How to put on hockey goalie gear

Stepping into the role of a hockey goalie means gearing up to stay safe and play your best. It’s crucial to get every piece of equipment on just right—from your pads to your mask. This article breaks down the process into simple steps, ensuring you’re fully prepared to meet every shot with confidence and agility. Follow along to learn how to gear up like a pro.

In this article, we’ll cover:

Preparing Your Gearing Up Space

A well-organized space is vital for gearing up. It should be clean and orderly, conducive to a smooth equipment setup. Such an environment prevents gear damage and keeps your focus on preparation rather than searching for misplaced items.

How to Put on Hockey Goalie Gear Step-by-Step

How to Put on Hockey Goalie Gear Step-by-Step

The procedure of equipping a hockey goalie is straightforward but methodical, with each piece of gear demanding specific attention.

Here’s the order of putting on hockey goalie equipment:

  1. Leggings and Protective Shirt
  2. Cup (Jock Strap)
  3. Pants
  4. Knee Guards
  5. Skates and Hockey Socks
  6. Leg Pads
  7. Chest Protector
  8. Jersey
  9. Helmet
  10. Blocker and Glove

1. Putting On Leggings and Protective Shirt

Begin with your base layer: the leggings and protective shirt. These items provide additional padding and moisture-wicking properties, keeping you comfortable and dry throughout the game.

2. Putting On the Cup (Jock Strap)

The jock strap, essential for critical protection, should fit firmly around the waist and groin area. Ensure it is secure and comfortable, as it protects vital areas during play.

3. Putting On the Pants

Goalie pants need to accommodate leg pads and secure at the waist. They should provide ample coverage and padding while allowing free movement. Make sure they fit well around your waist and hips.

4. Putting On the Knee Guards

Position the knee guards so they fit snugly over your knees. They should be adjusted to provide protection for your knees when moving quickly without restricting your movement.

5. Putting On the Skates

Next, put on your skates. Ensure they are tight enough to offer support but not so tight that they impede circulation. Properly laced skates are crucial for stability and control on the ice.

6. Putting On the Leg Pads

First, attach the toe ties at the base of the leg pads, then secure the straps, balancing between flexibility and a snug fit. Leg pads are critical for protecting your knees and shins from pucks but also provide the save selections desired. 

7. Putting On the Chest Protector

The chest protector must cover the torso comprehensively while allowing free arm movement. Make sure it fits well and provides adequate protection to your chest, shoulders, and upper arms. Many goalies leave their chest protector out and overlapping their pants, or tuck their chest protectors into their pants. 

8. Putting On the Jersey

The jersey should be sized to cover all upper body equipment, avoiding excess looseness. It needs to fit over the chest protector without restricting your range of motion.

9. Putting On the Helmet

A helmet needs to be adjusted for a secure fit that doesn't compromise head mobility or vision. It should sit comfortably on your head, protecting against impacts and ensuring clear visibility.

10. Putting On the Blocker and Glove

Finally, fit the blocker and glove. They should be selected according to hand size for flexibility and control. Secure the straps on the backhand of the glove to ensure quick and responsive hand movements. Fingers should be no longer than a quarter inch away from the end of the finger stalls. 

The Final Check

An exhaustive final check is crucial. Validate the fit and comfort of each item, adjusting as necessary to prevent mid-game equipment issues.

Tips for Novice Hockey Goalies

  1. Acquaint yourself with individual gear components before attempting full gear assembly.
  2. Regular practice enhances the speed and efficiency of gearing up.
  3. Periodic maintenance and cleaning helps improve both the performance and longevity of your gear, and should become a regular part of your routine.
  4. Engage with seasoned goalies and coaches for tailored fitting advice.

How to Put On Hockey Goalie Gear FAQs

What do you need to wear under your goalie equipment?

Opt for moisture-wicking undergarments to maintain comfort and protect against friction beneath goalie pads.

How do you put on kids hockey gear?

Youth gear requires adult assistance to ensure proper size and placement for safety and maneuverability.

What do hockey goalies wear under their pads?

Under their pads, hockey goalies often wear specialized compression clothing that supports muscles and joints. These garments can have added padding in critical areas to absorb impacts and help protect against injuries from high-speed pucks and physical play.

Do you wear hockey socks under goalie pads?

Hockey socks are worn over shin guards but beneath leg pads to secure the guards and provide a barrier against irritation.