Are you a hockey player who is looking for more information about how to properly put on hockey elbow pads? Or do you have children that just started playing this beloved game and your family needs guidance on why they should wear them in the first place? Understanding the necessity of elbow pads and how to apply them will help players stay safe on the ice or roller hockey rink.
How to put on hockey elbow pads? Why do hockey players need elbow pads?
In this blog post, Adam Matter will answer both questions: how to put on hockey elbow pads and why do hockey players need elbow pads. Read our full guide below!
How to put on hockey elbow pads?
How to put on hockey elbow pads?
People who are new to the game often make the mistake of putting their elbow pads on the wrong arms or backward.
To identify left from right, the rule of thumb is to have the most protection on the arm’s exterior, which will likely take the most impact. Make sure the slash guards are on the outside of the arm in order to place your hockey elbow pads on the correct arm.
In order to properly position your elbow pads, know that the bicep guard flap is hingedly attached to the main elbow pad. Attach the hinged flap to your upper arm. The opposite flap protects your arm.
While wearing your elbow pads, fasten the Velcro straps around your bicep and forearm. This will help keep the pad in place during gameplay. Then adjust the upper arm flap so that it fits snugly but comfortably against your arm. The lower strap should fit tightly over your forearm, ensuring a secure fit.
Why do hockey players need elbow pads?
Why do hockey players need elbow pads?
The primary function of elbow pads is to protect the elbows from collisions with the boards and ice, but they can also shield the forearms and lower biceps from slashes.
When falling backward or laterally, it is typical to land on the elbows. This is particularly true for novices, who are more inclined to flail their arms back in an attempt to regain their balance.
For this reason, elbow protectors are a good idea not just for hockey, but also for all activities played on ice, such as pond hockey, skating lessons, and public skating.
Things need to know about the elbow pads for hockey
Things need to know about the elbow pads for hockey
Elbow brands
These are the most frequent brands:
- Bauer (Supreme, Vapor, Nexus) (Supreme, Vapor, Nexus)
- CCM (JetSpeed, QuickLite, and Tacks)
- Easton (now owned by Bauer – Stealth, Synergy, and Pro)
- Warrior (Alpha, Dynasty)
Size of the Elbow pad
When it comes to size, you can get a good fit by measuring your elbow circumference with a flexible tape measure. Once you have your measurement, check the manufacturer’s size chart for an ideal fit.
Features of the Elbow pad
Most elbow pads come with several features that offer protection, comfort, and performance:
- Protective caps – hard plastic caps that protect the elbow joint
- Foam or plastic inserts – provide additional cushioning against impact
- Elastic straps – adjustable Velcro straps to keep the pad in place
- Ventilation – reduces moisture buildup and keeps your arm cool and dry during play
- Padding – provides cushioning and comfort during play
Elbow pad price
Elbow pads can range in price from $15-$100 depending on the brand, features, and size. Be sure to choose a pad that fits your budget and offers the protection you need for your game.
Elbow pad size and fit
The fit of an elbow pad is just as important as its protective features. A good fit should be snug enough to provide protection without being too tight or uncomfortable. Using a flexible measuring tape to measure your arm circumference and the manufacturer’s size chart will give you the greatest fit.
How to choose the best elbow pads for you?
How to choose the best elbow pads for you?
When choosing the right hockey elbow pads for you, it’s important to consider your size and playing style.
Elbow pads come in different sizes, so measure around your arm and match the size chart provided by the manufacturer to determine the best fit. Hockey elbow pads should give enough protection while still letting the player move enough to skate and handle the stick.
Especially, elbow protectors with strong protection will protect you from painful and harmful hockey hits.
Standard size chart
| Pad Size | Height | Arm |
| Youth SM | 3’2″ – 3’5″ | 7″ – 8″ |
| Youth MD | 3’4″ – 3’11” | 7.5″ – 8.5″ |
| Youth LG | 3’9″ – 4’4″ | 8″ – 9″ |
| Junior SM | 4’3″ – 4’9″ | 9″ – 10″ |
| Junior MD | 4’6″ – 4’11” | 10″ – 11″ |
| Junior LG | 4’10” – 5’4″ | 11″ – 12″ |
| Senior SM | 5’3″ – 5’8″ | 12″ – 13″ |
| Senior MD | 5’6″ – 5’11” | 13″ – 14″ |
| Senior LG | 5’9″ – 6’2″ | 14″ – 15″ |
| Senior XL | 6’2″+ | 15″+ |
How fit should the hockey elbow pads be?
How fit should the hockey elbow pads be?
Hockey elbow pads should fit tightly enough to stay in place without making it hard to move. The elbow should fit comfortably in the middle of the cup, with no space between the elbow pads and the shoulder pads or the glove cuff.
There are both short and long styles of elbow pads. Players who wear hockey gloves with shorter cuffs should usually choose elbow pads that are longer to cover their arms enough.
Hockey players with longer cuffs should use short elbow protectors to avoid wrist restrictions. Therefore, let’s choose a size that is appropriate for your arm’s length and comfort level.
FAQs: How to put on hockey elbow pads?
Are hockey players required to wear elbow pads?
A helmet, shoulder pads/chest protector, elbow pads, mouth guard, protective gloves, extensively padded shorts, a ‘jock’ athletic protector, shin pads, and a neck guard are typically required. Goaltenders wear masks and bulkier, specialized equipment to protect themselves from many direct puck hits.
How should youth hockey elbow protectors be worn?
First, insert your arms into the pads. The elbow should be comfortably supported by the elbow cap. Next, use the velcro straps to secure the pads in place. The padding should now stretch from your child’s lower bicep to the top of the glove. In addition, you can visit our website to see more about how to measure hockey goalie pads!
Do hockey players remove their helmets between periods?
Usually, players will take their jerseys and shoulder pads off between periods to be more comfortable. Some players even take off their skates.
How should hockey shoulder pads fit!
The tips of the shoulders should sit squarely under the shoulder caps when wearing hockey shoulder pads. Shoulder pads should not limit movement or interfere with elbow pads. The collarbone area should be covered, and the midsection straps should be snug but not excessively so.
Conclusion
With this information in mind, hockeyheritage.org hopes you take the time to try your own hockey elbow pads safely and enjoy everything that this sport has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Get out there are learn how to put on hockey elbow pads and have some fun!
