Sled Hockey Equipment 101

Starting sled hockey? There might be a lot of questions running through your head: where to practice, how to practice at home, basic skills, staying in shape, etc. While those are all important questions, sometimes going back to the basics can make all these questions a little less overwhelming. 

One of the most important and frequently asked questions is what type of equipment is needed. Some might be familiar with stand-up hockey equipment, and some might not be. Regardless, we are going to go over all of the equipment needed to play sled hockey today, so that you know exactly what you need, and anything that can help you along the way.

Important note: some of this equipment will vary based on the type of physical disability each athlete has. 

Helmet

One piece of equipment that is required for all sled hockey activities is the helmet. This is required because there is the inherent risk of head injury from the puck, sticks, and falling. It is also important to note that the helmets require a cage on them, although most will come with one. 

Hockey gloves

Hockey gloves are required. You will need them in practices, games, and for practicing at home. They not only protect your hands, but keep them warm when out on the ice. When you practice at home, you will need them for stick and puck handling. 

Neck guard

These are a new, mandatory piece of equipment. We want to make sure that all of our players are adequately protected, and part of that includes neck guards to prevent any sort of injuries to the neck. 

Shoulder pads and elbow pads

Shoulder pads and elbow pads are required. Like the neck guards, shoulder pads and elbow pads are ways to assure that our players are as protected as they can be from injuries on the ice. 

Sticks with picks

While people probably assume that you need sticks for sled hockey because they are used in stand-up hockey, in sled hockey, the sticks need to have picks. The reason that the sticks need picks for sled hockey has a lot to do with movement. The picks on the sticks help players maneuver across the ice. It’s important to note that how players move on the ice will vary depending on the level of physical ability. The picks on the sticks also help with puck control. These are required. 

Here is a video on stick terminology, and the differences between stand-up hockey sticks and sled hockey sticks: Stick Terminology and Differences

Protective footwear

While this is not technically required at the level we play at, it is required at the Paralympian level. Certain protective footwear is highly recommended. If needed, we recommend boots that are sturdy and can protect your feet so that no damage will come to them. One way some players do this is by taking the blade(s) off of a (pair of) skates, however there are other boots that are available for purchase.  

Under gloves

These are not required, but can be very useful. Under gloves can prevent blistering, and help with puck control. 

Shin Guards

Shin guards are another required piece of equipment. These are important for helping to protect the legs. 

Sled

The sled is required for sled hockey. The sled is what you will be using to get around on ice. Because you want your sled to essentially feel like an extension of yourself, we do not recommend wearing hockey pants. Hockey pants can impede the snug fit you want with the sled. Since they can get pricey, check in with your coaches and find out more information about grants. 

Hopefully, we were able to clear up any confusion about equipment that you may need. Even though not all of the equipment is required, all of the recommended equipment is recommended for safety, and efficiency, depending on ability. If you have any further questions about equipment or what you might need depending on level of ability, reaching out to your coach is not only welcomed, but recommended. You can also find out more about what is available to borrow/rent from your organization and what you should buy if you check in with your coaches.