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Inline hockey equipment

Inline hockey is played with rules that are similar to ice hockey, but can be played without ice. Inline hockey players need some different equipment than ice hockey players, namely the inline hockey skates.

Inline hockey skates are different from regular inline skates in several ways. First, inline hockey skates do not have brakes. Without brakes, inline hockey players learn how to do a “hockey stop”. Also, inline hockey skates have a metal chassis, rather than a plastic one, like regular inline skates, to stand up against the stopping pressure.

In order for inline hockey players to have more speed and better agility with their inline skate equipment, the rear wheels are often larger than the front ones. The larger rear wheels add speed, and the smaller wheels make it easier for a player to make sharper, more agile turns.

The inline hockey rink is dry, so another inline hockey equipment difference includes using a plastic puck or ball on the rink, instead of the heavy ice hockey puck. The ball is sometimes hollow, and sometimes it is filled with liquid for weight.

Hockey gloves are another piece of important inline hockey equipment, because they provide better grip on a hockey stick, and elbow pads and shin guards keep sensitive bones protected from other players, sticks, and pucks.

Helmets and face masks are the most important piece of hockey safety equipment, since they protect your noggin. Ensure that your helmet is HECC- or CSA-approved for the ultimate head safety.

Inline hockey sticks are the same that are used for ice hockey, but wood or composite blades are recommended for outdoor surfaces.