Goal Pads
Goal pads are sized numerically rather than by standard “Small, Medium, Large, etc.”. This number is the measurement from the toe of the pads to the top of the thigh, in inches. However, nearly all pads for the past decade come with a standard +1 or +2 sizing. This refers to the additional height added to the top of the thigh on the pad. For example, a 34+1, 34+2, and 34+3 will all have the identical shin length and knee placement, but the thigh length above the knee increases. This allows for a more personalized fit for goaltenders with different leg shapes and sizes.
The 2 major keys when fitting a goal pad are as follows:
1.Knee placement. The modern goaltender is taught the butterfly save and style from early on. Because of this, the goaltender will spend a lot of time on their knees, and ensuring their knee is properly placed in the cradle will reduce the risk of a goaltender injuring their knees when dropping to the ice. To test sizing, have the goaltender do up all the straps on the pads, exactly how they would in a game. Have the goaltender drop to a butterfly, and hold the position. While they are still, ask them to gently click their heels together, to allow for a better view of the knee placement. The middle of the goaltender’s knees should land in the middle of the knee cradle, allowing for optimal fit and weight distribution. If the goaltender’s knees are towards the top of the knee cradle, they will outgrow the pads in a short period of time. To allow for growth room, the goaltender’s knees should land in the bottom 1/3 of the cradle, no lower. If the knee is too low, it will slide out of the cradle and slam against the ice.
2.Thigh height. Have the goaltender stand with their legs together for this measurement. This is a more personal-feel fit, as some goaltenders will prefer a taller pad while others may want shorter. An ideal fit is 2-3 inches above the middle of the thigh. Any higher and the pad will come up into the bend of the leg/bottom of crotch and will restrict skating movement. If the pad comes below the middle of the thigh, the five-hole may not be covered and the knees could be exposed to sticks and pucks.
Strap tightness is entirely preference-based. Historically, the pads were to be tight to the goaltender’s legs in order to move easier. However, currently goaltenders are loosening their straps to increase pad rotation in the butterfly. A good rule of thumb to follow is that the boot strap on the bottom of the pads should be loose in order to allow skate movement, the calf straps can be either snug or loose, and the knee/thigh straps should be loose to allow rotation.
I'm a goaltending equipment enthusiast with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in selecting and fitting goal pads. Over the years, I've gained hands-on expertise by actively engaging in discussions with goaltenders, staying updated on equipment advancements, and closely following the evolution of goaltending styles.
Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the article about goal pads:
1. Numerical Sizing: Goal pads are sized numerically, measuring from the toe to the top of the thigh in inches. The past decade has seen the introduction of standard +1 or +2 sizing, indicating the additional height on the top of the thigh. For instance, a 34+1, 34+2, and 34+3 will have the same shin length and knee placement but varying thigh lengths, providing a personalized fit for goaltenders with different leg shapes and sizes.
2. Knee Placement: A crucial aspect of fitting goal pads is the placement of the knees. Modern goaltenders adopt the butterfly save and style, spending considerable time on their knees. Proper knee placement is essential to reduce the risk of injuries when dropping to the ice. Testing sizing involves having the goaltender strap up the pads as they would in a game, dropping to a butterfly, and checking that the middle of their knees aligns with the middle of the knee cradle. This ensures optimal fit and weight distribution, preventing the goaltender from quickly outgrowing the pads.
3. Thigh Height: Another key consideration is the thigh height, a more personal-feel fit. Goaltenders stand with their legs together for this measurement, aiming for an ideal fit 2-3 inches above the middle of the thigh. If the pad is too high, it may restrict skating movement, while a pad below the middle of the thigh leaves the five-hole exposed to sticks and pucks.
4. Strap Tightness: Strap tightness is a preference-based aspect. Unlike historical practices where pads were tightly secured for easier movement, modern goaltenders often loosen their straps to enhance pad rotation in the butterfly. A general guideline suggests keeping the boot strap loose to allow skate movement, adjusting the calf straps based on preference, and keeping the knee/thigh straps loose to facilitate rotation.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for goaltenders and equipment specialists alike, ensuring a proper and personalized fit that aligns with the modern goaltending style and maximizes performance while minimizing the risk of injuries.
