| There are many types of ice hockey gear available. | | | | Other protective gear includes the padding and the shin |
| To choose the best ice hockey gear, the buyer first | | | | guards. Padding is needed for several key areas and |
| needs to know what basic gear he or she needs. | | | | includes various body pads, shoulder pads, elbow pads, |
| Then the buyer can determine the best type of ice | | | | and gloves. Pad style is largely a matter of preference. |
| hockey equipment to use. Ice hockey gear can be | | | | Padding that is too thick can inhibit skating, while |
| divided into two main categories - protective gear and | | | | padding that is too thin may not prevent injuries. |
| playing equipment. | | | | Other types of necessary gear are the skates and |
| Protective gear is one of the most important types. | | | | the stick. Skates are one of the most important pieces |
| Protective gear helps keep the player safe in what is | | | | of gear. Skates are available in many different styles. |
| one of the most intense contact sports in existence. | | | | The style skate chosen may depend on the position of |
| Protective hockey gear starts with a good helmet. The | | | | the player, as well as the player's own skating ability. |
| helmet needs to allow free movement and vision, while | | | | When sizing skates, buyers should be sure to try them |
| also providing good protection against all types of hits | | | | on with the full amount of socks that they will wear, in |
| or falls. Some helmets also have face cages, to keep | | | | order to ensure proper sizing. The standard width is |
| the face from danger, and additional shields. | | | | also called "D" width. Wider widths are "E" or "EE". |