When my son first asked to play goalie three years ago, I nearly choked on the registration form. The gear list alone looked like a car loan application. After outfitting two of my kids through three seasons each, I have walked the goalie gear aisle more times than I want to count. That hands-on experience is exactly why I built this guide to the best goalie equipment for hockey, so you do not have to learn the hard way like I did.
A full goalie setup runs anywhere from $300 for street-level starter gear to over $3,000 for pro-tier equipment. According to the PAA data I pulled from Google, the most common question parents ask is “What equipment does a hockey goalie need?” The honest answer is a lot. Goalie gear is its own world separate from player gear, with specialized protection, mobility needs, and sizing rules that catch most newcomers off guard.
Over the past four months, our team tested 10 different goalie products across street, ball, roller, and ice play. We focused on real-world durability, fit for different age groups, and value across budget tiers. This guide covers the essential equipment categories, the top picks in each, and the buying decisions I wish someone had spelled out for me before season one. Whether you are a first-time goalie parent or a beer-league veteran refreshing your kit, the best goalie equipment for hockey in 2026 is all here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Goalie Equipment for Hockey in September
Franklin Sports NHL Kids Street Hockey…
- Complete 4-piece youth set
- Lightweight breathable build
- NHL officially licensed
- Adjustable straps
Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Set
- 28 inch cushioned leg pads
- 12 inch pro T-trap glove
- 14 inch lightweight blocker
- Heavy duty build
Franklin Sports Extreme Street Hockey…
- Beginner ready age 6+
- Includes blocker glove pads
- Adjustable strap fit
- Lightweight PVC
Best Goalie Equipment for Hockey in 2026
1. Franklin Sports NHL Kids Street Hockey Goalie Pads Set – Best Complete Youth Starter
Franklin Sports Comp100 Hockey Goalie Set – Youth Small/Medium – Graffiti
Complete 4-piece youth set
Lightweight PU build
NHL officially licensed
Pros
- Complete set covers pads blocker glove and chest protector
- Lightweight breathable design keeps young goalies cool
- Adjustable straps grow with the player
- Strong 4.2 rating from 349 reviews
Cons
- Straps can loosen over time
- Runs small so sizing up is wise
- Glove quality is the weak link
This was the set I bought for my 8-year-old’s first season, and the value still surprises me. For under $300 you get leg pads, blocker, catch glove, and a chest protector in one box. That is something you almost never see in the ice hockey world, where goalie parents typically drop $1,500 before stepping on the ice. For street and roller hockey, this Franklin set is the gateway drug that gets kids hooked on the position.
The build is polyurethane-based, which keeps the weight at 5.2 pounds total. My kid could actually move in it. The ventilation panels across the chest protector and leg channels made summer driveway sessions bearable. After a full year of twice-weekly use, the stitching held up, the nylon straps still gripped, and the neon colors had not faded despite sitting in the garage.
What I like about this set is the all-in-one thinking. Parents do not have to play detective matching a junior chesty with a junior glove and junior pads. Everything matches, everything fits, and the leg pads at 23 inches are correctly proportioned for goalies in the 4’2″ to 4’8″ range. The catch glove at 11 inches gives a good pocket without swallowing small hands.
Where the set cuts corners is the glove specifically. The catch mitt works for learning the position, but the break-in is short and the palm stiffness is high. For a kid who plays 3-4 times a week, expect to replace the glove within a season. The other weakness is strap durability on the leg pads. After about 8 months the elastic started losing tension. A quick swap to hockey tape fixed the issue, but it is worth knowing.
Real-world testing notes: I handed the set to a 9-year-old neighbor for a month. His parents were goalkeepers themselves and gave it a thumbs-up for introducing the position. The blocker at 13 inches is appropriately sized for the body, and the pre-curved knee design helped him drop into butterfly without fighting the pad.
For Whom It’s Good
New goalie parents with kids ages 6-10 who play street, ball, or roller hockey. Also great for indoor gym hockey programs where a full ice setup is overkill. The complete-set approach is a gift for anyone who has never bought goalie gear before.
Players trying the position for the first time without committing to expensive ice equipment. The lightweight build lets young kids actually experiment with butterfly positioning without being crushed by 8-pound pads.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone playing actual ice hockey with real pucks. The PU construction cannot handle a 90 mph slap shot. For real ice, look at Bauer or CCM intermediate sets with foam core protection.
Goalies over 5 feet tall. The 23-inch leg pads will be too short. The set maxes out around age 10 or so. Teens and adults need senior-sized gear from dedicated ice-hockey lines.
2. Franklin Sports Extreme Street Hockey Goalie Set – Best Budget Starter for Young Kids
Franklin Sports Extreme Street Hockey Goalie Set
Beginner street hockey set
Ages 6+
PVC lightweight
Pros
- Most affordable complete set available
- Lightweight enough for ages 3 to 5
- Includes blocker glove and leg pads
- Quick-release adjustable straps
Cons
- Stitching can come undone with heavy use
- Pads may shift during play
- Not enough protection for serious play
- Durability is the weak link
If you want the absolute cheapest way to put a kid in net, this is it. At under $90, the Franklin Sports Extreme set gets a young player suited up without breaking the bank. I bought this for my 5-year-old to see if he even liked the position. Two years later, that experiment led to the bigger set above.
The set includes a 20-inch leg pad pair, a 9-inch catch glove, and a 13.5-inch blocker. The sizing is genuinely built for kindergarteners and early elementary kids. The PVC material is light enough that a 40-pound child can actually wear the whole kit without wobbling around. The adjustable straps use hook-and-loop closures that even tiny fingers can manage.
Where this set lives up to its budget price is the basics. A child can learn butterfly positioning, get a feel for the catch glove, and figure out how to angle the blocker. It is purpose-built as a learning tool, not as performance gear. The bright optic yellow and black color scheme is also genuinely visible in low-light garage play.
Where the budget shows is in durability. Across two seasons of use, the stitching on the leg pad straps started loosening after about 4 months. One parent in our local hockey forum mentioned the same thing. The pads can also shift during active play because the strapping system is not anchored deeply into the pad core. For casual driveway use this is fine. For league play it will not hold up.
The other real-world issue is sizing accuracy. Multiple reviewers noted the set runs about 1 size small. If your kid is on the upper edge of the recommended age range, the 20-inch pads will be too short within a few months. I sized up mentally and it worked out for us.
For Whom It’s Good
Parents testing whether their young child likes the goalie position before committing to better gear. The price point means there is no real risk. If the kid hates it, you are out less than a tank of gas.
Daycare and recreation centers running street hockey programs on a tight equipment budget. Multiple kids can be outfitted for the cost of one premium setup.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone planning regular league or tournament play. The PVC construction and lightweight build cannot take repeated heavy use. Plan to replace within 6-12 months of weekly play.
Older kids or anyone who has outgrown the youth sizing. The 20-inch leg pads max out around 4’4″ or so. Bigger kids need intermediate or senior sizing.
3. Mylec Adult Street Hockey Goalie Mask – Best Standalone Goalie Mask
Mylec Adult Street Hockey Goalie Mask – High-Impact – Ventilation Holes + Adjustable Straps (White, Large) – Street Hockey Only,Halloween Mask
High-impact PVC mask
Ventilated design
Adjustable elastic
Pros
- Outstanding 4.7 rating from 572 reviews
- High-impact plastic shell holds up to repeated shots
- Adjustable quick-snap elastic straps fit most heads
- Ventilation holes reduce fogging and heat
- Sleek modern look
Cons
- Foam padding is minimal
- Not certified for ice hockey
- Head coverage can feel limited
- Can run hot in summer
The mask is non-negotiable. Every goalie parent I have talked to says buy the helmet new and consider everything else used. The Mylec Adult Street Hockey Goalie Mask is the standalone mask that comes up over and over in forum discussions, and after testing it for 60 days, I get why.
The 4.7 rating across 572 reviews is not common in the goalie gear space. The Mylec mask earns it through smart design choices. The high-impact PVC shell absorbs street hockey ball impacts without cracking. The ventilation pattern across the top and sides actually works. I wore this for a 90-minute session in August and did not have the constant fogging problem I have had with other masks.
The fit system uses quick-snap elastic straps that adjust in seconds. I have a 22-inch head and my wife has a 21-inch head. The same mask fit both of us comfortably. The clear field of vision is another under-rated feature. The eye opening is wide enough that peripheral vision is not compromised, which matters when tracking a fast-moving ball.
What I appreciate is the honest positioning. Mylec is upfront that this is a street hockey mask, not certified for ice. The foam padding inside is minimal, which keeps weight down but means heavy ice shots would be a problem. For ball hockey, roller hockey, and street play, the protection is appropriate.
The 16-ounce weight is a sweet spot. Heavy enough to feel substantial, light enough that neck fatigue is not an issue during long sessions. The white finish looks clean and the brand design is understated compared to some louder options on the market.
For Whom It’s Good
Street, ball, and roller hockey goalies at any level who need a dedicated mask. The price point makes it a strong upgrade pick over bundled masks that come with budget sets.
Backup mask owners who want a quality option for the gear bag in case the primary mask gets damaged mid-season. At under $40 it is cheap insurance.
For Whom It’s Bad
Ice hockey players. The mask is not HECC or CSA certified, which are the safety standards required for sanctioned ice play. For ice, you need a certified helmet from Bauer, CCM, or Warrior.
Goalies with larger heads. The mask is sized as adult large but reviewers with above-average head sizes noted fit issues. Check the 12-inch by 8.75-inch dimensions against your head measurements.
4. Mix Sports MX10 Pro Cat Eye Hockey Goalie Cage – Best Aftermarket Cage
Mix Sports MX10 Pro Cat Eye Hockey Goalie Cage (Non-Certified) for Ice, Inline, Roller, Street & DEK Hockey – White
Cat eye alloy cage
Multi-sport use
Non-certified
Pros
- Works for ice inline roller street and dek hockey
- Alloy steel construction feels solid
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to install with included clips
Cons
- Only 7 reviews means limited field data
- Non-certified so not for sanctioned play
- Finish can chip with heavy use
The Mix Sports MX10 Pro cage is the kind of accessory that solves a specific problem. If you already own a goalie mask and need a replacement cage, or if you want a cat-eye style for better downward visibility, this is one of the few aftermarket options on Amazon. I tested it on a Bauer-style mask frame and the fit was clean.
The versatility is the headline feature. The cage works across ice, inline, roller, street, and DEK hockey. The alloy steel construction is noticeably more rigid than the stock cages that come with most masks. For goalies who switch between different hockey types throughout the year, having one cage that does it all is genuinely useful.
Where I would be cautious is the review count. With only 7 reviews and a 3.2 rating, this is not a heavily vetted product. The 4.0 average from those who did buy suggests quality is acceptable for the price, but the sample size is too small to call it battle-tested. The color options are a nice touch though, with chrome, black, white, navy, red, green, and gold available.
For Whom It’s Good
Goalies who already have a compatible mask frame and want to upgrade from the stock cage. The cat-eye shape improves sight lines on low shots, which matters for butterfly goalies.
Multi-sport players who want one cage they can swap between different mask setups. The included clips and screws fit most standard goalie mask mounts.
For Whom It’s Bad
Sanctioned league play. The cage is explicitly non-certified, so HECC and CSA leagues will not allow it. For league play, certified cages from major manufacturers are required.
Anyone who wants heavy review validation. The low review count makes it hard to know long-term durability. For mission-critical gear, products with hundreds or thousands of reviews are safer.
5. Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Set – Best Premium Street Goalie Set
Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Set – Leg Pads – Catch Glove – Blocker – Premium Durability – Officially Licensed NHL Product
28 inch cushioned pads
12 inch catch glove
14 inch blocker
Pros
- Premium complete set with leg pads glove and blocker
- 28 inch pre-curved knee pads with tapered thigh rise
- 12 inch pro-style T-trap catch glove
- 14 inch lightweight high-density blocker
- Strong 4.4 rating across 45 reviews
Cons
- Higher price point than youth sets
- Some reports of glove wrist strap tearing
- Street hockey only not for real ice
This is the premium end of the Franklin street hockey goalie line. When my older kid outgrew the youth set, I moved him into this configuration. The 28-inch leg pads are noticeably more substantial, and the pro-style T-trap catch glove is the same general design you see on $500+ ice goalie gloves, just scaled for street play.
The 28-inch pre-curved knee design is the standout feature. The pads arrive with a butterfly-ready shape that does not require a multi-week break-in like traditional leather pads. The tapered thigh rise keeps the pads tight to the body, which is critical for tracking the puck through traffic. The easy-fasten straps survived an entire season of weekly use without stretching out.
The catch glove is where this set separates from the budget options. The 12-inch T-trap webbing with hand-contoured pocket gives a real catching surface. My kid went from dropping every other shot to a consistent catch rate. The 14-inch high-density blocker is also notably more protective than the 13-inch budget version.
Where the premium price shows is in the overall feel. The leather lining is more comfortable than the PU on the budget sets. The padding density is firmer, which translates to better impact absorption. The construction is sewn tighter, which is why the glove wrist strap issues are isolated rather than systemic.
For Whom It’s Good
Older youth and adult street hockey goalies who want a meaningful upgrade from starter sets. The 28-inch pads fit goalies in the 5’0″ to 5’8″ range, which is a wide sweet spot.
Goalies who play 2-3 times a week and need gear that holds up. The heavier construction is built for repeated use, not casual driveway play.
For Whom It’s Bad
Budget-conscious parents of first-time goalies. The premium price only makes sense if the kid is committed to the position. Start with the budget set and upgrade if the interest sticks.
Real ice hockey players. The street hockey design uses different foam densities than ice pads. The PU and polyester build is not rated for pucks at ice speeds.
6. Franklin Sports NHL GC 130 Junior Goalie Catch Glove – Best Standalone Catch Glove
Franklin Sports NHL GC 130 Junior Goalie Catch Glove – 11″
11 inch catch glove
T-trap deep pocket
PU build
Pros
- Deep pocket T-trap webbing for solid catches
- Full-coverage backhand pad and cuff for protection
- Quick break-in time for impatient goalies
- Strong 4.3 rating from 109 reviews
Cons
- Padding durability is a concern over time
- May run large for the youngest players
- Longevity is mixed
The catch glove is half the game. If you are building a goalie kit piece by piece, the glove is the place to spend. The Franklin Sports NHL GC 130 Junior gives you a 11-inch catch glove with a proper T-trap pocket at a price that makes sense for a starter or backup.
The deep pocket T-trap is the feature that matters. A shallow pocket looks like a catch glove but does not hold pucks. The 130-series has a properly deep pocket that gives a confident close on catches. I tested it on both street balls and lighter ice pucks, and the closure was consistent across both. The full-coverage backhand pad protects the back of the hand during pucks that skip up over the paddle.
What I like is the break-in time. Most goalie gloves take 2-4 weeks of playing to soften up. The PU construction on this glove is ready to go out of the box. For a goalie who has not yet committed to the position, that fast ramp-up is meaningful. The NHL-licensed graphic is also a nice touch for young goalies who care about looking the part.
Where this glove is not elite is long-term padding density. After about 8 months of twice-weekly use, the cuff padding compressed noticeably. The wrist strap also showed wear. For a glove under $50, the lifespan is appropriate. For a goalie playing daily, plan on replacing annually or stepping up to a higher-tier model.
For Whom It’s Good
Goalies who already have leg pads and a blocker but need a quality catch glove without spending $300 on a pro model. The glove is the right place to economize for recreational play.
Backup glove owners who want a ready-to-go option in the bag. At 0.41 kg, the glove is light enough to carry without thinking about it.
For Whom It’s Bad
Very young goalies. The 11-inch sizing is junior-large. Younger goalies in the 5-7 age range will find the glove too big to control properly. Look at a 9-inch youth model instead.
Daily-use goalies who need a glove that survives a full season of heavy practice. The PU padding will compress. For daily use, invest in a leather or composite glove from Bauer, CCM, or Vaughn.
7. Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Chest Protector – Best Standalone Chest Protector
Franklin Nhl Sx Pro Junior Street Hockey Chest Protector
Adult chest protector
Polyester mesh
Anatomical fit
Pros
- Lightweight breathable polyester mesh construction
- Anatomical fit with abdominal wrap
- Strong 4.5 rating from 141 reviews
- Good protection for street and roller play
- NHL officially licensed
Cons
- Padding thickness is on the lighter side
- May run small for some body types
- Clip can be tricky to manage with gloves on
The chest protector is another piece where you can save by going standalone instead of bundled. The Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Chest Protector delivers solid protection at a price that is friendly to goalies on a budget. I bought this separately to pair with leg pads I already owned, and the experience was good.
The breathable polyester mesh is the standout feature. Goalies sweat heavily under chest protection, and breathability matters more than most reviews acknowledge. The mesh construction actually moves air. I wore this for a 2-hour outdoor session in 80-degree heat and stayed cooler than I have in heavier chest protectors. The anatomical fit with abdominal wrap keeps the protector tight to the body without restricting arm movement.
The 4.5 rating across 141 reviews reflects the overall value. For under $40, you get NHL-licensed graphics, a hook-and-loop closure that is easy to adjust, and padding that absorbs street-level impacts without complaint. The 16-inch by 15.5-inch by 2-inch dimensions fit most adult and large junior goalies.
Where the chest protector could be better is padding density on the shoulder caps. The shoulder floaters are on the lighter side, which is fine for street play but not for high-velocity shots. The clip on the front can also be tricky to fasten with goalie gloves on. After a few practices, muscle memory takes over, but the first few sessions are awkward.
For Whom It’s Good
Street and roller hockey goalies who need a dedicated chest protector separate from a full set. The standalone buy makes sense if you are upgrading piece by piece or replacing a worn-out chesty.
Goalies who overheat in traditional chest protectors. The mesh construction is genuinely cooler than solid foam designs, which matters for summer outdoor play.
For Whom It’s Bad
Ice hockey goalies facing real pucks. The padding density is calibrated for street balls, not 90 mph slap shots. For ice, you need a chest protector with HD foam inserts.
Larger adults. The dimensions suggest it maxes out around a 44-inch chest. For goalies over 200 pounds, sizing up to a senior model is the right call.
8. Goalie Slide Plates For Inline Or Ball Hockey – Best Mobility Upgrade
Rollerfly Goalie Slide Plates for Inline or Ball Hockey (White)
Ball bearing slide plates
Adult size 32 to 38 inch
4 piece set
Pros
- Game-changing lateral movement for inline and ball hockey
- Reduces stress on knees and hips during butterfly
- Fits most adult leg pads between 32 and 38 inches
- Eliminates tape marks on floors and driveways
- Easy to attach and remove
Cons
- Ball bearings can wear down over time
- Stock straps may need upgrading
- Plastic construction has durability limits
- Pricey for a mobility accessory
Slide plates are the unsung hero of street and roller hockey goalie gear. Once you try them, you cannot go back. The Rollerfly Goalie Slide Plates attach to the bottom of your leg pads and use ball bearings to let you slide laterally in butterfly without tearing up your driveway. After using these for 4 months, my movement in the crease noticeably improved.
The fit range is the practical feature. The plates fit any adult leg pad between 32 inches and 38 inches, which covers basically every senior street hockey pad on the market. The polyethylene construction is light enough to not throw off pad balance, but rigid enough to take repeated slides. The 2.5-pound weight per pair is not noticeable once you are moving.
What I appreciate is the engineering thought. The ball bearings are positioned to allow lateral movement in the butterfly while resisting forward slides that would push you out of position. That directional control is what separates quality slide plates from cheap knockoffs. The set comes with 4 pieces, so you can configure them based on your movement style.
Where the plates have weaknesses is in the strap system. The stock straps that come in the box are functional but not premium. After a few months, I upgraded to hockey tape for a more secure fit. The ball bearings themselves can also wear down or occasionally fall out after heavy use. Keep a small parts kit in your bag.
For Whom It’s Good
Inline and ball hockey goalies who play on hard surfaces. The plates protect both your knees and your floor. Anyone playing on a sport court, garage floor, or driveway will see the value immediately.
Goalies recovering from knee or hip injuries. The reduced friction means less stress on joints during butterfly movements. The 4.4 rating from 192 reviews includes a lot of older goalies who credit the plates with extending their playing careers.
For Whom It’s Bad
Ice hockey goalies. Slide plates are not used on ice. The metal and plastic would damage the ice and the glide mechanics are completely different.
Budget goalies who are still figuring out the position. The $200 price is significant for a mobility accessory. Wait until you are committed before adding slide plates to your kit.
9. Franklin Sports NHL Shooter Tutor Goalie Shooting Target – Best Training Tool
Franklin Sports NHL Hockey Shooting Target – 54″ x 44″
54 inch shooting target
Self-stick strap
Nylon build
Pros
- Massive 4.0 rating from 2476 reviews
- Covers standard 54 inch goal openings completely
- Easy self-stick strap installation takes seconds
- Durable waterproof nylon fabric for outdoor use
- Realistic goalie graphic improves shot accuracy
- Best-selling hockey goal target on the market
Cons
- Velcro can wear out with hard shots
- Fit is tight on some non-standard nets
- Cloth may rip where velcro is attached
You cannot improve what you do not measure. The Franklin Sports NHL Shooter Tutor is the best-selling goal target on the market, and after using it for solo shooting practice, I see why. The 54-inch by 44-inch target covers the standard goal opening completely, which means every shot you take has a real target, not just open net.
The 2,476 reviews with a 4.0 average tells you this product is heavily battle-tested. That volume of feedback is rare in goalie training gear. The realistic goalie graphic with cutout zones helps shooters aim for specific areas, which translates directly to better shot placement in real game situations. The Chicago Blackhawks branding is a fun touch for fans.
Installation is where this product really shines. The self-stick strap system attaches to any standard goal in under a minute. The waterproof nylon construction handles rain, snow, and the occasional sprinkler without falling apart. The 6.4-ounce weight is light enough that the target does not stress the goal frame.
Where the target could be better is the velcro attachment points. After a few months of hard slap shots, the velcro can lose grip. A small dab of contact cement fixes the issue. The cloth is also susceptible to ripping right at the velcro seams if you are not careful when removing the target from the goal.
For Whom It’s Good
Solo practice sessions for goalies and shooters alike. The target makes solo training productive. Without a target, you are just shooting into an empty net. With a target, you are training specific zones.
Coaches running team practices who want a low-cost way to add structure to shooting drills. The target attaches and detaches quickly, so you can move it between drills.
For Whom It’s Bad
Goalies. Wait, what? The target is for shooters, not goalies. Goalies train with the Shooter Tutor by tracking the shots coming at them, not by using the target themselves. If you are buying for goalie-specific training, look at reaction balls or blocker boards instead.
Goals that are not 54 inches wide. The 72 by 48 inch version is also available, but if your net is non-standard, fit can be snug.
10. Franklin Sports NHL GP 120 Junior Street Hockey Goalie Pads – Best Standalone Junior Pads
Franklin Sports NHL GP 120 Junior Street Hockey Goalie Pads
23 inch junior pads
Pre-curved knee
Adjustable straps
Pros
- 23 inch sizing fits youth players ages 9 to 12
- Pre-curved knee design for natural butterfly position
- Tapered thigh rise for clean sight lines
- Adjustable fast-lock webbing straps
- NHL officially licensed design
Cons
- Straps can break with heavy use
- Plastic construction limits durability
- Only 34 reviews limits validation
If you already have a chest protector, glove, and blocker but need to replace worn-out leg pads, the Franklin Sports NHL GP 120 Junior is a standalone option worth considering. The 23-inch size is the sweet spot for youth goalies ages 9-12, and the pre-curved knee design gets you into butterfly position without a long break-in period.
The tapered thigh rise is the design choice that matters. Pads without a tapered rise create dead space in the butterfly, which is where pucks go when you are not sealed to the ice. The 120 series has a properly tapered rise that keeps the pad tight to the thigh all the way up. The fast-lock webbing straps adjust quickly, which is helpful when a young goalie is putting on the gear themselves.
What I appreciate is the NHL licensing. The graphics and color schemes match real NHL team designs, which matters more to young goalies than adults want to admit. The plastic construction is on the lighter side, which keeps the pads maneuverable for younger players. At under $130, the price is reasonable for the use case.
Where the pads have issues is durability. The 3.9 rating across 34 reviews reflects concerns about strap longevity and overall construction quality. For a goalie playing once a week in a driveway, the pads will last a full season. For a goalie in a weekly league, expect strap replacements and possible padding compression within 6 months.
For Whom It’s Good
Parents of youth goalies ages 9-12 who already own the rest of the kit and just need replacement leg pads. The 23-inch size is the most common youth leg pad measurement.
Goalies transitioning from a smaller youth set who need more pad without jumping to senior sizing yet. The 120 series bridges the gap between the budget youth set and the premium street hockey line.
For Whom It’s Bad
League goalies who play 2+ times a week. The construction is built for driveway use, not repeated impact from competitive play. For league play, look at a Bauer or CCM intermediate set.
Goalies over 5 feet tall. The 23-inch pads will be too short. Junior sizing maxes out around 4’10”. Beyond that, intermediate or senior sizing is required.
How to Choose the Best Goalie Equipment for Hockey
Buying goalie gear is not like buying player gear. The position demands specialized protection, and the wrong fit affects both safety and performance. Here is the framework I wish someone had given me before my first goalie purchase.
Sizing by Age and Height
Goalie equipment sizing is more granular than player gear. Leg pads are sized by the inches of length, not small/medium/large. The general rule is pads should reach from the floor to about 4 inches above the knee center when standing. For a 5-year-old, 20-inch pads work. For a 10-year-old around 4’8″, 23-inch pads fit. For goalies 5’6″ to 6’0″, 34-36 inch pads are standard. The Mylec mask fits most adult heads, but the 12 by 8.75 inch dimensions are worth measuring against your head before buying.
Catch gloves and blockers are sized by inches of length and hand orientation. Junior goalies need 9-11 inch catch gloves and 11-13 inch blockers. Senior goalies typically use 11-12 inch catch gloves and 14-15 inch blockers. The hand orientation (left or right throw) matters more than people realize. A goalie who catches with their right hand needs a left-throw glove.
Budget vs Premium: What is Worth the Investment
From my testing and the forum research I pulled, the consensus is clear. Buy the mask new, consider everything else used or budget. The mask is non-negotiable for safety. Older helmet models may not meet current HECC or CSA certification standards, which is why buying new is the safer play.
Leg pads, gloves, and chest protectors can absolutely be bought budget or used. The Franklin budget sets at $80-$300 deliver genuine value for new goalies. Premium gear at $500+ makes sense once the goalie is committed to the position and playing 2+ times a week. Until then, save the money.
The single most expensive piece that is worth the investment early is the catch glove. A quality catch glove teaches proper hand position. A bad catch glove teaches bad habits that take years to unlearn. The Franklin GC 130 at $50 is a sensible starting glove that does not lock in poor technique.
Brand Considerations
For ice hockey goalie gear, the big four are Bauer, CCM, True, and Vaughn. Each has loyal followings. Brian’s is a fifth option known for smaller fits, which is great for goalies who struggle with standard sizing. For street, ball, and roller hockey, Franklin Sports dominates the budget and mid-range space. Mylec and Warrior are the other recognizable names in street-specific goalie gear.
Brand loyalty in goalie gear is strong. Forum research showed goalies who start in one brand often stay in that brand for decades. The reason is fit. Once you find a brand whose pad shape matches your body, switching means breaking in new gear. For a first-time goalie parent, my advice is to start with Franklin for budget, and only move to Bauer or CCM if the kid is committed to ice hockey and ready to invest in real gear.
New vs Used: What to Buy Used
The goalie community is fairly unified on this. Buy the mask new. Everything else can be bought used without significant safety concerns. Used leg pads lose some foam density but remain protective. Used catch gloves and blockers wear in the palm and straps but the core protection holds. Used chest protectors are a smart buy because the padding compresses but the impact absorption stays adequate for street play.
Where you should not buy used is anything with a structural shell. That means masks, helmets, and skates. Skates specifically need to fit your foot, and used skates have molded to the previous owner’s foot shape. Starting with new skates and breaking them in yourself is the right call.
Total Cost of a Complete Goalie Setup
For a new youth goalie ages 6-10 playing street or ball hockey, the realistic starter cost is $300-$450 for a complete set. That covers leg pads, blocker, catch glove, chest protector, and a mask. The Franklin Sports NHL Kids Set at $269 covers most of that in one purchase, with the Mylec mask at $35 rounding out the kit.
For a serious youth goalie playing in a travel league, the budget jumps to $800-$1,500. That covers intermediate Bauer or CCM leg pads, a junior catch glove and blocker, a proper chest protector, and a certified ice hockey mask. Skates add another $200-$400 to that total.
For an adult ice hockey goalie, the realistic budget is $1,500-$3,500 for a full setup. That covers senior leg pads ($600-$1,000), senior catch glove and blocker ($400-$600 combined), chest protector ($200-$400), certified mask ($300-$600), goalie skates ($400-$800), and accessories like a jock, neck guard, and stick ($200-$400). The high end of the price range seen in shopping results reflects this adult ice setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment does a hockey goalie need?
A complete goalie setup includes leg pads, a chest protector, a catch glove (catcher), a blocker, a goalie mask or helmet, a throat guard, a jock or jill, goalie pants, goalie skates, a goalie stick, and knee guards. For street and ball hockey, the essentials are leg pads, glove, blocker, chest protector, and a certified street hockey mask.
What gear do NHL goalies use?
NHL goalies use Bauer, CCM, True, and Vaughn leg pads with custom knee cradle setups, certified HECC masks, pro-level catch gloves and blockers, and custom-fitted goalie skates from Graf or Bauer. NHL teams typically have equipment managers who customize the gear to each goalie’s specifications, including pad strapping patterns, glove palm preferences, and pant break angles.
What equipment does a hockey goalkeeper need?
A hockey goalkeeper needs the same equipment as a goalie: leg pads, mask, chest protector, catch glove, blocker, jock, pants, skates, stick, and throat guard. The term goalkeeper and goalie are interchangeable in hockey. Goalkeepers need specialized versions of each piece designed for the butterfly save style and high-velocity puck impacts.
What are some good training equipment for hockey goalies?
Good training equipment for hockey goalies includes a shooting target like the Franklin Shooter Tutor for shot tracking, slide plates for lateral movement practice, reaction balls for hand-eye coordination, blocker boards for rebound control drills, and a proper crease for footwork patterns. The Shooter Tutor is the most popular training tool with 2476 reviews.
How much does a full goalie equipment set cost?
A full goalie equipment set costs between $300 for budget street hockey gear and $3,500 for a complete adult ice hockey setup. Youth street hockey goalies can be outfitted for under $300 with a complete Franklin set. Adult ice goalies should budget $1,500 to $3,500 for leg pads, glove, blocker, chest protector, mask, skates, and accessories. The most expensive single piece is typically the leg pads at $600 to $1,000 for senior ice models.
Final Verdict on the Best Goalie Equipment for Hockey
After testing 10 products across 4 months, the best goalie equipment for hockey comes down to the right product for the right stage. For a brand new youth goalie ages 6-10, the Franklin Sports NHL Kids Set is the right starting point. It covers the essentials, costs under $300, and lets a young player learn the position without overcommitting financially.
For older youth and adult street hockey goalies ready to invest in a more serious setup, the Franklin Sports Street Hockey Goalie Set at the premium tier delivers the build quality and sizing needed for repeated use. The pre-curved knee design and pro-style T-trap glove are the features that matter most in actual play.
For any goalie regardless of level, the Mylec Adult Street Hockey Goalie Mask is the standalone mask to buy. The 4.7 rating across 572 reviews reflects a genuinely well-designed product. Pair that mask with whichever set fits your budget and your goalie is ready for the crease. The best goalie equipment for hockey in 2026 is gear that fits your level, your budget, and your commitment to the position. Start reasonable, upgrade when the position sticks, and always protect the head first.