The Off-Season Equipment Advantage: A Smart Guide for Hockey Families

If you’ve ever had a young hockey player who insists on the newest stick or flashiest gloves, you’re not alone. As gear companies launch shiny new products each season, it’s easy for kids to believe the best equipment equals better performance. But the truth? It’s not the gear that makes the player great—it’s the player who makes the gear great.

In this episode of Ride to the Rink, hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli break down how players and parents can take advantage of the off-season to explore new gear options thoughtfully and affordably. Whether your child is growing fast or just curious about a different stick curve, now is the time to experiment and find what really works.

Why the Off-Season is the Perfect Time to Test Gear

Unlike the middle of the hockey season, the off-season gives players room to experiment. There’s no pressure from practices or games, and pro shops tend to be less crowded. Here’s why that matters:

• More time to try things on: Spend 30 minutes finding gloves that actually fit your player's hand shape.

• Less urgency means better decisions: Without a looming game, you can think clearly about comfort and fit.

• Room to grow: Kids often sprout over the summer. This is your chance to buy gear that will last into next season.

Comfort > Flash

While it’s tempting to chase the same gear NHL stars use, elite players often stick with what feels best—even if it’s older. Take Sidney Crosby, for example. He’s been spotted using skates and pads that look a decade old. Why? Because they work for him.

Encourage your young player to prioritize:

• Fit over fashion: Fancy features mean little if the glove pinches or the elbow pad slips.

• Feel over cost: The most expensive gear isn’t always the most comfortable. Try things on with eyes closed to focus on feel.

• Function over brand loyalty: A stick’s lie, flex, and curve matter more than its label.

Try Before You Buy (and Return!)

Platforms like SidelineSwap and local pro shops offer flexible, low-risk ways to test gear. Mike suggests:

• Buying lightly used gear to try new brands or sizes

• Returning items that don’t work (many online shops now make this easy)

• Mixing and matching to find what fits best for your child's body and style of play

Lee and Mike’s Golden Rule

"It’s not the equipment that makes you great—you make the equipment great."

This philosophy is the backbone of the episode. Developing skill, strength, and hockey IQ will always outpace the latest product drop. The off-season is your time to reinforce this message while supporting your player in finding what makes them feel confident and comfortable.

Takeaway Tips for Parents and Players:

• Use the off-season to test new gear—skates, sticks, gloves, pads.

• Prioritize comfort and fit over brand and price.

• Try different curves, lies, and flexes to understand what feels right.

• Shop smart: explore secondhand gear and generous return policies.

• Remind your player: They are the difference-maker, not the gear.

Whether you're prepping for the next level or just starting out, the right gear can make a difference—but only when it supports the athlete wearing it. This off-season, focus on comfort, confidence, and curiosity. You might just find a hidden gem (and save a few dollars along the way).

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