WYHA HOCKEY EQUIPMENT FITTING GUIDE
PARENTS
Please note this is a guide intended to be used by parents, coaches, trainers and players
when selecting appropriate protective equipment before stepping on the ice. The
information contained herein should only be used as a guideline when purchasing hockey
equipment. This guide contains valuable information about fitting and caring for
equipment, including tips that parents may find helpful when starting their children off
into the wonderful and exciting world of hockey.
How To Fit Ice Hockey Products
Today's hockey equipment helps protect you from head to toe. Most of the gear is
specifically designed to help maximize your performance while still helping to reduce the
risk of injury. This document will provide you overall guidelines to help you get the
proper fit for all of your equipment.
How to Buy Skates
The right size hockey skate isn't necessarily the same size as your shoe size. Typically
most hockey skates are sized smaller than your normal shoe size and hockey skates need
to be tighter to offer more stability and less abrasion when skating. Different brands of
skates may also feature unique styles and cuts that affect sizing as well. CCM and Bauer
skates tend to be a bit wider in fit and the Graf skates tend to fit a bit narrower. To get the
best fit for your skates follow the guidelines below. Explain how often you skate as well
as your skate history to our friendly staff. Based on this information, ask which skate is
right for you. A proper fit is determined by trying on a number of different brand name
skates and sizes. Skates sizes run 1 to 1 1/2 smaller than normal shoes (CCM tend to fit
a full two sizes smaller). Use a brand specific size gauge to get an accurate starting point
for sizing. This should be done standing up so the foot is fully extended. Please note that
different skate brands fit differently. Wear a pair of sport socks (ones you will wear
when you play) when sizing for accuracy. It is not suggested to wear skates barefoot as
this promotes bacteria, corrosion of materials, and breakdown of the skate. Once the skate
is on, a space measuring one finger should exist between the heel and the back of the
skate, kick back to lock the heel to the back of the skate, the toes should only barely be
able to feel the "toe cap". If the toes curl, the boot does not fit. Lace the skate firmly,
applying the most pressure on the top four eyelets. Note as the boot is laced; continue to
kick the heel back to the spine of the skate so that it remains firmly locked against the
back of the boot. Laces should be snug but not tight. Laces should never be wrapped
around the ankle as this inhibits blood flow. Also, a skate that is too big in length will
cause blisters and premature breakdown of the skate. Walk around, for approximately 15
minutes, to feel any painful pressure point or heel slippage. If red areas or discomfort
develop, review to see if the skate fits properly. Note: The heels should remain firmly
against the back of the skate if it slips or there is movement, then the skate is too large.
The foot should be comfortable in the foot bed, and the toes should lay flat in the boot.
When fitting children, do not fit them with "room to grow". The skater will not be able to
perform on the ice with too large of a boot, and this risks ankle injury. A slight
adjustment can be made for minor growth, but there should only be about a half an inch
between the heel and the toe. Adjust for a comfortable fit accordingly. Remember, a
break in period is necessary. Skates are a critical fit - try on a pair of used skates as they
are already broken in and will give you a sense of true fit! Do not buy larger sizes for
children to grow into. This hinders their ability to learn how to skate, and could hurt their
feet and ankles.
How to Buy Sticks
Wood, Aluminum or Graphite? Wood is heavier, much less expensive and may break
easier. Aluminum is durable, a bit more expensive, and can bend. Graphite/composite
shafts are the most expensive and vary in shape and weight, but are thought to be as
durable as aluminum. To measure proper length: Wearing skates, hold the stick with the
point of the blade touching the ground directly in front of you, between your feet - about
eight inches out, with the shaft of the stick vertical. Mark the stick at the point of your
chin. Not wearing skates, mark the stick where it touches your nose. If you have any
questions, your friendly staff will help. Blades can be curved or straight. Curved blades
are slightly harder to play with and always favor either left or right shooting. Determine
which shot is best by testing the stick in both positions.
How To Buy A Helmet
You wear a helmet to protect your head from injury, but you won't get the maximum
protection unless it is properly sized with a snug, aligned fit, to prevent shifting and
maximizing protection. Hockey rules require the helmet MUST be CSA or HECC
approved. The information below is designed to guide you in achieving a safe, secure
helmet fit. All levels of hockey, even the NHL, require players to wear a protective
helmet when playing. There are a large variety of helmet types available. To assure their
safety compliance the Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC) for the USA and
Canadian Standards Association (CSA) for Canada certify helmets and facemasks. Look
for the HECC and CSA Seal of Approval on your helmet purchase.
Note: The sizing may vary by manufacturer, but the table below can be used to help you
select the right size:
Helmet Sizing and Fit
Helmets come in a variety of sizes and are usually measured in inches (see chart below)
HELMET STANDARDS
Large (Senior): 14 years and up. Circumference of head: 22” - 23” 7/8th
Medium (Youth): 8 to14 years. Circumference of head: 21” 5/7th - 22” 3/8th
Small (Junior): up to 8 years. Circumference of head: 20” 1/8th – 22”
The helmet should sit squarely on the head with the front of the helmet low on the brow
to protect the forehead. The padding should exert firm, uniform pressure all around the
head so that the skin on the forehead moves as the helmet is rotated from left to right and
from front to back. Open the helmet to its largest setting. When on the head, the rim
should be one finger width above the eyebrow. Gradually begin to downsize the helmet
until a comfortably snug fit is achieved. Replace loose or missing screws immediately.
Check for cracks or deterioration and replace if necessary. Never paint or add stickers as
this removes the CSA/HECC certification.
Chin Strap
Make sure the chin strap is adjusted so it gently makes contact under the chin when
fastened. If the chip strap isn't correctly adjusted, it's possible for the helmet to be
knocked off or out of place. The chin strap is correctly adjusted when:
The helmet sits squarely on the head with the front low on the brow to protect the
forehead. The front and rear straps form a "Y" just below and forward of the ears.
There is no slack when the chin-strap is fastened.
Full Shield or Screen Face Mask/Cage
When fitting a proper measurement should be taken from the front of the helmet to the
bottom of the player’s chin. Note that this is a matter of personal preference. Although
the full shield offers better vision, they can fog up. Defoggers are available for this but
this is an added expense. A screen face mask provides better ventilation but restricts full
vision but this you can get used to. There are now combination masks with a half screen
half mask. These can all be purchased separately and attached to the helmet.
Facemasks Selection
All juniors through college level players are required to have a facemask on their
helmets. All youth hockey level players must have a full cage or a full shield on their
helmets. Facemasks are either sold as part of the helmet or sold separately. There are
three kinds - wire cage, face shield, and combination masks.
Wire Cage
A wire cage covers the entire face area.
Wire cages provide more protection and do not fog up like face shields.
Face shields
These are generally a high impact-resistant plastic that covers the front of the face.
Some players choose face shields because they offer better overall vision with no wires
getting in the way. Face shields are generally made with fog-resistant coatings.
Combination masks
Some manufacturers now offer the best of both designs - a plastic face shield to
protect the eyes and upper part of the face, and a wire mesh to cover the lower jaw
and to add ventilation.
Throat Protector/Neck Guard
A mandatory piece of equipment, a neck guard should fit snugly and should completely
cover the throat area. This protects the neck from some high sticking. They size small,
medium, large, extra large.
Mouth Guards
Very important in prevention of injuries to the mouth, teeth and head injuries. This is
highly recommended and mandatory in Youth Hockey. They work best if they are
attached to the helmet. Take care to follow package instructions for proper fit. Mouth
guards should be changed often! Look for signs of thinning and replace immediately if
broken.
Gloves
Hockey gloves protect the hand and wrist without loss of flexibility or comfort. It is okay
for gloves to be a little large, as long as the padding covers all areas of the hand and
wrist. The main concern with the fit of a glove is making sure the gap between the glove
and the elbow pad is minimal. The tightness or looseness of a glove is an individual
preference. The tip of the fingers should not go completely to the end of the glove.
Gloves that are too small will tear and wear out faster than a proper fitting glove. Put on
your elbow pads, hold your arm and hand outstretched. Measure the distance between
the tips of your fingers and the bottom of our elbow pad. The cuff of the glove and the
end of the elbow pad should meet to protect the skin. Select a glove with a pliable palm
and a dense thumb Proper fit is crucial. If too small, they can jam the fingers and too
large inhibits play and handling. Leather gloves tend to last longer, provide better
protection and are more comfortable.
Note: The sizing may vary by the manufacturer, but the table below can be used to help
you select the right size:
Glove Size
Gloves range from youth sizes of about 9 inches up to full adult sizes of 16 inches.
Use a tape measure to measure the distance from where your elbow pads end to the tip of
your fingers. This number equals your glove size. Different manufacturers use different
sizing methods, but the chart below is a good indicator of the glove size you should buy
based on the above measurement.
Glove Sizing Finding your size Inches cm
Small 9 23
Small 10 25.5
Medium 11 28
Medium 12 30.5
Medium 13 33
Large 14 35.5
Large 15 38
X-Large 16 40.5
X-Large 17 43
How to Buy Hockey Pants
Hockey pants are one of the most critical fit pieces of equipment, particularly as a young
player is growing. The pants purpose is to protect the thigh/kidney area with rigid
protection. The pants should break at the front on top of the rigid kneecap. Pants should
also ensure rear leg protection when the player is in full skating stride. The rigid kidney
protection should fall above the waistline with the rigid area of the pant protecting the
kidney and waist area. The pant is worn over-sized for freedom of movement and
manufacturers take this into consideration with their sizing, but always try on the pant as
manufacturers' sizing varies. While the fit should be loose and comfortable the pants
should have the ability to be secured firmly by a belt around the waist. Approximately
90% of all players will be able to use their waist size as their guide for choosing the
correct size pant. The bottom of the pant need to overlap the top of the shin pad kneecaps
by 1 or 2 inches. The pants should extend up to cover the kidneys and lower ribs. The
molded pads should cover all critical areas, (i.e. kidneys, hips, tail bone). Pants should fit
snuggly so the padding stays in place, but it should not be so tight that movement is
restricted. The pants should extend from the lower ribcage to the top of the knees.
How to Buy Shoulder Pads
Shoulder pads are essential for every level of play. They protect your collarbone, upper
chest, back, upper arms, and your shoulders. Some pads also protect the heart area. There
is also extra lower-back protection available either as part of the shoulder pad or as an
attachment. Shoulder protection is manufactured to prevent shoulder dislocation as well
as other injuries. You should look for shoulder pads that provide the most padding
available for your needs. Properly fitted equipment will neither shift nor resist movement
during play. Primary protection for the upper body. It is very important that the center of
the player’s shoulder lines up directly with the center of the shoulder caps. Good shoulder
pads will provide protection for the collar bone, chest, ribs, back and upper arms. The
bicep pads should not overlap the elbow pads. A fiber cap is extremely important in
preventing shoulder separations and should extend to the tip of the shoulder. Shoulder
pads that are to big will slip off of the shoulder and not provide adequate protection. They
will also restrict the player’s
range of motion. To select a size, measure the circumference of your chest by wrapping a
tape measure around your chest just under your armpits.
Note sizing varies by manufacturer, but the table below can be used as a reference to help
you select the right size:
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing
Junior Senior
Size S M L S M L XL
Inches 22-24, 24-28, 28-30, 28-30, 32-34, 36-38, 40-42
Centimeters 56-61, 61-71, 71-76, 71-76, 81.5-86.5, 91.5-96.5, 101.5-107
Youth Shoulder Pad Size Chart
Size 2XS XS S M L XL
Chest (in) 24-26 26-28 28-30 30-32 32-34 34-36
Back (in) 11-12 12-13 13-14 14-15 15-16 16-17
Weight (lbs) 40-60 50-70 60-80 70-100 90-120 110-140
Typically:
Forwards should look for lighter weight pads that offer more freedom of movement.
Defensemen require larger pads with maximum protection against being hit by pucks.
How to Buy Elbow Pads
Elbow pads, when properly fitted, will protect the elbow as well as the arms. They cover
the area from just below the shoulder pad to just above the hockey glove. Elbow pads are
necessary to protect against painful bone bruises, and even fractured elbows, from falls or
being hit by a stick. The pads should provide adequate adjustment to prevent shifting
during play. The elbow pad must integrate with the shoulder pad as well as the cuff of the
glove to prevent binding. Most elbow pads are adjustable and are secured with Velcro
straps, so sizing is general according to body size. There are also varying numbers of
straps available on different pads to help with adjustments. You may want to add a
forearm slash pad for further protection in a sensitive, highly vulnerable area. The basic
rule: No flesh exposed for that errant slash. The Players elbow should fit comfortably
into the center of the elbow pad cup. Also, a good elbow pad will provide forearm
protection which extends down to the cuff of the player’s hockey glove. Elbow pads that
are loose will move around and not provide adequate protection. Periodically check the
Velcro straps for signs of wear. Make sure pads are not cutting off the circulation to the
arms and hand. Elbow pads should not slip!
Use the table below for reference:
Elbow Pad Sizing & Fit
Determine the distance between the edge of your shoulder pads and the cuff of your
hockey glove. The elbow pad should leave no exposed skin between the shoulder pad and
the glove. Different manufacturers use different sizing methods, but the chart below is a
good indicator of the elbow pad size you should buy based on the above measurement.
Determining Your Elbow Pad Size Finding your size in Inches
Youth Small 7.5
Youth Medium 8.5
Youth Large 9.5
Junior Small 10.5
Junior Medium 11.5
Junior Large 12.5
Senior Small 13.5
Senior Medium 14.5
Senior Large 15.5 and above
How to Buy Shin Pads
Shin pads are a "must have" protection for every level of play. They are mandatory to
protect against hits by a puck or an opponent's stick. Shin pads are designed to prevent a
variety of injuries such as hyperextension. Forwards usually prefer lighter pads with less
protection that allow them to skate faster. Defensemen should look for a heavier shin
guard that helps protect against pucks and opponent's sticks. The shin pad is a critical fit
and should be checked yearly for young, growing players. Remember: Buy to fit, not
to grow. A player’s kneecap should fit directly into the center of the kneecap cup of the
shin pad. The shin pad should then extend down the full length of the lower leg. It’s
important to make sure the shin pad is not to long. If so, the skate would push it up and
out of position. To select a size, bend your leg at a 90 degree angle and measure the
length of your shin from the center of your kneecap to the top of your skate boot. Shin
pads should be secured with heavy elastic, shin guard straps, or a more prevalent hockey
tape.
Shin Pad Sizing & Fit
Shin pads range from 7 to 17 inches in length and are designed to fit over the kneecap to
just above the skate top. You should look for one sized to your height.
Shin pads are measured from the center of the knee to the instep brackets of the skate
tongue. While you are sitting down, measure from the middle of your kneecap to the top
of your skate. This is your shin measurement and should be matched to the
manufacturer's specifications on the shin
pad. Different manufacturers use different sizing methods, but the chart below is a good
indicator of the shin pad size you should buy based on the above measurement.
Determining Your Shin Pad Size Finding your size Inches/cm
Youth 7in 18cm
Youth 8in 20.5cm
Youth 9in 23cm
Junior 10in 25.5cm
Junior 11in 28cm
Junior 12in 30.5cm
Senior 14in 36.5cm
Senior 15in 38.5cm
Senior 16 41
Senior 17 43
Always remember to buy your equipment to fit. Do not buy for your child to grow into
the equipment. Not only will their performance be affected, but also it is also not safe.
Play It Again Sports is the perfect place for you to get your gear because as you outgrow
the equipment you can trade it in on the new or used gear you need.
How to Buy Goalie
Today’s hockey makes it essential to have proper-fitting hockey equipment, not only for
your performance, but also for your safety. From your stick to your pads to your helmet,
your goalie equipment has to perform and protect to keep you on the ice.
How to Buy Goalie Protective
All goalies need leg pads and a chest protector, as well as a catcher’s glove and a blocker.
You will also need leg and chest pads.
Leg Pad Fitting and Sizing
Goalie leg pads generally come in sizes ranging from 26 to 34 inches. To determine your
proper size, measure your leg from your ankle to the top of your kneecap. Then measure
from the middle of your kneecap to half way up your thigh.
Add these two numbers for your goalie leg pad size. If you are between sizes, choose the
larger size for additional protection. Some goalies prefer their pads an inch or two
shorter for increased maneuverability.
Chest Pad Fitting and Sizing
Chest pads offer protection to the vital chest and heart areas. Chest protectors protect
most of the upper body. Chest protectors also include a spine protector for your back.
Gloves (Catcher & Blocker)
Gloves range from youth sizes of about 9 inches up to full adult sizes of 16 inches. Use a
tape measure to measure the distance from the end of your elbow pads to the tips of your
fingers. This number equals your glove size.
Catcher
The catcher looks very much like an oversized first baseman's mitt and is worn on your
nonstick hand. Catcher gloves have an oversized catching area, a molded one-piece
thumb area, a precurved palm and individual finger areas.
Blocker
The blocker is worn on the stick hand and has a padded leather or synthetic leather palm
to hold a stick and a wide, solid blocker to deflect shots.
How to Buy a Goalie Mask and Helmet
Modern goalie masks come in a variety of styles that depend on your personal preference,
but all offer superior protection and varying degrees of comfort. Sizing differs according
to manufacturer, so refer to the sizing indicators on each helmet to
determine your proper size. Helmets come in a variety of sizes and are usually measured
in inches (see chart below).
Helmet Size - Adult
Size S M L One Size Fits All
Inches 20-21.75 22-22.75 23.25-24 20.75-24
Centimeters 51-55 56-58 59-62 54-61
Helmet Size - Youth
Size Toddler S/M M/L One Size Fits All
Inches 18.5-20.5 20.5-22.5 22.5-23.75 19.5-22.5
Centimeters 47-52 52-57 57-60 50-57
To ensure a player's safety it is important that his/her helmet fits properly. The helmet
should sit squarely on the head with the front of the helmet low on the brow to protect
the forehead. The padding should exert firm, uniform pressure all around the head so that
the skin on the forehead moves as the helmet is rotated from left to right and from front to
back.
How to Buy a Goalie Stick
Goalie sticks are larger and heavier duty than regular hockey sticks with a wider blade
and a wide paddle area between the stick and the blade. The paddle area can be up to 26
inches long. The blade can be 3 1/2 inches wide and up to 15 1/2 inches long.
Determining the Proper Length Stick
The length of your hockey stick must be correct for your size, since it is very difficult to
control an oversized or undersized stick. In choosing the length of a goalie stick,
remember not to buy one that is too short. The shaft can always be cut down if it seems
too long, or you can choke up on the shaft to make it easier to handle. To determine the
proper stick length:
Stand in your skates
Put the toe of the stick on the ground
The stick should reach somewhere between your chin and the tip of your nose.
How to Buy Goalie Skates
Goalie skates are similar in construction to regular hockey skates but are designed
differently with a wider blade and lower boot with more ankle and foot protection.
Goalie skates should be sized and fitted just as you would size and fit a regular hockey
players skate.
Accessories, Handling and Care Tips, Skate
Skate Sharpening
You should get your skates sharpened as soon as you purchase them to take the
manufacturer grind off and put a hockey refined grind on. Find a good skate sharpener or
dealer that will stand behind his sharpening skills. When you find someone you like and
have good faith in, then stay with this person or company. You should get your skates
sharpened approximately every 30 hours, depending on usage and care. Watch your
blades carefully. If blades get chipped or an edge taken off you will have to get them
sharpened more frequently than 30 hours use. Be sure to dry your blades off and take
them out to air dry as blades will re-sweat and rust in your hockey bag.
Under Garments
Wear light fitting, cool comfortable undergarments during all games and practices this
helps pull the moisture away from the body keeping it dry and warm. Wash after every
use.
Socks
Usually determined by the team, be sure not to purchase socks that are to restrictive.
Garter
Very much like a lady’s garter, with an elastic belt that loops around the waist and clips
that hang that hook onto the hockey socks. There is an underpants garment with a cup
and Velcro that also are made to hold the socks as an alternative to the garter belt.
Jock and Jill Strap
Male or female, protection of most vital equipment (jewels) is necessary. Girls should
wear a pelvic protector.
Tape
Tape is used for pads and to keep socks secured in place on shin pads and stick. There are
two types of tape designed to protect. Pad tape is usually clear plastic and stick tape is
generally cloth base tape.
Stick Grip
Many players tape their own grips, but plastic grips are also available for purchase. This
keeps the end of the stick nestled securely in the palm and prevents loss of hold during
play.
Hockey Bag
Now imagine!!!!! Lugging all that equipment around without one … wheels are a
wonderful invention on those huge hockey back, this way mom and dad do not have to
carry their heavy hockey bag! As a skater gets older, Peewee and up, wheels are not
allowed. Be sure to take all your equipment out of your bag to air dry to prevent mold
and mildew build up on pads and hockey gloves after EVERY practice and EVERY
game.
PLEASE REMEMBER
Enjoy every minute that you are on the ice. It is a great place to be and a wonderful game
to play. Hockey is for everyone. It is a wonderful family experience and a great life
experience. Play safe and clean. Always have respect for your opponent, coaches and
team members.
HAVE A GREAT YEAR !!!