Hockey Goalie Pad Fitting Guide

Your goalie leg pads not only protect your legs during practice and gameplay, but they can offer many advantages to your team’s defence strategy too. However, similarly to your hockey jersey sizing, if your goalie pads aren’t the perfect fit, they can be seriously uncomfortable and hinder your performance.Although it’s best to try on your goalie pads before buying, if you follow our expert tips on how to measure your goalie pad size, you should be able to get the perfect pad size and fit to complete your kit.

And if you’re completely new to ice hockey, check out our comprehensive guide to playing ice hockey to get up to speed on all the rules of the game!

Goalies’ leg pads protect their legs from high-speed pucks and collisions. The pads also help to block more of the net, making it harder for opponents to score. In order for them to do their job the best they can, there are a few things to consider when choosing your leg pad size:

• Pad length: Goalie leg pads should cover the leg without extending too far above the thigh or dragging excessively on the ice.
• Knee alignment: The knee should sit comfortably in the center of the pad’s knee cradle for optimum mobility and protection.
• Strap tension: The leg pad straps should be snug but not overly tight or restricting circulation, allowing for freedom of movement without moving during game play.
• Ankle and boot fit: The leg pad should rest on the skate, with the boot break sitting securely over the top of the foot.

When it comes to choosing the right goalie leg pad size, follow our guidance below to ensure that you measure your leg dimensions correctly and get the optimum pad size for your needs.

First, find your floor to knee measurement. To find your floor to knee measurement, remove any footwear and stand on a flat surface.

Use a tape measure to measure from the floor to the centre of the knee and use the tables below to convert this size into your approximate Bauer goalie pad size. We recommend standing with your legs shoulder width apart and in a comfortable position to take this measurement. Choose from youth, junior, intermediate or senior goalie leg pads with the measurements you’ve taken.

Remember to take into account that Bauer Thigh Rise plays like +1.5”.

Note: Sizing is a preference and therefore charts DO NOT GUARANTEE FIT.

Finding the right size goalie pad is all about comfort, protection and performance. Your goalie pads should fit snugly, but not so tight that they restrict your movement. You want a bit of flex and room to move naturally during gameplay, especially when dropping into the butterfly or pushing across the crease. When choosing your goalie leg pad size, it’s important to go with something that supports your playing style and positioning.

If you’ve taken your measurements and find yourself in between sizes, we’d recommend sizing up. A slightly larger pad will give your legs better coverage and ensure you’re not outgrowing the fit too quickly, which is particularly important for younger goalies who are still growing. Ultimately, a properly fitted pad means more confidence in the net and less distraction from what really matters: stopping those pucks.

At Puck Stop, you can choose from a wide range of goalie leg pads, suitable for all sessions; from practice to match day. We also stock a variety of goalie equipment – from goalie skates, catchers and blockers, to premium goalie jerseys – helping you feel your best and stay protected between the pipes.

And if you’re unsure what else you need as a goalie including how to choose the right gear, our in-depth ice hockey goalie equipment guide has everything you need to know.