Additional Goalie Accessories
The aforementioned equipment constitutes approximately 90% of the goalie uniform and is essential for safe gameplay. Additionally, many goalies opt to wear various accessories to augment protection and enhance comfort during play.
At MonkeySports, we offer comprehensive collections of leg pad accessories to enhance performance and conduct necessary repairs on worn equipment. Our range includes wrist guards, which not only protect against stick slashes but also assist in sweat absorption, similar to those used by skaters. Additionally, our selection features suspenders and garters designed to securely hold socks and knee guards in place during intense gameplay.
Finally, wide ranges of Helmet accessories, Stick accessories, and Skate accessories will provide the essentials needed to stay on the rink, including replacement hardware for masks, stick tape, and replacement laces and blades for skates.
Sizing Hockey Goalie Equipment
Fitting Your Goalie Mask/Helmet
When fitting a goalie mask, it's crucial to ensure a snug fit with no visible gaps between the forehead or cheeks. Adjust the chin cup to securely fit on the goalie's chin, minimizing any up or down movement of the mask. Tighten the backplate "harness" straps to prevent the mask from shifting during sudden movements. Manufacturers provide mask sizing guidelines based on hat size for their various models, available from Youth to Senior sizes. You can find these sizing diagrams in the "size chart" tab of the MonkeySports product listing.
Goalie Leg Pad Sizing
Ensuring proper goalie pad sizing is crucial not only for comfort but also for safety. Well-fitted pads should effectively protect the foot, leg, and lower thigh while providing ample support and padding during shot-blocking maneuvers. Goalie leg pads are available in a range of sizes, from Youth to Senior, typically varying in increments of 1 inch. As goalies gain experience, they may opt for pads with customized thigh dimensions to enhance playability. A common method for determining goalie pad sizing is by using the ATK (Ankle to Knee) measurement.
Goalie Glove Sizing
Goalie glove sizing is relatively straightforward compared to leg pad sizing. Gloves are typically available in four sizes: Youth, Junior, Intermediate, and Senior. Youth and junior sizes cater to young, novice goalies aged between 6 and 10 years old, while Intermediate gloves are suitable for goalies in their early teens. Senior gloves provide the widest range of options and are intended for goalies in their late teens and beyond. Similar to a player's glove, the goalie's hand should fit snugly in the glove, with fingers reaching the end of the finger stalls to ensure full control and closure.
Goalie Blocker
Similar to sizing a catch glove, selecting the right size blocker follows a comparable strategy. Available in Youth to Senior sizes, a blocker should fit snugly around the fingers, across the back of the hand, and around the wrist. Ensure that the fingers reach near the end of the finger stalls for optimal stick control.
Goalie Chest Protector
In contrast to the previous gear pieces discussed, sizing chest protectors is relatively straightforward. Available in sizes ranging from Youth to Senior, manufacturer sizing charts on MonkeySports product pages offer detailed measurements to guide selection. Chest protectors should fit snugly while providing ample coverage without compromising mobility. Ensure the collar sits approximately 1.5 inches below the natural t-shirt collar and 1.5 inches above the wrist to avoid interference with the glove, although this is just the initial consideration.
Goalie Pants
Let's turn our attention to goalie pants. These essential pieces of equipment are meticulously designed to provide protection and coverage in the net. Featuring a loose-fitting design, some models include an internal belt to maintain a secure fit around the waist while allowing freedom of movement for enhanced mobility and net coverage. The pant length should extend just above the knee, providing ample room for knee pads and a cup/jill underneath. Whenever possible, try on pants alongside a chest protector, leg pads, skates, and other gear to ensure seamless interaction between the pieces.
Goalie Stick
Goalie sticks, unlike other gear, rely less on the goalie's size and more on their individual style and stance. Sized by paddle length (in inches), goalie sticks are available in Youth (20in.), Junior (21-22in.), Intermediate (23-24in.), and Senior (24in.+) sizes. The paddle height, where the goalie grips the stick, is the critical measurement, while overall height is determined by the manufacturer to ensure proper balance. A well-fitted stick enables the goaltender to maintain the blade flush on the ice, centered between the pads' toes, with the blocker resting gently on the outside of the pad.
Goalie Skates
Properly fitting goalie skates should snugly wrap around the foot without creating pressure points or dead space. A good rule of thumb is to start with skates approximately 1.5 sizes smaller than the goaltender's shoe size. Ensure that laces neither pull the eyelets too close together nor allow them to puff outward over the foot. It's important to note that skates will break in over time, with materials compressing and generating more space, often increasing by nearly half a size. A snug and properly fitted skate significantly enhances the enjoyment of the game.
Tips on Buying Hockey Goalie Equipment for Beginners
Embarking on your journey to purchase your first set of goalie equipment can feel overwhelming. However, by taking it one step at a time and acquainting yourself with the information provided here on MonkeySports, you can simplify the process and gain the knowledge and understanding needed to assemble your own gear set. To further assist you, we've compiled a list of 5 tips to streamline this process.
* Tip 1: Don’t get set on a single model or brand of gear. Often goalies will be drawn to the most flashy, familiar, or brand they see used by their favorite NHL goalie. Every model and every brand has its benefits, but the same model may not work for everyone. Find what fits best for you and your playing style.
* Tip 2: When selecting your gear, it's crucial to plan your budget wisely. Assess the level of play and frequency to determine your investment. Remember, safety is paramount, with the goalie mask arguably the most critical equipment. Ensure you allocate sufficient funds for the right gear to keep you protected on the ice.
* Tip 3: Get to know different playing styles. Are you more of a hybrid goalie or a butterfly goalie? Your choice of pads may vary depending on your style, with certain options better suited to each. Most brands offer pads tailored to accommodate both playing styles.
* Tip 4: Engage with fellow goalies at the rink. Gathering firsthand reviews of equipment can streamline decision-making. Inquire about their preferences and experiences with different gear. The goalie community is known for its camaraderie, so don't hesitate to initiate conversations before and after games.
* Tip 5 for the goalie parents: Take into account your goalie's growth trajectory. Investing in gear for a young goaltender means considering their rapid growth. While it's prudent to anticipate growth, avoid purchasing gear that is excessively large. Oversized gear can hinder learning fundamental skills and impede reaching their full potential.
Which Brands Make the Best Hockey Goalie Equipment?
MonkeySports offers a premier selection of hockey goalie equipment brands. Bauer, CCM, and Vaughn stand as industry leaders, trusted by top NHL goalies. True and Warrior brands, supported by renowned equipment designers, present formidable options in the market.
Bauer Goalie Equipment
Bauer has been an innovator in hockey equipment for many decades, taking the latest in material design technology and applying it to both skater’s and goalie equipment. Both their Vapor and Supreme lines of gear feature ultra-lightweight materials and state of the art design to create a high-performing pad across all levels and price points of gear.
