just show up to a park with a ball and sneakers, hockey requires a bit (OK… a lot) more equipment. Hockey gear is EXPENSIVE, so be easy on mom and dad and get second hand equipment. Nearly all equipment (skates, gloves, elbow pads, etc.) can be bought at swap meets, through newspaper ads or even from your local hockey rink. You might want to look for a new mouth piece though!

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