This guide provides parents with equipment requirements and dressing instructions for their new hockey player.
If Itech, Bauer, or Jofa sound foreign to you, feel comforted by the fact that you are not alone. Now that your son or daughter wants to play hockey, these names will become as familiar to you as your pet's. Over half a million youth play hockey in the United States each year and all of their parents had to learn the art of clipping, taping and tying hockey gear.
Your child may be envisioning the Stanley Cup but you are probably envisioning the dent in your checkbook. Outfitting your child for hockey does not have to be a huge expense and there are fewer things cuter than your 5 year old dressed up in full hockey gear! You almost certainly have not gotten to that “photo op” yet because you may have no idea what equipment is needed or how to put it on. If you or your spouse have never played hockey, how would you even know where to start?
Time to Shop
Listed below is a full equipment list for a young player. You can outfit your child with all of the equipment for approximately $300. Anyone could easily spend less or substantially more based on their brand preference and the quality of equipment the plan to purchase.
Jock / Jill
Shin pads
Socks (3 pair)
Hockey pants
Shoulder pads
Elbow pads
Neck guard
Jersey
Skates
Gloves
Hockey stick
Sock tape
Stick tape
Hockey bag
Optional Items
Helmet fix-it kit
Blister care
Spare t-shirt & socks
Rag
Suspenders
Some companies have compiled beginner sets that include many of the equipment listed above. These sets can be an excellent way to start your shopping but check the quality and fit of the product. If your child is older or larger you may want to find more substantial gear. If you are one of the millions of Americans who shop on-line, you can go to www.cyclonetaylor.com for all of your hockey needs.
A lot of parents find second-hand equipment through their hockey association’s swap-and-shop or in the consignment section of their sporting goods store. Second-hand equipment is usually “buyers beware” and equipment like helmets should not be used unless they have the stamp of the Hockey Equipment Certification Council Inc. The USA Hockey Junior Rule Book states “USA Hockey strongly recommends that all players and goalkeepers in all age classifications wear an internal mouthpiece, a HECC approved helmet and a HECC approved full face mask for all games and practices.”