Stick and skate sizing for beginners

These are general rules of thumb, not exact formulas. Bodies, brands and preferences differ, so always check the brand's size chart and try gear on in a shop if you can. For the full gear list and prices, see the starter gear guide.

Stick: length

A common starting point: standing in shoes, the stick should reach somewhere between your chin and nose. On skates you'll be a few inches taller, so the stick will feel shorter. Shorter sticks are often easier for stickhandling; longer ones give more reach. A shop can cut it down, but you can't add length back easily, so cut a little at a time.

Stick: flex and curve

Flex is how stiff the stick is; a higher number is stiffer. A general rule of thumb is that a less stiff stick is easier for beginners to bend when shooting, and cutting a stick shorter makes it stiffer. Curve is the shape of the blade; a mild, mid-curve is a common beginner choice. Left or right: try holding a stick both ways; most people pick whichever feels natural with their top hand at the end. You don't need an expensive stick to learn.

Skates

Fit matters more than brand or price. Hockey skates often run smaller than shoe size, so get measured. Rules of thumb: snug all around, toes lightly brushing the toe cap when standing, heel locked in place when you bend your knees. Try them on with the socks you'll skate in. Many shops offer heat molding and sharpening; new skates usually need sharpening before use.

Protective gear

Helmet: sized by head circumference. Measure around your head just above the eyebrows. It should be snug with no pressure points; buy it new and check the certification date.
Gloves: you should be able to grip a stick and bend your fingers without fingertips hitting the end, with the cuff meeting your elbow pads.
Pants: most brands size by waist. The bottom of the pants should meet the top of your shin guards.
Shin guards: measure from the middle of your kneecap to the top of your skate boot and check the brand chart; the kneecap should sit centered in the cup.
Elbow pads: elbow centered in the cup, staying in place when you bend your arm.
Shoulder pads: sized by chest; beginners often choose a lighter entry-level pad for non-checking hockey.

Buying tips

Try gear on in person when you can, especially skates and helmets. Used pads, pants and gloves are fine if they fit; buy the helmet new. Check your program's gear list first, since some lend or rent gear.

Find a program near you

More guides: What to expect in learn to play · Your first skate · What hockey costs · Can't skate? · Beginner leagues · Sizing · Women's hockey · Goalies · Starter gear

Programs change. Always confirm details, gear rules, dates and prices with the rink before you register.