Ice hockey is an extremely physical sport, and players are required to wear specific protective gear. One of these pieces is a hockey stick, which is usually made of leather or some other durable material. The stick is shaped to be the right length and flex for the player.
Another piece of protective equipment is a mouthguard, which protects the teeth and lips. The mouthguard is worn to make speaking easier, and it can also help prevent jaw injuries. This equipment is available in several different varieties, including custom-molded options. It’s also a good idea to have a helmet with a visor to help see the ice better. Some players prefer to wear a half visor instead of a full one.
Elbow pads are another essential item. These protective pieces of gear protect the lower arm when falling. They’re useful when you’re hit by a stick or another player’s leg. Depending on the type and padding, they can cost from $40 to $150.
Goalie gloves are designed to catch incoming pucks. They’re used in conjunction with a puck shield. The glove also protects the wrist. The goalie’s hand is typically covered by a jersey or a hat, and the rest of his body is protected by a body pad and a neck guard.
When playing ice hockey, you’re also required to wear hockey socks. The socks are generally knitted wool or synthetic tube stockings, and they provide an extra layer of protection for the shins.
Shoulder pads are often used by players during games, but they’re not always necessary. During practice sessions, they’re sometimes omitted. But they’re an important part of the game. Having these protective pieces can help prevent serious injuries to the shoulders, chest and solar plexus.
Other hockey accessories include shin guards, which are meant to provide protection for the player’s shins. Shin guards are not a necessity, but they do help enhance the player’s ability to stride on the ice. Ideally, they should be thick enough to keep you from getting hurt by slapshots.
If you are looking for more hockey gear, you’ll find a lot of it in Hockey Protection Equipment. Stick tape, a key component of your equipment, is available in several colors and patterns, and can cost $3 to $4 per roll. While most players choose black blade tape, other players like to use colored tape.
Another important piece of hockey gear is the jock. Jockeystraps come in several styles, and are usually equipped with velcro straps for attaching your socks. Jockstraps can cost $25 to $100. A newer style of jockstrap, called a compression-style jock, has an interior compartment for your cup.
Lastly, you’ll need a bag for your ice hockey gear. There are a variety of bags, and some players like to carry their skates and other items in a wheeled bag. Others prefer a non-wheeled hockey bag, which takes up less space and is easier to pack.
You should also take note of some other pieces of ice hockey gear, including a helmet, which is worn to protect the head, and a face mask, which covers the eyes and face.