How Much Does Hockey Gear Weigh and Why Does It Feel Like Carrying a Small Elephant?

How Much Does Hockey Gear Weigh and Why Does It Feel Like Carrying a Small Elephant?

Hockey gear is an essential part of the game, providing players with protection, performance, and style. But have you ever wondered how much all that gear actually weighs? And why does it sometimes feel like you’re lugging around a small elephant? Let’s dive into the details and explore the weight of hockey gear from multiple perspectives.

The Basics: Breaking Down the Weight of Hockey Gear

1. Helmet and Visor/Cage

  • Weight: Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 pounds (0.68 to 1.13 kg)
  • Discussion: The helmet is one of the lighter pieces of equipment, but it’s crucial for protecting your head. The visor or cage adds a bit more weight, but it’s a small price to pay for safety.

2. Shoulder Pads

  • Weight: Around 2 to 4 pounds (0.91 to 1.81 kg)
  • Discussion: Shoulder pads are designed to protect your upper body, including your shoulders, chest, and back. The weight can vary depending on the level of protection and the materials used.

3. Elbow Pads

  • Weight: About 0.5 to 1 pound (0.23 to 0.45 kg) per pad
  • Discussion: Elbow pads are relatively lightweight but essential for protecting your elbows during falls or collisions.

4. Gloves

  • Weight: Approximately 1 to 1.5 pounds (0.45 to 0.68 kg) per glove
  • Discussion: Hockey gloves are designed to protect your hands and wrists while allowing for maximum mobility. The weight is minimal but adds up when you consider both gloves.

5. Pants (Breezers)

  • Weight: Around 2 to 3 pounds (0.91 to 1.36 kg)
  • Discussion: Hockey pants provide protection for your hips, thighs, and tailbone. They are lightweight but offer significant protection.

6. Shin Guards

  • Weight: About 1 to 2 pounds (0.45 to 0.91 kg) per guard
  • Discussion: Shin guards protect your lower legs from pucks, sticks, and skates. They are relatively lightweight but essential for safety.

7. Skates

  • Weight: Approximately 2 to 3 pounds (0.91 to 1.36 kg) per skate
  • Discussion: Skates are one of the heavier pieces of equipment, but they are crucial for mobility on the ice. The weight can vary depending on the materials and design.

8. Stick

  • Weight: Around 1 to 2 pounds (0.45 to 0.91 kg)
  • Discussion: The hockey stick is lightweight but essential for gameplay. The weight can vary depending on the material (wood, composite, etc.) and the player’s preference.

9. Jockstrap/Jill (Protective Cup)

  • Weight: Less than 0.5 pounds (0.23 kg)
  • Discussion: This piece of equipment is lightweight but crucial for protecting sensitive areas.

10. Jersey and Socks

  • Weight: Less than 1 pound (0.45 kg)
  • Discussion: The jersey and socks are the lightest pieces of equipment, but they add to the overall weight when combined with everything else.

Total Weight: Adding It All Up

When you add up all the pieces of equipment, the total weight of hockey gear can range from 15 to 25 pounds (6.8 to 11.3 kg). This weight can vary depending on the player’s size, the level of protection required, and the materials used in the gear.

Why Does It Feel Like Carrying a Small Elephant?

1. Distribution of Weight

  • Discussion: The weight of hockey gear is distributed across your entire body, which can make it feel heavier than it actually is. For example, the weight of the skates is concentrated on your feet, while the shoulder pads and helmet add weight to your upper body.

2. Mobility and Flexibility

  • Discussion: Hockey gear is designed to protect you while allowing for maximum mobility. However, the added weight can make movements feel more strenuous, especially during intense gameplay.

3. Psychological Factor

  • Discussion: The mental aspect of wearing heavy gear can also play a role. Knowing that you’re carrying extra weight can make it feel heavier than it actually is.

4. Duration of Wear

  • Discussion: The longer you wear the gear, the more you notice the weight. During a long game or practice session, the cumulative effect of the weight can become more apparent.

The Impact of Gear Weight on Performance

1. Speed and Agility

  • Discussion: The weight of hockey gear can affect your speed and agility on the ice. Heavier gear may slow you down, while lighter gear can enhance your performance.

2. Endurance

  • Discussion: Carrying extra weight can lead to fatigue more quickly, affecting your endurance during the game.

3. Injury Prevention

  • Discussion: While heavier gear may offer more protection, it can also increase the risk of injury due to fatigue. Finding the right balance between protection and weight is crucial.

Innovations in Hockey Gear: Lighter and Stronger

1. Advanced Materials

  • Discussion: Modern hockey gear is made from advanced materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and high-density foams, which offer superior protection while being lightweight.

2. Ergonomic Design

  • Discussion: Ergonomic designs help distribute weight more evenly, reducing the strain on your body and improving comfort.

3. Customization

  • Discussion: Many players now opt for customized gear that fits their body perfectly, reducing unnecessary weight and improving performance.

Conclusion: Balancing Weight and Performance

The weight of hockey gear is a crucial factor that affects both safety and performance. While the total weight can range from 15 to 25 pounds, the distribution, materials, and design of the gear play a significant role in how it feels and performs. Innovations in materials and design continue to make hockey gear lighter and more protective, helping players perform at their best while staying safe on the ice.


Q: How can I reduce the weight of my hockey gear? A: You can reduce the weight of your hockey gear by opting for lightweight materials, choosing ergonomic designs, and customizing your gear to fit your body perfectly.

Q: Does the weight of hockey gear affect my speed on the ice? A: Yes, the weight of hockey gear can affect your speed and agility. Heavier gear may slow you down, while lighter gear can enhance your performance.

Q: What is the heaviest piece of hockey gear? A: The skates are typically the heaviest piece of hockey gear, weighing around 2 to 3 pounds per skate.

Q: How does the weight of hockey gear compare to other sports? A: Hockey gear is generally heavier than gear for sports like soccer or basketball but lighter than gear for football or hockey. The weight varies depending on the level of protection required.

Q: Can I wear lighter gear for better performance? A: While lighter gear can improve performance, it’s essential to ensure that it still provides adequate protection. Balancing weight and protection is key to optimal performance and safety.