U14 / U18 Players

The game gets faster. Your gear needs to keep up.

At U14 and U18 level, hockey becomes more physical, more competitive, and more demanding on equipment. Growth spurts, increased training loads, and stronger shot speeds all impact what gear is appropriate.

This stage isn’t about buying “the best” - it’s about buying the right level for how often you play.

Choosing the Right Equipment Level

Entry Level

Best for:

  • 1–2 sessions per week
  • Development leagues
  • Newer U14 players

Offers:

  • Lightweight construction
  • Moderate protection
  • Budget-friendly pricing

Expected lifespan:

  • 1–2 seasons depending on growth
Performance / Mid-Level

Best for:

  • 2–4 sessions per week
  • Rep or competitive club hockey
  • Players training regularly

Offers:

  • Increased impact protection
  • Better materials and durability
  • Improved fit systems

Expected lifespan:

  • 2+ seasons (if growth allows)

This is where most U14 / U18 players should be.
Elite Level
Best for:
  • 4+ sessions per week
  • High-performance pathways
  • Players in strength & conditioning programmes
Offers:
  • Maximum protection
  • Advanced materials
  • Higher stiffness (especially in skates)
  • Enhanced energy transfer
Not always necessary and not always appropriate - unless the player’s strength and frequency justify
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What Changes at This Stage

Increased Training Load

More ice time means:

  • Padding breaks down faster
  • Gloves soften quicker
  • Skates lose structural support
  • Sticks fatigue and snap more frequently

Equipment choice should match how hard it’s being used.
Skate Stiffness Matters

As players get stronger:

  • Softer boots reduce power transfer
  • Under-supportive skates can lead to fatigue and injury

But: Too stiff too early can hinder development.

Proper fitting and stiffness guidance is critical here.
Stick Selection Becomes Technical

At U14–U18:

  • Flex should match body weight and strength
  • Curve should reflect playing position
  • Height should suit skating posture

Copying teammates rarely works long-term.
How Long Should Gear Last?

General expectations (growth dependent):

  • Helmets: 3–5 years (with regular fit checks)
  • Skates: 2–4 seasons
  • Gloves: 2–3 seasons
  • Protective gear: 2–4 seasons
  • Sticks: Highly usage dependent

Frequent players may need replacements sooner.

We recommend annual fit reviews during growth phases.
Our Approach

We help players and families:

✔ Match gear to training frequency
✔ Balance growth with durability
✔ Avoid overspending on unnecessary upgrades
✔ Plan smart equipment transitions
✔ Ensure consistent in-store and online guidance

This stage is about building habits - and making informed decisions.

These are starting points - our fit specialists are here to help.

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These guides are designed to help you understand your starting point. Fit, preference, and development stage can vary. Our team is always available to help ensure you get it right the first time.