Make sure your little hockey player is ready for the ice with these helpful tips and tricks from our hockey equipment store.
Whether your family is new to the game or you’re seasoned players, it’s always a good idea to come prepared with a hockey gear checklist. Getting your child ready for hockey can make or break a day on the ice, but it shouldn’t be stressful. If you’re unsure what equipment to purchase or need your child’s skates sharpened, Cooke’s Skate Supply is here to help! Use these tips to make sure your child has everything ready before stepping onto the ice.
Prepared, Protected, and Ready to Play
Renting or purchasing used hockey gear for your child is a great way to save money, but it’s important to inspect each piece before use. Check that Velcro straps are intact and that every piece of equipment fits securely without being too tight. Adjustable features like Velcro help extend the life of hockey gear by allowing it to grow with your child.
A Tip to Save Time
A great way to save time is to have your child pack their hockey bag the night before. This not only helps keep your routine organized but also gives you a chance to catch any issues ahead of time (or find that hidden pair of smelly socks from the last game!).
Have your child arrive wearing their base layers so they only need to put on their remaining equipment when they get to the rink.
Steps to Dressing Right
It can be challenging to keep your child focused while getting dressed for hockey. Creating a checklist and having them follow it as they get ready will help reinforce the importance of safety while building good habits for the future.
There can be a lot of equipment, so here’s a step-by-step guide to dressing your child.
- Legs first! Secure shin pads with tape or fasteners, and lace skates tightly around the ankles for proper support.
- Put on the neck guard before the shoulder pads. Equipment should fit snugly and securely without restricting breathing or movement.
- Position the padding correctly. Shoulder pads are designed for the left and right sides, and the tailbone pad should sit directly over your child’s tailbone.
- Don’t forget the mouthguard or helmet! Make sure your child’s helmet is properly fitted and has not expired. To learn more about helmet standards, read this blog post.
More Than Gear: Choosing a Hockey Equipment Store That Cares
Looking for new or used hockey gear for your family? Cooke’s Skate Supply is your trusted hockey equipment store, offering top brands, quality products, and expert service to help players get ready for the season.
Visit us today at 446 Main St, Wilmington, MA 01887. For more information, contact us at (978) 657-7586 or follow our Facebook page for the latest updates, news, and events!
