Understanding Goalie Equipment

The goalie is stationed dead center in front of the net. His job is to throw his body in front of a heavy, solid puck that's traveling at high speeds. This presents special concerns as far as protective padding are concerned. Goalies use their stick, arms, legs, pads, head, and other goalie equipment to block. They are the workhorse of the hockey team, and are responsible more so than any other player for how much the opposing team scores. Often the recipient of heavy injuries, goalies are well-respected while still not achieving the superstar status of their teammates.

Hockey Goalie Equipment

Goalies have a very specific job in hockey; therefore they need very special equipment. In the middle of the twentieth century goalies were considered weak if they had too much equipment on, but modern goalies are required to bulk up with layers and layers of special goalie equipment. Goalies sticks must be built heavier than normal sticks so they can block goals with it. A good stick for goalies is the Nike Bauer One90 which is resistant to heavy torque and is light enough to send the puck flying away from the net. When he can't block with his stick he must depend on his leg and arm pads. These pads are large and thick to keep the puck from bruising the bones of the player. The leg pads are specially built with goalies in mind and even come in two varieties: traditional and butterfly for players who prefer to block on their knees. The most recognizable goalie equipment is the face mask. Designed to protect the head and face of the player, it has saved many live (not too mention quite a few teeth). Hockey pants are padded in different spots for goalies than for other players. Goalies have a lot of special gear to buy, which is why Goalies seldom play in other positions. The game is wholly different for them than for anybody else on the team.

Roller Hockey Goalie Gear

Street hockey can be a fun summer distraction. Goalies, more than any other player, need to be fully attired so a fun afternoon doesn't turn tragic. Leg pads should be at least four inches thick. Arm and shoulder guards are necessary. If it's too hot to wear a mask one should play with at least a helmet on. The goalie is also usually responsible for movie the net, so he should wear his pads loose to allow for quick movement.