'Youth', 'Junior' and 'Senior' are often used to describe sizes of hockey equipment and generally refer to the player's age group, which you can find on
this chart. If specific sizing in inches or centimeters is available, these sizes are provided.
Elbow Pads
Elbow pads and glove size go hand in hand and must be fitted together. To determine elbow and glove size, measure from the tip of the middle finger to the mid-point of the elbow and add 1" to allow for the padding. The elbow pad/glove you choose should match this measurement. For example, if the physical measure is 14", the total length of the selected glove/elbow pad combo should be 15".
Gloves
Please refer to above section on "Elbow Pads".
Helmets
To order the proper size of helmet, measure the circumference of the head with a tape measure. Please note: helmets include some allowance for adjustment within the size ranges specified by the manufacturer. Please refer to
this size chart.
Pants
In general, pants should fit according to waist size; however, if taller than average, buy a size up for extra length and protection in the thigh area. Please refer to
this size chart.
Shin Pads
While seated, and wearing skates, measure the leg from the middle of the kneecap to the top eyelet of the skate. Subtract 1 /2 to 1" from the measurement and match this to the length of the shin pad.
Shoulder Pads
Proper fit affords the best protection. You can find the size chart
here.
Hockey Skates
Select one full size less than the regular shoe size. For instance, if you normally take a size 8 shoe, order a size 7 skate.
Women wishing to purchase men's hockey skates must first convert their size to a men's size by subtracting one and a half sizes from the normal shoe size. For example, a women's size 9 equals a men's size 7.5. Then subtract one size to determine skate size. In this example, the proper skate size would be a men's size 6.5. It may be necessary to purchase a Junior size skate in some cases. Some sample conversions are shown
here.
Socks
Measure from the top of the ankle to three-quarters up the thigh.
Here are some typical sock conversions and age groups for proper fit.
Wood Sticks
Wood sticks are flex-rated "mid", "stiff" and "extra stiff" and should be chosen according to the player's weight. Small, lightweight players should use a "mid" flex stick. Players of average weight should select "stiff" and players who are heavier or larger than average should select "extra-stiff".
Aluminum and Composite Sticks
Most aluminum and composite sticks are flex-rated. Select the stick based on the player's weight for his/her size. If lighter than average choose "mid flex", if average, "stiff" and, if heavier, "extra stiff".
Sweaters
Jerseys must fit loosely in order to cover all protective equipment and also to let the upper body breathe. Select based on the shirt/pullover size normally worn. For example, if you usually wear a men's large, choose that size for your hockey sweater.
Throat Protectors
These are adjustable and fit based on collar size. For instance, if you wear a size 15 shirt collar, choose a throat protector that fits 14" to 18" (35-45cm).