Hockey season is approaching fast, and whether your young athlete is stepping onto the ice for the first time in elementary, middle school or gearing up for high school competition, having the right equipment can make all the difference between confidence and hesitation on the ice.
The truth is, not all hockey gear is created equal — and knowing where to invest your money versus where to save can help your player perform better while keeping your budget in check. Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood & Hendersonville will help you navigate the rink and make smart gear choices that set your hockey player up for success.
Quick Highlights:
- Discover the top 5 essential pieces every hockey player needs
- Learn which gear is worth the extra investment—and which isn’t
- Find out how to save on quality hockey equipment for middle and high school players
- Get expert tips on choosing gear that grows with your athlete
The Big 5: Non-Negotiable Hockey Gear Every Player Needs
1. Hockey Skates: Foundation for Success
Everything starts with the right skates. For elementary, middle and high school players, this is where you want to invest thoughtfully. Ill-fitting skates kill performance, cause blisters, and can lead to ankle injuries that sideline your season.
What to look for: Proper fit with minimal heel lift, appropriate stiffness for skill level, and quality blade holders that won’t break mid-game.
Smart shopping tip: Growing feet mean expensive mistakes. Consider high-quality used skates from Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood & Hendersonville that offer better performance than new budget options.
2. Protective Helmet: Safety First, Always
A helmet isn’t just required — it’s your player’s most critical piece of safety equipment. Middle school and high school players face faster shots and bigger opponents, making head protection non-negotiable.
What to look for: Current safety certifications, comfortable fit system, and a cage or visor appropriate for your league requirements.
Investment worth it: Yes. This is one area where newer technology and proper fit justify the cost. If you opt or a gently used helmet, make sure it meets the current safety certifications.
3. Hockey Stick: Extension of Your Game
The right stick can elevate your player’s game dramatically. Elementary and middle schoolers need flexibility and durability, while high schoolers benefit from lighter, more responsive sticks that improve shot speed and accuracy.
What to look for: Proper flex rating (typically player’s weight divided by 2), correct length, and curve pattern that matches playing style.
Smart shopping tip: Sticks break. Having a backup is essential, making gently used options smart for practice sticks.
4. Shoulder Pads: Upper Body Protection
As players get bigger and stronger through middle and high school, shoulder pad protection becomes increasingly important. The right pads protect without limiting mobility.
What to look for: Proper coverage for sternum, spine, and shoulders, adjustable sizing, and breathable materials that handle sweat.
Investment strategy: Mid-range options offer excellent protection. Save money here with gently used options and use the money you save for skate upgrades.
5. Shin Guards: Lower Leg Defense
Shin guards take a beating from pucks, sticks, and skates. For growing players, finding guards that offer protection while accommodating growth spurts is key.
What to look for: Proper length coverage, secure strapping systems, and lightweight materials that don’t slow players down.
Where to Spend Your Money (and Where to Save)
Worth the Investment:
Ice Hockey Skates – Quality skates improve performance and prevent injury. A good pair can last multiple seasons with proper care.
Helmets – Safety technology advances quickly. Invest in current safety standards and proper fit.
Goalie Equipment (if applicable) – Goalie leg pads, gloves, and blockers take extreme abuse. Quality matters for both protection and durability.
Smart Savings Opportunities:
Practice Jerseys – Function over fashion. Gently used jerseys perform just as well as new ones.
Hockey Bags – A bag is a bag. Focus on size and durability over brand names.
Elbow Pads & Shin Guards – These see less direct impact than other gear, making quality used options excellent choices.
Sizing for Growth: The Elementary, Middle & High School Challenge
Growing athletes present unique challenges. Here’s how to gear up smart:
Plan for Growth: Look for adjustable gear whenever possible—especially shoulder pads, shin guards, and pants.
Buy Quality Used: High-end gently used gear often outperforms new budget equipment and can be resold when outgrown.
Invest in Skates: Properly fitted skates are worth buying new or investing in high-quality used ones. Poorly fitting skates can hurt performance and cause injury.
Ice vs. Inline: Know the Difference
Many middle and high schoolers play both ice and inline hockey. While some gear crosses over, key differences matter:
Ice Hockey Skates: Designed for ice traction and lateral movement
Inline Hockey Skates: Built for asphalt/concrete surfaces with different wheel configurations
Pants: Ice hockey pants offer more padding; inline versions prioritize breathability and mobility
Sticks: Similar construction, but inline sticks may have different blade curves for surface play
Gear Up and Save This Season
Getting your elementary, middle or high school hockey player properly equipped doesn’t have to break the bank. Right now through September 30, 2025, Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood & Hendersonville is offering 20% off ALL hockey gear — everything your player needs to hit the ice with confidence.
This limited-time sale includes accessories, bags, elbow pads, gloves, goalie leg pads, goalie gloves & blockers, goal nets, helmets, pants (both ice and inline), practice jerseys, shin guards, shoulder pads, ice hockey skates, inline hockey skates, sticks, and MORE!
Whether you’re outfitting a first-time player or upgrading gear for a seasoned player, the knowledgeable team at Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood & Hendersonville can help you make smart choices that balance performance, protection, and budget.
Ready to Rule the Rink?
The season waits for no one — and neither should your gear shopping. Whether your athlete dreams of varsity hockey or just wants to have fun with friends, the right equipment builds confidence, improves performance, and keeps players safe on the ice.
Visit Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood & Hendersonville today to explore our complete selection of hockey gear. Our team of fellow hockey enthusiasts can help you find exactly what your player needs — at prices that work for your family.
Because great hockey starts with great gear. And great gear doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Play It Again Sports ~ Brentwood
1701 Mallory Lane, Suite 350
Brentwood, TN 37027
615-661-1107
[email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10 – 8; Saturday: 10 – 6; Sunday: 12 – 5
Play It Again Sports ~ Hendersonville
201 North Anderson Lane, Suite 300
Hendersonville, TN 37075
615-822-6633
[email protected]
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10 – 8; Saturday: 10 – 6; Sunday: 12 – 5
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