| Skates, along with your helmet and pads are | | | | in your shoulder pads, elbow pads and shins |
| probably the most important part of your | | | | are intact and in good condition. If you need |
| hockey gear. When choosing the best hockey | | | | to, replace your pads on a regular basis. |
| skates, like choosing the best hockey pads, | | | | Having old worn pads might be comfortable but |
| you should take into account all of the | | | | it might not give you the protection you |
| different brands and find a size and style | | | | need. |
| that fits you best. Don?t simply buy the | | | | |
| first pair of skates you see, but rather shop | | | | When it comes to your mask, you should spare |
| around and try a few different options to | | | | no expense. While the budget option might be |
| find the ultimate fit. | | | | cheap, you need to make sure that the outer |
| | | | part of the mask is composed of a strong |
| When trying on a pair of skates you should | | | | space-polymer material, and the inside of the |
| have your heel tucked back into the heel cup, | | | | mask contains foam. This design should be |
| and there should be no more than about a | | | | able to resist impacts while absorbing the |
| quarter inch or so in the toe. If your ankles | | | | shock at the same time. Some cheaper masks |
| are weak, make sure to ask for a skate with | | | | cannot offer this, so you do need to be |
| good ankle support. When it comes to skates | | | | careful. If in doubt, ask your sports |
| you will also want to ensure that you have | | | | supplier, for brands they recommend. |
| blades with through-hardened steel with a | | | | |
| flat rocker. A flatter rocker curve will | | | | The things you don't want to scrimp on are |
| improve your stability. | | | | your skates, your pads and your helmet. |
| | | | Ensure that your helmet has been approved by |
| Now on to the pads? Ideally you want pants | | | | a regulatory commission for your own safety. |
| that are long enough to reach past the top of | | | | Pads are pretty much standard in most leagues |
| your shin pads. If your pants are too short, | | | | now and flat lined curved skates are |
| they'll leave a small area unprotected which | | | | recommended for recreational and new players. |
| is a prime target for being slashed. You pads | | | | Above all, you need to remember, to have fun! |
| can only do so much. Make sure the hard caps | | | | |