Where can you find quality used goalie gear in Ontario. How to choose the right clearance goalie equipment for your needs. What are the best deals on goalie equipment on sale across different regions of Ontario. How to assess the condition of used hockey gear before purchasing.
The Growing Market for Used Goalie Equipment in Ontario
The market for used goalie gear in Ontario is thriving, with over 230 listings currently available across the province. This abundance of options presents a unique opportunity for hockey players and enthusiasts to acquire high-quality equipment at more affordable prices. From major urban centers to smaller towns, the availability of used goalie gear spans across various regions, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers.
Why is the used goalie gear market so active in Ontario? Several factors contribute to this trend:
- The popularity of hockey in the province
- The high cost of new goalie equipment
- The rapid growth of youth players who quickly outgrow their gear
- The desire for experienced players to upgrade or try different brands
This vibrant market benefits both sellers looking to recoup some of their investment in expensive gear and buyers seeking quality equipment at reduced prices.
Top Regions for Finding Used Goalie Equipment in Ontario
While used goalie gear can be found throughout Ontario, some regions stand out for their higher concentration of listings. Here’s a breakdown of the top areas:
- Hamilton: 14 listings
- Barrie: 12 listings
- Kitchener Area: 8 listings
- Kingston Area: 7 listings
- London: 7 listings
These numbers indicate a particularly active market in these regions, likely due to their strong hockey communities and larger populations. However, don’t overlook smaller markets, as they may offer hidden gems with less competition from other buyers.
Exploring Options in Major Urban Centers
Urban centers like Hamilton, Kitchener, and London offer a wide variety of used goalie equipment. The higher number of listings in these areas can be attributed to:
- Larger populations with more hockey players
- Multiple ice rinks and hockey programs
- Higher turnover of equipment due to more frequent play and upgrades
When searching in these areas, you’re more likely to find a diverse range of brands, sizes, and styles to choose from.
Opportunities in Smaller Markets
While major cities may have more listings, smaller markets shouldn’t be overlooked. Places like Belleville, Brantford, and Brockville each have 5 or fewer listings, but these markets can offer unique advantages:
- Potentially less competition from other buyers
- Opportunity for better deals due to lower demand
- Possibility of finding rare or vintage equipment
Consider expanding your search to these areas, especially if you’re looking for specific items or are willing to travel for a great deal.
Essential Goalie Equipment: What to Look for When Buying Used
When shopping for used goalie equipment, it’s crucial to know what to look for to ensure you’re getting quality gear that will perform well and keep you safe on the ice. Here are the key pieces of equipment and what to consider for each:
Goalie Masks
A goalie mask is perhaps the most critical piece of equipment for safety. When evaluating a used mask, consider:
- Check for any cracks or damage to the shell
- Ensure the cage is securely attached and not bent
- Examine the padding inside for wear or deterioration
- Verify that all straps and buckles are intact and functional
Chest and Arm Protectors
These provide crucial protection for your upper body. Look for:
- Signs of excessive wear or tearing in the padding
- Ensure all straps and fasteners are present and working
- Check that the arm floaters move freely and are not damaged
Leg Pads
Goalie leg pads are a significant investment. When buying used, pay attention to:
- The overall condition of the outer material
- Check for any separation between the padding layers
- Examine the knee cradle for wear or damage
- Ensure all straps and buckles are present and in good condition
Goalie Gloves (Catch and Blocker)
These are essential for puck control and protection. Inspect:
- The palm of the catch glove for holes or excessive wear
- The blocker’s board for any cracks or separation
- Check that all fingers in the catch glove are intact
- Examine the padding in both gloves for compression or damage
Assessing the Condition of Used Goalie Gear: A Buyer’s Guide
When purchasing used goalie equipment, it’s essential to carefully assess its condition to ensure you’re getting a good value and safe gear. Here are some key factors to consider:
Visual Inspection
Start with a thorough visual inspection of the equipment. Look for:
- Signs of excessive wear or tear
- Any visible damage such as cracks, cuts, or separations
- Discoloration that might indicate water damage or mold
- Missing parts or components
Functional Check
Beyond the visual inspection, test the functionality of the equipment:
- Try on the gear to ensure it fits properly
- Check that all straps, buckles, and fasteners work correctly
- For leg pads, test the flexibility and responsiveness
- With gloves, ensure all fingers move freely and the closure systems work
Age and Usage
Consider the age and previous usage of the equipment:
- Ask the seller about the gear’s age and how frequently it was used
- Look for signs of regular maintenance or reconditioning
- Consider how the gear’s age might affect its safety and performance
Odor and Cleanliness
While used equipment may not be pristine, excessive odors or dirt can be red flags:
- Check for any strong, unpleasant odors that might indicate mold or mildew
- Look for signs that the equipment has been regularly cleaned and maintained
- Consider whether the gear will require significant cleaning or deodorizing before use
Pricing Trends in the Used Goalie Gear Market
Understanding pricing trends in the used goalie gear market can help you make informed decisions and get the best value for your money. Here are some key factors influencing prices:
Brand and Model
High-end brands and newer models typically command higher prices, even when used. Popular brands like Bauer, CCM, and Vaughn often retain their value well. However, lesser-known brands can offer excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.
Age and Condition
The age and condition of the equipment significantly impact its price. Newer gear in excellent condition may sell for 50-70% of its original retail price, while older or well-used equipment might go for 20-40% of its original cost.
Seasonal Fluctuations
Prices for used goalie gear can fluctuate based on the time of year:
- Pre-season (late summer/early fall): Prices may be higher due to increased demand
- Mid-season: Prices often stabilize
- Off-season (spring/early summer): You might find better deals as demand decreases
Local Market Conditions
Prices can vary significantly based on local market conditions. In areas with a high concentration of hockey players, competition for used gear might drive prices up. Conversely, in areas with less demand, you might find better deals.
Tips for Negotiating and Getting the Best Deal on Used Goalie Equipment
Negotiating can help you secure the best possible deal on used goalie equipment. Here are some strategies to consider:
Do Your Research
Before negotiating, research the current market value of the equipment you’re interested in. Look at similar listings in your area and online to get a sense of fair pricing. This knowledge will give you confidence in negotiations and help you avoid overpaying.
Inspect Thoroughly and Point Out Flaws
During your inspection, note any flaws or signs of wear. Use these observations as negotiating points. For example, if you notice excessive wear on the leg pad straps, you could mention the potential cost of replacement to justify a lower price.
Bundle Items for a Better Deal
If a seller has multiple pieces of equipment available, consider bundling items together. Offering to buy several pieces at once can often lead to a better overall price, as the seller may be motivated to clear out more inventory.
Be Prepared to Walk Away
Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right. Sometimes, showing that you’re willing to leave can motivate the seller to lower their price. If not, there are likely other options available in the market.
Consider Timing
Timing can play a role in your negotiations. Sellers might be more willing to negotiate at the end of the hockey season when demand is lower, or if their listing has been active for a while without selling.
Maintaining and Extending the Life of Your Used Goalie Equipment
Proper maintenance of your used goalie equipment can significantly extend its lifespan and maintain its performance. Here are some essential tips for caring for your gear:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your equipment after each use to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors:
- Wipe down hard surfaces with a damp cloth
- Use specialized sports equipment cleaners for fabric and padding
- Allow gear to air dry completely before storing
Proper Storage
How you store your equipment can impact its longevity:
- Store gear in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew
- Use a gear bag or equipment rack to keep items organized and well-ventilated
- Avoid storing gear in direct sunlight, which can degrade materials over time
Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect your equipment for signs of wear or damage:
- Check straps and buckles for wear and replace as needed
- Look for any separation in padding or protective elements
- Examine stitching and seams for any signs of coming apart
Rotation and Rest
If possible, rotate between multiple sets of gear:
- This allows each set to fully dry between uses
- Reduces overall wear on any single piece of equipment
- Can extend the life of your gear significantly
Professional Reconditioning
Consider professional reconditioning services for high-wear items:
- Leg pads and catch gloves can often be reconditioned to extend their life
- Professional services can repair damage and refresh padding
- This can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new gear
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your used goalie equipment continues to perform well and protect you on the ice for seasons to come. Regular care not only extends the life of your gear but also helps maintain its protective qualities, keeping you safe during play.
Goalie Equipment | Hockey Equipment For Sale in Ontario
Showing 1 – 40 of 251 results
All Categories
Buy & Sell
Sporting Goods & Exercise
×
Hockey
(233)
Ontario
(230)Barrie
(12)
Belleville Area
(5)
Brantford
(5)
Brockville
(3)
Chatham-Kent
(1)
Cornwall
(3)
Guelph
(1)
Hamilton
(14)
Kingston Area
(7)
Kitchener Area
(8)
Leamington
(3)
London
(7)
Muskoka
(2)
Ottawa / Gatineau Area
(11)
Owen Sound
(2)
Peterborough Area
(3)
Sarnia Area
(4)
St. Catharines
(10)
Sudbury
(1)
Thunder Bay
(5)
Timmins
(1)
Toronto (GTA)
(112)
Windsor Region
(9)
Woodstock
(1)
- Fewer Options
- View more options. ..
Filter by
Offer Type:
All Types
Offering
(227)
Wanted
(3)
Filter by
Featured Ads:
All Ads
Urgent Ads
Price:
Filter by price
Price
from
–
Price
to
Filter by
Additional Info:
All Ads
Ads with video
Ads with images
For Sale By:
Owner
(223)
Business
(4)
- View more options. ..
Fulfillment:
Drop off / Delivery
(16)
Shipping
(13)
Curbside pick up
(47)
- View more options…
Payment:
Cashless payment
(36)
Cash accepted
(65)
- View more options. ..
Condition:
New
(11)
Used – Like new
(36)
Used – Good
(75)
Used – Fair
(10)
- View more options. ..
Price
–
For Sale By:
Fulfillment:
Payment:
Condition:
- Price
- For Sale By
- Fulfillment
- Payment
- Condition
|
Cancel
Use Distance Search to find Ads based on where you are and how far you want to travel.
Location (postal code or address):Search radius km
Increase the search radius for more results. Based on the radius, a new location list is generated for you to choose from.
|
Cancel
Featured
Sponsored Advertisements:
Clear History
Used Goalie Pads – Sports Replay
Sort by:
FeaturedBest sellingAlphabetically, A-ZAlphabetically, Z-APrice, low to highPrice, high to lowDate, old to newDate, new to old
Best selling
Sort by:
FeaturedBest sellingAlphabetically, A-ZAlphabetically, Z-APrice, low to highPrice, high to lowDate, old to newDate, new to old
Best selling
In stock
36Out of stock
9
$0
$299. 99
1
31.9
15
128
230
231
179
1400
1500
1550
1760
3860
1994
12000
17000
17200
17260
17590
17800
19200
170000
11″
31. 5″
128″
130″
229+
19k
114k
218k
128″+1
128+1
328+1″
129″+1
129″+1″
129+1
130+1
531+1
331+1. 5
131+2
132+1
233+2
134+2
135+1
2axis
1bauer
8blk
1blk/yel
1brians
2ccm
10e-flex
1e3. 9
1e4.5
1extreme
4flex
4g-netic
1g3
1goal
1goalie
43hockey
9int
5islanders
1jr
4larceny
2large
1leg
20legs
1net
1one. 7
1pads
44premier
1pro
1reactor
3red/blk/wht
1reebok
9revoke
1ritual
1s150
1s29
1simmons
1size
1slr
1supreme
2surpeme
1sz
12v2
1v4
2v5
4v6
1v7
2vaughn
14velocity
9ventus
1vision
1warrior
1white
1wht
4wht/blk
6wht/blk/red
1wht/blk/yel
1wht/red/blu
2
Ccm Axis 1. 9 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Blk
Sold out
Ccm Axis 1.9 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Blk
- Price
- $299.99
Ccm Extreme 500 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Wht
Ccm Extreme 500 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Wht
- Price
- $199.99
Bauer Reactor Goalie Pads Sz 32+1
Bauer Reactor Goalie Pads Sz 32+1
- Price
- $129.99
Reebok 9K Hockey Goalie Pads Sz Int 30″ + 1″
Reebok 9K Hockey Goalie Pads Sz Int 30″ + 1″
- Price
- $89.99
Ccm 550 Int Goalie Pads 30+1 Wht/Blk
Ccm 550 Int Goalie Pads 30+1 Wht/Blk
- Price
- $229.99
Reebok Revoke Int Pro Goalie LEGS PADS 31+1 Int Wht/Red/Blk
Sold out
Reebok Revoke Int Pro Goalie LEGS PADS 31+1 Int Wht/Red/Blk
- Price
- $139. 99
Vaughn Velocity V5 7260 Hockey Goalie Pads Sz 31+1
Sold out
Vaughn Velocity V5 7260 Hockey Goalie Pads Sz 31+1
- Price
- $139.99
Ccm Extreme Flex 760 Hockey Goalie Pads Sz 30″ + 1″
Ccm Extreme Flex 760 Hockey Goalie Pads Sz 30″ + 1″
- Price
- $129.99
Ccm E-Flex 760 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Wht/Blk/Yel
Ccm E-Flex 760 Goalie Leg Pads 30+1 Wht/Blk/Yel
- Price
- $139.99
Simmons 994 Goalie Pads Sz 34+1
Simmons 994 Goalie Pads Sz 34+1
- Price
- $249.99
Vaughn Velocity V7 Goalie Leg Pads 31+2 Red/Blk/Wht
Vaughn Velocity V7 Goalie Leg Pads 31+2 Red/Blk/Wht
- Price
- $249.99
Reebok Larceny Goalie Leg Pads 35+1 Islanders
Reebok Larceny Goalie Leg Pads 35+1 Islanders
- Price
- $189. 99
Goalkeeper equipment: differences from field uniforms and main selection criteria: News
Interview
Recently, we talked about all the nuances and criteria for selecting equipment for field players – about age characteristics, the right choice of sizes, safety and comfort of uniforms, and much more. In this article we will talk about goalkeeper ammunition. The key points in choosing the size of the main elements are already familiar to you, so now we will pay more attention to the differences and functional qualities.
But first you need to take into account that goalkeepers do not become immediately after getting into a children’s hockey school. As a rule, goalkeepers must have good skating skills, so the transition to this role is carried out after several months or even 1-2 years from the moment you start playing hockey.
Equipment: what you need to start playing hockey
Interview
Goalkeeper equipment, like the uniform of field players, must be safe, protect against shots, be comfortable to use, combine lightness and protective properties. However, the elements of the goalkeeper’s ammunition are distinguished by increased dimensions, the inadmissibility of unprotected areas, more stringent requirements and restrictions in terms of hockey rules. In general, equipment serves to make goaltenders feel less impact from puck hits.
Timur Bilyalov, Ak Bars goalkeeper: “When choosing a uniform, I focus on the quality of equipment, its convenience. I advise parents to pay attention to the comfort for the child. It is not necessary to buy some super expensive equipment, especially in childhood. The child is growing fast, you will only spend extra money. The most important thing is that the uniform should be comfortable, of high quality and protect well.”
Skates
Goalie skates feature additional reinforced boot protection, a low skating cup for increased stability in a static position, a shortened heel counter for greater ankle mobility, and a long blade (but no longer than the skate).
Separately, it is worth paying attention to the sharpening of skates. It depends on the style of play and the angle at which the blades rest on the ice when the goalkeeper is in the stance, the thickness of the blade (sometimes 3 or 4 mm), the design and rigidity of the boots and individual preferences. The sharpening radius from 8 to 17 mm is mainly used.
It should be remembered that the goalkeeper must develop the technique of skating, so young goalkeepers under the age of 9-10 years and before the start of specialized exercises are recommended to practice in regular skates.
Ilya Yezhov, goalkeeper of Salavat Yulaev: “The most important thing is to feel comfortable in shape. I would advise all young and novice goalkeepers to choose the form that is convenient for them. No need to look at others – choose what suits you. You should not buy any expensive models; in childhood, you can safely play in a simpler form. As you grow older in the matter of choice, you need to trust the goalkeepers and focus on convenience.
Stick
Goalie sticks differ in grip, material of manufacture, age categories, bend and length of the hook, angle of inclination and shape of expansion. The grip is traditionally right and left, most goaltenders are left-handed, they hold the stick on the left side, and the puck is caught with the left hand.
As for the material from which the clubs are made, there are wooden, composite and hybrid clubs. Hybrid sticks weigh more than composite sticks, but the rebound is more predictable and controlled.
Manufacturers produce sticks of four age categories: children’s (marked “yth” – youth), juniors (“jr” – junior), teenage (“int” – intermediate), adults (“sr” – senior). When choosing a goalkeeper’s stick, you should pay attention to the height of the beginning of the expansion of the handle and the amount of this expansion, the indicated height determines the place of grip of the stick. This is important to consider because poor selection will result in poor grip and stick position.
Hockey goalie ammunition
Be sure to wind the stick at the end of the handle. This is necessary to control the stick during lunges, to prevent injury to other players from colliding with the end of the handle, to prevent the handle from getting tangled or stuck in the goal net, and to make the stick more comfortable when getting off the ice. It is also recommended to wrap the hook of the club and the grip on the shaft extension.
Andrey Tikhomirov, Neftekhimik goalkeeper: “The most important thing is that the form should be in size. Otherwise, you will feel discomfort and inconvenience. I advise parents to pay attention to the quality of protection so that children do not get injured.”
Helmet
Goaltenders use a helmet throughout the match, and the mask is designed so that neither the puck nor the blade of the skater’s stick can pass through the bars. The helmet maximally compensates for the load on the head and neck when the puck hits, the rebound from it should not pose a threat to the goal.
Helmets are made in three age categories – children’s, juniors and adults, while the size grid differs for each manufacturer, so it is more correct to choose a helmet when trying it on. Most importantly, it should fit snugly on the head, but not squeeze it. There should also be no free space between the head and the helmet – this can lead to injury. A large helmet, moreover, can rest against the breastplate, which will limit the movement of the head and neck.
In helmets, special bandages are made located on the frontal part. They help to avoid drops of sweat in the eyes and are fastened from the inside of the helmet with Velcro. They need to be monitored – washed in time or replaced when worn. It is also necessary to look behind the metal mask on the helmet, check its integrity and the presence of dents.
Some goalkeepers use additional plastic neck protection that is attached to the laces. However, according to hockey rules, its use is not mandatory and depends solely on the preferences of the goalkeeper – for some, this protection only distracts during active movements.
Individual segments of the helmet, which are most often hit by the puck, can gradually fail, collapse or delaminate. It is also necessary to monitor this and, if necessary, restore the helmet in special workshops.
Aleksey Krasikov, Spartak goalkeeper: “I’ve been playing the same models for quite some time, simply because I’m used to them. I don’t have any specific criteria, I go on the ice in what I like. It doesn’t matter which brand – there is something that has already become accustomed to over the years of the game.
I would like to advise parents that they ask the child what is comfortable for him. There is no need to chase models of some individual manufacturers, do not think that what is more expensive is better – this is not so, in childhood it can be much more convenient not to have a professional uniform, but a series that precedes it. Therefore, it is necessary to get in touch with the child and communicate with him on this topic, to clarify what is more suitable for him.
Neck protection
All goaltenders under the age of 18 are required by hockey rules to wear neck and throat protection. This element is worn together under the bib and together with it forms a single surface and helps protect the chest, collarbones, neck and throat.
Ivan Kulbakov, Torpedo goalkeeper: “Parents must understand that they choose the form not for themselves, but for their child. And he must choose for himself what he likes and what he is comfortable in – this is the most important criterion. The second point – the form must be bought by size. Often they take either a larger size or a smaller one, but this gives a kind of inconvenience during the game in goal.
Shields
This piece of equipment has two main functions: it protects the legs and hips of the goalkeeper, and also helps him perform the main goalkeeper’s job – hitting pucks. Shields are one of the most dimensional elements of the goalkeeper’s protection, however, their dimensions are clearly regulated by the hockey rules.
The main difference between goalie pads and field players pads is their shape and functional properties. The goaltender’s pads are in direct contact with the ice, they are used by the goaltender to hit pucks after shots and with their help the goaltender moves on the ice during the game.
Alexey Krasikov. Photo: Victoria Trufanova
Modern pads are quite light, glide well on the ice, but do not get wet, otherwise the moisture from the ice would only make them heavier. Pads are made of durable materials that are able to withstand the constant load of puck hits, but at the same time ensure the mobility of the goaltender and create the least friction when sliding.
Vladislav Podyapolsky, SKA goalkeeper: “It is better to choose the equipment so that the child is comfortable in it, so that he feels that it is comfortable on the ice, so that he can try to move in the goal in it.”
The design of the shields includes frontal, side, internal and external protection. Internal protection helps, among other things, to compensate for the load on the knees that occurs when the goalkeeper plays “down”. There is also side knee protection on the inside of the pads, which separates the inside of the knee from the ice.
Manufacturers make this item of equipment in four age categories: children, juniors, teens and adults. In the manufacture, depending on the category, the strength of the throws and other influences corresponding to age are taken into account. As a rule, the protection of children’s and junior shields is simplified, and they are made only amateur. The other two categories are divided into amateur, semi-professional and professional models, and their main differences are in the materials of manufacture, the level of protection, the convenience and reliability of fasteners and weight.
It is advisable to select the size when buying during the fitting. The size of the guards is usually indicated by two numbers in inches – for example, 27″ + 1″. The first number is the vertical distance from the bare foot to the knee, and the second number is the additional length of the shield above the knee. If the first indicator is tied exclusively to physiological and anthropometric characteristics, then the second depends on the individual preferences of the goalkeeper and his playing style.
Andrey Tikhomirov, Neftekhimik goalkeeper: “If you look at used equipment, the main thing in the pads is that they remain strong in the knee area so that there are no kinks. In a pancake, look at the plate, it should be intact, the trap should not be broken in the area of \u200b\u200bthe fingers. Everything else can be done by hand.”
Knee protection
This item of equipment is optional according to hockey rules, however, the use of knee protection is possible in cases where during the game the part of the thigh between the pads and shorts becomes unprotected, which increases the risk of injury. Previously, the knee guards could move to the side during play, but now the models are equipped with locks, with which this part of the form is attached to the leggings, groin guards or a separate belt for attaching knee guards.
Trap
The trap, like shields, has two functions – protecting the hand and wrist from hitting the puck and fixing the puck after shots. Depending on the grip of the stick, the trap is put on the left or right hand, while the dimensions of this element are also regulated by hockey rules.
Equipment manufacturers produce traps for children, juniors, teenagers and adults. Depending on the category, they differ in size and weight, which makes it possible for novice goalkeepers to hone their technical skills in lightweight equipment. Also, the trap is adapted to the strength of the throws.
Children’s and juniors are only amateur, and teens and adults are amateur, semi-professional and professional. The main differences between these models are in weight, level of protection, convenience and reliability of fastenings and material of manufacture. Another important difference is the angle of the trap relative to the forearm, mainly 60, 75 and 90 degrees. The selection according to this criterion depends on individual preferences.
Photo provided by SportDepo – equipment for professionals www.sportdepo.ru
For the rest, it is important to take into account that in the matter of the weight and size of the trap, one should start from the physical development of the goalkeeper, therefore, when moving from a trap of one age category to the next, one must be careful. First, have the goaltender try to grab the puck or ball by freely squeezing and unclenching the trap. If this fails, the puck will fall out.
At the same time, the level of protection of the trap should be such that when reflecting throws in the hand and wrist, there is no pain. When trying on, please note that there should be no unprotected areas between the trap’s wrist guard and the chest sleeve.
No less important is the issue of transporting the trap. During transportation, there should be no bends and creases, which is fraught with loss of functional qualities, shape and wear resistance. This is especially important in the first time after purchase, when the trap has not yet been fully developed.
Aleksey Krasikov, Spartak goalkeeper: “In my childhood, everything was simple. As my mother, along with my grandparents, had the opportunity to update the form, they updated it. Once it was once every three years, once it was once every four. I changed shape very rarely, as finances did not allow me to do this more often.
Pancake / Blocker
The block should be rectangular. The dimensions of the pancake, as well as some other elements of the goalkeeper’s uniform, are regulated by hockey rules. Depending on the grip, the pancake is put on the hand that holds the stick. Goalkeepers use the front side of the blocker to hit pucks, and it also has side and bottom protectors to protect the hand and wrist. On the inside of the pancake there is also a protective valve for the thumb and wrist, it must be securely fixed on the “body” of the blocker.
Eddie Pasquale. Photo: Maxim Shmakov
As for the division of pancakes by type, everything here is the same as with traps. Models in children’s and junior categories are only amateur, and in teenage and adult categories – amateur, semi-professional and professional. The differences between them are similar – size, weight, material of manufacture, level of protection, comfort of grip and stick control. At the same time, it is important that the plate and the trap correspond to the same age category of equipment, and the blocker’s glove allows you to confidently control the club.
Andrey Tikhomirov, Neftekhimik goalkeeper: “I have two pairs of pads and three pancakes with a trap for the season. Before the playoffs, a fourth pair of “hands” is sometimes needed. In general, I like the new form, so that it does not fail at the right time. And so – there are enough shields for 4-5 months, traps and a pancake – for 2-3 months. But as a child, everything was much harder. It happened that he played in the shields for three years. Pancake with a trap altered 2-3 times. But with age, by the age of 14, I tried to find what the guys from the first team handed over to the warehouse. The MHL already had one set for the season – one pads, one trap and a pancake.
Shorts (panties)
Shorts are one of those items of equipment that are not subject to modification or installation of additional protection, padding in the leg or lumbar. It is believed that any extra element can simplify the goalkeeper’s task, so any additions are prohibited.
The goalie shorts are by default more protective than the fielder’s shorts, but the goaltender’s shorts are divided into more segments to improve mobility. The upper and inner thighs and lower back are equipped with reinforced protection. Statistics show that the largest number of throws fall in these areas.
Photo provided by SportDepo – equipment for professionals www.sportdepo.ru
There are two main types of shorts – narrow and wide. In narrow ones, the bib is used over the shorts, in wide ones, on the contrary, the bib is tucked into the shorts. By age categories, the division is the same as in most other parts of the goalkeeper uniform – children’s, junior, teenage and adult models. The size of the shorts is designated from S to XXL, when choosing the most convenient size, it is advisable to choose shorts along with a bib and pads, if they have already been purchased.
Ilya Yezhov, goalkeeper of Salavat Yulaev: “When I started playing, my parents didn’t have much money. There was a store of not new clothes, sports uniforms, I always went there and looked at what was there. And suddenly there were brown shields. I liked them, I hid them in the store. I went home, asked my grandmother for money for shields, and she had only half of the amount. I took them, returned to the store and tore off the price tag from one shield. I came to the cashier, and they tell me that I need an amount twice as much as what I had. And I said: “Okay, then I’ll take only the left one.” The saleswoman was shocked, called the administrator, he looked at me, saw that I was young and said: “Okay, take it.” That’s how I bought my first shin guards.”
Groin protection
This part of the goalkeeper’s uniform is more reinforced and has additional protective segments. For goalkeepers, the shell is available only in the form of a bandage. Separate junior, teenage and adult models. When choosing, you should pay attention to the fact that the sink does not rub, does not move when moving on ice and is conveniently located.
Ivan Kulbakov, Torpedo goalkeeper: “As a child, every week I took the uniform to my grandmother, we sewed something, hemmed it. You understand what problems with the form used to be. In general, they played in what was left of the older guys, they had to wear it out. There were a lot of problems with the form. Now the guys are better, I know for sure. And before, what was given – that’s what you play, there was no choice.
Bib
The goalkeeper bib is very different from this piece of equipment for outfield players. Since the main part of the throws falls on the goalkeeper’s body, the bib has reinforced back, chest, shoulder protection and arm protection along the entire length, replacing the elbow pads. At the same time, the bib is made of several small segments, which provides the goalkeeper with better mobility and reliable protection.
The bib must meet a number of criteria prescribed in the hockey rules. It should not have bent or protruding parts, both on the arms and on the shoulders. In general, the ideal bib follows the shape of the shoulders and looks natural on the goalkeeper.
The bib for goalkeepers provides additional protection for the collarbones – it should not protrude above the shoulders. It is also not allowed to have any inserts from the inside, due to which the entire bib can rise. At the same time, if the goalkeeper’s shoulder pad in the main stance in the squat rises above the contour of the shoulders, then the design of such a bib is recognized as non-standard and violating the rules of the game of hockey.
Depending on the preference of the goaltender, the bib can be worn either over the shorts or tucked into them. By age categories, children’s, junior, teenage and adult bibs are distinguished. Sizes are generally indicated in the range from S to XL, however, in children’s bibs, the size grid is slightly different.
As with other parts of the form, it is important to choose the right size. The bib should not be worn as it can reduce the goaltender’s mobility and limit the visibility of certain areas. At the same time, you shouldn’t play with a smaller bib, as this can lead to unprotected spots. When choosing a bib, you should measure it along with shorts and a helmet. When these elements are put on, the young goalkeeper needs to try to turn his head in different directions and tilt his head – the helmet should not touch the protective elements of the bib.
Timur Bilyalov, Ak Bars goalkeeper: “When I was still playing in a children’s school, there was an age when my foot was 39-40 sizes, and they gave me skates of size 11, very large – now I have a skate 8, 5. As a result, he went out on the ice in these skates, put on a woolen sock. It was funny: I myself am small, and I have skis on my feet.
Underwear
There are no special differences in comparison with the underwear of field players for goalkeepers. The only difference is that there are no “shells” built into the underwear. If you got a set of underwear with a built-in shell to protect the groin, then you need to remove it and use a bandage. Otherwise, there is no difference. And do not forget that underwear must be dried after each exit to the ice and washed every 3-4 days.
Form
Goalkeeper jerseys are also subject to special requirements in the rules. For example, the jersey should not be allowed to tighten – because of this, tension in the fabric in the armpits may form, which will simplify the goalkeeper’s game. At the same time, the sleeves of the T-shirt should not hang below the fingers of the gloves. Also, goalkeeper jerseys have stricter requirements for the maximum size, and the T-shirt itself, due to bulky equipment, has a straight wide cut in the chest, waist and along the entire length of the sleeves.
As for gaiters or gaiters, they are put on under the shields and fastened with special fasteners to the belt or Velcro on the underwear.
Ilya Yezhov, Salavat Yulaev goalkeeper: “Actually, as a child, I had enough equipment for a long time – for about two years, until you grow out of it. But the form must always be looked after, I always cleaned it, dried it, folded it neatly.
Bag
Goalie trunks are more spacious than field players, because they must be transported with enough voluminous pads, bib, shorts and other elements of the form. Goalie equipment bags are divided into four age categories: children, juniors, teenagers and adults.
In shape, they come in two types – a trunk (unlike those of field players, 1-2 additional wheels are used here) and a vertical trunk, on which the shields are attached from the outside.
Aleksey Krasikov, Spartak goalkeeper: “If you take used goalkeeper equipment for children, you should pay attention, first of all, to its condition. In childhood, safety is paramount, it is the life and health of your child. You need to look at the wear, whether the main protective parts are broken, whether the shape has lost its protective properties. When you are already playing at a professional level, then you yourself can reasonably make a choice in favor of security or speed – a smaller bib, a lighter pancake or a trap. If there is less protection, then it is already more painful and can lead to injury. But this is already a conscious choice, and in childhood it is desirable to protect the child from damage. You need to look at the state of the used form and communicate with the child, whether it is convenient for him, and then make a conscious right choice.”
Used equipment
It is not necessary to buy new goalkeeper equipment, as a child you can play in used uniforms. However, when choosing, you should pay attention to the integrity of each element, general wear, abrasions, etc. It is necessary to carefully check the straps and other fastenings. As for places to buy, there are a lot of them – departments with used equipment exist in hockey stores, there are various sites on the Internet, some tips can be given at a children’s school.
As you can see, with goalkeeper equipment, much is completely different in comparison with the form of field players, but there are no big tricks either. We have tried to point out the most important things that you should pay attention to when buying ammunition for a goalkeeper. Now – for the form and on the ice!
A detailed guide to choosing a hockey uniform is available on the website of the Russian Ice Hockey Federation: you can download the materials here.