NECKGUARDS The use of safety equipment is extremely important to all those who play hockey. Our intent is to always have a fun, safe time while we play hockey. USA Hockey is concerned about neck lacerations and the potential catastrophic involvement of arteries, veins and nerves. To date there is no data to describe the prevalence of such an occurrence, the severity, or whether or not a neck laceration protector (neck guard) reduces risk or severity.
While USA Hockey recommends neck-guards for all participants (especially goalkeepers), they are not required at any level of the game under the current Playing Rules. KVHA HAS ADOPTED OUR OWN POLICY AND REQUIRE ALL PLAYERS & GOALTENDERS TO WEAR NECK-GUARDS DURING ALL ICE TIMES AS AN EXTRA SAFETY PRECAUTION.
Neck guards and mouth guards are to be worn properly during all ice time. Neck Guard must be a device in which the design intent was to protect the neck. A rolled up sock taped to the neck it not an acceptable neck protector. Mouth guards dangling out of the player’s helmet are also not acceptable. Safety for the players and goalies is of the utmost importance. It is the responsibility of each parent to ensure that his/her players have the required equipment prior to all practices and games. It is the responsibility of coaches and parents to ensure that the required equipment is used correctly during all ice times.
BEST HOCKEY NECK GUARDS
ICE HOCKEY NECK GUARD INFORMATION
MOUTHGUARDS Today, mouthguards are commonly used by hockey players of all ages and skill levels. Often they are a required piece of equipment, but when they are not most players still wear one. 90% of National Hockey League (NHL) players, for example, choose to use mouthguards even though the NHL doesn't mandate them.
All players, including goalkeepers, in the 12 & under (Youth and Girls’) through Youth 18 & under (including High School) and Girls’ 19 & under age classifications are required to wear a colored (non-clear) internal mouthpiece that covers all the remaining teeth of one jaw, customarily the upper. It is strongly recommended, in all classifications, that all players wear a mouthpiece form fitted by a dentist. While not prevalent, we have seen players with chipped teeth and tongue injuries. There are studies that show wearing a mouth guard can reduce the risk of concussion.
MOUTHGUARDS MAY REDUCE CONCUSSION RISK IN YOUTH ICE HOCKEY
NEW OR SECOND HAND EQUIPMENT? Whether purchasing new or used hockey gear, the most important aspect to consider is that the equipment is properly fitted. When equipment is not suitably fitted, the player is exposed to injury. Borrowed or second hand equipment is a great way to get started but before heading out on the ice, please make sure everything is in game-ready shape. Check helmets for missing or rusty screws, cracks, and ensure the cage/shield is fully attached. Ensure all padding is intact and that all buckles, snaps and velcro are in good condition. Used skates should be taken to a pro shop for a fresh sharpen and inspection as well. Some equipment, like helmets and hockey pants can be adjusted to compensate for growth. Other pieces must be replaced. Young players often outgrow their equipment long before it wears out, so please pass it on, whether to a relative or friend who is learning to play, or donate it back to an association to give other kids a chance to use it.
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HOCKEY SKATES Choose hockey skates based on your position, how frequently you play, your skill level, and your budget. Skates range in price from $100 to $1500+. Factors that increase price include protection, overall weight, boot stiffness, comfort, and durability. Bauer, CCM, and True offer hockey skates of various different prices so there are options for everyone.
As a general rule, your hockey skate size will be 1-1½ sizes smaller than your shoe size. Hockey skates should be snug, but not uncomfortably tight. Achieving a proper fit is absolutely critical to player success. To maintain skates, dry them off in the locker room immediately after your skate before placing in your bag and use blade protectors for safety.
Skate Sharpening
In order for the skates to grip (cut into) the ice properly especially while turning, they should be properly sharpened. Skate blades have edges that cut into the ice and help a skater stay upright while turning. If the edges are nicked, a skater has difficulty making turns and going full speed. To see if a skate needs sharpening, hold it sideways up to the light so that only one edge is between the light source and your eye. Look for any nicks along the blade. Flip the skate and over and examine the other edge in the same way. Then, look lengthwise down the blade to make sure the edges are level. If you have trouble, place a dime on the edges of the blade and make sure it lies flat. If there are no nicks and the edges are level, then the blade does not need sharpening.
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FIGURE SKATES? All of our hockey programs require hockey skates because figure skates are unsafe for both the wearer and other players in a hockey setting. The figure skate lacks the protection against cuts or shots, and the extension on the blade to the rear of the back stanchion could impail a falling player or coach. Kids who start out on figure skates, then transition to hockey skates, can find it a little difficult at first, especially if they relied on the toe pick for balance, stopping, and acceleration, but a few practices with the hockey skates should do it!
HOCKEY BAG Every player should have a bag that is adequate to hold all equipment, a few jerseys and socks and a few other items. A basic repair kit kept in the hockey bag can help solve problems when they are most likely to occur — two minutes before game time. Handy items to have are:
- Extra Laces
- Helmet Screws
- Screwdriver
- Scissors
- Clear and stick tape
- Towel to dry skates
- Practice Puck or Soft handling ball
HOCKEY STICKS We recommend that your child picks out their first stick and make a big deal of it. There are a lot of fun colors and it helps them get more excited about playing hockey.
The biggest question is how long should the stick be? It can depend on the position, but also player preference. Stand with your skates on and hold your stick in front of you with the blade on the floor. Your stick should be anywhere from 1 to 2 inches below or above your chin. Keep in mind that shorter sticks may be great for puck handling, but might not have a powerful shot. Long sticks give you reach and could even help you develop a commanding slap shot with minimal effort.
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GOALIE EQUIPMENT For young goaltenders, protection is critical to confidence so ensuring safety and comfort of the equipment will have a major impact on interest in the position and development. We recommend that you consult your favorite goalie professional, your fellow goaltenders, or pro-ship for guidance on equipment.
For players seeking to play as a goaltender, we can help! We have several sizes of goalie pads and chest protectors that prospective goalies can borrow. This helps cut down on the expenses involved with playing goalie. Our Mini Mite and Mite programs use this equipment and all players rotate and play as a goalie. This gives more kids at the younger ages the exposure and we hope to recruit more goalies by offering this program. We also have sets for older players.
