What equipment is required to play hockey?

Playing hockey requires specialised equipment that ensures the safety of the player and allows for efficient execution of various game moments. Here is a list of basic equipment for a hockey player:

1. Helmet with protective mesh or visor: Protects the head and face from impacts, falls and other hazards.
2. Shoulder pads: Protects the shoulders, chest and back from impact.
3. Elbow pads: Provides protection for elbow joints.
4. Hockey gloves: Protects hands from hockey stick, puck and collisions with other players.
5. Hockey shorts (or protective trousers): Protect the pelvis, thighs and kidneys. Usually include hard protection for the pelvic bones.
6. Shin guards: Protects the knees and the front of the shin.
7. Skates: Specialised ice skating shoes with a hard shell to protect the foot.
8. Rigid Neck Protector: Protects against skate cuts and puck hits.
9. Stick: Tool for controlling the puck. Varies in length, shape and material depending on the player’s preference.
10. Dental protection (mouth guard): Prevents injury to the teeth and jaw on hits.
11. Cheek pads: Some players also use protective cheek pads, which provide additional protection for the cheeks and joints of the jaw.
12. Supportive protection or panties: Designed to provide additional protection for the intimate area.
13. Socks and Gaiters: Special hockey socks that are worn over the kneepads and secured to the shin with tape.
14. Basic thermal underwear: Effectively wicks away moisture and keeps you warm. Can be in the form of long thermal underwear sets or individual T-shirts and trousers.

Quality equipment significantly reduces the risk of injury and increases a player’s comfort on the ice. It is especially important to choose the right size and keep the equipment in good condition, checking it regularly and replacing it when it wears out.