Inline Hockey: All You Need to Get Started

A common misconception on the game of inline hockey is that it is just like ice hockey, just on wheels. That idea however is completely wrong, as the games are played in a completely different way. Ice hockey is all about speed and odd man rushes, while inline hockey is all about slowing the game down. Puck possession is crucial in the game of inline hockey. The only similarities between the two games would be the common goal of skating with the puck, while trying to put it in the net. However this article is not about comparing the two sports, instead this article was designed to help those looking to get into the sport of inline hockey.

The first and most important part of the game is obviously your skates. However you can't just go out and buy any skate and wheels. The actual skate isn't as important as the wheels and bearings that you throw on the skates, but it still needs to fit with comfort. If you go out and buy a cheap skate that doesn't fit your foot very well, it will show when you play. You foot will be killing you, and your ability will be compromised.

Once you have found a good skate you need to look into wheels and bearings. These two things are quite possibly the most vital piece of equipment for you to be able to play to the best of your ability. When looking for a wheel you are first of all going to need a wheel designed only for indoor, in which you use it only indoors. After you find the type of wheels for indoor, you need to figure out what softness you need. The softer the wheel the more grip you get, however wheel softness is dependent on your weight. Where ever you plan on purchasing your wheels, will have some sort of chart to help you, so I wouldn't worry about it until then.

After you purchase your wheels you are going to need bearings and possibly spacers. The most common bearings are the Abec series. These bearings start at the Abec1 and move all the way up to Abec9, with the 9 being the best. My recommendation when it comes to bearings is not to buy the Abec1 bearings, and that the Abec9 bearings are absolutely necessary. I would recommend the Abec5 or even the Abec7 depending on your price range. Earlier I mentioned you would need spacers. Spacers are just what they sound like. They keep the appropriate space between your bearings. There really aren't any different spacers, so they cheapest you can find will work perfectly.

Now that you have everything you need to actually skate, you are going to need a stick. Sticks can be relatively expensive, and your stick choice is really based on your price range. My recommendation is to get a decent ice hockey stick that will last for quite a while. Many sticks have warranties, so if something does happen and the stick breaks right after you get it, you will be covered.

The only things left to purchase after your stick is your protective equipment. The only equipment that you really need is a cup, shin pads, a helmet, roller hockey pants, and possibly elbow guards. Most of that equipment can be found relatively cheap, with the exception of the pants. With roller hockey pants you get what you pay for. If you plan on buying a cheap pair that is what you will get. A cheap pair is basically no better than a pair of sweatpants. However the more expensive you get the better the pants will become.

Inline hockey is a relatively easy sport to get into. Some of the equipment can run a little expensive, but it is much cheaper than getting into ice hockey. Once you purchase a good pair of skates with reliable wheels, a decent stick, and the necessary protective equipment, you are well on your way to finding a local league and beginning you play. Inline hockey is a much slower game than ice hockey, and is more about puck skills and raw ability, instead of pure speed and odd man rushes.