Best Hockey Shin Guard to Protect Against Injury
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Reebok 20K Hockey Shin Guard -
Bauer Vapor APX Hockey Shin Guard -
CCM U+ Crazy Light Midnight Hockey Shin Guard -
Easton Stealth RS II Hockey Shin Guard -
Reebok 11k Shin Guards -
Buyer's Guide
To a hockey player, the legs are used as a machine to drive the player forward, acting as a transmission in an automobile. The shin and knee areas are exposed to painful falls on the ice, hits from opposing player’s sticks, and pucks flying through the air. Shin guards are used to protect these vital areas, and, if worn properly, they can adequately decrease the likelihood of injury. The best hockey shin guard in 2022 on this list have been chosen based on their protective ability, weight, and how well they fit and contour the leg.
Comparing the Best Hockey Shin Guard for 2022
Reebok 20K Hockey Shin Guard - Best Hockey Shin Guards Overall
The 20K line has some big improvements over the older 11K model. The most notable is the more comfortable kneecap that seems to stay in place a lot better when you bend your leg. This can also be credited to Reebok’s unique strap system which, while very different, provides more stability and will help keep the pads in place much better. Of course Reebok has also packed some new technology into these guards too, by designing the kneecap to disperse impact down the pads. There is also a removable thigh guard, and a removable liner for quick drying.
Bauer Vapor APX Hockey Shin Guard - Runner Up
The first thing veteran skaters will notice about these pads is that they feel like they’re right off the shelf in the '90s. Luckily, I only mean that in the sense that they feel old school, because they perform and last like the cutting edge new pads that they are. The strap system is what feels nice and familiar for a lot of skaters, since many other pads are outfitted with new, higher straps. It should also be noted that the pads thin out very nicely at the bottom, which allows skates to fit very comfortably without stretching your tongue (if you like to tuck in your shin pads).
CCM U+ Crazy Light Midnight Hockey Shin Guard - Honorable Mention
Like most of CCM’s other products, the U+ Crazy Light Midnight shin pads are among the lightest on the market, but are also some of the most durable. The segmented lock zone adds extra knee protection, while a player is bending their legs. The liner is removable for detailed cleaning and is also ventilated to keep players cool. Add in CCM’s famous U Foam material that keeps the inner pads feeling brand new and you’ve got some of the best shin guards a shot blocker could want.
Easton Stealth RS II Hockey Shin Guard - Consider
My only real criticism of Easton’s pads was the feel of the pads themselves, which always felt a little cheap and would occasionally crack after a few months. But I’m happy to say that the Stealth RS II has fixed that problem and the new pads feel very solid and durable. They hug your legs very well, without feeling too tight; which helps them to stay in place during the course of a game. The strap system is standard, but features some extra padding to cover the back of your leg. Great for players that frequently block shots.
Reebok 11k Shin Guards - Best Hockey Shin Guards
It’s no surprise that Reebok’s 11k shin guards find their way onto the list, along with the shoulder and elbow pads from the same line. The JDP cap protects the knee from even the most violent of impacts and the KFS construction is designed to comfortably wrap around a player’s leg and allow the knee to slip in to a fully protected area. The pads are also designed help prevent hyperextension, and the H-Cell liner will regulate body temperature, moisture, and will not harden over time. These shin guards are used by more pros than any other brand for a reason.
Buyer's Guide
Finding the proper shin guards for you or your team can be pretty challenging, especially with several options out there. Apart from the several brands out there, you need to be aware of some of the generic features to be conscious of in your protective gear regardless of the brand.
This guide has been prepared better to understand the critical factors of a hockey shin guard. Keep reading this guide to find out all you need to know about the best hockey shin guards.
What makes hockey shin guards important?
Shin guards are compulsory in hockey games. Also, they ought to fit you well all the time; these guards help protect you from injuries that may be incurred during games. They also help you make comfortable strides when you are moving around. Having the right shin guard will help you boost confidence, flexibility and comfort while playing games.
Things to consider before choosing a hockey shin guard
Here are a few things you should consider before you buy a hockey shin guard.
The brand
The game of hockey has its brands, with several popular brands out there. But if this is your first time buying hockey equipment, you will find different logos you may not recognize. But before you choose any brand, ensure to check for its track record in quality and service delivery.
Cost
It is expected that different people will have varying budgets. However, if money isn’t your biggest concern, you could go and buy the most expensive shin guard pair and expect the best. You should easily find different products in diverse price ranges as there is something for your budget.
Customer reviews
Customer reviews are a vital component for getting the correct view of a product before buying it. You will easily find accurate reviews and feedbacks from customers on several platforms. While scouting for reviews, make sure you check the negative and positive feedback to better view things.
Size
Always make sure you only select a shin guard that perfectly matches the size of your shin. Doing this will help ensure you get the highest level of protection while active. Also, it will make it easier to avoid injuries if you go for a size that perfectly fits you.
Design
It is difficult to overlook the importance of a quality design. Make sure your choice of guard fits your legs. By doing this, you will have better mobility, motion and comfort.
Durability
This depends mainly on the materials used in making the shin guard. You need only to choose something made using the best quality materials to guarantee you longer lasting shin guards.
Comfort
The next thing to consider is the air circulation which the hockey shin guard provides. With more ventilation, you will be able to avoid stench and wetness. Also, it helps ensure that your legs are as comfortable, calm and moisture-free as possible. Note that the materials used have to give you the best absorption rates.
Material build
Every hockey shin guard is made using plastic with a foam liner inside. Depending on the amount of money you intend to spend, you can quickly get a lightweight material with the same plastic strength. Also, when playing a fast-paced game such as hockey, you do not want to drag around extra weight as it will slow you down. This is the reason why you should have lightweight, protective gear.
How can I wear shin pads?
If you are finding it difficult wearing your shin guards, you really shouldn't be too worried. To wear the guard ideally, begin by putting them on your shins facing the right direction. You will find a calf strap available which you can use to secure the pads to your leg and calf. Upon doing this, you ought to use the strap you find at the top to better secure the shin guard.
The moment you feel like the shin pads have perfectly fitted, you may put your socks on and get to work!
How can I size my shin pads?
Before you know how to wear your shin pads, you ought to know what size perfectly fits you. This factor is vital if you want to optimize your performance on the field. Thus, we recommend that you accurately measure your legs. You can begin measurement by taking it from the middle of your knee cap to the top of the ice hockey skates.
Note that the measurement ought to match perfectly with the length of the shin guards you want to get. When you use your new hockey pads, you should put them on your skates as well. Doing this will help you see precisely how the sheens will feel when you put on the skates.
Also, ensure that there is a little space between your skin and the pad if you want to tuck it into the tongue of your skates. If you intend to place the shin guard over the tongue of your skates, you should look for a size that is an inch or larger to be sure they can be securely fit.
FAQs
Q. What are hockey shin guards?
A. This is equipment that straps over your shin when you are not actively playing hockey.
Q. Is it necessary to get shin guards while playing field hockey?
A. Yes, you need shin guards if you want to play on a competitive level. With the right shin guard, you will have improved mobility and comfort.
Q. How can I get a good quality shin guard?
A. There are several options out there for you to choose from. Before choosing, make sure you find out the quality of the products and services rendered by the manufacturer. You can quickly achieve this by checking for online reviews and also referrals.
Conclusion
This buyer guide will prove helpful if you are looking to get the better insight needed to buy the right hockey shin pad pair. We, therefore, recommend that you think of the type of player you are before you make the final choice. Note that shin guards come with different advantages suited for defensive or offensive players.
