Looking For The Best Youth Hockey Warm Up Suits. Try These 15 Tips For Buying The Perfect Suit

Looking For The Best Youth Hockey Warm Up Suits. Try These 15 Tips For Buying The Perfect Suit

Choose The Right Fabric – Polyester Or Nylon?

When it comes to hockey warm up suits, the fabric is crucial. The most common options are polyester and nylon. Polyester is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking. It dries quickly and resists shrinking. Nylon is extremely durable, smooth, and flexible. It’s also naturally water repellent. So which one is better for hockey warm ups?

Most players prefer polyester for warmth and breathability. But nylon’s strength makes it ideal for goalies or high-contact positions. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Try on suits made with each to see which you like best. Polyester will be lighter, while nylon provides more long-lasting wear. Consider your position and needs. If you tend to overheat, polyester is likely the winner.

Focus On Breathability And Ventilation

Hockey requires constant motion, so you’ll get hot fast. Look for warm up suits with breathable mesh panels, vents and lightweight moisture-wicking fabric. These features will keep you cool, dry and comfortable before hitting the ice.

Pay attention to the back, underarms and inner thighs which see the most sweat. Open mesh is ideal for maximum air flow. Some suits even have special venting channels to enhance circulation. Don’t forget to check the pants too. Look for leg zippers, side mesh and elastic waists for adjustable comfort.

Get The Right Fit – Measure Carefully

An ill-fitting warm up suit will hinder your performance. Baggy suits restrict motion while tight ones feel uncomfortable. Take time to find your optimal size and cut. Brand sizing varies so always measure yourself.

For tops, measure your chest, arms and shoulders. Height is also key for proper shirt length. For pants, measure your waist, hips, inseam and thighs. Take measurements over base layers or undergarments for an accurate fit. Refer to size charts but remember they are only guidelines. Try suits on whenever possible.

Consider Moisture Wicking Properties

The best hockey warm up suits keep you dry by wicking away sweat. Polyester and nylon both naturally repel moisture, but look for suits with moisture-wicking technology. Inner linings draw sweat off your skin while outer layers disperse it across the fabric to evaporate. This keeps you dry, focused and avoids chilling from soaked gear.

Moisture-wicking warm ups also resist odors. Bacteria grow more slowly on dry fabrics. So you stay fresher between washes. Less laundering saves money too.

Look For Adjustable Features Like Hoods Or Zippers

Youth hockey players grow fast. Extend a suit’s lifespan with adjustable features. Look for hoods, hems or zippers to modify length. Elastic waists, stretch fabrics and tie strings also allow for growth. Consider snaps, Velcro or toggle closures to tighten loose areas.

Zippers provide customizable ventilation too. Open front zips cool your torso while leg zips vent your thighs. Zippered pockets secure valuables. Details like thumbholes and chin guards boost coverage in cold weather.

Prioritize Durability And Easy Care

Hockey warm ups take a beating from constant wear. Focus on durable, snag-resistant fabrics like polyester interlock. This knit has a smooth face to prevent pilling and snags. Nylon is also extremely durable.

Reinforced stress points add longevity too. Look for bar tack stitching at seams or quilted elbow/shoulder patches. Consider suits with stain resistant coatings to stay looking fresher longer between washes.

Seek Out Reflective Elements For Visibility

Reflective detailing keeps players visible in dark rinks or at night games. Look for reflective logos, piping, prints and tags on the arms, legs and torso. These eye-catching hints allow coaches and teammates to see you clearly at all times.

To maximize visibility, choose bright colors too. Opt for a base hue like red, orange, yellow or pink over darker shades. Vivid accents on collars, sleeve cuffs and hems also catch the eye. Stay safer and stand out on the ice.

Find Styles With Secure Pockets

Warm up jackets and pants should have ample, secure storage. Zippered side seam pockets keep hands warm while interior chest pockets safely store valuables. Look for deep pockets that fit essentials like tape, mouthguards, wallets or phones.

For convenience, jacket pockets should be accessible even when zipped. Avoid pockets that add bulk, bounce or limit motion. Secure Velcro closures prevent items from falling out during drills or sprints.

Compare Thicknesses For Warmth

Warmer suits have a thicker insulating interior fleece. This plush lining traps body heat to keep you cozy in cold climates. Look for anti-pill fleece that maintains loft after washing. Polyester fleece is lightweight warmth while cotton fleece is heavier but very insulating.

For milder weather, a lighter polyester French terry lining works well. Test different thicknesses by wearing over ice gear. Get the right warmth for your climate and playing conditions.

Check For Flatlock Seams To Prevent Chafing

Seams that rub and irritate are distracting and cut performance. Seek out suits with flatlock stitching for a smooth, low-profile feel. Flatlocking folds seam allowances in and sews them with minimal edges.

Flatlock stitching also enhances stretch by allowing fabric layers to move independently. This mobility boosts comfort and range of motion critical in hockey gear. Binding and rolled seams can abrade so always inspect stitching first.

Opt For Bright, Team Colors And Logos

Show your team spirit in warm ups with signature colors and logo designs. Bold team colors build morale while logos foster team identity. Look for your club name, mascot or custom icons printed on sleeves, chests or down pant legs.

Vivid, saturated colors should pop against the white ice. Choose eye-catching palettes in primary shades like red, blue, green or gold. Fluorescent accent colors will make you stand out even more.

Seek Out Antimicrobial Finishes For Odor Control

Hockey gear gets super sweaty between games and practices. Choose warm up suits treated with antimicrobial finishes to combat odors. Silver ion treatments inhibit bacteria growth stopping smells at the source.

Look for X-Static linings blended with silver fibers too. The naturally antimicrobial silver prevents the stink issues common with hockey apparel. Stay fresher longer even with a frantic schedule.

Read Online Reviews From Other Players

Researching hockey warm up suits online provides key insights. Read user reviews and comments for unbiased feedback. Look for common complaints about poor construction, inadequate warmth or lack of durability. This identifies lower quality suits to avoid.

Also check the percentage of 5 star reviews and what verified buyers praise. Features like breathability, stretch and comfort will be mentioned often if the suit performs well. Let others’ experiences steer you towards the best.

Stick To Trusted Sporting Goods Retailers

Big sporting goods retailers like Adidas, Nike, CCM and Bauer make high performance hockey warm ups. Their innovative engineering and testing is trusted by pros. These major brands also rigorously oversee manufacturing standards.

Smaller hockey outfitters understand players’ needs too. Look for companies run by former players or coaches. Their gear is designed by insiders who get the nuances of the game. They’ll build suits to maximize your time on the ice.

Set A Realistic Budget And Wait For Sales

Quality hockey warm up suits range from $50 up to $300. Set a budget that works for you and look for discounts. Sign up for brand emails to get notice of sales and coupon codes. Buy last season’s colors on clearance for the biggest deals.

Consider buying separates like jackets and pants individually. Mix and match to get more looks for less money. With smart shopping, you can stay within budget and get the perfect hockey warm up suit!

Focus On Breathability And Ventilation

There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re suffocating in your own clothes. When you’re zipped up tight in a warm-up suit and working up a sweat before hitting the ice, breathability and ventilation should be top priorities.

After all, taking a few warm-up laps when you can barely breathe defeats the whole purpose. You want to get your blood pumping and muscles loose, not pass out from lack of oxygen! That’s why it’s crucial to look for hockey warm-up suits made with lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that promote maximum air flow.

Mesh paneling is your best friend here. Focus your attention on the back, underarm, and inner thigh areas which tend to overheat and sweat the most. Open mesh fabrics allow for drainage and circulation, keeping you cool and comfortable even during intense dynamic stretches and drills.

Venting channels and zippers are other “must-have” features. Strategically placed zippers allow you to control airflow and tailor the suit to your comfort level. Front zippers cool the core while inner leg zippers provide much needed ventilation to the thighs. And venting channels literally provide an open lane for air to travel through the suit, preventing that awful sticky feeling.

Don’t forget to inspect the pants too. Stretch mesh waistbands, side paneling, and leg zippers improve mobility and prevent overheating. An adjustable drawcord at the waist gives you extra room to breathe. After all, it’s hard to perform at your best when you feel like the clothes are wearing you instead of the other way around!

The last thing you want is to head out on the ice feeling hot, sweaty, and winded. That’s why breathability and ventilation should be at the top of your criteria when shopping for hockey warm-up suits. Prioritize lightweight moisture-wicking fabrics, mesh panels, venting channels, and strategic zippers to stay cool, collected, and ready for battle on the rink.

Your warm-up time is critical for focusing mentally and preparing physically. Don’t let an overly stuffy suit sabotage your pre-game routine. With the right technical design features, your hockey warm-up suit will feel like a breath of fresh air instead of a suffocating sauna. You’ll be loose, limber, and ready to hustle when the puck drops!

Get The Right Fit – Measure Carefully

We’ve all been there – ordering clothes online that look perfect in the pictures, only to try them on and realize they don’t actually fit right at all. When it comes to finding the best youth hockey warm up suit, getting the sizing right is crucial.

An ill-fitting suit can be downright dangerous on the ice. Bunching fabric restricts your range of motion, while oversized suits have extra bulk that could lead to a twisted ankle or eaten ice during sprints. On the flip side, too tight of a suit feels constricting and throws off your focus.

To get the ideal fit, you’ll need to break out the measuring tape. Brand sizing can vary widely, so don’t rely solely on size charts. Take the time to carefully measure your exact dimensions.

For tops, measure across the widest part of your chest and around your biceps. Shoulder width and sleeve length are also essential – you don’t want sleeves that are too short and ride up constantly. Don’t forget overall shirt length too – you want good coverage as you bend and stretch.

For pants, waist size, hip width, inseam length, and thigh circumference are the key numbers. Measure over any base layers or underwear you plan to wear under the suit for the most accurate reading.

If possible, always try the suits on in person. Move around and mimic hockey stances to test mobility. There should be enough room to layer underneath without constricting movement or feeling baggy.

Growing kids present an extra challenge. Prioritize adjustable features like snap cuffs, elastic waists, and drawcords to extend the suit’s lifespan as you grow. Removable hoods or sleeves also allow you to modify styling over time.

Finding the perfect fit for your body type ensures your warm-up suit performs at its best. A few simple measurements upfront prevents disappointment and wasted money on unsuitable gear down the line. So grab that tape measure if you want to play at the top of your game!

Consider Moisture Wicking Properties

Let’s be real – hockey players sweat. A lot. When you’re flying around the rink during warm-ups, moisture wicking should be a top priority in your gear.

The last thing you want is for your hockey warm-up suit to turn into a soggy mess 10 minutes into practice. Not only is it gross and uncomfortable, but soaked fabric can actually make you colder as the sweat evaporates.

That’s why it’s key to choose a warm-up suit made with advanced moisture wicking technology. These fabrics are specially engineered to pull sweat away from your skin and disperse it across the surface of the suit.

This “pulls” the sweat through the inside layer while the outside layer “pushes” it across the suit to evaporate. The result? You stay perfectly dry on the inside while the exterior dries rapidly after you work up a sweat.

Synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or nylon are great options since they naturally repel water instead of absorbing it like cotton. Look for suits touting patented moisture wicking tech for optimal dryness.

An added benefit of moisture wicking gear is odor control. Damp suits breed bacteria which causes stink. But dry fabrics inhibit bacteria growth, keeping funky hockey smell at bay between washes.

Consider silver ion-infused linings too – the silver acts as a natural bacteria blocker. By stopping sweat and smells at the source, you stay fresher even after back-to-back games.

The last thing you need is a clammy suit adding discomfort and distraction during warm-ups. Seek out hockey warm-ups with advanced moisture wicking abilities to stay light, dry, and focused before hitting the ice.

Look For Adjustable Features Like Hoods Or Zippers

Finding a warm-up suit to fit your growing hockey player can feel like an impossible task. One month their pants are suddenly too short, and the next their jacket is tight across the shoulders.

Constantly buying new suits to keep up with growth spurts isn’t realistic. That’s why seeking out adjustable details is a smart move when suit shopping.

Removable hoods are a versatile feature – take the hood off as your child gets taller to extend the length. Cinchable waistbands, pant cuffs, and zippered hems also allow for modifications as kids sprout up.

Stretch panel fabrics add flexibility and room to grow too. Strategically placed zippers can provide extra space whilesnugging up loose spots. Front zippers open up the chest while inner leg zippers give thighs a bit more breathing room.

Thumb holes, longer sleeves, and tall neck zippers offer adjustable protection from the cold as the seasons change. The ability to zip or snap off parts of the suit gives you styling flexibility as bodies change.

Don’t forget pockets! Zippered pockets keep essentials secure while being accessible. They’re useful now and in the future as your player moves up through leagues.

The right adjustments allow a single suit to evolve over years of play, saving you money. Prioritize features like zippers, removable parts, and stretch fabrics when seeking a suit with room to grow. Your hockey star will get more mileage out of adjustable gear!

Prioritize Durability And Easy Care

Let’s face it – hockey gear takes a beating. From constant wear and tear to hitting the ice hard, your warm-up suit endures a lot. Durability and easy care should be top priorities when suit shopping.

Look for abrasion-resistant fabrics designed to hold up to rugged play. Polyester interlock is a smart choice – the smooth knit construction prevents pilling and snagging over time.

If you can splurge for nylon, it’s extremely durable while still being lightweight and flexible. Ripstop nylon adds even more resilience against tears and shreds during tumbles on cold, hard ice.

Reinforced stress points also boost longevity – look for bar tacking stitching at seams and quilted panels at elbows and shoulders. These extra layers provide padding and prevent seam blowouts.

Stain-resistant coatings help suits stay looking fresher longer between washes too. The hydrophobic layer causes moisture to bead up so spills wipe right off instead of setting into the fabric.

For easy care, anti-pill fleece linings are perfect. They maintain their soft loft wash after wash. And fabrics with moisture wicking technology require less frequent laundering since they dry faster and resist odors.

Warm-up suits are a big investment – make sure yours goes the distance. Seek out durable, easy-care fabrics and construction so you get the most bang for your buck. Your suit will thank you after many rough and tumble seasons on the ice!

Seek Out Reflective Elements For Visibility

When you’re flying around a dimly lit hockey rink at top speeds, the last thing you want is an invisible warm-up suit. Seeking out reflective details ensures you stand out and stay seen by teammates and coaches during practice and night games.

Look for reflective piping strategically placed on the arms, legs, and torso areas. These eye-catching strips reflect light back to the source, making you pop against dark surroundings.

Reflective logos and prints are another great visibility boost. As you turn and move, they create flickers that grab attention even in your peripheral vision. They also make identifying teammates faster when you’re glancing across the rink.

If allowed, consider suits with LED lights sewn in for maximum stand-out. Tiny LEDs powered by small batteries can be incorporated into prints or patterns. Flashing visibility literally ensures all eyes stay on you!

Don’t forget the power of color too. Opt for bright, bold base shades like neon yellow, orange, green or pink rather than dark suits that can virtually disappear in shadows and low light.

Vivid accents on collars, sleeve cuffs, and pant legs also catch the eye as you streak down the ice. Reflective details and high-vis colors advertise your location to prevent painful collisions.

Visibility impacts performance and safety. Light up the rink and stay seen in reflective warm-up gear so your skills get noticed, not your suit!

Find Styles With Secure Pockets

When suiting up for hockey, pockets are non-negotiable. You need a place to stash all those little essentials like tape, mouthguards, and extra laces. But flapping pocket openings lead to lost belongings and distractions on the ice.

That’s why choosing a warm-up suit with secure, strategic pockets is key. Look for zippered pockets on jackets – these keep contents protected while still being accessible even when fully zipped up.

Inner chest pockets with zip or velcro closures are great for securing valuables like keys and phones. Deep side seam pockets hold more gear while flat zip chest pockets provide a safe spot for tape and cards.

Avoid pockets with gaps or openings on the bottom – small items will go right through. And shallow pockets that items bulge out of can hinder movement during drills and sprints.

On pant pockets, zippers are better than velcro. Hockey often means taking a knee or sitting on the ice, so velcro can easily get knocked open. Zippers keep pockets sealed and avoid spills.

The last thing you need is losing your wallet or having your pre-wrapped tape roll escape right before hitting the ice. Secure zipper and velcro closures keep your gear where it should be – safely pocketed so you can focus!

Compare Thicknesses For Warmth

When you hit the ice, warmth is key. The last thing you want is to start shivering halfway through warm-ups because your suit doesn’t provide enough insulation.

Pay attention to the lining thickness when choosing a hockey warm-up suit. In general, thicker equals warmer for suit interiors.

Plush polyester fleece linings provide lightweight insulation that traps body heat. Anti-pill finishes maintain loft and warmth after repeated washing cycles.

For even more cold weather protection, cotton fleece interiors are a smart choice. The natural fibers offer heavy-duty warmth and heat retention.

Thinner suits work well for milder climates and indoor rinks. Look for nylon or polyester French terry – the loops absorb sweat while the knit conduits air flow.

Don’t forget to check the jacket lining and pant interior. Having an uninsulated jacket with warm pants (or vice versa) causes imbalance. Stick with equivalent linings in both for all-over coziness.

Test different thicknesses by wearing options over your base gear. Move and stretch to gauge the warmth and range of motion. Too bulky restricts mobility while too thin leaves you shivering.

Having the right amount of insulation keeps you focused on the game, not on being frozen. Seek out a lining weight perfect for your local rink and climate so cold doesn’t sabotage your performance.

Check For Flatlock Seams To Prevent Chafing

Here’s a distracting situation no hockey player wants to deal with – seams and stitches rubbing you the wrong way. Irritating friction from clothing can throw off your entire game.

That’s why inspecting stitching and seams is an important step when selecting warm-up suit. Seek out suits touting flatlock construction for a smooth, chafe-free feel.

Flatlock seams involve folding the seam allowance edges together before stitching. This creates a low-profile, flat seam on the inside of the garment with minimal edges or ridges.

The flat, minimal stitching prevents skin irritation and discomfort as you move, bend, and stretch on the ice. No more distractions from clothing – just focus on your warmup!

An added benefit of flatlock seams is enhanced range of motion. The flat, stretchy stitches allow the fabric to move freely with your body. Mobility is crucial for dynamic warmups before hitting the rink.

Seams that haven’t been overlocked or finished properly can be abrasive and rough. Pay attention to interior seams around the crotch, behind the knees, underarms, and neck which see a lot of motion.

Don’t let annoying seams throw you off your game. Seek out warm-up suits with flatlock construction so you can move freely without irritation or distractions.

Opt For Bright, Team Colors And Logos

Show your team spirit from head to toe in a hockey warm-up suit displaying your colors loud and proud. Vibrant team suits build camaraderie and look super slick on the ice.

Look for your team name, mascot, or logo embroidered or printed on jackets and pants. Stylized motifs on sleeves, shoulders, chests, and down the pant legs show off your crew.

Scan for custom icons like your city’s skyline or landmarks worked into graphic prints. Show your hometown pride and stand out from rivals.

Choosing suits in your official team colors is a no-brainer. Bold, saturated shades make a statement against the stark white ice. Darker accent colors on collars, cuffs and hems amp up the attitude.

Can’t find an exact color match? Mix and match separate jacket and pants so each player can represent in their own way. Coordinate different combos for a cohesive team look.

If allowed, add some flash with colorblocking panels or color-fade fabric techniques. Two-tone shades and color variations take team spirit to the next level.

At the end of the day, how your warm-up suit looks matters. Sliding into gear displaying your crew’s signature colors and symbols empowers you to play your very best!

Seek Out Antimicrobial Finishes For Odor Control

Let’s be real – hockey gear gets sweaty, and sweaty gear gets stinky. Funky odors from bacteria growth can linger in suits between wears.

Seeking out antimicrobial treated fabrics inhibits the bacteria that causes unpleasant scents in the first place. This helps keep your warm-ups fresher for longer.

Look for suits advertising anti-microbial finishes. Silver ion treatments bonded at the fiber level stop microbes from growing and spreading.

Another smart option is X-Static linings blended with pure silver fibers. The natural antimicrobial properties of silver kill microbes on contact before they reproduce.

Pay attention to zones prone to odor like the underarms, crotch, and back. Moisture wicking technology also cuts down on bacteria growth by keeping fabric dry.

Washing suits frequently helps too, but antimicrobial properties let you extend time between laundering. One less thing to worry about!

Funky hockey gear smells should never hold you back from playing your best. Seek out antimicrobial treated warm-up suits so you can gear up with confidence every time.

Read Online Reviews From Other Players

Shopping for hockey gear online can feel risky not being able to see and try items in person. That’s where reading user reviews comes in handy for getting the real scoop.

Scour sites like Amazon, retailer websites, and forums to find feedback on specific warm-up suits. Look for common praises or complaints around fit, quality, and performance.

If multiple reviewers mention poor durability or uncomfortable stitches, that’s a red flag. But consistent raves about breathability and freedom of movement are good signs.

Pay attention to sizing guidance too. If most warn a suit runs small or the arms are short, size up accordingly. Reviewer tips help you identify issues before clicking purchase.

Also check what positions players play – goalie feedback is more pertinent for goalies, and so on. Consider reviewers’ geographic region as well, since needs vary by climate.

User reviews put transparent product performance directly in your hands. Let other players’ experiences guide you towards hockey warm-up suits that pass muster on and off the ice.

Stick To Trusted Sporting Goods Retailers

When investing in hockey gear, it pays to stick with established sporting goods retailers you can trust. Major hockey brands understand exactly what players need to excel.

Big names like Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, CCM, and Bauer dominate for good reason. Their innovative technology, rigorous testing, and quality assurance is unmatched.

Don’t overlook smaller hockey-specific stores either. Companies founded by players, coaches and enthusiasts cater specifically to the nuances of the game.

They engineer gear to maximize your time on the ice, whether through clever protective features or performance-driven textiles.

Large or small, reputable sporting goods retailers back their products and maintain manufacturing standards. This ensures consistency and reliability season after season.

Bargain websites may offer deep discounts, but lower prices often mean cutting corners. Stick to retailers with a proven hockey pedigree you can feel confident in year after year.

When your gear comes from the best, you play your best. Seek out hockey warm-up suits from trusted sporting goods stores devoted to your success.

Set A Realistic Budget And Wait For Sales

Let’s be honest – hockey gear is an investment, and warm-up suits are no exception. But setting a smart budget and watching for sales opportunities can help you score the perfect suit within your price range.

Quality hockey warm-up suits span a wide range of $50 to $300 or more. Consider how often it will be used, your child’s growth patterns, and your financial situation.

Set a max budget that works for you, but remain flexible if you find a style you love on sale. Sign up for team or brand newsletters to receive notifications about upcoming promotions and discount codes.

Check retailer websites for seasonal clearance events or black Friday blowouts. Last year’s colors are often heavily discounted but function the same.

Divide your budget between jacket and pants to mix and match separates. Scoring a quality jacket on sale and pairing it with budget leggings (or vice versa) maximizes value.

Growing kids may only get one season out of a suit anyway. Seek out durable fabrics, reinforced seams and adjustable features to maximize usefulness as they grow.

With savvy budgeting, sales strategies, and versatile pieces, you can capture the perfect warm-up suit for every player and every pocketbook!