Hockey pants are an essential part of a hockey player’s arsenal of protective gear. The right pair of pants will increase your mobility and help prevent injuries. It is important to consider the type of protection you need before making your purchase. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, you can pick a pair that fits well and is a good value for the money.
The best type of pants to buy is a pair with a lot of stretch fabric. Those with a limited amount of elasticity can be tight and uncomfortable. They should also have a full plus shaped bottom. However, they should be long enough to protect your lower body.
Some pants will have a built-in zipper at the waist to give you a little bit more room to move. Other hockey pants will have a belt that stretches over your hips to provide additional padding and mobility. Another choice is to buy a pair of suspenders. This will keep your pants from slipping down during gameplay. These are usually less expensive than buying your pants and can be a good option for players who are not ready for girdles.
You should also take into consideration your personal preference when choosing a pair. While some players like the look of a traditional fit, others prefer the more form-fitting girdles. If you are unsure of which type is best for you, you should take the time to shop around.
Buying the right pair of pants is not a trivial task. There are numerous companies that make ice hockey pants. Some of the more popular brands include CCM, Easton, Reebok, and Warrior. Each brand has a wide variety of options. Depending on your budget, you can get a pair of quality pants with a plethora of features.
Although hockey pants are made from three different materials, a pair with a nylon shell is the most protective of the bunch. Nylon is highly elastic, water resistant, and lightweight. A nylon shell also helps prevent cuts and scratches. Many pants are made of polyester, which is durable and abrasion resistant. Polyester holds color well and is mildew/mold resistant.
For the same price as a set of hockey pants, you can get a pair of girdles and two pairs of shells. This gives you the opportunity to match your team colors. Having more than one pair of shells will allow you to switch out your uniforms whenever you get bored of the same pair. Buying a pair of girdles is a better idea for players who play for multiple teams.
The best ice hockey pants should have a proper thigh pad and a large tailbone protector. Also, your pants should have a belt that stretches over your pelvis and kidneys to protect those areas. Make sure to check your pads regularly and hang them to dry.
The most important thing to remember is that a pair of hockey pants should fit properly. In addition to getting the fit, you’ll want to test out the padding to make sure it provides the most coverage.