Just starting out
Equipment Guide
So you’re just starting out — what will you need?
Selection of hockey equipment is a key issue for players, parents and coaches. When purchasing and fitting equipment, make certain the player is adequately protected and that the gear allows freedom of movement. USA Hockey’s Parents’ Introduction to Youth Hockey outlines what is needed at each level. Full equipment is mandatory in all youth hockey programs except Hockey Tots and Hockey 1 & 2.
Safety first
Keep safety first and foremost when purchasing equipment. While it is not necessary to buy the most expensive gear, it is important to buy equipment that fits while playing today, rather than equipment that will fit in a few seasons. Poorly fitting equipment makes learning and playing hockey — already a difficult sport — that much harder. The list above is required: coaches review skaters to make sure they are in full protective gear, and any skater found lacking an element will be asked to leave the ice for their own safety.
The pro shop at Yerba Buena Ice Skating Center can fit a full set, and skating school families get 10% off. Ask a coach before you buy — most of them have opinions, and all of them would rather you spent the money on the right size than the top model.
Required equipment
- Ice hockey skates
- Ice hockey pants
- Hockey socks
- Shin pads
- Support cup
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Ice hockey certified helmet (with a full cage or full shield)
- Internal mouth piece
- Ice hockey stick cut to proper size
- Hockey jersey
- Hockey gloves
Plus a hockey bag to carry all of it.
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