As a coach, it’s always frustrating when broken or missing equipment takes a player off the ice. Not only does it cost that player valuable shifts, but it also disrupts the flow of a game or practice. Lines have to be adjusted, drills need to be changed, and the entire team feels the impact.
The good news? Almost all of these situations are preventable if players come prepared. Having the right backup gear and extras in their hockey bag ensures they never lose valuable ice time. Below is a comprehensive hockey equipment checklist every player should have with them every time they go to the rink.
Core Hockey Equipment
These are the non-negotiables—the required gear for every practice and game. Double-check before leaving the house:
- Skates (with guards)
- Stick (plus a backup)
- Helmet (with cage/shield, chin strap secure)
- Neck guard
- Shoulder pads
- Elbow pads
- Gloves
- Shin guards
- Hockey pants
- Jock/jill with cup/pelvic protector
- Mouthguard (plus backup)
- Jersey and socks (practice or game set)
Clothing & Accessories
The details that make gearing up easier and more comfortable:
- Base layers (tops, bottoms, compression shorts, socks)
- Skate laces (always carry at least one extra pair)
- Water bottle (labeled with your name)
- Towel (to dry off gear or hands)
- Flip flops or slides for after practice/game showers
Backups & Repairs
The items that most often save players from losing valuable ice time:
- Extra skate blades (they break more often than you think)
- Extra skate laces (yes, it’s worth repeating!)
- Extra mouthguard
- Chin strap (they break often and are not included in a helmet repair kit)
- Stick tape (black & white)
- Sock/clear tape
- Stick wax
- Scissors or tape cutter
- Skate lace tightener
- Helmet repair kit (screws, clips)
- Small screwdriver or multitool
- Athletic tape
- Band-aids and blister pads
- Small first-aid kit (antiseptic wipes, gauze)
- Zip ties (quick fix for broken gear)
Coach’s Closing Tip
Create a “Rink Bag Within Your Bag.” Keep a small pouch stocked with must-haves like laces, tape, mouthguard, chin strap, and helmet screws. That little kit can be the difference between a quick fix and missing valuable ice time.
And remember — this isn’t just about one player. When equipment breaks, it disrupts lines, changes drills, and throws off the flow for the entire team. With the right preparation, players stay ready, teammates stay on track, and everyone gets the most out of practice and games.
