Equipment Checklist - Hockey Buddies

⚠️ Important Note: This is a full-equipment program. To ensure your child stays safe and gets the most out of their ice time, please practice at home so they are able to get up from the ice independently while wearing their full gear.

Mandatory Safety Gear

• Helmet: CSA-approved hockey helmet with a full face cage or shield is mandatory. (Look for the official CSA sticker). Cycling, ski, or non-approved helmets are strictly prohibited.
• Neck Guard: BNQ-certified neck guard is required for all participants.
• Mouth Guard: Highly recommended for additional dental protection.

Full Body Protection

All participants must wear full protective hockey or ringette gear:

• Shoulder pads & elbow pads
• Hockey or ringette pants
• Shin pads & hockey socks (with garter belt or Velcro shorts/jock)
• Athletic supporter (jock or jill with protective cup)
• Hockey or ringette gloves

Skates, Stick & Maintenance

• Hockey Skates: Skates must fit properly to provide strong ankle support.
  • Sizing Note: Do not buy skates with "room to grow" like regular shoes. Skates must fit snugly to prevent ankle slippage and blisters.
  • What to Avoid: Plastic-shell or recreational skates (such as K2 or Softec) are strictly prohibited, as they do not provide the structural support needed for skating instruction.
  • Buying Used: Ensure second-hand boots are not creased or broken down at the ankle. 
  • Sharpening: Have skates sharpened before the first session and maintained every 10–12 hours of ice time.
  • Blade Maintenance: Always use hard plastic guard covers when walking off the ice, and wipe blades dry with a towel after every session before storing them in soft cloth soakers to prevent rust.
• Stick: A hockey or ringette stick cut to the appropriate height (typically reaching the nose when standing in shoes, or the chin when standing on skates).
• Water Bottle: Please ensure your child's water bottle is clearly labeled with their full name and filled only with water. A squeeze-style bottle with a extended spout works best with a helmet cage!