Hockey can be a dangerous sport when you don't have the proper gear. Because the sport involves plenty of contact between players, the boards and the puck, you need to suit up properly to protect your body. The amount of padding may seem overwhelming, but as long as you take it one step at a time, you can dress properly and protect yourself from bumps and bruises as much as possible.
Step 1
Start your dressing process with a base layer. It should be thin, but comfortable, to provide a layer of protection between your padding and your body. Long underwear or compression pants work well. Place an athletic supporter over your briefs but under your base layer.
Step 2
Place your knee pads over your base layer and then slide your hockey socks over the pads to keep them in place. Only wear one layer of socks, since several layers can alter the fit of your skates. If necessary, tape around your socks with hockey tape to keep your knee pads securely in place.
Step 3
Don your hockey shorts. These provide the padding for the thighs and hips. Tighten the drawstring to fit snugly.
Step 4
Lace up your skates. Always put on your skates before you add your upper body pads, since they are bulky and make it difficult to completeg precise movements, such as tying skates. Start at the bottom of your laces and tighten each row as you go. When you reach the top of the skate, tie a double knot.
Step 5
Place your chest and shoulder pads over your head and tighten the straps. Your pads should fit snugly but should not impede your movement. Pull your jersey over your shoulder pads.
Step 6
Wear your helmet every time you step on the ice. The British Columbia Injury Research and Prevention Unit notes that head and face injuries account for 42 percent of hockey injuries. Your helmet will protects you from many injuries. Place your helmet on your head and tighten the strap. It should be centered on your head and should not tip backward or forward.
Things You'll Need
- Long underwear
- Athletic supporter
- Hockey socks
- Hockey shorts
- Shoulder pads
- Shin pads
- Skates
- Helmet
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