How to Select a Hockey Shin Guard

Finding the right hockey shin guard might seem like a challenge your first time but we are here to make it as easy as possible!

The first key step is to match the shin guard with the level of hockey you participate in. Elite-level hockey players have many different needs than the recreational or casual player. For this reason, we have broken down our shin guards into three levels of play: Elite, Performance, and Recreational.

These are perfect for individuals looking to get into hockey for the first time or for the casual pond player that doesn't need pro-level protection. These are the most affordable and provide ample protection to lower-end impacts.

• Protection: The outer shell will consist of hard plastic to deflect impact energy away from the shin and knee. Internally, thick foam provides added protection and comfort to the front of the legs with thin foam covering the back of the legs.
  
  
• Construction: Every shin guard features a break below the kneecap, which provides the range of motion needed to skate. There will be one strap for the knee and one strap for the calf to secure the shin guard to the leg.
  
  
• Liner: Traditional nylon offers basic sweat and moisture management. Most liners are removable so that they can be washed once they begin to smell or to temporarily remove after use to reduce drying time.

Performance shin guards are a great fit for competitive hockey players, especially those that will experience more aggressive impacts during a game. These provide much more coverage, protection, and comfort and will even feature more advanced materials typically reserved for elite shin guards.

• Protection: Calf protection is usually the biggest upgrade, commonly featuring plastic and sometimes molded high-end foams for better coverage without sacrificing weight. The outer knee and thigh guard also use thicker foams with strategic plastic reinforcement too.
  
  
• Construction: A traditional break below the knee provides the mobility necessary for deep strides. Strapping systems will now feature designs to improve comfort and can be adjusted to better suit different leg shapes and sizes.
  
  
• Liner: Softer microfibers provide more comfort and manage moisture better. These liners are also removable and many feature anti-microbial treatments to help with odor management.

These were built for the intermediate to advanced-level player that participates in highly-competitive hockey. Elite shin guards boast the ultimate protection, coverage, comfort, and mobility.

• Protection: Manufacturers showcase their cutting-edge technology and materials. Each of them provides extensive coverage and pro-level protection. Many upgrades include Composites instead of plastic, and advanced level smart foams to safely absorb intense impact energy.
  
  
• Construction: While maintaining traditional breaks below the knee, some shin guards feature additional hinge points that help to improve forward flex for even deeper strides and power output. Strapping systems are designed to give the best fit and some even have calf adjustability to help players fine-tune their fit.
  
  
• Liner: Manufacturers integrate their high-tech anti-odor technologies into the removable liners to provide the best moisture and odor management. Liners may even have adjustment capabilities to improve fit and coverage.

Once you have chosen the level of shin guard that is right for you, it’s now time to choose the fit profile that best suits your game. Choosing the fit comes down to personal preference, but it’s important to factor in the position in which you play and how you play it. The two profiles are Low Profile and High Profile.

Players who rely on their east-to-west movements and are quick on their feet are best suited for low-profile shin guards. This style offers the lightest protection, the most mobility, and minimal bulk.

These shin guards provide maximum protection and coverage for big hitters, defensemen, shot blockers, and for players always in the middle of puck battles.