How to Choose a Pair of Ice Hockey Shin Guards

Considering today's somewhat dangerous nature of ice sports, ice hockey shin guards are an extremely vital piece of protection for any hockey player. Making sure ice hockey shin guards are properly measured to fit your legs is pertinent. If not measured correctly, an ice hockey shin guard too short or too long can cause a number of difficulties to a player. Below are several tips on how to adequately choose ice hockey shin guards.

When choosing ice hockey shin guards, sit comfortably on a bench or chair with your knees at a 90-degree bend, and feet flat on the ground. This position should feel quite natural and will help to best determine your exact leg length. Ice hockey shin guards are measured in inches usually, but will occasionally use centimeters.

Measure the left from the middle of your knee to your ankle to determine your shin length. Measuring to the very top of your foot or your ice hockey shin guards will most likely be too long. If you are not sure if you are measuring correctly, ask someone who has knowledge about what to do, such as a pro shop worker or experienced player.

Try on a few different brands, styles and perhaps sizes of ice hockey shin guards before deciding on a final purchase. Keep in mind the positions you may be playing, as different ice hockey shin guards may suit you better than others based on this. Shin guards tend to be relatively inexpensive, so if you end up purchasing a pair you do not like, it is not a big deal.

You will want your knee to fit comfortably in the top of the ice hockey shin guard. Also, make sure the lower region of the ice hockey shin guard is not pushing or cutting into your leg, ankle, or foot. When trying on an ice hockey shin guard, try putting the tongue of your hockey boot on the outside and inside of your shin to decide which would be more comfortable for you and in turn better benefit you and your ice hockey team in a game.

Sources:

USA Hockey
Ice Hockey Helmet