How to select the perfect hockey shoulder pads, shin guards, and elbow pads for optimal protection and comfort. What are the top-rated hockey gear options for 2023. How to properly measure and fit essential hockey protective equipment.
Essential Hockey Protective Gear: A Comprehensive Overview
Hockey is an exhilarating sport that demands the right equipment to ensure player safety and performance. This guide delves into the crucial protective gear every hockey player needs, focusing on shoulder pads, shin guards, and elbow pads. We’ll explore sizing, fitting, and the best options available in 2023 to help you make informed decisions about your hockey equipment.
Hockey Shoulder Pads: Safeguarding Your Upper Body
Shoulder pads are a vital component of a hockey player’s protective arsenal, shielding the shoulders, collar bones, spine, and ribcage from impacts and collisions. Proper sizing and fit are crucial for maximizing protection and maintaining mobility on the ice.
How to Measure for Hockey Shoulder Pads
To find the right size shoulder pads, measure from the center of your chest, over your shoulder, and to the middle of your back. This measurement will correspond to the appropriate size range provided by manufacturers. Remember that sizing can vary between brands, so always consult the specific sizing chart for the model you’re considering.
Fitting Hockey Shoulder Pads
- The shoulder caps should sit comfortably on top of your shoulders without restricting movement
- The chest and back plates should provide full coverage without gaps
- Arm mobility should not be compromised when the pads are properly adjusted
- Ensure there’s no interference with your helmet or neck guard
Top Hockey Shoulder Pads for 2023
- Bauer Vapor X2.9 Shoulder Pads: Excellent balance of protection and mobility
- CCM Jetspeed FT4 Pro Shoulder Pads: Advanced impact absorption technology
- Warrior Alpha DX Shoulder Pads: Customizable fit with removable panels
Are expensive shoulder pads worth the investment. High-end models often feature advanced materials and construction techniques that offer superior protection and comfort. For competitive players or those in physical leagues, investing in top-tier shoulder pads can significantly enhance safety and performance on the ice.
Shin Guards: Protecting Your Lower Legs from Impact
Shin guards are crucial for safeguarding players’ shins and lower legs from pucks, sticks, and falls. Proper sizing ensures optimal protection without hindering skating performance.
Measuring for Hockey Shin Guards
To determine the correct shin guard size, measure from the center of your kneecap to the top of your skate boot. This measurement will guide you to the appropriate size range for your height and playing style.
Fitting Hockey Shin Guards
- The knee cap should be centered in the knee doughnut
- The shin plate should cover the entire front of the leg down to the top of the skate
- Ensure a snug fit without restricting movement or blood flow
- Check for any gaps between the shin guard and your leg
Best Hockey Shin Guards for 2023
- CCM Tacks 9080 Shin Guards: Superior protection with a customizable fit
- Bauer Supreme 3S Pro Shin Guards: Lightweight design with excellent impact absorption
- Warrior Alpha DX5 Shin Guards: Innovative wrap-around calf protection
Can shin guards affect skating performance. While proper protection is paramount, the right shin guards should not impede your skating ability. Look for models that offer a balance of protection and flexibility, allowing for natural movement during play.
Elbow Pads: Crucial Protection for a Vulnerable Area
Elbow pads protect players from impacts resulting from falls, slashes, and blocked shots. Selecting the right size and style is essential for maintaining mobility while ensuring adequate protection.
Measuring for Hockey Elbow Pads
To find the correct elbow pad size, measure the length of your forearm from the middle of your elbow to your wrist. This measurement will correspond to the appropriate size range provided by manufacturers.
Fitting Hockey Elbow Pads
- The elbow should fit snugly in the cup of the pad
- The forearm and bicep guards should provide full coverage without gaps
- Ensure the pads don’t slide down your arm during movement
- Check for any interference with your gloves or shoulder pads
Top Hockey Elbow Pads for 2023
- Bauer Vapor 2X Pro Elbow Pads: Excellent protection with a low-profile design
- CCM Jetspeed FT4 Pro Elbow Pads: Advanced impact absorption with a comfortable fit
- Warrior Alpha DX Elbow Pads: Customizable protection with removable caps
Do different playing positions require specific elbow pad features. While all players need proper elbow protection, defensemen may prefer more robust pads due to their shot-blocking role, while forwards might opt for lighter, more flexible options to maximize mobility and stick handling.
Choosing the Right Hockey Equipment Package
For new players or those looking to upgrade multiple pieces of equipment simultaneously, hockey gear packages can offer convenience and cost savings. These sets typically include shoulder pads, shin guards, and elbow pads designed to work together seamlessly.
Benefits of Hockey Equipment Packages
- Cost-effective compared to buying individual pieces
- Ensures compatibility between different protective elements
- Convenient for outfitting growing players or beginners
- Often includes a gear bag for easy transport
Are equipment packages suitable for all skill levels. While packages can be an excellent option for beginners and recreational players, advanced or professional athletes may prefer to select individual pieces of gear to tailor their equipment to their specific needs and preferences.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Hockey Protective Gear
Proper maintenance of your hockey equipment is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance and protection. Regular care not only keeps your gear in top condition but also helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors.
Cleaning and Drying Tips
- Air out equipment after each use to prevent moisture buildup
- Use a mild detergent and warm water for cleaning
- Avoid machine washing or drying, as this can damage protective foam and plastics
- Sanitize gear regularly with specialized hockey equipment cleaning products
Storage Recommendations
Store your gear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Using a well-ventilated gear bag can help prevent mold and mildew growth. Consider using antimicrobial sprays or deodorizers to keep equipment fresh between uses.
How often should hockey protective gear be replaced. The lifespan of hockey equipment varies depending on usage and care, but as a general rule, inspect your gear regularly for signs of wear and tear. Replace items that show significant damage or have lost their protective qualities, typically every 2-3 seasons for frequent players.
Adapting Your Hockey Gear as You Progress
As players develop their skills and advance in the sport, their equipment needs may change. It’s important to regularly reassess your gear to ensure it continues to provide the right level of protection and performance for your evolving playing style.
Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Equipment
- Noticeable wear and tear on protective surfaces
- Decreased comfort or mobility during play
- Changes in your body size or playing position
- Advancement to a more competitive level of play
Should young players invest in top-of-the-line gear. For rapidly growing players, it may be more practical to opt for mid-range equipment that offers good protection without breaking the bank, as it will likely need to be replaced frequently. As players reach their full growth and commit to higher levels of competition, investing in premium gear becomes more justifiable.
The Future of Hockey Protective Equipment
The hockey equipment industry is constantly innovating to improve player safety and performance. From advanced materials to smart technology integration, the future of hockey gear looks promising for players at all levels.
Emerging Trends in Hockey Equipment
- Lightweight, high-strength materials for improved mobility
- Impact-sensing technology to track and analyze hits
- Customizable, 3D-printed gear for perfect individual fit
- Environmentally sustainable manufacturing processes
How might technological advancements change the game of hockey. As protective gear becomes more advanced, players may be able to compete with greater speed and intensity while maintaining safety. However, it’s crucial that equipment innovations align with the spirit of the game and league regulations to ensure fair play and preserve the essence of hockey.
In conclusion, selecting the right hockey protective gear is essential for maximizing safety and performance on the ice. By understanding proper sizing, fitting techniques, and the latest equipment options, players can make informed decisions about their gear. Regular maintenance and timely upgrades ensure that your equipment continues to serve you well throughout your hockey journey. As the sport evolves, staying informed about new technologies and innovations in hockey gear will help you stay at the top of your game.
All Hockey Pad Packages & Combos
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart & Guide
May 02, 2022
Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads provide protection for a variety of key areas within the upper body, including your shoulders, collar bones, spine, ribcage and more! In order to key these areas fully protected, this important piece of Ice Hockey equipment must be properly sized to ensure full coverage. This guide will include how to measure for the right shoulder pad size, how they should fit, along with some ideas to consider for your new Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Shoulder Pads for 2023 (with reviews)
March 27, 2023
With so many different styles and brands, finding the best hockey shoulder pads for mobility, comfort and safety can be a difficult task. But there’s no need to worry, and you definitely don’t need to just pick a random set of pads, because we’re going through everything you need to know to ensure you get the most protective hockey shoulder pads out there that provide optimal comfort and fit.
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Shin Guard Sizing Chart & Guide: How to Measure Shin Guards
February 21, 2022
As their name suggests, ice hockey shin guards are meant to guard a player’s shins and lower leg from fast-flying pucks and sticks. In order to achieve the ultimate protection and comfort, it’s important to know how to size shin guards properly. Here, we’ll give you everything you need to know about shin guards – sizes, comfort and finding the right fit.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Shin Guards for 2023 (with reviews)
February 13, 2023
Hockey is a high-contact sport that involves flying pucks, sticks and body checking, so having the right equipment is important for performance and safety. A hockey player’s shins, knees and calves can be especially vulnerable. This is why it’s so important to get the right shin guards for your level of play.
As you read on, we’ll break down how to choose the most protective shin guards available and list some of the best ice hockey shin guards produced by major brands.
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Elbow Pad Sizing Chart & Guide | HockeyMonkey
May 09, 2022
Ice Hockey Elbow Pads protect the sensitive elbow area from a variety of impacts during games, like slashes, blocked shots, falls onto the ice, and so on. So, to maximize their effectiveness, finding the proper size is imperative. This guide will go over what elbow pads are made out of, how they should fit, and some considerations to keep in mind when looking to buy a new pair.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Elbow Pads for 2023 (with reviews)
February 13, 2023
Hockey elbow pads offer protection from falls on the ice, shot pucks and contact with other players. In order to get the best ice hockey elbow pads, there are a few things you need to keep in mind while shopping.
Read on, as we provide a comprehensive guide on what to look for when choosing new hockey elbow pads.
Bauer Hockey Equipment Packages & Sets | HockeyMonkey
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Shoulder Pad Sizing Chart & Guide
May 02, 2022
Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads provide protection for a variety of key areas within the upper body, including your shoulders, collar bones, spine, ribcage and more! In order to key these areas fully protected, this important piece of Ice Hockey equipment must be properly sized to ensure full coverage. This guide will include how to measure for the right shoulder pad size, how they should fit, along with some ideas to consider for your new Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Shoulder Pads for 2023 (with reviews)
March 27, 2023
With so many different styles and brands, finding the best hockey shoulder pads for mobility, comfort and safety can be a difficult task.
But there’s no need to worry, and you definitely don’t need to just pick a random set of pads, because we’re going through everything you need to know to ensure you get the most protective hockey shoulder pads out there that provide optimal comfort and fit.
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Shin Guard Sizing Chart & Guide: How to Measure Shin Guards
February 21, 2022
As their name suggests, ice hockey shin guards are meant to guard a player’s shins and lower leg from fast-flying pucks and sticks. In order to achieve the ultimate protection and comfort, it’s important to know how to size shin guards properly. Here, we’ll give you everything you need to know about shin guards – sizes, comfort and finding the right fit.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Shin Guards for 2023 (with reviews)
February 13, 2023
Hockey is a high-contact sport that involves flying pucks, sticks and body checking, so having the right equipment is important for performance and safety.
A hockey player’s shins, knees and calves can be especially vulnerable. This is why it’s so important to get the right shin guards for your level of play. As you read on, we’ll break down how to choose the most protective shin guards available and list some of the best ice hockey shin guards produced by major brands.
Hockey Gear Guides
Hockey Elbow Pad Sizing Chart & Guide | HockeyMonkey
May 09, 2022
Ice Hockey Elbow Pads protect the sensitive elbow area from a variety of impacts during games, like slashes, blocked shots, falls onto the ice, and so on. So, to maximize their effectiveness, finding the proper size is imperative. This guide will go over what elbow pads are made out of, how they should fit, and some considerations to keep in mind when looking to buy a new pair.
Hockey Gear Guides
The Best Hockey Elbow Pads for 2023 (with reviews)
February 13, 2023
Hockey elbow pads offer protection from falls on the ice, shot pucks and contact with other players.
In order to get the best ice hockey elbow pads, there are a few things you need to keep in mind while shopping. Read on, as we provide a comprehensive guide on what to look for when choosing new hockey elbow pads.
Questions, misconceptions and stereotypes about goalkeeper equipment
A short introduction:
Maybe the name does not accurately reflect the essence of what is stated in this material, but nothing else more accurately came to mind. Do not swear. This article can rather be called something like a detailed FAQ (frequently asked questions), but it would also not be correct to call it this simple combination of three English letters, because. no one usually asks these questions…
I started writing this for my blog, but then I thought it might be of interest to a wider audience. Therefore, I apologize for the somewhat free style of presentation. After the decision to “publish” it on the site, everything was too lazy to edit.
I will say right away: something in this material can be subjective – where would it be without it.
Believe it or not – you decide. For a couple of years of the existence of the Keeper Shop, I had the opportunity to communicate with a huge number of goalkeepers, both in Russia and from around the world. From beginners, amateurs, to world football stars. I had a chance to work closely with manufacturers of gloves, participate in the development of models, etc. During this time, I heard a lot of questions and a lot of answers and opinions about many things, which in fact I would like to summarize a little.
I would also like to note that buyers very often ask similar questions, and maybe this article will help someone.
I’ll also add: nothing stands still. Everything changes and some of the information may lose its relevance over time.
You have the opportunity to add comments … Criticism and comments, questions – are welcome. I would be happy to discuss as much as possible.
So let’s go. First, about the most important thing, about gloves.
Very often I hear the question: What is the best company? What is your coolest glove model? No, well, there must be the best company!
With all my sincere desire to help, I do not know the answer to the question. It seems to me that this is because there is no answer in principle. If it were possible to objectively single out the best company, a specific brand producing goalkeeper gloves, then other manufacturers would simply go bankrupt. and the products would not be needed by anyone.
Everyone’s hands are very different. The understanding of what gloves should be is also very different. The same different understanding and have different manufacturers. Therefore, each brand finds its customers.
There are about 10 most famous manufacturers that produce high quality products. Top notch gloves. You can start listing them: … SELLS, HO SOCCER, Uhlsport, Nike, Adidas, Puma, Umbro … etc. We can talk forever about the advantages and disadvantages.
There are leaders in the list, but the disposition changes every year, with every collection, so I won’t do it, so as not to confuse you.
Continuing the theme:
These are my favorite gloves, I chose them because they are cool, and the rest are junk … 900 28
How often do you see such stupidity especially on the Internet, especially in social networks. I also often hear this from buyers … when a person with the air of a connoisseur tells which gloves are really good and which are not.
Please remember and accept as true (as I put it… ufff):
If you like these particular gloves, it doesn’t mean that any other goalkeeper will like them and should. You are all different. You all have different hands, different tastes, desires and understanding of how it should be.
Therefore, please forget the question (which I also see very often in social networks): “Are these peppers normal?” (C) (the phrase in its original form, without “translation” into Russian)
There are no “pepper norms” and “not norms”.
Nonsense. It happens that someone likes gloves, and someone likes less. And everything you hear from the owner of this model is only his subjective opinion. It’s better to think a little and ask a specific question about gloves to find out if it suits you or not. “Norms” and “not norms” is not a criterion at all.
Learn to choose for yourself, do not repeat after someone else. Learning from someone else’s experience is certainly not bad, but not having one’s own is no less sad.
One more question follows from the last phrase (or call it what you want):
A more detailed title of this paragraph could be: Is there a difference between what professionals play and what is sold in stores under the guise of gloves, for example, Cech, Van Der Sar, etc.?
Both yes and no. Everything is very individual. It is necessary to consider each case and firm separately.
Globally, you can divide the brands that produce goalkeeper gloves into specialized ones that make only products for goalkeepers: SELLS, HO SOCCER, REUSCH, UHLSPORT .
.., and brands that produce products for all sports, including everyday wear, like NIKE, ADIDAS.
So, most often it happens that the products of specialized brands are identical in most cases. Those. when buying Sells Wrap Elite Aqua gloves, you may well get a pair from the same box from which a dozen pairs were given to England goalkeeper Robert Green.
As for non-specialized brands (Nike, Adidas, Reebok…) the picture is the opposite. Naturally, Cech cannot play in protective gloves, so Adidas Fingersave looks like some kind of profanity on his hands. Of course, we can say that the protection in these gloves is removable, but even so, his gloves are somewhat different.
Why is this happening? Brands have different goals and objectives, different audiences. Some (Nike, Adidas) claim to be massive, others work for a narrower circle of professionals, semi-professionals and fans who are quite seriously interested in football.
In simple words, for Adidas, the opinion of a mother who buys gloves for a child in a store is more important, the main thing for which is that the gloves are of high quality and last longer.
At the same time, SELLS, the mother’s opinion, is somewhat less concerned, because their gloves are chosen more often by other people and according to other criteria, and it is these criteria that will be similar to those that make gloves for professionals.
Whatever one may say, mass production will always be extremely average, because one must satisfy many with one model. As you know, this rarely works out well.
I don’t mean to say that Nike and Adidas are bad gloves. Let everyone decide for himself and draw conclusions for himself. You just need to take into account a different approach in development and production. If for some it will be marketing and the attractiveness of the product on the counter, then for others it will be the opinion and reputation of the brand among professionals.
Oh… why is the thread sticking out here?
The question of the quality of tailoring, design.
What are quality gloves?
I often hear talk about it, questions and opinions about it.
And you know, no offense, but talking about the “thread” immediately betrays a person who has only an indirect relationship to football.
Goalkeeper gloves are only a means for catching the ball and, in addition, consumables, and not at all a means to show off in front of someone and look at yourself in the mirror.
For these reasons, many brands aren’t that serious about getting seams and stitching to perfect straightness. They simply do not consider it necessary, because. they do not take into account the fact that someone will look at it under a magnifying glass.
Yes, of course, the quality is important, but the case when the firmware on professional gloves could not stand up to my memory happened a few times. Gloves die a natural death much faster so that you can simply not think about it.
Pay attention to other things: comfort, fit, thickness of the palm, ease of fastening, etc.
It will help you play, help you play better. “Thread” will not affect this in any way. Professionals understand this very well, and the first thing a professional goalkeeper does is put gloves on his hand, and then only examines it. He will immediately understand it or not. And the rest will be the tenth thing.
Palm thickness.
How many mm are these gloves? 3? Oh, No. Is there a thicker one? 5? 6? Oh great give! Are the fattest ones the nicest? The most professional?
I will say right away: Please pay less attention to the numbers. These are all just conventions, and very often just marketing. Catalogs always put down these numbers, but I assure you they do not always show something specific.
It often happens that gloves with 3mm latex feel on the hand and the total thickness of the palm are not inferior to models with 4mm latex. There is always a lining under the latex layer, and its thickness also affects the overall picture.
So 3mm of latex + 3mm of foam liner is already 6. And it will be thicker than 4mm of latex + 1mm of liner for other gloves. As a result, gloves marked in the catalog as 3mm will come out thicker. Such subtleties are rarely reflected in the catalogs, so I repeat: pay less attention to the numbers. They are often just confusing.
The most common thickness for professional gloves…probably 4mm latex + 1-2mm padding. No more. Much thicker gloves come across, the total thickness of the palm of which is 9-10 mm and thicker. Of course, they can be better at absorbing the blow, but it is difficult to play them. The feeling of the ball is very much lost. Entering the ball with your hand is also difficult. Many professionals even like gloves that are much thinner: 2-3 mm, without lining at all, or the thinnest one technologically possible.
Once again, everything comes down to the fact that gloves must be measured. By measuring it, you can tell which group these gloves belong to .
.. I would say there are thin, medium and thick gloves. It’s so simple. And without any millimeters. It may not be so obvious at first glance, but it reflects the essence of the matter much more.
Latex quality. Why do gloves tear and what are they made of?
Misconceptions from the series “Bad gloves, quickly torn”.
The story has been known for a long time: The better the glove catches the ball, the more wear resistance suffers. An axiom that does not require proof … So it was and is. By making a more wear-resistant palm, we reduce the flu. There’s nothing you can do, you just have to accept it. The age of professional gloves is not long. This is essentially a consumable item for the goalkeeper, nothing more. 20-30 pairs per year for a regularly trained professional is the norm. For amateurs, these numbers are certainly less. Less than an order of magnitude. It directly depends on the amount of time devoted to football.
Another important component of the longevity of the palm is the playing technique, the landing technique. If professionals have gloves more from catching the ball, then amateurs usually have problems landing jumps.
As for the quality of latex, perhaps someone will say that “they catch not with gloves, but with their hands” and will be partly right. The technique of catching the ball is very, very important, but very often during the game, when centimeters and millimeters are decided, it is not possible to do everything like in training, so the quality of latex in gloves comes to the fore. There are no unimportant trifles, it is these percentages, some slight difference in latex that can save, can help to transfer the ball over the crossbar by a few centimeters.
Another misconception: In order to understand in the store whether gloves have good latex, you need to touch the ball in gloves.
A lot of people put on a pair from the window, ask for a ball and twist it meaningfully in their hands, trying to understand whether the ball sticks or not.
This is, by the way, not the most interesting. There are people who rub their gloves on their hair…
So: it’s absolutely useless. Why? I’ll try to explain. As you know, latex dries out when it is stored for a long time and is not moistened periodically. After the gloves leave the factory, it can take a very long time to get into the store or into the hands of the buyer. Sometimes more than one year. To avoid drying out of latex, gloves are treated at the factory with special compounds. So, how much the ball sticks to new gloves will depend on the properties of this composition, and not at all on the quality of the latex itself.
Some companies use this to their advantage by purposely lubricating the palms of gloves more liberally, using more oily formulations. It seems that the ball sticks like glue. But this is only a misleading impression. After the gloves are washed before the first use, the “glue” feeling will disappear.
The only way to tell if latex gloves are good is to play with them.
No other has been thought of. You can also sometimes evaluate visually, but for this you need to have a lot of experience.
Wash or do not wash gloves before first use. Caring for goalie gloves
Why wash gloves before first use if the compound they are treated with is so wonderful to help “glue the ball”? This question is indeed asked by many. The reason is that this feeling of a good flu is only deceptive. As soon as a few drops of water get on the gloves, the composition will instantly “float”. It will seem that the gloves do not catch at all. As if they were oiled. To avoid such a “setup”, you need to take care of this immediately after buying gloves. Wash and wash gloves before first use. Everyone does it differently. Someone washes under the tap in warm water, someone even uses a washing machine. I am inclined that the second option is not so bad (not long, about 15 minutes, WITHOUT POWDER (it dries the latex)).
Although keep in mind that glove manufacturers do not recommend using a washing machine. This method is at your own risk.
Do not wash new gloves if you do not want to use them soon. Gloves will begin to dry out gradually if they are stored for a long time without use, but with the protective composition washed off.
If, nevertheless, the composition was washed off, but the gloves should be stored without using as long as possible, wrap them tightly in a bag and put them in a dark place where there is no special ventilation. So partly it will be possible to stop the aging of latex.
As for washing gloves after games, I think the options that I described above are quite suitable. I will say again: be careful with various detergents and powders. Many of them dry latex very strongly.
Let’s go through some other gear.
The following misconception: Goalkeepers don’t hurt to fall because they have protective pads on their pants and sweaters.
This is what you often hear. Often. “Give me pants so that it doesn’t hurt to fall!”
Protective pads on pants and sweaters are absolutely not for this. No amount of foam will help if an adult weighs 90 kg will fall knees on the floor. To get rid of bruises, pain and other injuries – it remains only to work on the technique. There is no other choice left. You need to understand at least the basics to get started. If you don’t, you run the risk of serious injury, and no sweater with protection will save you from it.
Protective pads on sweaters and pants are only intended to protect against scratches. Rolling, sliding during landings and more. Touching the ground with your knees and elbows is still sometimes necessary. But only touch, not fall on them.
Take care of yourself, your knees are the most important thing. Rely on technique, not pants.
Synthetic. Why is everything synthetic? Where are the quality cotton items?
For many, it is customary that good things (t-shirts, etc.
) should be made of cotton. Because they are more comfortable, the body breathes better in them, etc. Unfortunately, this is a little different. Modern synthetic fabrics are much more suitable for football than cotton.
Cotton has one big drawback – it gets wet from sweat, gets heavier and does not dry out. Synthetics, on the contrary, do not absorb moisture, do not get heavier, and there is no feeling of wet things on the body. Naturally, we are talking about high-quality synthetic things. Things “from the market” is a separate conversation.
The same applies to sports underwear. It is extremely advisable to buy “bicycles” for playing football. Well, or use sports underwear. Ordinary shorts are not very suitable for games and training, and even more so for goalkeeper training.
All about goalkeeper equipment » Christian Football League
This article has long been given the right to exist. Indeed, today those who purchase goalkeeper gloves for themselves have a huge number of questions on this topic.
All these questions are related to various criteria and nuances, including the choice of manufacturer. In any case, in order to answer all these questions, it is worth listening to the opinion of more than one specialist, as well as those who produce, sell and use gloves for themselves. At the same time, the article has a topic that must be supplemented over time without fail. After all, nothing stands still, like the production of accessories for goalkeepers. Well, let’s get started with the questions!
Often there are questions about which company is the best? Is it worth taking the coolest and most popular company?
There are no clear answers to these questions and there never will be. And all because no one knows for sure and will not say which brand is the best and why. If in reality there was a brand in the world that could safely be called the best, then other manufacturers would simply not start playing with one goal.
It should be understood that the requirements for the product are different for everyone. Someone has such hands, and someone is completely different. Hence the requirements for gloves. At the same time, each person seeks for himself exactly what the other fundamentally rejects. With this logic, one or another manufacturer approaches production. By focusing on a certain parameter or characteristic, he emphasizes that someone will definitely like his gloves, and this someone will no longer look at another brand. But, despite this, there are leading manufacturers in this area that can be safely attributed to the top 10: SELLS, HO SOCCER, Uhlsport, Nike, Adidas, Puma, Umbro, etc. But it is important to know that every year the position of a particular manufacturer may change. Yes, and about the merits, and even more so about the shortcomings of each, you can talk forever. Therefore, in order to choose a manufacturer, it is enough just to pay attention to the characteristics of the model and how they are ideal for each individual goalkeeper.
Conclusion on the topic:
It’s no secret that in order to discuss the topic of purchasing a particular product, including goalkeeper gloves, sports fans choose the Internet. Such condemnations take place on forums, in social networks and even in online stores. At the same time, such discussions are sometimes held in the most rigid form. For example, the majority of those who have chosen a certain brand for themselves and purchased it recommend that everyone do the same and are not shy in expressions, clearly stating that all other models are complete junk.
It is worth mentioning right away that such opinions are not true. If some models are liked by one, this does not mean that they can be liked by others, and even more so by everyone. Once again, it is worth saying that in any case, each manufacturer will find its buyer and nothing else. Therefore, a question like: “Which manufacturer is better?” Is irrelevant and completely illiterate.
It is important to learn to make a choice exclusively for yourself, and not for others, and you cannot impose your opinion on others. It is better to have your own experience in using a particular product, including gloves, and at the same time correctly interpret the conclusions from these experiments.
Are there any differences from the professional gloves worn by famous goalkeepers, from the models that are offered in the store and also supposedly like professionals?
This question can be answered both positively and negatively. In fact, you need to approach it from afar. Today, all manufacturers of such products can be divided into two main categories. The first category is firms that are exclusively engaged in the production of gloves for goalkeepers. Among such companies are HO SOCCER, UHLSPORT and others. And the second category is companies that specialize in the manufacture of sports equipment for all sports.
As practice shows, such companies are also happy to produce sportswear that is used for daily wear.
Manufacturers that produce exclusively
goalkeeper `s gloves
, make such a product almost identical. If you manage to buy the goalie gloves from Sells Wrap Elite Aqua, you might end up with a pair from the same box as the top team’s famous goaltender.
If we talk about brands that make whatever they want, such as Adidas or Nike, then it is worth pointing out the opposite picture.
Why is this happening? Yes, everything is simple. Different companies pursue different goals. Those who work for professionals count on the attention of only those who are true professionals in football. And for those who work for everyone, it is important to collect as many audiences as possible in order to make a big profit. It is important to understand that the production criteria for these companies are different.
It is important to note that the products of those companies that manufacture products for a narrow circle are average products. Indeed, in this case, for example, gloves should be good for everyone, both for amateurs and professionals. This is difficult to achieve, so something may not satisfy the professionals, which is sure to please amateurs.
No, you should not immediately say that Adidas or Nike products are not very good products. But it is these brands that show that Adidas is more suitable for some, while Nike is better for others.
Design, tailoring quality and how to identify quality gloves?
With regard to these criteria, as well as talk about it, you can hear this particular topic quite often. At the same time, sometimes a person may simply doubt the quality of gloves just because they see a thread that sticks out on them.
It should be said right away that a person who really pays attention to the thread is far from being an expert and does not even have a serious relationship with football.
In this case, I immediately want to tell the person that you should not buy gloves at all. After all, gloves for a real goalkeeper are a tool that simply helps to catch the ball, namely, it acts as a consumable. No one will show off in such gloves if the person is a professional. Yes, and in the mirror to admire yourself in them is not possible.
In addition, many professional gloves, which are made by leading manufacturers and used in the game by world leaders in goal protection, do not have perfectly even seams. This is due to the fact that in the manufacture attention is paid not to the quality of performance, but to other characteristics.
No, you should not close your eyes to completely unstitched places. But as far as seams are concerned, gloves are more likely to fail as a result of a natural death than from a stitching divergence.
When choosing gloves, you should not pay attention to the design or the beauty of the models. It is worth paying attention to comfort, ease of fit, palm size, clasp, etc. it is the choice of a glove according to these criteria that will help to play perfectly and win.
No protruding thread can affect the result. Professional players do not pay attention to such shortcomings. Exceptions can only be if the glove is purchased as a gift as a souvenir. Although if it is presented to real professionals, then he will not pay attention to the strings.
Palm thickness
Often, customers who come to the store to buy goalkeeper gloves do not know how thick the palm is. At the same time, they try to buy the largest one, because, in their opinion, the more, the better and more convenient.
As for the opinion of experts, there is no need to pay attention to the numbers at all.
In fact, any sizes are just conventions, which are a marketing ploy that is used in modern magazines.
In fact, everything is quite simple to explain. Some latex glove models may have a 3 mm marking. Moreover, if you use a model with a marking of 4 mm, then it will be comfortable in your hand. It is important to understand that there is always a gasket under the latex. Its thickness also affects the figure, although this is not always taken into account. For example, in one model, the lining thickness is 3 mm, and in another model, 1 mm. As a result, if you add up the thickness of the latex, then the size is completely untrue. In general, all these figures are written for beauty, you should not take them literally. Most of the time, these numbers are confusing.
But if there is a desire to make a choice based on these figures, then it is better to take a model that has a latex thickness of 4 mm, as well as a lining 1-2 mm thick. You can consider other options, the thickness of which is quite impressive, for example 9 mm.
Of course, such gloves can definitely absorb a blow more effectively, but a professional will definitely say that it is very difficult to play in such gloves.
Such gloves do not allow you to effectively feel the ball. At the same time, some professional goalkeepers like very thin models, the thickness of which is 2-3 mm.
If we draw a conclusion from all that has been said above, then it is worth mentioning the fact that in order to buy really high-quality gloves, they must be measured. Only after the gloves are measured can they be assigned to a specific group. There are three of them: thin, medium and thick. Everything is simple and without any incredible numbers.
Why do gloves tear and what are gloves made of?
Professional goalkeepers know that the better the gloves catch the ball, the faster and better they break. In fact, everything is quite simple.
The material from which professional gloves are made is not steel, and therefore it is common for them to tear. If you ask any professional how many pairs of gloves he needs for a year, he will boldly answer that 20-30 pairs. Hobbyists spend less. Moreover, if the goalkeeper prefers thin options, then the number increases.
In fact, the number of gloves spent depends entirely on the time devoted to football.
It is important to note the fact that the quality of the latex also affects the durability, on which it depends and how well the technique of catching the ball is used.
Quite often, those who enter the store in order to purchase another pair of gloves for themselves have a very interesting misconception that concerns latex testing. Such misguided buyers believe that in order to determine how good the latex is, it is important to simply touch the glove. Some arrange a very interesting test. Someone looks to see if the ball sticks to the glove, and someone even rubs latex through their hair.
Such actions are completely useless. This is due to certain nuances of the production of the gloves themselves. It’s no secret that latex simply dries out and becomes unusable if it is not constantly moisturized. In order for this material not to deteriorate and perform its functions, it is treated at the factory with a special compound. This is due to the fact that the time between production and delivery of gloves to the buyer can take even more than a year. At the same time, the stickiness of the ball to latex depends precisely on the properties of the composition with which the latex is impregnated so that it does not dry out.
Some companies are aware of this misconception and therefore use it to their advantage. For example, they more abundantly rub the solution into the latex in order for the ball to stick better, and thus, the buyer pays attention to this particular pair. It is important that after the glove has passed the first wash after use, the sticking effect will quickly disappear.
Oddly enough, but in order to understand how good latex is on gloves, just play with them. There is no other way to test gloves. Some professionals can visually determine the quality of gloves, but it is important to be a real professional for this.
Do gloves need to be washed before first use?
Many people often have the question of whether to wash gloves before the first use. After all, it seems that the protective layer, which is on latex, will help to effectively catch the ball. However, you should be careful, because at the slightest hit of moisture on the latex, it will float and it will seem that the gloves do not catch at all. Therefore, it is still necessary to wash the latex before the first use.
How to do it? Yes, everything is simple. You can use plain water, or you can use a washing machine. It should be said right away that manufacturers do not recommend washing machines for washing gloves, but you can use it, according to experts.
But it is important that detergents are not used during washing, otherwise the latex will be spoiled, since such chemistry will cause it to dry out, and such a moment cannot be allowed.
It is important if gloves are bought, but it is not planned to use them yet, you should not immediately rush to wash them. The latex is protected, so you shouldn’t disturb it. However, in the event that the gloves have been washed and use is not planned in the near future, the gloves can be put in a bag, closed carefully and placed in a dark place where there is no ventilation. Once again, I want to say that no detergents can be used when washing.
It is worth considering other equipment.
Quite often, from football fans, one can hear such an opinion that falling goalkeepers do not hurt at all, since their clothes have special linings that can soften the blow. Therefore, customers often come to the store and ask to sell them pants, the same as the goalkeepers, so that they also would not be hurt to play the game at an amateur level.
It is important to understand that all overlays, both on pants and on a sweater, cannot completely save a person from serious damage. Well, imagine a picture when a person, weighing at least 90 kilograms, falls to the ground. No pads can seriously soften the blow, which means that in order to effectively fall, it is necessary to think over the technique, namely, to study at least the basics. If you fall just like that, indiscriminately, then, most likely, serious injuries may occur.
All protective pads are protective, but they mainly protect against scratches and minor injuries, because often the goalkeeper has to slide when falling on the grass. Therefore, it is important not to choose pants and a sweater with overlays, but to study the technique and conduct training on this topic.
Synthetic things do not roll. Why is everything made only from synthetics?
Cotton is not always acceptable for sports.
