Engaging with a new sporting activity is always a good move to make if you’re trying to improve your general health, and well-being, and hockey is no exception to this rule. Even if you’re a novice when it comes to the sport, it’s relatively easy to become clued-up on the hockey equipment you’ll need to get started and to acquire it for a relatively modest fee, whether you’re shopping online, on the high street or on a second-hand basis.
Cater for children
Most people start with hockey equipment by purchasing skates. Comfort is an essential factor when it comes to buying the appropriate footwear, and if you don’t get it right, you may face some rather difficult obstacles. Adults should buy skates that are between one size and one-and-half-sizes smaller than their normal shoe size, whilst you should buy skates that are half a size smaller than usual for children. A snug fit is a must, and no more than one finger should be able to slip between the back of the heel when toes are pushed forwards.
Prepare in advance
Meanwhile, getting the right helmet for your needs is also important when it comes to hockey equipment. It should not be able to wobble, and for children in particular, the ears should be protected. A full face guard is required for all hockey players. It’s also important to achieve the right level of comfort when shoulder pads are bought. If the area around the neck is too loose, there may be painful consequences. A good, non-slipping fit should also be provided by elbow pads. It’s possible to choose between long glove and short elbow pads or short gloves and long elbow pads depending on hockey equipment preference. The forearms should be adequately protected too.
Don’t compromise on protection
When it comes to gloves, there should be adequate, but not too much room at the ends of the fingers. The thumb is one of the most vulnerable areas of the body when it comes to the dangers of hockey-playing so it should be strongly protected. Hockey pants meanwhile need extra protection for the thigh, hip and tailbone as these areas are the most likely to come under attack when the lower body is considered. Playing in defence means that longer shin guards should be invested in when buying hockey equipment as players in this role face more attack from oncoming shots and sticks. Meanwhile, whether you choose aluminium or wooden sticks depends upon the size of your budget and whether you’re playing for fun or as a serious hobby. Aluminium of the more robust of the two and therefore more expensive, but the wooden equivalents have proved to be sufficient for many seeking hockey equipment.
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