Getting started
You will need a full set of hockey equiptment (including hockey skates) to get started as well as a dark and a light jersey. We have some skates and gear for loan so be sure to reach out before buying a full set! See the list below for more information as well as where to go.
For WHOAH events a USA Hockey membership, while highly encouraged, is not required. For some leagues and all tournaments you will need it so it is something to keep in mind.
Helmet with Cage or Visor
To size a hockey helmet, adjust the helmet to its largest setting, put it on, and gradually tighten it until the fit is snug and still comfortable. The helmet should sit flat on the head with the rim about ½” above the eyebrows, without tilting forward or backward.
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Adjust the chin strap so it’s firm under the chin. You want the helmet to fit tightly enough so it doesn’t shift, but not to the point of where it feels uncomfortable. If you feel pressure or pinching, the helmet is too small.
Shoulder Pads
Hockey shoulder pads should fit snug and secure without restricting movement. The shoulder caps should cover the tips of your shoulders squarely, and the bicep guards should meet the elbow pads without overlap or gaps. The bottom edge of the torso protection should meet the top of your hockey pants. Some shoulder pads are made specifically for women which might be a better option for a curvy fit.
Elbow Pads
Hockey elbow pads should be snug enough to stay in place during play, without restricting movement. The elbow should fit comfortably in the center of the cup, and there should be no gaps between the elbow pads and the shoulder pads, or between the elbow pads and the cuff of the glove.
Gloves
Hockey gloves should fit snugly, allowing for a full range of motion in the fingers and wrist, but not too loosely or too tightly. The cuff should extend to the bottom of the elbow pads for full protection, and there should be approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch of space between the fingertips and the end of the glove. When sizing, consider both hand width and finger length for a more accurate fit.
Hockey Pants
Hockey pants should fit snugly around the waist, not the hips, and offer a little overlap over the shin guards' kneecap, typically about halfway down. The waist should be secure without being too tight or loose. They should fit around the waist without sliding down and should cover the thighs and lower back. Some pants feature or have the option for suspenders for added stability.
Shin Guards
Hockey shin guards should fit snugly, protecting your lower leg and knee without restricting movement. They should cover the entire length of your lower leg, from the top of your boot to just below the kneecap, and the knee should sit securely in the center of the knee donut.
Hockey Skates
Hockey skates should fit snugly and comfortably, allowing for minimal movement within the boot, particularly the heel. The toes should barely touch the toe cap when the skates are not laced up. When laced, the heel should be firmly locked in place, and the forefoot should feel wrapped without excessive pressure. Hockey skates are typically sized 1 to 1.5 sizes smaller than your regular shoe size. Consider that skate sizing can vary between brands, so it's important to try on skates from different brands and models to find the best fit.
Jill
A hockey jill (a pelvic protector for women) should fit snugly but comfortably around the waist, providing a secure hold for the protector without restricting movement. The waistband should fit snugly but not constrict. The protector should cover the vital area without interfering with the lower body's range of motion. A jill also features velcro to hold up your hockey socks. There are several styles of jills to choose from (long, short, loose, spandex, etc).
Jersey and Hockey Socks
A hockey jersey should fit loosely over protective equipment, allowing for unrestricted movement without being too baggy. Hockey socks should be long enough to cover the shin guards and potentially extend to the thigh, ensuring proper fit and support. For most situations you will need a dark and a light jersey.
Hockey Stick
To size a hockey stick, stand on your skates and hold the stick in front of you, with the toe of the blade on the floor. The stick should reach between your chin and nose. Alternatively, stand without skates, and with the toe on the floor, the stick should reach your nose. Shorter sticks are better for stick-handling, while longer sticks offer more reach.
Neck Guard (optional)
A hockey neck guard should fit snugly against the neck without restricting movement or breathing. It should completely cover the throat, and if it's a bib style, extend down to the upper chest. It should not move or slide around on the neck. There are several styles and brands to choose from and some of them are attached to base layers.
Mouth Guard (optional)
A properly fitted hockey mouthguard should cover all upper teeth and extend below the gum line for optimal protection. It should fit snugly and stay in place without needing to be held by biting down or using your tongue. The mouthguard should also allow for comfortable breathing and speaking, although you might sound slightly different.
There are several brands, some moldable, which will all fit differently.
Where to buy new
Where to buy used
Don't forget to ask us about loaner gear!
