Thread: Questions for all the goalies out there

Hey all,

I was hoping for some help answering a few questions for an aspiring roller hockey goalie.

First, I've been to a few different websites and can not find a universal leg pad sizing chart. They all have their own method for figuring out your pad size, so I've calculated I'm anywhere from a 30" to a 34". Is there a concensus method someone knows of for getting a correct measurement?

Second, How much difference is there between ice hockey pads and roller pads? Is there a prefered leg pad for roller hockey? I played last night with ice hockey pads and found them to be bulky and heavy.

Third, Is there any equipment that I should buy new versus used, or does it not matter? (of course I wouldn't buy a used jock)

Any help here would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all in advance.

Originally Posted by Kingsmonkey

Hey all,

I was hoping for some help answering a few questions for an aspiring roller hockey goalie.

First, I've been to a few different websites and can not find a universal leg pad sizing chart. They all have their own method for figuring out your pad size, so I've calculated I'm anywhere from a 30" to a 34". Is there a concensus method someone knows of for getting a correct measurement?

Yes, it is called ATK, or Ankle to Knee measurement. You take a tape measure and place it on the inside ball of your ankle, and extend up to teh frontside, middle of the knee cap. For example, mine is 17.5" and I wear a 34" pad.

Go to this forum and SEARCH...you will find your answers...

http://goaliestore.com/board/index.php

Second, How much difference is there between ice hockey pads and roller pads? Is there a prefered leg pad for roller hockey? I played last night with ice hockey pads and found them to be bulky and heavy.

I play on ice pads...they are bit heavier and the materials are usually different. I believe Mission, Battram, Tour and Franklin make roller specific pads. Some of the pads are made with nylon and have plastic "slide plates".

Third, Is there any equipment that I should buy new versus used, or does it not matter? (of course I wouldn't buy a used jock)

I bought all of mine used...simply cheaper.

Hrudey pretty much summed it all up. I have a 19" ATK and wear a 38" pad. I can get away with a 36+2 or 37+1 with other brands, but with the brand I wear, I run a 38.

On GSBB there is an "ATK Database" that will help you with each brand of pad, having a good idea of what people with specific ATK's are using. Im too lazy to link the thread directly, but its in the equipment forum.

I dont know anything about roller, never played, but I think Hrudey is right. I do know the slide plates exist, but I've never seen them first hand.

Yup, all your questions (and more) will be answered on the GSBB that HrudeyRules linked. Make sure to do some searching around before you ask questions there, as they can be a bit 'curt' with people who post without looking.

As you'll find out, most of it comes down to personal preference. Sizing has it's guidelines, but it all basically comes down to what you feel comfortable in and what will give you an acceptable amount of protection.

I'd be weary of buying a second hand mask (unless you personally know the seller), as it's impossible to know what that mask has been through. Better to save up the money and get a good quality brand new mask. Also, the lower-end Itech masks have a very poor reputation with some. Do some research over there on that board.

Welcome to the world of goalies!

Most leg pads size differently, so you will want to try several on before making up your mind. Make sure that the knee cradle is centered on your knee, for obvious reasons. When I first started playing, I made the mistake of getting pads that were too small because they were cheap and my knees paid the price for this mishap. As for slide-plates, talk to the league director and make sure that they will allow them. My roller league will not because it will tear up the surface.

Most gear you can buy used, just make sure they are in relatively good shape (ex. blocker mit not torn or thread-bare).

DO NOT skimp on the mask. As Unholy mentioned the lower-end Itechs (1200-1400) are a BIG no-no. They have earned the nickname "the Widowmaker." At least a Itech 2500, which is what I use and for my competition level is borderline. Generally, you should be spending at least $250 for a lid.

Originally Posted by bjones62

DO NOT skimp on the mask. As Unholy mentioned the lower-end Itechs (1200-1400) are a BIG no-no. They have earned the nickname "the Widowmaker." At least a Itech 2500, which is what I use and for my competition level is borderline. Generally, you should be spending at least $250 for a lid.

Think seriously about a combo...affordable and very suitable for LOWER level roller.

I used Tour pads and chest protector when I played a season of roller out here in Kansas City. They worked well, I didn't have any complaints. I'm looking at possibly playing in a local roller league seperate from ice, but if that falls through, and you're interested in them, PM me.

<<<<<<I've got an Itech 1000(?) which I got off of eBay, and I have taken a few dingers off of it. My ears rang for a second, but nothing further than that. Of course, this is ice, not roller. I imagine a lower level Itech would be suitable for roller, especially if you're just beginning to play. However, that being said, you'll take shots off the holes in your gear from time to time, and it will smart, but your head is the one thing you want to take care of. Ask anyone in just about any sport and they'll tell you the most important piece of gear is the helmet. One of my friends rides dirtbikes, and his helmet was the most expensive thing he bought short of the bike.

The ice pads are a bit bulkier, but if and when you decide to make the transition from roller to ice, you're not going to have the issue of purchasing much more gear. However, the lighter equipment for roller makes the job a bit easier, so really, it's up to you.

All my current gear is used, and when I lived in SoCal and played, Play It Again Sports was my best friend. Even though I could probably afford new equipment now, I don't see a need to pay for it. You can even on a rare occasion find a good used paddle on the cheap. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay $200+ for a stick.