Find the Perfect Fit Goalie Gear Size Chart for All LevelsFind the Perfect Fit Goalie Gear Size Chart for All Levels
Measuring Arm Length and Hand Size for Goalie Gloves
Finding goalie gloves that fit properly is crucial for any netminder. The right fit allows you to easily catch pucks, close your hand around the puck, and move freely without restriction. When sizing goalie gloves, two key measurements to take into account are arm length and hand size.
Start by measuring arm length from the crease of your elbow to the tip of your middle finger. This gives you your true glove size. Compare this to size charts from manufacturers like Bauer, CCM, and Warrior to find your starting point. Just as important is hand size. Measure hand circumference around the palm under the fingers. A snug hand fit improves puck control and handling. Those with wider hands may need to go a size up in gloves or select a model with a anatomically deeper pocket.
Beyond arm length and hand circumference, personal preference comes into play. Do you like loose gloves with room to layer under? Or a tight, responsive fit? Consider your playing style too. Goalies who play the puck frequently may opt for a tighter, anatomical fit for dexterity. While butterfly goalies need flexibility through the glove and blocker. Try on different brands and sizes to get the right balance of mobility and protection. Don’t be afraid to mix and match glove and blocker sizes to get the ideal fit. With the right sizing, your gloves will feel like a natural extension of your hands.
Matching Leg Pad Height to Goalie Stance for Max Coverage
The right leg pad height is critical for goalies to maximize net coverage. When properly sized, pads protect the 5-hole when in both butterfly and standing positions. To find ideal pad height, start by measuring your stance height from the ice to the midpoint of your thigh.
For butterfly goalies, the top of the leg pad should sit 1-2 inches above the stance height. This allows the knee to drop into the butterfly without exposing the 5-hole. Go slightly taller if you play an aggressive butterfly style to seal holes when dropping down.
For goalies who play more upright, size pads to meet the stance height. This provides coverage when standing, while still allowing the pad top to drop below the thigh when in butterfly. Those with a narrow butterfly can size shorter pads to increase mobility.
The next factor is upper leg length. Measure from the center of your knee to your hip. Choose intermediate or senior pads for longer thigh measurements. Compare your sizing to width and height charts from brands like Bauer, CCM and Warrior.
Beyond height and thigh length, consider your style. Goalies who play out of the net more may want shorter pads for mobility. While those who stay deeper need more thigh rise for extra 5-hole coverage. Get the pad height right and you’ll maximize coverage while allowing free, fluid movement in the crease.
Knee and Thigh Protection Based on Style of Play
Selecting the right knee and thigh protection is an important part of maximizing mobility while shielding from painful shots. Consider your individual style of play and the type of coverage needed when choosing knee guards and thigh boards.
For goalies with a butterfly-reliant style, look for knee guards with maximum wrap-around coverage to protect the sides of the knees. Thigh boards that extend fully down the leg are ideal for sealing the 5-hole when dropping down. Look for padded thigh rises on pads as well for extra butterfly protection.
Stand-up style goalies need less bulky equipment for mobility. Pick low-profile knee guards that offer protection on knee fronts but don’t restrict movement. Avoid thick thigh boards in favor of slim pads integrated into leg pads.
Younger goalies still developing prefer adjustable knee and thigh protection as their stance evolves. For knee guards, choose options with removable thigh protectors and Velcro straps for custom sizing. Adjustable donut-style thigh protectors allow changing pad thickness.
Take into account your skill level too. New goalies may opt for bulkier protection until confident dropping into the butterfly. While veterans can get by with less gear due to experience avoiding injuries. No matter your style, tailor knee and thigh protection to provide sufficient coverage while enabling free movement in the crease. Don’t sacrifice safety for mobility or vice versa.
Picking the Right Chest Protector Size
Factors Influencing Glove Choice
- Playing style (butterfly vs. stand-up)
- Frequency of puck handling
- Preference for loose or tight fit
- Hand width (may require sizing up for wider hands)
Don’t hesitate to try on different brands and sizes to find the perfect balance between mobility and protection. Some goalies even mix and match glove and blocker sizes to achieve their ideal fit. With the right sizing, your gloves will feel like a natural extension of your hands, allowing you to make those game-changing saves with confidence.
Leg Pad Sizing: Maximizing Coverage and Mobility
The height of your leg pads plays a pivotal role in maximizing net coverage while maintaining optimal mobility. But how do you determine the right leg pad height for your unique stance and style?
Start by measuring your stance height – the distance from the ice to the midpoint of your thigh. For butterfly-style goalies, the top of the leg pad should sit 1-2 inches above this measurement. This allows your knee to drop into the butterfly position without exposing the five-hole.
If you play a more upright style, consider sizing your pads to meet your stance height. This provides ample coverage when standing while still allowing the pad top to drop below your thigh in the butterfly position.
Additional Sizing Considerations
- Upper leg length (knee to hip)
- Butterfly style (wide vs. narrow)
- Aggressiveness of play (in-net vs. out-of-net)
- Desired thigh rise for five-hole coverage
Remember, your leg pad sizing should strike a balance between maximum coverage and fluid movement in the crease. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes and brands to find your perfect fit.
Knee and Thigh Protection: Tailoring to Your Play Style
Choosing the right knee and thigh protection is a delicate balance between safeguarding against painful shots and maintaining the mobility needed for quick reactions. How do you select the ideal protection based on your unique playing style?
For butterfly-reliant goalies, look for knee guards with comprehensive wrap-around coverage to protect the sides of your knees. Pair these with thigh boards that extend fully down the leg to seal the five-hole when dropping into the butterfly position.
Stand-up style goalies, on the other hand, may prefer less bulky equipment to prioritize mobility. Low-profile knee guards that offer frontal protection without restricting movement are ideal. Consider opting for slim pads integrated into your leg pads rather than thick, separate thigh boards.
Adjustable Protection for Developing Goalies
Young goalies still refining their technique benefit from adjustable knee and thigh protection. Look for knee guards with removable thigh protectors and Velcro straps for custom sizing. Donut-style thigh protectors with adjustable pad thickness allow for easy modifications as your stance evolves.
Remember, your skill level should also influence your choice. Newer goalies might opt for bulkier protection until they gain confidence in the butterfly position, while experienced netminders can often get by with less gear due to their ability to avoid injuries.
Chest Protector Sizing: Balancing Coverage and Freedom of Movement
A properly fitted chest protector is essential for absorbing hard shots to the torso while allowing unrestricted movement. But how do you determine the right size for your body type and playing style?
The foundation of chest protector sizing is your chest circumference. Measure under your arms and across the fullest part of your chest. Compare this measurement to size charts provided by top brands to get an approximate fit. If you find yourself between sizes, it’s generally advisable to size up for increased coverage and protection.
Beyond Basic Measurements
- Arm length and shoulder width
- Torso length
- Playing style (aggressive vs. conservative)
- Level of play (higher levels may require more protection)
Consider your playing style when selecting a chest protector. Aggressive goalies who challenge shooters may prefer a more streamlined fit for increased mobility. In contrast, those who play deeper in the net might opt for maximum coverage to compensate for their positioning.
Don’t forget to account for your arm length and shoulder width. A chest protector that’s too narrow can restrict your arm movement, while one that’s too wide may leave gaps in protection. The bottom of the chest protector should overlap slightly with your pants for complete coverage without impeding your ability to bend at the waist.
Goalie Stick Selection: Finding Your Perfect Length and Curve
The goalie stick is an extension of your body, crucial for making saves, controlling rebounds, and playing the puck. How do you determine the ideal stick length and curve for your height and playing style?
To find your starting point for stick length, stand in your skates and place the stick vertically next to you. The top of the paddle (where it meets the shaft) should reach between your chin and nose. This general guideline ensures you can comfortably handle the stick while maintaining proper form in your stance.
Factors Influencing Stick Choice
- Playing style (puck-handling frequency)
- Stance (upright vs. low)
- Personal preference for control
- League regulations
The curve of your stick blade can significantly impact your puck-handling ability. A deeper curve offers more control for frequent puck-handlers but may sacrifice some accuracy on long passes. A flatter curve provides better accuracy for clearing attempts and long passes but may offer less control for intricate stickhandling.
Remember, these guidelines are just starting points. Many professional goalies use sticks that deviate from these norms based on their unique preferences and playing styles. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lengths and curves to find what feels most natural and effective for you.
Goalie Skate Sizing: Ensuring Comfort and Performance
Properly fitted goalie skates are fundamental to your performance in the crease. They need to provide stability, comfort, and allow for quick lateral movements. So, how do you select the right size and fit for your goalie skates?
Start by measuring your foot length and width. Place your foot on a piece of paper and trace its outline. Measure the length from heel to toe and the width at the widest part of your foot. Compare these measurements to sizing charts provided by skate manufacturers.
Key Considerations for Goalie Skate Fitting
- Toe box space (should have slight wiggle room)
- Heel lock (minimal slippage for stability)
- Ankle support (firm but not restrictive)
- Boot stiffness (varies based on skill level and preference)
When trying on goalie skates, wear the same socks you’ll use during games. Your toes should barely brush the front of the skate when standing straight, but shouldn’t touch when you bend your knees into your goalie stance. The heel should feel snug with minimal slippage to ensure proper support during quick movements.
Consider the stiffness of the boot as well. Beginner goalies might prefer a softer boot for comfort, while advanced players often opt for stiffer boots that provide more support and energy transfer. Remember, goalie skates typically fit 1-1.5 sizes smaller than your regular shoe size due to their specific design for on-ice performance.
Goalie Mask Sizing: Protecting Your Most Valuable Asset
Your goalie mask is arguably the most critical piece of equipment, safeguarding your head from high-velocity pucks and potential collisions. How do you ensure you’re selecting a mask that offers both optimal protection and comfort?
Begin by measuring your head circumference. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears. This measurement will correspond to mask sizes provided by manufacturers. However, head shape is equally important as size, so trying on different models is crucial.
Essential Factors in Mask Fitting
- Snug fit (minimal movement when shaking head)
- Proper sight lines (unobstructed vision in all directions)
- Chin cup position (should cup chin comfortably)
- Forehead padding (even pressure distribution)
- Backplate coverage (should protect base of skull)
When trying on a mask, ensure it sits snugly on your head without any pressure points. Shake your head vigorously – the mask should move with your head, not independently. Check that your vision is unobstructed in all directions, particularly your peripheral vision which is crucial for tracking play around the net.
The chin cup should cup your chin comfortably without pushing into your throat. The forehead padding should distribute pressure evenly across your forehead. Finally, make sure the backplate extends low enough to protect the base of your skull.
Remember, mask technology and materials vary widely between brands and price points. While budget is a consideration, never compromise on safety. A properly fitted, high-quality mask is an investment in your safety and longevity in the sport.
Fine-Tuning Your Goalie Gear: Beyond the Basics
While we’ve covered the major components of goalie gear, there are several other elements that can significantly impact your comfort and performance on the ice. How can you optimize these often-overlooked aspects of your equipment?
Customizing Your Gear for Peak Performance
- Jock/Jill: Ensure proper fit for unrestricted movement
- Neck guard: Choose between bib-style or collar for personal comfort
- Pants: Should overlap with chest protector without restricting hip movement
- Toe ties: Experiment with elastic vs. traditional for optimal pad rotation
- Skate blade profile: Consider custom profiling for improved edge control
Your jock or jill should fit snugly without causing discomfort or restricting movement. The choice between a bib-style neck guard and a collar often comes down to personal preference and the level of protection desired.
Goalie pants should overlap slightly with your chest protector to ensure complete coverage, but shouldn’t restrict your ability to move your hips freely. This balance is crucial for maintaining mobility while in your stance.
Toe ties, which connect your skates to your pads, can significantly impact how your pads rotate. Some goalies prefer traditional laces for a tighter connection, while others opt for elastic ties for more natural pad movement. Experiment with both to see which feels more comfortable and responsive for your style of play.
Finally, consider the profile of your skate blades. Custom profiling can enhance your edge control and push-off power, tailoring your skates to your specific stance and movement patterns in the crease.
Remember, the key to optimizing your goalie gear is continuous experimentation and adjustment. What works perfectly at one stage of your development may need tweaking as your skills and playing style evolve. Stay attuned to how your equipment feels during play and don’t hesitate to make small adjustments to maximize your comfort and performance.
Measuring Arm Length and Hand Size for Goalie Gloves
Finding goalie gloves that fit properly is crucial for any netminder. The right fit allows you to easily catch pucks, close your hand around the puck, and move freely without restriction. When sizing goalie gloves, two key measurements to take into account are arm length and hand size.
Start by measuring arm length from the crease of your elbow to the tip of your middle finger. This gives you your true glove size. Compare this to size charts from manufacturers like Bauer, CCM, and Warrior to find your starting point. Just as important is hand size. Measure hand circumference around the palm under the fingers. A snug hand fit improves puck control and handling. Those with wider hands may need to go a size up in gloves or select a model with a anatomically deeper pocket.
Beyond arm length and hand circumference, personal preference comes into play. Do you like loose gloves with room to layer under? Or a tight, responsive fit? Consider your playing style too. Goalies who play the puck frequently may opt for a tighter, anatomical fit for dexterity. While butterfly goalies need flexibility through the glove and blocker. Try on different brands and sizes to get the right balance of mobility and protection. Don’t be afraid to mix and match glove and blocker sizes to get the ideal fit. With the right sizing, your gloves will feel like a natural extension of your hands.
Matching Leg Pad Height to Goalie Stance for Max Coverage
The right leg pad height is critical for goalies to maximize net coverage. When properly sized, pads protect the 5-hole when in both butterfly and standing positions. To find ideal pad height, start by measuring your stance height from the ice to the midpoint of your thigh.
For butterfly goalies, the top of the leg pad should sit 1-2 inches above the stance height. This allows the knee to drop into the butterfly without exposing the 5-hole. Go slightly taller if you play an aggressive butterfly style to seal holes when dropping down.
For goalies who play more upright, size pads to meet the stance height. This provides coverage when standing, while still allowing the pad top to drop below the thigh when in butterfly. Those with a narrow butterfly can size shorter pads to increase mobility.
The next factor is upper leg length. Measure from the center of your knee to your hip. Choose intermediate or senior pads for longer thigh measurements. Compare your sizing to width and height charts from brands like Bauer, CCM and Warrior.
Beyond height and thigh length, consider your style. Goalies who play out of the net more may want shorter pads for mobility. While those who stay deeper need more thigh rise for extra 5-hole coverage. Get the pad height right and you’ll maximize coverage while allowing free, fluid movement in the crease.
Knee and Thigh Protection Based on Style of Play
Selecting the right knee and thigh protection is an important part of maximizing mobility while shielding from painful shots. Consider your individual style of play and the type of coverage needed when choosing knee guards and thigh boards.
For goalies with a butterfly-reliant style, look for knee guards with maximum wrap-around coverage to protect the sides of the knees. Thigh boards that extend fully down the leg are ideal for sealing the 5-hole when dropping down. Look for padded thigh rises on pads as well for extra butterfly protection.
Stand-up style goalies need less bulky equipment for mobility. Pick low-profile knee guards that offer protection on knee fronts but don’t restrict movement. Avoid thick thigh boards in favor of slim pads integrated into leg pads.
Younger goalies still developing prefer adjustable knee and thigh protection as their stance evolves. For knee guards, choose options with removable thigh protectors and Velcro straps for custom sizing. Adjustable donut-style thigh protectors allow changing pad thickness.
Take into account your skill level too. New goalies may opt for bulkier protection until confident dropping into the butterfly. While veterans can get by with less gear due to experience avoiding injuries. No matter your style, tailor knee and thigh protection to provide sufficient coverage while enabling free movement in the crease. Don’t sacrifice safety for mobility or vice versa.
Picking the Right Chest Protector Size
Getting accurate chest protector sizing is crucial to provide complete coverage without restricting mobility. When fitted properly, chest protectors absorb hard shots to the torso while allowing goalies to move freely.
The starting point for sizing is measuring chest circumference under your arms and across the fullest part of your chest. Compare this measurement against size charts from top brands to get an approximate fit. If between sizes, size up for more coverage and protection.
Beyond basic chest measurement, factor in armhole circumference by measuring around your shoulders and chest. Look for extenders or adjustable straps if armholes are too snug. Also consider chest protector segmentation. More segmented models with multiple lateral flex points contour better for broader-chested goalies.
Torso length is also key for proper coverage. Measure from the base of your neck to your belly button. Size up if your torso length falls outside the recommended range for a given size. Allow room to lift your arms without exposing the abdomen or lower ribs.
Getting the right chest protector fit means you can move laterally and extend your arms without restriction. Take sizing seriously to protect vital upper body areas from bruising shots. Don’t settle for a size based on standard measurements alone. Try on different brands and models to get the ideal balance of flexibility and protective padding.
Sizing Blockers to Hand Size and Arm Length
Getting the right blocker size is key for responsiveness in goal. Blockers protect the forearm and hand while allowing goalies to deflect shots. Use hand size and arm length as starting points for finding the best fit.
For hand size, measure the circumference around your palm right below your fingers. Compare this to size charts to get your base hand width. Wider hands may need to size up for proper coverage and puck control. Measure arm length from elbow to the tip of your middle finger to get your proper blocker length.
Factor in your playing style too. Goalies who handle the puck more need shorter blocker cuffs for dexterity. While those playing deeper like longer cuffs for arm protection. Consider hand and wrist mobility as well. Goalies with less flexibility may want softer, more pliable outer blocker materials.
Do test punches with different models on to ensure free finger and hand movement. The ideal blocker allows opening and closing your hand without binding. Ensuring proper hand protection without compromising responsiveness.
Take the time to get accurately fitted for a blocker. Having the right size and dimensions allows you to smother pucks on the ice while getting shots into the corners. Don’t settle for a generic size based on height alone. Get a blocker tailored to your unique hand and arm measurements.
Goalie Mask Cage Dimensions Based on Face Size
Finding the right goalie mask cage dimensions starts with accurately measuring face size and shape. Properly fitted cages allow full vision without exposure or eye injuries.
Start by determining your face length from the bridge of your nose to your chin. Measure face width across your cheekbones from edge to edge. For ideal visibility, the cage should extend approximately 1/2″ past your face length and width.
Factor in nose protrusion as well using a contour gauge. Masks with exaggerated contours and depth accommodate goalies with more pronounced noses. Those with flatter profiles need cages that sit nearly flush to the face.
Consider head shape too. Rounder faces do better with curved cages that maximize eye space. While square jaws align with flatter cages. Try on different cage profiles to find the best coverage without excessive eye area intrusion.
Don’t neglect chin and jawline exposure. Cages riding too high open up vulnerably areas. Have a partner check for proper clearance while in your stance.
Taking accurate facial measurements allows customizing mask cages for full visibility without sacrificing protection. Don’t settle for generic sizing based on height and age alone. Get cages tailored to your unique facial proportions for the best fit.
Selecting Neck Guard Thickness by Age and Skill Level
Determining the right neck guard thickness involves balancing protection and comfort. Younger, less experienced goalies need maximum coverage to avoid neck injuries. Veterans can often size down for increased mobility and breathability. Consider age, skill level, and style of play when selecting neck guard thickness.
For goalies under 12, opt for maximum thickness and coverage. Choose guards with HD or deluxe foam padding to shield the carotid artery and entire neck. Avoid guards with large ventilation holes that expose the throat.
Teen goalies still benefit from extra thickness on neck guards. Look for medium-density foams or layered padding on key impact zones. Some exposure from ventilation holes is acceptable for breathability.
Adult league and college goalies can size down for improved mobility. Look for low-profile guards with strategic padding zones but enough flexibility to turn the head. Minimal exposed foam or slender strap designs work for veteran goalies.
No matter the skill level, coverage of the laryngeal prominence and carotid artery is key. Have a partner watch for exposed areas when simulating game movements. If neck is exposed on side-to-side head rotation, consider sizing up for more protection. Comfort is important but should never compromise safety.
Choosing the Right Goalie Pant Size
Getting properly fitted goalie pants ensures full coverage without restricting mobility in the crease. Use waist, hip, and thigh measurements to find pants that fit your unique proportions.
Start by measuring waist circumference right at your navel. Compare to size charts and select a pant waist close to your waist size. If between sizes, size up for goalie pants to allow wearing under layers.
Factor in hip measurement as well, taken at the widest point of your hips and rear. Those with wider hips relative to waist may need to size up or select pants with stretch paneling in the hips and seat.
Thigh circumference should be measured high up on the inner thigh. Use this measurement to ensure adequate width through the leg without pants feeling too baggy or tight.
Trying on different pant models is ideal to get the right fit. Skater-style goalie pants sit lower on the waist while still covering the belly when in butterfly. Traditional pants come up higher with increased pant rise.
Take the time to find goalie pants offering complete lower body protection without limiting leg pad rotation or butterfly mobility. Proper pant sizing is about more than just waist size. Make sure to account for thigh and hip room as well.
Sizing Goalie Skates by Foot Dimensions
Getting the right goalie skate fit starts with measuring foot length and width. Goalie skates must provide lateral support while allowing front-to-back mobility. Use a brannock device or tracing to get accurate foot dimensions.
For length, measure both feet from the longest toe to the heel. Up to a quarter-inch variance across feet is normal, size to the larger foot. Compare your measurement to size charts and select a skate equal to or slightly longer than foot length. Too short causes toe bruising while too long leaves sloppy heel lock.
Measure foot width across the ball and widest part of the forefoot. Size up if width approaches the maximum for a given skate size. Those with wide feet may need to go up multiple sizes or select wider skate models. Anatomical insoles can improve the fit of narrower feet in skates sized for width.
Beyond length and width, assess arch type and instep height. Flat-footed goalies need more support while high-arched skaters require anatomical inserts. Try on different brands and models to get an ideal heel and ankle lock without painful pressure points. Don’t forget to factor in the thickness of your socks as well.
Buying the Right Jock and Cup Size
Protecting the pelvic region from injuries starts with getting properly fitted for a jock and cup. Use hip measurement as the starting point for finding the right size.
Measure across the fullest part of your hips, usually several inches below your navel. Refer to sizing charts of major brands to find a jock based on this hip circumference. If in between sizes, consider sizing up for a more comfortable fit.
Beyond basic hip measurement, assess desired jock height. Lower rise jocks work well for goalies who prefer wearing pants higher on the waist. Traditional higher rise jocks needed for tucking under longer goalie pants.
Factor in desired cup pocket depth too. Shallower pockets hold cups closer to the body for less interference with leg pads. Deeper pockets fit larger cup sizes with more space from the body.
Trying on different jock styles can help optimize fit. Consider breathable spandex options for comfort versus more structured polyester for secure cup support. Don’t forget additional pelvic padding to guard the groin area.
Take the time to find a properly fitted jock and cup. This basic gear protects male goalies from one of the most painful hockey injuries imaginable. Use accurate sizing to avoid mobility issues or discomfort.
Arm Pad Sizing Based on Bicep and Arm Length
Getting properly fitted arm pads comes down to two key measurements – bicep circumference and arm length. Take both into account when selecting elbow pads, shoulder pads, and upper arm protection.
Use a soft tape to measure bicep circumference at the largest point. Compare your measurement to size charts to determine your base size. Those with particularly muscular upper arms may need to size up to accommodate larger biceps.
Measure arm length from the center of your armpit down to your wrist. Match this to the pad length to ensure coverage extends fully down your forearm without restricting wrist mobility.
Consider coverage style preferences too. Goalies wanting lightweight, low-profile pads can size small. Those desiring maximum protection should select pads offering full arm coverage.
Trying on different pad models is ideal to find the right balance of flexibility and protection. Do full arm extension and rotation to gauge mobility. Strapping and removable padding allow customizing arm pad adjustments.
Don’t forget to account for wearing undergarments as well. Size up arm pads to fit over goalie chest protectors and base layers. Precise arm measurements coupled with different pad trials ensure finding well-fitted elbow and shoulder protection.
Trapper Size Based on Hand Size and Style of Play
Goalies looking for optimal trapper responsiveness and control should size based on hand measurements and playing style.
Start by measuring hand size circumference under the fingers and across the palm. Compare to trapper sizing charts to determine your proper glove fit. Those with wider palms or hands may need to size up from standard glove sizing.
Consider your style of play as well. Goalies playing a blocking style need deeper trapper pockets for covering more net on shots. For a more active puck-playing style, choose shallower pockets for quicker pocket closure and puck control.
Trapper break angle affects coverage too. Models with more rigid, box-style breaks give goalies with narrower butterflies more lateral net coverage. While flexible break trappers allow quick snap closure for those playing more reactionary.
Trying on different trapper makes and models is ideal for dialing in fit. Ensure full hand closure and movement without binding. A properly fitted trapper acts as an extension of your hand for sealing the ice and catching pucks. Don’t settle for generic sizing without accounting for hand proportions and your unique style of play.
Getting the Ideal Leg Pad Width Based on Butterfly
Optimizing leg pad width and sizing comes down to a goalie’s individual butterfly technique and stance. Wider pads suit those with more narrow butterfly styles, while narrower pads benefit goalies who drop straight down.
For goalies with a distinctively angled butterfly, choose maximum width pads to seal holes when dropping your knees inward. Wider thigh rises also prevent 5-hole exposure on steep butterfly angles.
Those employing a straight-down butterfly technique need less width through the thigh rise. Narrower pads don’t interfere with knees dropping straight down between your ankles.
Stance plays a role in ideal pad width too. Wider stances need wider pads for 5-hole closure. While goalies who stand more upright can use narrower pads without gaping holes.
Try pads with different thigh rise widths to gauge ease of butterfly movement. Wider pads shouldn’t excessively flare outward when dropped into a butterfly or moving laterally. The ideal pad width complements your natural butterfly style.
Take the time to find pads offering maximum 5-hole closure specific to your butterfly technique. Don’t assume one width fits all goalies. The most effective pad sizing accounts for individual nuances in playing style.
Blocker Board Size Based on Arm and Hand
A properly sized blocker board improves responsiveness while protecting the arm and hand. Use arm length, hand size, and playing style as starting points for optimal blocker fit.
Measure arm length from elbow to the tip of your middle finger. Match this to blocker boards sized equal to or slightly longer than your arm length. Going too long restricts wrist movement.
Factor in hand size too. Measure palm width right below knuckles. Wider hands may need to upsize blocker boards or choose wider paddle curves for full hand coverage.
Playing style affects sizing as well. Goalies playing more reactionary benefit from narrower paddle widths for quicker movements. While those playing deeper like wider boards for blocking more net.
Test different blocker makes and curves for the right coverage and mobility. Move your hand and arm as if defending shots. Ensure the board doesn’t inhibit hand closure or wrist flexion.
Get accurately fitted for a blocker board catered to your body’s dimensions and playing technique. Finding the sweet spot for sizing optimizes blocking coverage while enabling responsive, instinctive hand movements. Don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all approach.
Matching Chest Protector Size to Torso Length
Ensuring complete torso coverage from chest protectors starts with sizing to your body’s length. Measure from collarbone to navel to find the ideal chest protector length.
Stand bare-chested against a wall. Mark the point at your collarbone and belly button. Measure the distance between these two points. Compare your torso length to size charts to find your base size.
Keep arm lift range of motion in mind as well. With arms raised, the chest protector shouldn’t exposed your ribs or abdomen. If it does, consider sizing up for added length.
Torso shape affects fit too. Goalies with shorter, stockier torsos need more torso segmentation for contouring. Taller goalies do better with full-length front panels that don’t gap at the waist.
Trying on different chest protector makes provides real-world sizing feedback. Ensure complete coverage in both upright and crouched positions. Enlist a partner to check for exposed areas.
Take the time to find chest protectors offering ample coverage for your unique torso length. Avoid generic sizing based on height and weight alone. Precise length measurement coupled with on-ice testing gives the ideal fit.
