Hockey players need extensive protection due to dangers inherent to the sport. Speeding pucks, flailing sticks, sharp skates and hard ice all present hazards, so players must choose equipment that provides adequate protection without limiting their mobility too much. Goaltenders wear essentially the same types of equipment as other players, but their equipment is larger and heavier due to the extra protection the position requires.
Basic Equipment
The most basic equipment you need is a hockey stick and skates for about $70 and $100, respectively. Hockey skate blades dull with use, so you must sharpen them every 10 to 12 hours of skating time to ensure they glide smoothly over ice. Under your skates, wear hockey skate socks that will cost about $20. Hockey gloves -- about $80 -- protect your hands from sticks, pucks and other hazards. Choose gloves that provide adequate protection but still allow you to hold your stick comfortably.
Pants
Hockey pants -- about $50 -- protect your upper legs and waist. Suspenders might be useful to keep them in position. Goalkeepers have heavily padded pants that provide extra protection, while forwards and defenders wear pants with lighter padding but greater flexibility.
Head Protection
A helmet and face mask -- both around $30 -- are important for protecting your head from flying pucks and wayward sticks, as well as collisions with the ice or sides of the rink. A mouth guard -- about $60 -- helps protect your teeth and tongue. A $20 neck guard typically is optional, but if a speeding puck hits you in the neck, you'll be glad you had it on.
Other Protection
Hockey players wear various types of pads, including elbow, shoulder and shin pads. All are important because they protect areas that frequently receive blows. For example, hockey players use their shoulders to check, and flailing sticks often whack shins as players scrabble for the puck. Males should protect their genitals with an athletic cup and supporter. Females might benefit from a sports brassiere that provides extra support. Over your pads and gear, wear a hockey jersey.
Considerations
If you belong to a league, check with your coach or league staff to determine if there are any equipment requirements you must meet. For example, mouth guards might be required in some youth leagues, while others might merely recommend that players wear them.
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