Shin Pads 

Unless you’ve always enjoyed being called “chicken legs” or “tree trunks,” you may want to make sure you have good shin pads before hitting the ice. Even if these titles are a step up from your current nickname, its important to make sure your legs are well-protected from contact with the ice, sticks, pucks, and other players.

All shin pads have: 

• a plastic outer shell
• an inner foam liner
• connecting straps

Picking the pair that is best for you will come down to your position and personal preference. When you’re looking at shin pads, pay attention to differences weight and width. 

• Tight or “lean” shin pads are usually preferred by forwards for increased speed and agility.
• Wide or “bulky” pads are usually preferred by defensemen who value the extra protection. 

Sizing

Your shinnys should cover the area from your ankles to your knees. If they’re too small, your ankles and shins will be unprotected, and if they’re too big, you’ll face noticeable skating difficulties. 

When you’re finding the right size, it always helps to wear skates. Test your mobility by doing a few lateral movements and stretches. If they wiggle around or get pushed up by your skates, they are too long. If there is a noticeable gap between your skates and shin pads, they are too small.