GEAR FAQs
What size skates should I get for my child?
The general rule of thumb for youth skates is to go down one size from your shoe size. For example, if they wear a size 6 shoe, they will likely want to start with a size 5 skate. The sizing charts on HockeyMonkey.com are a great reference point.
Should I buy bigger skates and just let my player "Grow into them"?
Going this route is never recommended for skates. No matter what age, skates that are too big will affect everything they do on the ice. Skates that are too big will inhibit skating ability and the ability to improve, which is vital at a young age. There is the risk for potential injury, as well.
How should my player's helmet fit?
Helmet: While on, place your hands on the top and see how much the helmet moves. You do not want it to shake or wobble around much on your child's head, but you also don't want it too tight. Elbow pads: While fastened on the arm, there should be no slippage of the elbow pads, but they should not be too tight, either. Shoulder pads: You will want to make sure they fit snug against your child's body while fastened.
What flex hockey stick should my player be using? What about blade curve?
There are many different curve options, each with certain advantages. The P92 curve is the most popular and a good option to start with. It helps players excel in puck control, quick shot release, and lifting their shots. The P88 is also a very popular curve. This one will help them with stick handling, wrist shots, and precision passing.
How do you clean hockey equipment?
All base layers, jock, jersey, pants, inner liner of shin guards (if removeable), shoulder and elbow pads, and gloves can all be washed in a washing machine. If you choose to do this, make sure that you are using warm water, regular detergent (no bleach), and use the gentle cycle setting. Also, be sure to fasten all Velcro straps to ensure that they don't get damaged. Following the wash, you can either air dry the equipment or put it in the dryer on the low setting.
How do you store hockey equipment?
Hockey Equipment should be stored in a cool, open area whenever possible. You will not want to let it sit in your bag until the next time you need to use it. You can take it out of your bag and lay it out on the ground to air dry or place each piece of gear on an equipment drying rack.
How do you keep hockey equipment from smelling?
Wear base layers. Base layers are a form fitting upper body shirt, compression pants, and a pair of socks. By wearing these layers, not only will it help wick away sweat and moisture, but it will also serve as a shield between the body and the equipment so that the body does not have direct contact with it. Removing the skate soles is also recommended. Doing so allows skates to air out and eliminates the opportunity for rust to form. Additionally, before placing the gear to air dry, you can use a few sprays of a gear deodorizer spray on each piece of gear. Deodorizer spray helps neutralize, destroy, and deodorize any odors.