Reviews

Warrior Goalie Pants and Pads The Ultimate Guide for Hockey Players

Padding and Protection in Warrior Goalie Pants

When selecting goalie pants, padding and protection should be top priorities for any netminder. Warrior designs their goalie pants to provide maximum coverage and shield the vulnerable areas of a goaltender’s legs and lower body. They use advanced foams and smart pad placements to absorb impact and keep goalies protected.

Warrior goalie pants feature thick, molded foam padding on the front and side panels. ThisPadding and Protection in Warrior Goalie Pants high-density foam helps cushion against direct shots to the thigh and hip areas. Strategically-shaped thigh guards wrap around to shield the inner thigh as well. Most Warrior pants also integrate removable knee pads that slide into interior pockets. These pads usually use a combination of medium-density foams for flexibility and high-density foams for optimal shock absorption.

The tail bone and lower spine area get shielding from the built-in spinal pad that runs down the back of Warrior goalie pants. This tapered pad uses layered foam segments that form to the natural shape of the back. Hip pads also help deflect impacts from pucks and collisions away from the pelvis and hip bone areas.

For shielding sensitive inner thigh and groin areas, Warrior goalie pants utilize inner leg padding wraps called ISPs (inner shield protection). These wrap around padding extensions safeguard the inner thighs and groin with extra coverage. Most Warrior goalie pants integrate removable suspenders as well to help keep the pants properly positioned for maximum protection.

In the calf and shin areas, Warrior goal pants usually incorporate molded plastic guards reinforced with foam padding underneath. These durable calf wraps shield the front of the calf, while flexible padded knee rolls protect the back side of the knees. Adjustable calf straps and velcro closures allow custom sizing for a tailored fit.

By strategically combining dense foams, molded plastics, removable pads, and inner leg wraps, Warrior goalie pants offer full protective coverage for goaltenders. The padding integrates flexibility for free movement while still absorbing impacts and keeping goalies protected as they move across the crease.

Flexibility and Mobility in Warrior Goalie Pads

Flexibility and mobility are crucial for goalies, allowing free movement around the crease and quick reactions to make saves. Warrior engineers their goalie pads to provide a flexible design that moves naturally with a goaltender’s body.

One way Warrior goalie pads achieve flexibility is through strategic breaks in the outer roll. The thigh rise, knee stack, and calf wraps feature segmented padding that enables natural bending at key points. This allows the pad to flex along with a goalie’s movements, rather than resisting them.

Warrior also uses stretchy materials like polyester or nylon blends on the outer face of their pads. These fabrics have 4-way stretch capabilities, conforming to a goalie’s motions. Inner liner materials feature moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics that prevent overheating and discomfort during play.

The core foam fills inside Warrior goalie pads also promote flexibility. Multi-layer foams like Armortex and Armourgel conform to a goaltender’s shape while still rebounding back after impacts. New Warrior pads even integrate advanced Glideskin foam that flexes and slides smoothly across the ice.

To allow free knee flexion and extension, Warrior goalie pads utilize an anatomical knee break. This enables the knee stack to move independently from the thigh rise and calf wrap. Knee blocks include softer HD foams that compress and extend naturally as a goalie goes into the butterfly.

Rotation is also important for goalies to square up to shots quickly. Warrior pads use a boot break below the knee to allow forward and lateral rotation. Some models also integrate a thigh twist guard that rotates independently above the knee stack. This free rotation enables pushing off and pivoting while keeping the pads in place.

By designing goalie pads that flex with a goalie’s movements, Warrior provides the mobility and range of motion needed for today’s active goaltending styles. Freedom of movement helps goalies react quickly, make saves, and control rebounds efficiently.

Warrior’s Unique Smart Strap System

One innovative feature that sets Warrior goalie pads apart is their Smart Strap system. This integrated strap design provides a snug, secure fit around a goalie’s legs for optimal pad rotation and control.

The Smart Strap system replaces traditional boot, calf, and knee straps. A single wide strap extends from the inner knee wrap down to the boot break. This anatomical design contours around the back of the knee and calf for a streamlined fit.

This integrated strap helps lock the knee and calf wraps in place around a goalie’s leg. The snug fit maximizes pad rotation and responsiveness. When a goalie rotates their leg, the pad moves with it precisely thanks to the Smart Strap integration.

The Smart Strap’s velcro and leather attachments also help customize the fit. Each pad includes an adjustable leather anchor strap and two removable velcro knee locks. Goalies can position these elements for their ideal strap tightness and flexibility.

Warrior’s unique sliding strap buckle is another key innovation. This buckle enables smooth tightening and loosening of the strap with a simple slide motion. To loosen, goalies just slide the buckle down and extend the strap. For a tighter fit, sliding the buckle up cinches the strap closer.

The Smart Strap design also streamlines the shape and silhouette of Warrior pads. Without separate calf and knee straps, the pads take on a cleaner, close-fitting look. This integrated design reduces dangling straps that could get in a goalie’s way.

With its innovative integration, adjustability, and rotational control, Warrior’s Smart Strap system delivers a snug contoured fit. It allows goalies to move naturally while keeping their pads locked in place for optimal performance in the crease.

Comparing Top Warrior Goalie Pad Models

With a range of technologies and features across their goalie pads, it can be tough to pick the right Warrior model. By comparing the top pad lines, goalies can find their ideal fit based on protection, flexibility, and performance.

Warrior’s premier Ritual line focuses on premium quality, innovative features, and a pro-level fit. The Ritual pads utilize advanced multi-layer foams like Glideskin and Armortex for elite sliding and protection. They also integrate Warrior’s Contract Strapping and SmartToe systems for enhanced control.

For intermediate to advanced level goalies, the Warrior Ritual GT pads offer pro specs at a more affordable price point. These pads still include high-end foams and strapping features. The Ritual GT uses nylon-reinforced outer knee landing zones and more basic stitching patterns to reduce costs.

Warrior’s Franchise line serves developing and intermediate goalies looking for solid quality with key performance features. Franchise pads incorporate some high-end foams like Armortek but use more basic nylon outer coverings. The Franchise strapping and boot break are also more basic than pro-level Ritual pads.

At the entry level, Warrior’s Ritual G5 pads focus on comfort, durability, and protection. They utilize molded HD foam blocks with single-density fills rather than multi-layer foams. The materials and stitching patterns are designed for ruggedness when learning the ropes. Ritual G5 pads use a basic strap and lace system.

Within each pad line, goalies can also compare specific models based on sizing options and design elements. For example, the Ritual G5 Senior model offers pro-level size increments, while the Intermediate model has more youth-friendly sizing. Features like graphic designs and color schemes also vary between models.

By weighing factors like price point, targeted skill level, sizing, and features, goalies can find the ideal Warrior pads to match their play style, experience level, and performance needs on the ice.

Finding the Right Size Warrior Goalie Gear

Getting properly fitted goalie gear is crucial for performance and protection on the ice. When sizing Warrior equipment like pads, gloves, and blocks, goalies should focus on achieving the ideal fit for their body and style of play.

For leg pads, the key factor is covering adequately from the toe to above the knee without excess bulk. Warrior pads use incremental sizing from small to large to get the appropriate thigh rise, knee to toe length, and calf circumference. Measuring from center knee to skate toe when crouched helps pick the right size.

Goalie gloves need to fit snugly enough for control while allowing flex for catching pucks. Measuring hand size against the palms of various glove sizes ensures full coverage with room for movement. Trying on gloves to test mobility is also recommended.

When sizing chest and arm pads, shoulders and elbows should be covered without restricting motion. Measuring torso and arm lengths, and comparing to Warrior’s sizing charts helps identify options that will protect without impeding movement.

For goalie pants, the waist size, hip width, and thigh circumference need to accommodate protective inserts and allow free flexibility. Precision waist sizing combined with adjustable belts and suspenders dial in the ideal pant fit.

With blocks, calf widths determine sizing along with the distance from the ankle to just below the knee to achieve full coverage. Knee stacks should align properly with leg pads, so matching brand sizing is ideal for streamlined integration.

Trying gear on in person with pads strapped down is ideal to evaluate fit and flexibility. Work with knowledgeable hockey specialists to get properly measured and find available sizes that provide an athletic contoured fit.

Warrior offers a 30-day guarantee to ensure customers find the right sizing and fit. Taking advantage of this policy along with expert fitting enables goalies to feel confident they are optimally equipped for protection and performance.

Getting Proper Fit and Adjustments for Goalie Equipment

Dialing in the ideal fit and adjustments is critical after selecting the right goalie gear sizes. Properly customizing and fine-tuning Warrior pads, gloves, and other equipment enhances performance and protection on the ice.

For leg pads, straps should be tightened so the knee and calf wraps hug the legs securely without restricting circulation. The boot break ankle straps also need to stabilize the pad against the skates when moving laterally.

Tightening or loosening the smart straps, knee locks, calf wraps, and boot straps enables finer tuning of Warrior pads to prevent shifting or slack.

Goalie gloves require adjustments for a snug contoured fit in the hand and wrist areas. Tightening or loosening the wrist cuffs and internal lacing allows customizing glove tightness. Breaking in gloves properly also molds them to the shape of each goalie’s hand.

Chest and arm pads need adjustments so the biceps and elbows fit ergonomically inside the protective caps. Arm pads should overlap leg pads smoothly with no gaps when in a crouched stance. Custom sizing components like extenders help dial in arm pad length.

Goalie pants require proper tightening at the waist, thighs, and calves for a secure fit that still allows free flexibility. Belts, suspenders, velcro straps, and lace-up segments provide multiple fit adjustment points.

For goalie blocks, the knee stack should integrate tightly with leg pads without pinching behind the knees. Boot straps need to stabilize the ankle and heel securely inside the cowling. Lace-up segments allow cinching the forefoot shape for a contoured fit.

By taking advantage of Warrior’s extensive adjustment options, goalies can fine tune the fit of each gear component. A customized equipment setup enhances comfort, flexibility of motion, and comprehensive protection on the ice.

Maintaining and Caring for Warrior Goalie Gear

Properly maintaining and caring for Warrior goalie equipment helps extend the life and performance of pads, gloves, and other gear.

For leg pads, wipe down the outer roll with disinfectant spray after each ice time. Spot clean messy areas with a damp cloth, using gentle circular motions. Hang pads to air dry fully before storing. Rotate and flex pads periodically to keep materials from taking a set shape.

Wipe inside and out of goalie gloves with anti-bacterial wipes after use. Allow palm and fingers to dry fully extended before storing. Apply a leather conditioner occasionally to the glove exteriors to prevent cracking. Remove and wash glove liners regularly to eliminate odors.

Use disinfectant sprays or wipes on chest protectors and arm pads after each use. Air dry thoroughly before storage to prevent mildew. Check velcro and elastic strapping periodically and replace if excessively worn.

For goalie pants, spot clean exteriors as needed and use anti-bacterial sprays after games. Remove and machine wash any removable liner components after heavy use. Allow pants to fully air dry inside and out before storage.

Spray knee stacks on blocks with disinfectant after each skate. Fully dry entire blocks before storing. Periodically hand wash removable liners and knee doughnuts. Check boot laces and straps for wear and replace if frayed or stretched out.

Storing gear properly is also key for longevity. Pads should hang fully extended on wide hooks. Avoid folding pads tightly when not in use. Store gloves loose or with palms open, not jammed tightly together. Keep all gear in clean, dry, ventilated areas.

With regular cleaning, careful drying, and proper storage, Warrior goalie equipment will deliver durable performance and protection on the ice season after season.

Where to Buy Warrior Goalie Equipment Online

While trying gear on in person is ideal, shopping online can also connect goalies with the full selection of Warrior equipment. Savvy buyers can find the best deals on Warrior pads, gloves, and other goalie gear through online retailers.

Major online hockey shops like Pure Hockey, Hockey Monkey, and Hockey Giant carry the full line of Warrior goalie equipment. Their websites make it easy to search and filter Warrior products and sizes across pad, glove, pant, and block categories.

These online stores offer in-depth product descriptions, sizing guides, and customer reviews to inform purchasing decisions. Their expertise in goalie gear and customer service also helps buyers select the right Warrior items for their needs.

Websites like GoalieMonkey and The Goalie Crease specialize further in goalie equipment. They offer deep selections of Warrior gear along with guidance tailored specifically to goaltenders. Their goalie-focused inventories cater perfectly to finding the right Warrior pads and gloves.

For the widest selection and buying options, marketplace sites like SidelineSwap and eBay provide access to both new and used Warrior goalie equipment. On these sites, buyers can search for specific Warrior gear that is out of stock or discontinued elsewhere.

To save money, buyers can utilize sales and promotions from online retailers around the holidays or off-season. Signing up for email newsletters alerts buyers to upcoming deals on Warrior products.

By leveraging the inventory and buying power of top online hockey shops, goalies can secure the ideal Warrior equipment to elevate their game on the ice.

Warrior Warranty and Customer Support Information

To protect customers’ investment in their gear, Warrior offers warranty coverage for defects and workmanship issues. Understanding Warrior’s warranty policy provides peace of mind for buyers.

Warrior provides a 90-day limited warranty from the date of purchase on all goalie gear like pads, gloves, pants, and chest protectors. This protects against defects in materials and construction under normal use.

For issues covered under warranty, Warrior will repair or replace the defective product at their discretion. Customers simply need to submit a claim with proof of purchase and details on the product defect or damage.

Warrior also provides a 30-day performance guarantee allowing returns or exchanges for sizing, comfort, or other fit issues. This enables buyers to ensure they select the right goalie gear to meet their needs.

Any damage not resulting from defects, like wear and tear from play, would not be covered under warranty. Customers can still utilize Warrior’s repair services at reasonable rates in these cases.

Warrior’s customer service team aims to promptly address any product issues or warranty claims. Customers can contact them via phone, email, or online chat on Warrior’s website for assistance.

Checking the warranty status, coverage details, claim submission process, and turnaround times prepares buyers in case of any defects. Taking advantage of the 30-day guarantee provides assurance that Warrior gear will meet expectations.

Leveraging Warrior’s supportive warranty, repair services, and customer service provides goalies with a positive purchasing experience and lasting value from their equipment investment.

Key Takeaways on Warrior’s Goalie Gear Quality

When shopping for new goalie equipment, Warrior emerges as a top brand that combines innovative technology with durability and performance. Their pads, gloves, and protective gear deliver excellence across several key factors.

Warrior engineers cutting-edge designs like the Smart Strap system to enhance rotation, flexibility, and fit. Premium materials like Armortex foam and Axyflex outer fabrics provide lightweight protection and flexibility.

By integrating anatomical break points and contours, Warrior goalie gear moves naturally with a goalie’s stance and movements. Advanced features match the biomechanics of goaltending for effortless mobility.

From pro-level Ritual pads to entry-level Ritual G5 sets, Warrior offers a range of quality across price points. Their goalie gear suits developing players to elite goalies through specialized technologies.

Warrior constructs their goalie equipment for comfort, durability, and longevity through seasons of play. Their pads hold up well and break in nicely after repeated on-ice use.

With excellent protection, mobility, adjustable fit, and lasting performance, Warrior goalie gear empowers netminders to elevate their game. When researching new equipment, Warrior emerges as an innovative brand to strongly consider.

By understanding the technology and real benefits behind Warrior’s goalie equipment, buyers can make a confident choice that aligns with their budget, skill level, and performance needs between the pipes.