We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of our links. The LA Times editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more

Best Goalie Pants for Protection While Blocking Shots

  1. Warrior Ritual Pro Goalie Pants
  2. Brians G-Netik Pro Goalie Pants
  3. Bauer Pro Goalie Pants
  4. Reebok 20K Goalie Pants
  5. Vaughn Velocity V5 7800 Goalie Pants
  6. Buyer's Guide

The first thing that I look for in top goalie pants is their ability to cover any vulnerable body parts, while working comfortably to mesh with leg and chest pads. Additionally, these pants were selected for their ability to take many high impacts without suffering major damage, and for their ability to bend with the increasingly flexible goaltenders of today. For more information on what to look at in selecting the best goalie pants in 2022, We have listed below the available goalie pants for you to help you decide what product is best to buy.

Compare The Best Goalie Pants Of 2022

Warrior Ritual Pro Goalie Pants - Best Goalie Pants Overall

One of the nicest things about these pads is that the knees are made to actually work with the leg pads, instead of working against them and wearing out. They also feature a very solid and quick drying ventilation system to help keep them dry during the course of a game. The molded thigh pads also help them to live up to Warrior’s reputation as some of the toughest pads on the market. The inner belt system can be customized to keep you naturally bending forward so you’ll be ready for that next shot at all times.

Brians G-Netik Pro Goalie Pants - Runner Up

The first thing you’ll notice about these pads is the removable thigh pad; which gives you the nice option of playing more protected at a higher competition level, or playing with a better range of motion for pickup games and practice. It also features removable five-hole foams. These pants work best with longer chest protectors, due to the fact that the padding is a little thin at the waist. And it’s also worth noting that the stitching is noticeably heavier than most other pants, so these will really last while others start to fall apart.

Bauer Pro Goalie Pants - Honorable Mention

These pants are a little bulkier than the others on this list. But that’s because Bauer did not want to sacrifice protection for anything else. So if you’re looking for the toughest pants for the highest level of play, these may be for you. The square thigh design will help you square up to your shooter with ease, and the quick drying liner will keep them dry. They also feature the increasingly popular inner and outer lace up system, giving you the option of how you want the pants to sit around your waist.

Reebok 20K Goalie Pants - Consider

Reebok’s latest goalie pants are made to work with any kind of leg pads to make squaring up to the shooter and sealing up the goal post easier than ever. But don’t be fooled, the thigh section isn’t overly stiff and will still bend and move fairly freely with your movements. There’s a hidden zipper that allows you to have full control over length, as well as an inner belt and an outer lace system so you can tighten them up whichever way is more comfortable for you.

best Vaughn Velocity V5 7800 Goalie Pants

Vaughn Velocity V5 7800 Goalie Pants - Best Goalie Pants

The best pants Vaughn has to offer are all about keeping a goalie confident and protected so he can keep his head in the game. It features a fully adjustable diameter belt and frontal lace up system to get the perfect feeling of support for your midsection. There’s also maximum thigh coverage that is bendable and a little higher than most pants. The front side groin pads allow goalie’s to square up to shots perfectly, even as they’re bending and twisting. The inner leg padding is also made to stretch so a player can utilize their flexibility to make that quick kick save. Vaughn knows how to make well rounded pants for goaltenders at a high level, and these are their best.

Buyer's Guide

A good pair of goalie pants is not an easy purchase to make. There are a lot of different brands, different levels of protection, and the potential for them to be too tight or too loose. We're going to break down all the things you need to think about before buying goalie pants so that you can make the best decision possible for yourself.

What Is a Goalie Pant?

A pair of goalie pants is athletic wear that protects the player's leg area, usually standing on the ice. They are commonly used by hockey goaltenders. The goalie pants have been in use since 1959 when Jacques Plante first started wearing them during games to protect his knees from pucks shooting into his legs while he stood in goal and have become a crucial part of athletic attire since then. These pants are often made out of nylon or latex with foam padding for protection for the knee, thigh, and calf. The pants usually have elastic straps at the bottom for securing around their ankles.

What Essential Factors Should You Look for When Buying a Pair of Goalie Pant?

The best way to find the fitting goalie pants is by determining a few key factors first. Let's take a look at them.

Fitting

It's essential to have pants that fit you well. Too long or too short can cause problems with mobility. Goalie pants should sit flat on the waist with no extra folds or bagginess that could accidentally become wedged between the keeper's legs when playing. If the pants fit properly, then there won't be much risk of falling down in front of the goal like many players do. The fit is crucial for maintaining good agility and balance out on the pitch, so you must buy keeper pants that feel comfortable and not restrictive during game time.

Fabric Material

The material of the goalkeeper pants is what ultimately determines its durability during gameplay. Most goalkeepers choose to go for the polyester or latex material that is most durable and responsive. But you will also find goalie pants made from polypro material. If you have a low budget, then this material will do just fine for your needs. It's also durable and flexible, so it won't cause problems when playing.

Comfort and Padding

Goalies have a lot of contact with the puck, and it can cause many painful injuries. Ensure that there is plenty of padding on all sides, including the front and back thighs and buttocks. The padding should be thick enough so that you are well protected but not too thick to hamper movements. The padding needs to be in the right places and extend past the knee at least an inch or two. Some goalie pants come with removable pads for extended flexibility and stretchability.

Breathability

If you are doing speed training, you will need to use high-performance athletic wear made from breathable mesh. These pants will have a better grip on your skin for situations where you have to be quick or need better control of the ball. For many goalkeepers, these pants are expensive, so if budget is a problem, consider going with the polyester pants that cost less but are equally flexible.

What should you avoid while getting a pair of Goalie Pants?

Although it is easy to pick a new pair of goalkeeper pants, there are quite a few things that you should avoid when shopping for one. Some of them are mentioned below.

. You don't want a too baggy or tight pair because both can inhibit your shot-stopping abilities and movements.
. Don't get a pair that will fall apart after only one season--or even one practice.
. Likewise, you probably won't want to purchase a goalkeeper's pants with an elastic waistband or drawstring ties if you have any concerns about how it will interfere with your movements. These tend to get in the way.
. Double-knee soccer pants are all the rage these days but try not to get caught up in the hype. It will only hinder your movement during the game.
How To Maintain a Pair of Goalie Pant?Goalkeeper pants are versatile pieces of gear, and no matter how hard you clean them, they'll always retain that familiar, musty smell. But there's no need to toss these pants when that cute slight smell starts to creep in. Regular washing can keep your goalie pants clean, but a little maintenance and odor removal can go a long way. Here are a few tips on cleaning and maintaining your goalie pants:

Wear a base layer

Your goalkeeper pants are made from a blend of fabrics that are designed to wick away sweat. They'll soak up sweat and keep you comfortable but soaking them in laundry detergent every time you wash them will cause them to lose their wicking properties. Instead, wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing underneath to help wick away sweat.

Keep them separate from your laundry

Before putting the goalie pants into the washing machine or dryer, separate them from your other items. Don't put anything else in the washer that's made with waterproof materials, as the goalie pants could get ruined.

Use gentle laundry detergents

Most people use a standard detergent, but this can degrade the material in the pants over time. Instead, use a gentle laundry detergent that's made for delicate items like underwear and baby clothes.

Use a delicate machine cycle

Most people wash their goalie pants on a standard cycle, but this can cause the pants to stretch and shrink. Use a delicate cycle instead.

Don't bleachBleaching can kill germs, but it can also damage the goalie pants' fabric. Instead, use household chlorine bleach to remove any stains.

How Much Does a Goalie Pant Usually Cost?

One of the most important pieces of equipment for many goalkeepers is a pair of goalie pants - it protects your thighs and hips from getting bruised or scratched up by ball or ground-level blocks during games or practices. A typical goalkeeper pant typically costs around $45-$100. For a more customized and form-fitting piece, expect to pay closer to $420 and get more flexibility in color and sizing.

Goalie Pant FAQ

How Are Goalie Pants Differ from Traditional Pants?

Traditional baseball pants were initially designed for fielders, hence the name. These can be made out of materials like nylon and come in a variety of colors. On the other hand, goalie pants are usually made from heavy-duty canvas and have a rubberized waist to hold them in place while the goalie plays the position.

What Is the Ideal Length of Goalie Pants?

The length of goalkeeper pants differs depending on the game you play. For example, if you're playing football or handball, your goalkeeper pants should be knee-length; but they should be thigh-length for hockey. The more secure, the better.

Can I Wear My Goalie Pants Every day?

Yes, you can wear them, but you shouldn't. You will get funny looks if you wear goalkeeper pants as everyday shorts. It's just not worth it!

bestcovery team.jpg
Our research team searches out the best of everything so that you can confidently pick the perfect products and services for your needs.
Related Content
Go to top