THE COMPLETE HOCKEY PARENT'S EQUIPMENT GUIDE
- May 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 16
A P35 Sports Guide to Making Smart Equipment Decisions for U9 & U12 Players
Dear Hockey Parent, Welcome to the P35 Sports Equipment Guide, designed specifically to help parents of young hockey players navigate the sometimes overwhelming world of hockey gear. As former athletes passionate about giving back to the sport, we understand the importance of proper equipment in developing confident, skilled players. At P35 Sports, we believe in a holistic approach with the athlete at the center of everything we do. This guide reflects that philosophy—balancing safety, comfort, development, and budget considerations for young players in the U9 and U12 age groups.
ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST
Core Protection Equipment:
Hockey helmet with cage/full face shield (HECC certified)
Neck guard/protector
Shoulder pads
Elbow pads
Hockey gloves
Hockey pants/breezers
Athletic supporter with cup/pelvic protector
Shin guards
Hockey socks
Skates
Hockey stick
Mouthguard (may be required by some leagues)
Additional Items:
Equipment bag
Water bottle
Tape (stick/sock)
Skate guards
Base layer/compression clothing
Hockey jersey for practice
AGE-SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS
U9 Players (7-8 years old)
At this developmental stage, players are building fundamental skills and may rotate positions, including goaltender. Equipment considerations include:
Skates:
Focus on proper fit rather than expensive models
Allow approximately 1/4 inch of toe room for growth
Ensure adequate ankle support
Consider recreational or entry-level hockey skates
Have skates professionally fitted and sharpened
Helmet:
Must have HECC certification
Should fit snugly with no movement when the head is shaken
Cage should provide full face protection without obstructing vision
Adjust chin strap so only one finger fits between strap and chin
Stick:
Appropriate length: between chin and nose when standing on skates
Lighter flex (30-40) for proper shot development
Junior-sized shaft diameter for proper grip
Consider wood or composite entry-level sticks
Protective Gear:
Ensure all pads cover the intended areas completely
Check for mobility - players should move freely
Size for current fit with minimal "room to grow"
Focus on protection over advanced features
COACH PAOLO'S TIP: "For U9 players, comfort and proper fit are far more important than expensive equipment. Focus on gear that allows freedom of movement while providing adequate protection."
U12 Players (10-11 years old)
At this level, players have generally selected their positions, with dedicated goaltenders established. Equipment considerations include:
Skates:
Consider mid-range models as skills develop
Proper fit remains critical - professional fitting recommended
May need more frequent replacement as feet grow
Proper maintenance becomes more important
Stick:
Length between chin and nose when on skates
Consider flex appropriate for player's weight (general rule: half of body weight)
Curve pattern becomes more important based on position and play style
Composite sticks offer advantages in shot development
Position-Specific Equipment:
Forwards may benefit from lighter, more mobile shoulder and elbow pads
Defensemen often need more robust shin and elbow protection
All positions require proper-fitting protective equipment regardless of playing style
COACH PAOLO'S TIP: "At U12, players begin developing position-specific skills. Equipment should support this development while still prioritizing protection and proper fit."
EQUIPMENT FITTING GUIDELINES
Helmet:
No movement when head is shaken
Sits one finger-width above eyebrows
Ear holes align with ears
Cage should allow full vision without touching nose or chin
Shoulder Pads:
Cover shoulders completely
Extend to upper chest and upper back
Allow full arm movement
Bicep guards align with elbow pads
Elbow Pads:
Cover elbow completely when arm is bent
Secure fit without restricting movement
Connect properly with shoulder pads
Stay in place during movement
Gloves:
Cover approximately 2-3 inches of forearm
Allow full finger movement and stick grip
Snug fit without restricting wrist movement
Padding covers all knuckles and back of hand
Hockey Pants:
Extend to middle of kneecap when standing
Waist secured properly with belt/velcro
Cover kidney area completely
Allow full stride without restriction
Shin Guards:
Extend from top of skate to bottom of hockey pants
Knee cap centered in knee pocket
Secure fit without shifting
Calf wrap provides full coverage
Skates:
Heel locked in place when laced
Approximately 1/4 inch space at toe
Ankle support without painful pressure points
Width appropriate for foot shape
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Proper equipment care extends gear life and maintains protection
After Each Use:
Open equipment bag to air out gear
Hang up wet items to dry completely
Wipe down skate blades and apply blade protectors
Check for damage or wear
Weekly Maintenance:
Inspect all equipment for damage
Check helmet screws and cage attachments
Examine skate blades for nicks or rust
Clean plastic components with mild soap and water
Monthly Checks:
Evaluate equipment fit as child grows
Check stick blade for wear or damage
Assess skate sharpening needs
Deep clean gear with appropriate products
Seasonal Maintenance:
Professional skate sharpening
Complete equipment inspection
Replace worn or outgrown items
Deep clean all equipment
COACH PAOLO'S TIP: "Developing good equipment maintenance habits at a young age teaches responsibility and ensures gear provides proper protection throughout the season."
COST-SAVING STRATEGIES
Quality equipment is an investment, but there are ways to manage costs:
Smart Shopping:
Purchase during off-season sales (March-August)
Consider previous-year models (significant discounts)
Join equipment swap groups on social media
Check with your association about equipment exchanges
Growth Considerations:
Invest more in helmet and skates; economize on items replaced more frequently
Consider adjustable skates for rapidly growing feet
Buy shoulder pads, elbow pads, and shin guards with some room to grow
Purchase gloves that fit properly now (too large affects stick handling)
Quality Hierarchy:
Invest Most: Helmet, skates, protective cup
Mid-Range: Stick, gloves, pants
Budget Options: Shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards (while ensuring adequate protection)
COACH PAOLO'S TIP: "Never compromise on helmet quality and fit. This is the one area where purchasing the best you can afford makes the most sense.
CONCLUSION
Selecting the right equipment for your young hockey player is an important investment in both their safety and development.
At P35 Sports, we're committed to helping young athletes build confidence and skills on the ice.
For personalized advice or questions about equipment selection, contact us at www.p35sports.com.
Our holistic approach to player development includes ensuring each athlete has the proper tools to succeed.
Remember our philosophy: "ALL WE CARE IS YOUR PASSION!!"
If you need more specific info about hockey material visit our technical partner wesite: Conte Hockey Shop
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