Looking to Buy the Best Hockey Shorts for Your Kid This Season

Looking to Buy the Best Hockey Shorts for Your Kid This Season

Why Choose Hockey Shorts with Velcro?

As a hockey parent, we want our kids to have the best gear that allows them to play their very best on the ice. When it comes to hockey shorts, those with velcro closures have become a top choice for both comfort and convenience. But why are velcro hockey shorts so popular?

For starters, velcro closures make it easy for young players to get their hockey shorts on and off independently. No more struggling with buttons or complex ties! The strong velcro keeps the shorts securely in place during intense skating, without any need for constant re-adjusting. This allows your kid to focus on the game, not their equipment.

Velcro also allows for a more customized, snug fit across the waist and thighs. It conforms to your child’s body shape and size in a way that generic elastic waistbands can’t. The shorts won’t be sliding up and down as they skate – meaning fewer distractions.

Additionally, velcro withstands frequent washing better than buttons or cords. It stays securely fastened even after multiple trips through the washing machine. No annoyances with popped snaps or frayed laces over the course of a season.

For goalies, the strength of velcro closures is especially important. When diving and stretching, goalies need shorts that will stay put without fail. Velcro is up to the task in a way that other closures simply aren’t.

Finally, velcro hockey shorts just make bathroom breaks faster and easier. No need to entirely undress when nature calls – just rip those velcro tabs apart. Any hockey parent will understand the value in that!

Finding the Best Fit

When shopping for velcro hockey shorts, fit and comfort should be your top priorities. Loose shorts can bunch, catch on gear, and feel restricting during play. Overly tight shorts will hinder flexibility and circulation.

For the ideal fit, look for shorts made with lightweight, breathable fabrics that provide a snug fit without constricting. The velcro closures should sit comfortably at the natural waistline without digging in. Thighs should have full range of motion without resistance.

Try various sizes and designs to find the right proportions for your player’s build. Hockey shorts tend to run small, so consider sizing up if between sizes. Also ensure the velcro fully overlaps and adheres when fastened.

Let your kid try skating and stretching in the dressing room. Watch for any tight pulling across the hips or thighs. Opt for a more relaxed fit if needed for full mobility.

Padding Preferences

Hockey shorts come in both padded and unpadded versions. Padding provides extra protection against pucks, sticks, and hard falls. Key areas cushioned are the tailbone, hips, and thighs.

Highly competitive players often prefer padding for the added safety it provides. Beginning recreational players, on the other hand, may find padding unnecessary and uncomfortable when learning the basics.

Consider your child’s skill level and position when deciding on padding. More advanced players in physical positions like defense can benefit most. Goaltenders may also appreciate the extra protection.

If opting for padding, ensure it is lightweight and breathable. Sweat-wicking shorts with moisture-control padding are ideal to avoid overheating.

Quality Construction

Focus on durability when selecting velcro hockey shorts for your kid. Check that the velcro itself is strongly reinforced and stitched into the waistband. It should provide a truly solid closure every time.

Examine the stitching along seams to ensure they are tight and secure. Loose stitching can quickly fray with active wear. Also verify that elastic waistbands retain their flexibility and don’t sag.

Quality hockey shorts will be made of fabrics designed to perform under the demands of the sport. Look for sweat-wicking polyester or nylon, as well as four-way stretch materials. These will offer both breathability and unrestricted mobility play after play.

The Right Extras

Many velcro hockey shorts come with useful extras like internal or external belt loops. These provide extra stability and keep jerseys tucked in neatly. Suspenders are another great option for an even more secure fit.

Also consider conveniences like side zip pockets to hold jewelry or cash during games. For goalies, inner thigh patches prevent rashes from sliding.

If your kid sweats heavily, shorts with mesh venting or contrast side panels can improve breathability. Contrast leg grippers also help keep shin pads from sliding.

While not necessities, these types of extras can enhance comfort, convenience, and functionality over a long season of play.

With the right pair of high-quality, velcro-closure hockey shorts, your kid will feel like a pro on the ice. Focus on fit and comfort, while also keeping durability in mind. Most importantly, make sure your young player loves how they feel skating around the rink – that confidence and freedom is what it’s all about!

Top Benefits of Velcro on Hockey Shorts

As hockey players and parents know, velcro closures on youth hockey shorts offer some major advantages. While old-school buttons and laces had their day, velcro truly is a game-changer when it comes to convenience and functionality. Let’s dive into the key benefits velcro provides for young hockey players.

First and foremost, velcro makes it simple for kids to get their hockey shorts on and off by themselves. Gone are the days of fiddling with complex ties or asking Mom and Dad for help dressing. Just line up the two sides of velcro and press firmly to securely fasten.

This ease also translates to quick bathroom breaks. No need to fully undress – just rip those velcro tabs apart when nature calls. The ability to independently take shorts on and off fosters independence and confidence in young athletes.

Additionally, velcro allows for a truly customized fit. It can be fastened looser or tighter as needed, providing a snug and secure feel. As kids grow and their bodies change, the shorts can be adjusted to accommodate their shape and size.

Velcro conforms and adheres to the player’s body, preventing the frustrating sagging and slipping that elastic waistbands often lead to. This tailored fit helps the shorts move seamlessly with the athlete’s body.

The adjustability of velcro closures also enables hockey shorts to fit comfortably over long underwear and protective cups. The shorts can accommodate bulky gear while still feeling snug rather than loose.

Unlike buttons or ties, velcro stands up extremely well to the rigors of frequent washing. It maintains its adhering strength wash after wash without fraying or warping. Just a quick trip through the dryer restores any lost “stickiness.”

This durability means parents don’t have to continually replace shorts over the course of a long season due to broken snaps or shredded laces. One pair of velcro shorts can easily last multiple seasons.

For youth goalies in particular, velcro provides unmatched staying power and security. When diving for pucks and stretching to make saves, velcro ensures goalie shorts won’t budge or slip. There’s no need to fuss with re-adjusting after making a split.

Even during tense game situations, velcro helps young players stay focused rather than distracted. The shorts remain securely in place with no need to pause for readjusting. Kids can concentrate on the ice, not their gear.

In terms of comfort, velcro’s strength also means shorts can be tightly fastened without any uncomfortable pinching or binding. Blood circulation remains healthy and unrestricted by overly tight waists or legs.

Breathability is also improved, as velcro can be looser than constricting elastic. For kids prone to overheating, this airflow is a definite plus.

When it comes to hockey gear, parents and players have enough to think about without struggling shorts. Hockey shorts with velcro closures take one thing off the worry list, providing security, ease of use, and longevity.

While velcro may seem simple on the surface, its advantages are game-changing. Truly customized fit, durable wear, reliable security, and hassle-free use make velcro youth hockey shorts a winning choice – season after season.

Give your kid the gift of one less hockey gear headache this year. Look for high-quality hockey shorts featuring smooth, sturdy velcro closures. Their confidence and comfort on the ice will thank you!

Key Features to Look for When Buying Hockey Shorts

When it’s time to buy your kid new hockey shorts, you want to ensure you select a high-quality pair that will meet all their needs on the ice. While there are many options on the market, keep these key features in mind as you shop:

Materials – Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like polyester or nylon that wick moisture and allow for good airflow. Some spandex or stretch woven in provides flexibility. Durable double or triple stitching is ideal for longevity.

Fit – Well-fitting hockey shorts shouldn’t restrict mobility or pinch. Allow room for protective gear underneath while still feeling secure, not loose. Consider gusseted crotches for unimpeded movement.

Waistband – Elastic waistbands should feel snug but not tight. Fully overlapping velcro closures offer adjustable security and easy on/off. Partial velcro strips can still loosen during play.

Padding – Lightly padded shorts provide protection for beginners learning how to fall. Heavier foam padding suits more advanced, competitive players needing extra impact absorption.

Ventilation – Mesh paneling, side gussets and other ventilation features help prevent overheating. Look for moisture-wicking, quick-drying fabrics as well.

Extras – Conveniences like zippered pockets, inner thigh patches to prevent rashes, and suspender buttons add functionality.

Brand – Stick with reputable hockey brands known for gear quality and durability. Cheaper generic shorts won’t withstand the demands of the sport.

Price – You get what you pay for with hockey shorts. While $30+ pairs last longer, budget $15-20 options can work for recreational use.

Growth – Make sure velcro and waistbands have room for your child to grow so shorts last multiple seasons. Extra space allows for more underwear too.

Appearance – Vibrant colors and bold patterns appeal to kids. A customized name or number printed on the shorts boosts their eagerness to wear them.

By keeping all these features and considerations in mind as you shop, you’ll be able to select high-performance hockey shorts your young athlete will feel great wearing. Prioritize quality materials, solid construction and the right fit to get shorts ready for even the most intense games!

Compression vs Loose Fit – Which is Better?

When shopping for youth hockey shorts, one key decision is whether to go for a compression fit or a looser athletic short style. Which one is right for your young player? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each fit:

Compression shorts are form-fitting, riding close on the skin without being restrictive. They’re usually made of spandex-blend fabrics with some stretch and flex. The snugness helps keep pads and protective gear from shifting during play.

For high-intensity players, compression shorts can improve performance by enhancing blood flow and reducing muscle vibration. The fit also minimizes chafing and discomfort from gear moving around.

However, the tight fit isn’t ideal for everyone. Compression shorts can feel restrictive and cause chafing for some body types. They also run warmer as sweat evaporates more slowly. Frequent adjusting can be annoying as well.

Loose-fitting athletic shorts provide more airflow to the lower body and feel less restrictive in motion. With a relaxed fit through the thighs and waist, mobility isn’t limited at all.

For recreational and casual hockey players, a looser short is often more comfortable, especially when learning basic skills like skating and stickhandling.

But the looser the short, the more likely pads will shift during play. Extra adjusting to hike up slipping shorts can be distracting. Seams are also more prone to chafing without compression.

When deciding between compression and loose-fit hockey shorts, consider your child’s skill level, body type, and preferences. Try both styles to see what they find most comfortable and less distracting during play.

Many youth players opt for a short with light compression through the waist, hips and upper thighs but a looser fit through the legs. This provides secure support with unrestricted mobility.

At the end of the day, the right fit comes down to what allows your kid to move and play without distraction. Give compression and loose shorts an on-ice test run before deciding!

Padded vs Unpadded – The Pros and Cons

When buying hockey shorts for youth players, parents inevitably ask: should I get padded or unpadded? Both have their merits depending on your child’s needs.

Padded hockey shorts provide extra cushioning and impact protection for vulnerable areas like the tailbone, hips, and thighs. The padding acts as an additional layer of armor against pucks, sticks, boards, and ice.

Heavier foam padding is best for advanced, competitive players who need to absorb repeated hard hits and falls during intense play. Light padding suits recreational players still learning how to fall safely.

However, padding adds bulk and some restrictions in motion. Overly padded shorts can feel stiff and uncomfortable. They also tend to run warmer as padding traps heat and reduces airflow to the lower body.

Unpadded hockey shorts offer maximum mobility and flexibility, with full freedom of motion. Young players learning basic skills like skating benefit from the uninhibited comfort and ventilation.

But without padding, the risk of bruising and pain from inadvertent impacts does go up. Landing hard on unpadded ice is never fun.

When deciding, consider your child’s skill level and competitiveness. Advanced kids playing frequent pickup games benefit most from padding. Casual stick and puck sessions call for the mobility of unpadded shorts.

Also factor in your player’s size. Smaller kids have less natural padding, so the added cushioning helps. For heavier players, foam padding could become overly warm and restricting.

Trying out both options can help determine what your child prefers for comfort. Find the right balance of protection versus mobility for their needs and skill level.

Consider Moisture-Wicking Fabric for Comfort

When shopping for youth hockey shorts, pay close attention to the fabric and material. Opting for shorts made with moisture-wicking fabric can make a big difference in your kid’s comfort on the ice.

Hockey is a high-intensity, high-sweat sport. As players skate, stickhandle, and drive to the net, perspiration is inevitable. If that sweat gets trapped against their skin, chafing and overheating quickly result.

This is where moisture-wicking shorts shine. They are made from lightweight, breathable fabrics designed to pull sweat away from the body and promote rapid evaporation.

Synthetic fibers like polyester or spandex are commonly used. The fabrics have quick-drying properties to keep players cool, dry, and comfortable even when sweating heavily in the heat of competition.

Moisture-wicking shorts feel noticeably lighter than cotton blends. Without water-logged material weighing them down, young players stay fresher and more focused.

Breathability is also improved with high-performance moisture-wicking fabrics. Air can circulate freely, allowing the skin to breathe. This ventilation helps regulate body temperature better.

Hockey shorts made with moisture-wicking materials are also odor-resistant, since sweat and bacteria build-up is reduced. Kids will appreciate staying fresher between washings.

When trying on shorts, opt for ones with softer, smoother fabrics. Avoid thick, rigid materials for maximum comfort and mobility. Prioritize shorts designed for high-exertion athletics.

The advanced fabrics may cost slightly more. But for young hockey players susceptible to chafing and overheating, moisture-wicking shorts are a worthwhile investment in comfort.

Match Your Kid’s Hockey Shorts to Their Age/Skill Level

When selecting the right hockey shorts for your child, it’s important to consider their age and skill level on the ice. The size, fit, and features that make sense for a 6 year old just starting out vary greatly from what a competitive 14 year old needs.

For young kids first learning skating basics in beginner hockey programs, focus on lightweight unpadded shorts that allow free movement. At this stage, breathable comfort is key to keep them happy and focused on the ice.

Look for softer stretch fabrics with an elastic waistband they can easily pull up and down for bathroom breaks. Reinforced hems and seams add durability for kids who may fall frequently.

Fun colors and patterns also appeal at this age. Reflective accents help coaches keep an eye on their squad even in big drills.

As skills progress in ages 8-12, opt for shorts with more tailored features. Snugger compression through the hips and thighs keeps pads in place better during more intense skating.

Light foam padding adds impact protection as kids start positioning and angling with greater force. Suspender buttons get frequent use securing hockey socks in place.

For teens playing travel hockey, focus on high-performance features like 4-way stretch fabrics, ventilated mesh panels to prevent overheating, and durable velcro closures that stay securely fastened even when soaked in sweat.

Heavier padding or removable padded liners help absorb the constant body checks and collisions of fast-paced competitive play at older ages. Thigh pads prevent painful ice burns from sliding.

Matching your child’s hockey shorts to their current age and skill development ensures you get the right features without overspending on unnecessary extras. Don’t buy more short than your young rookie needs!

Best Brands for Quality Hockey Shorts with Velcro

When it comes to hockey gear, the brand makes all the difference. For durable, high-performance hockey shorts with reliable velcro closures, stick with trusted hockey brands known for their quality.

Bauer is the perennial leader in hockey equipment. Their shorts feature comfortable compression fits, ventilated mesh panels, and padded options customizable for each player’s needs. The double-stitched velcro waistbands stand up to seasons of wear and tear.

CCM is another top-tier hockey brand designing shorts optimized for play. From adjustable youth sizes up to adult cuts, CCM offers ventilated, quick-drying fabrics and reinforced silicone grips to prevent riding up. Their velcro closures lie flat and even when fastened.

Warrior makes competitive hockey shorts loaded with extras like zippered side pockets, inner thigh patches, and padded integrated belts. Their unique Wartech moisture-wicking fabric keeps players feeling cool and dry shift after shift.

Tron hockey shorts are known for their tapered ergonomic fit tailored to key contact points. Their velcro closures securely overlap with heavy-duty reinforced stitching for longevity. Contrasting colors and piping add style.

For goalies, Brian’s is a top choice for padded shorts with tailbone and hip protection. Side slit leg openings allow full range of motion. The double-sided velcro straps distribute tension evenly and comfortably.

Other brands like Easton, STX, and Tour also offer quality hockey shorts for youth. Focus on purpose-built features for the sport over generic activewear shorts.

While pricier than discount options, hockey shorts from reputable brands provide better performance, durability and comfort. Don’t skimp on gear they’ll wear and depend on every time on the ice.

Customize Hockey Shorts with Your Kid’s Name & Number

Personalized hockey shorts make a great gift for your aspiring young athlete. Adding their name, number, or other custom designs helps them stand out on the team while fueling excitement to hit the ice.

Seeing their name proudly displayed on their shorts boosts your kid’s confidence and eagerness to wear them. It transforms them from just another piece of gear into something special and unique to them.

A customized number also gives them a sense of identity within the team. Other players and coaches can immediately identify them even from the bench or stands based on their shorts.

For goalies, adding their name and number in a bold graphic print is ideal. Fans and teammates can clearly see who is minding the net during games and cheers them on.

Allowing your child to select their own colors, fabrics and design accents further empowers them. Let them take the lead in creating shorts perfectly tailored to their taste.

Personalized hockey shorts also make memorable keepsakes of their early playing days. Seeing an old jersey signed by their squirt teammates brings back fond memories down the road.

When ordering custom shorts, work with companies that offer durable application techniques like sublimation printing. This bonds designs into the fabric rather than just adding a top layer that can peel off.

Provide sizing measurements for a comfortable fit. Building in room to grow allows shorts to last multiple seasons as kids get taller and bigger.

With custom hockey shorts, your kid will have a piece of equipment they just love wearing. And you’ll love seeing them excited to put it on and get out on the ice!

Make Sure to Get the Right Fit for Full Mobility

When shopping for youth hockey shorts, getting the right fit is key for both comfort and performance. The best shorts allow free movement without restriction to help your young athlete play at their best.

Avoid shorts that fit too baggy or oversized. Excess fabric can bunch, impede movement, and get in the way of sticks and pads. Loose shorts also require more adjusting to prevent slipping.

However, shorts that fit too snugly or are overly compressive limit mobility as well. If leg strides or hip turns feel constrained, sizing up can help.

Ideally, hockey shorts should fit like a second skin while allowing muscles full range of motion. fabrics with some spandex/lycra will flex rather than restrain.

Try different sizes and styles to find the right match for your kid’s body type. Prefer a short with a gusseted crotch seam so the inseam won’t restrict strides.

When testing fit, have your young player squat, stride, kick, and twist in the shorts. Make sure to simulate hockey positioning too.

The waistband should sit comfortably at the hips without digging in or needing constant hitching up. Length should fall mid-thigh without limiting leg lifts.

A bit of compression through the waist, hips and thighs can improve performance by keeping muscles stable. Just ensure thighs and hamstrings can still fully extend and flex.

With the right athletic, mobility-focused fit suited to their build, hockey shorts help maximize your kid’s movement and stamina on the ice. Don’t settle for a generic fit that restricts their play.

Buying New Hockey Shorts Each Season – Worth it?

When it’s time to gear up for a new hockey season, parents inevitably ask: do we really need to buy all new equipment again this year? When it comes to shorts, factors like growth, wear, and innovations make a new pair each year worth considering.

As kids grow taller and bigger season-to-season, their old shorts likely won’t offer the right fit anymore. What fit well last year may now pinch, ride up, or feel restrictive as their body changes shape.

New shorts sized up to their current measurements ensure full freedom of movement and comfort. Proper fit is key for performance.

Hockey shorts also simply wear out over time. After months of play, velcro can lose its adhesion, elastic can get stretched out, and fabrics can get threadbare.

Sturdy construction and fabrics make some shorts hold up better than others. But for intense youth players, new shorts each year help retire well-worn pairs before they fully deteriorate.

Today’s hockey shorts also offer innovations that keep evolving year-over-year for better performance. Advances like 4-way stretch fabrics, anti-odor treatments, ventilated mesh panels and tapered ergonomic patterns all provide play-enhancing upgrades.

While hand-me-downs and bargain deals can save money, lower-end shorts often compromise on fit, quality and features. Premium shorts support better play.

Setting aside a yearly gear budget helps account for growth spurts and the latest innovations that aid performance. Properly fitted gear gives kids the best experience on the ice every season.

Caring for Hockey Shorts Properly for Maximum Durability

Investing in high-quality youth hockey shorts means nothing if you don’t care for them properly. Following some key maintenance and washing guidelines will extend the life of your purchase.

Always air dry hockey shorts rather than putting them in the dryer. Tumble drying can damage fabrics, causing them to wear out prematurely. Heat can also melt vinyl prints and logos over time.

If shorts are heavily soiled after a game, do a quick rinse to prevent stains from setting in. Turn them inside out before washing to protect graphics and keep velcro from snagging other items.

Wash in cold water using a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh detergents can fade fabrics and break down elastic and velcro.

Zip shorts closed and velcro any fasteners to prevent snagging delicate fabrics. Use a delicate or gentle cycle setting on your washing machine.

Inspect shorts after each wash for any tears, fraying stitches, or damage. Make repairs promptly to avoid enlargement of any holes or rips.

Replace lost or deteriorated velcro closures using industrial strength velcro. Fraying velcro is a common failure point.

Store hockey shorts folded rather than on hangers, and don’t cram too tightly in drawers. This helps prevent creasing and maintains shape.

Spot clean shorts as needed between full washes. Sweat and salt stains can be gently pre-treated.

With proper care, you can easily get multiple seasons out of a quality pair of hockey shorts. Show them some love and they’ll support seasons of play on the ice.

Stick to Your Budget – Affordable Velcro Hockey Shorts

Quality hockey gear can get expensive, but it is possible to find affordable velcro hockey shorts for youth players while sticking to a budget.

Brand name shorts from major manufacturers like Bauer and CCM offer premium performance and features, but lower-priced alternatives get the job done too.

Offline big box sporting goods stores often run sales, have discount racks, and price match select items. High volume keeps their hockey gear prices competitive.

Shop end-of-season clearance sales in springtime online and in stores. Discounted hockey gear helps stock up for the next growth spurt.

Online-only retailers can also offer savings by keeping overhead costs low. Just ensure sizing is accurate based on measurements.

Buy last year’s versions when new models are released each fall. The updates are often incremental rather than major game-changers.

Well-cared for used gear bought secondhand online or from local ads can be a great value. Just inspect closely for any damage or wear.

For younger beginners, focus budget on skates, helmet and stick rather than shorts. Prioritize protective essentials first.

While pricier shorts last longer, inexpensive pairs work for recreational play. Mix and match with higher-end protective gear as needed to stay on budget.

With savvy shopping, you can outfit your kid with quality velcro hockey shorts without breaking the bank. Seek out sales, bargains and discounts to maximize value.

Shop at Specialty Hockey Stores for the Best Selection

When shopping for new hockey shorts to outfit your kid, specialty hockey retailers offer distinct advantages over general sporting goods stores.

Hockey-focused stores have equipment designed specifically for the sport rather than multi-sport apparel. You’ll find shorts packed with features important for hockey play.

The staff expertise at dedicated hockey shops is also superior. Experienced sales reps ask the right questions to recommend the best gear for your child’s age, skill level and position.

Selection of sizes, brands and styles caters to hockey players rather than the general athletic population. Niche options like goalie cuts ensure a customized fit.

On-ice demos at hockey pro shops let you try out gear like shorts before buying. Your kid can test mobility and comfort on the ice.

Specialty hockey retailers also frequently sponsor local teams and leagues. Giving back earns community trust and reinforces their hockey-first focus.

Shops connected to your home rink often provide discounts or accumulate store credit from registration fees. Purchasing gear from them gives back.

For customization like name/number printing, hockey-devoted stores have fonts and sizing specific to the sport’s jersey and apparel styling.

While big box stores have convenience, niche hockey retailers better serve your needs through knowledge and selection. Invest back in partners committed to the hockey community.

Order Online for Convenience & Price Comparison

While trying gear on in store has advantages, ordering youth hockey shorts online has become a great option for many parents for convenience and potential savings.

Online shopping lets you browse a much wider range of brands, styles and sizing all in one place. Going store-to-store to find options isn’t needed.

Detailed product descriptions, reviews and high resolution photos provide plenty of information to make informed buying decisions.

Ordering hockey shorts at home means no dragging tired, impatient kids to the sporting goods store after a long day.

For families without a dedicated hockey shop nearby, online opens up accessibility to niche hockey brands not found locally.

Online price competition means great sales and deep discounts are often just a few clicks away year-round.

User reviews help identify top-rated shorts that deliver on quality and durability.

Just be sure to closely check sizing charts. Anticipate some trial and error with box returns to find the ideal fit for your kid.

Take body measurements rather than relying on standard size assumptions that vary across brands.

With flexible return policies, you can typically exchange online hockey gear that doesn’t meet expectations after testing.

For time-strapped hockey parents, ordering shorts online can unlock convenience, selection and savings – just do your homework.