Hockey Skates

Hockey skates should fit snugly and will need a little time to break-in. Try one size smaller than street shoes. Put them on with laces loose and toes right to the front of the skate — you should be able to fit one finger between the heel and the skate back. Tied, there should be 1-1/2" to 2" (3.75 to 5 cm) between eyelets. Walk around to check comfort, and then remove skates and check feet for any red areas or pressure points that indicate improper fit. Whether you're looking for skates for the beginner or for performance hockey skates, Canadian Tire offers a great selection, including popular brands like Bauer, Reebok, CCM, Easton and WinnWell.

Hockey Sticks

You can find composite and wood hockey sticks at Canadian Tire that are inspired by some of today's great players, including Crosby and Ovechkin. When choosing a hockey stick, be sure your young player picks it up and gets a feel for it in his or her hands. Be sure to look at junior sticks for your junior player, as adult sticks have wider shafts which can be harder for children to hold onto properly. You'll adjust the length of the stick when you get it home — it should be measured and cut to a length reaching between the chin and nose of the player when they are standing in their skates.

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Hockey Helmets

Hockey helmets and facemasks are mandatory in minor hockey. All helmets must be CSA-approved and should fit your child comfortably, but snugly. To fit correctly, the rim of the helmet should sit just above the eyebrows, and the chinstrap should gently touch the chin when fastened. A traditional cage face mask will provide better ventilation than a clear face shield, and a mouth guard will provide an added level of protection. You'll find a wide selection of helmets and facemasks, including Bauer, CCM, and Easton at Canadian Tire.

Hockey Gloves

Hockey gloves need to fit properly so the player can easily handle their stick. If sharp skates can improve speed and agility, the right gloves can improve a player's finesse. Your child should try on the gloves to get a feel for fit and flexibility. Tightness is a personal preference, however the child's fingertips should not reach completely to the ends of the glove. Adequate protection is important too. Look at the padding on the glove, and if there is any gap between the glove cuff and the elbow pad, it should be minimal.

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Protective Hockey Gear

Hockey has a lot of protective gear. Helmet, mouth guard, throat protector, gloves, hockey pants, Jocks/Jills, pads for shoulders, elbows and shins — even skates act as protection for your feet. These work together as a system, protecting the entire body. To work properly, there should be no gaps between padding and other equipment, such as at the wrists or ankles. Elbows, knees and shoulders should fit properly into padded cups. Ice hockey equipment should fit comfortably with little to no restriction of movement. You'll find the best names in hockey protection at Canadian Tire.

Hockey Clothing

In addition to protective gear, your kid will need specialized clothing to complete his or her hockey outfit. Hockey socks and a practice jersey will be essential. At Canadian Tire, you'll find the hockey apparel you want to complete your gear, plus performance clothing featuring Moisture Management technologies. These wick away moisture to keep players comfortable on the ice and avoid clamminess after the action is over. Practicing outdoors on the coldest days of winter? Long underwear might be a good idea too!

Kids’ Hockey Equipment Checklist

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