The Best Street Hockey Pads

Street hockey, played in neighborhoods rather than on ice and skating rinks, brings the excitement and danger of the sport to nonskating kids. Street hockey, typically played on asphalt surfaces, poses risks to players. You should wear protective gear, including hockey pads. Your choice of hockey pad will depend on the position you play.

Importance of Position

Not all hockey pads perform equally well for all players. Anyone playing a forward or defensive position should take advantage of the protection provided through the use of elbow, knee, and shin pads. Goalies should use shin pads and a chest pad to provide the most adequate protection from injury. The best hockey pad for you might differ than the best hockey pad for your teammates.

Choices

Many brands of hockey pads are on the market that can be the best for you, all dependent on where and how you play. Top-rated brands include Nike and Reebok, which feature durable street hockey pads. Prices differ among brands, with the cost of all street hockey pads needed -- elbow, knee and leg -- averaging around $100, as of February 2011. You could buy used pads for considerably less, but check before buying to make certain the gear does not contain serious flaws such as tears or missing straps.

History

Today's street hockey owes its roots to the ancient Egyptians, who played the game with sticks and rocks, but without any protective gear. The Canadians brought the game to the ice and introduced rules and equipment to protect players in a dangerous sport. Although street hockey is less well-defined than professional ice hockey, the sport includes a similar need for pads. You may also want to consider additional gear such as a helmet to protect against head injuries.

Evolution of Protective Gear

Today's gear has evolved with the game, with technology providing more effective protection. Street hockey pads, typically less heavy than ice hockey pads, can still weigh you down and make you uncomfortably warm. But hockey pad material, formerly composed mostly of leather, nylon and foam, now includes Kevlar, carbon, Texalium and higher quality foam. A company called ITECH offers high-tech hockey pads starting at about $20 and running upward of $75, as of February 201.