Do you dream of being a goalie? There is probably nothing more thrilling than deciding to step between the posts for the very first time. Goalies are absolutely vital in any hockey game; they are the core of the defence and the only individual who has the power to turn the game around in one second. Before you learn how to protect your net from shots, you need to figure out what kind of reliable goalie equipment you need to wear.
Skates
Goalie skates are very different from normal hockey skates. They are designed to be lower to the ice, providing you with a low centre of gravity and excellent stability while you move between the posts. The cowling, the protective plastic shell covering the skate boot, is very thick to protect your feet against powerful slapshots.
The blades of goalie skates are also designed uniquely. They are completely flat and longer than the blades of player skates, providing you with the ability to stand balanced in your playing position. This means that if you decide to use the edge of your skate to power slide into the crease and make a desperate save, you will have the power to do so.
Stick
The stick is the main goalie gear piece that is used for moving the puck as well as blocking passing attempts in the slot. In contrast to regular hockey sticks, the goalie stick is characterized by an additional flat part known as the paddle.
Paddle length should be considered to be the most critical characteristic when selecting the right stick. Too big or too small a paddle will result in a change in stance and will create holes in front of the goaltender. Modern goalie sticks have been designed from lightweight composite materials, which makes the game easier for the player as far as puck clearance is concerned.
Helmet
This is certainly the most important safety piece of goalie equipment in your gear setlist. Goalie masks are designed to protect your head from the pucks that could cause you a concussion or facial injury. These masks have a hard protective shell made of fibreglass or carbon fibre material, along with a steel cage for good visibility.
It is extremely important that the mask fits properly and does not move at all if you shake your head. The inner foam padding needs to rest comfortably against your forehead and temples. Some goalies like to personalize their helmets by painting designs or using stickers on them. However, your priority should always be protection first. Don’t forget that extra dose of protection with a visor.
Chest Protector
The chest protector protects your upper body. This includes your entire torso, your shoulders, and even your arms. The chest protector must cover you with an uninterrupted barrier against the sting of the puck and yet give your arms enough freedom to maneuver so that you can make glove saves. The best way to achieve this is by combining heavy duty foam with plastic shields that absorb the shock from the impact.
While trying out the chest protector, you must ensure that it covers your arms all the way to your wrist. There should not be any gaps left exposed after raising your arms into a wall position. Adjustability through straps at the waist ensures that it remains centred over your body in chaotic situations in front of the goal crease.
Pads
The goalie pads are the most recognizable pieces in your gear. They have two primary functions: to protect your legs from being shot at and to cover as much of the net as possible. Today’s goalie pads are made in such a way as to make you slide smoothly when performing the butterfly technique by covering the entire bottom of the ice surface.
You must get the perfect sizing for the knees. The knee has to land right into the middle of the inner knee cradle when you go down to sit. Having either too large or too small a pad may cause you injuries in the joint area, thus limiting your mobility. Choose lightweight pads with an easy strapping system for quick dressing.
Gloves
The catch glove, otherwise known as the catcher, is usually strapped onto the opposite dominant hand to catch pucks straight from the air. Ideally, the glove must be comfortable enough for quick closure when pucks are coming from the top corner towards you. It is characterized by a deep pocket or webbed t-trap in order to prevent any puck from popping back out. There is also a lot of protection on the back side of the hand because you will end up using the glove-hand to protect the puck during a scramble.
Blockers
The blocker is placed on the hand that holds your hockey goal sticks. The blocker is an oblong, thick block of foam which has a glove on its back portion. The most important function of this piece of equipment is to deflect any shots to the corners of the rink so that they are sent far from the prime scoring zones near your goal.
Moreover, the sideboard of your blocker needs to be very well padded, as this protects your fingers and thumb while you hold the stick. Ensure that you select a blocker that has soft palm lining, providing you with the necessary grip on your stick shaft.
