Goalie Masks and Helmets
It's hard to believe, but the goalie mask 
is a fairly recent addition to the game. Surprising, considering that even some of the good helmets can still allow a goalie to get a concussion. Today's masks are a crucial element in protecting goalies from blistering slap shots, one timers, and other assorted shots, but they are still not perfect. The best thing you can do to keep your head safe is to routinely purchase new helmets. After two or three years, a helmet is usually in need of a replacement; this is not because the outer barrier has suffered any major damage, but because the interior becomes compressed and worn--which reduces the protections it provides. One way of knowing if your helmet is ready to go is to check for the HCAA or CSA sticker of certification expiration date.
Bargain Masks
These bargain masks can be purchased for under $200. Also, street hockey masks are generally around $50, good for playing with friends and not having to meet any regulatory standards.
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Franklin Street Hockey Goalie Mask Franklin has a line of affordable street hockey masks that protect your face and show off your favorite team's logo. |
Bauer 1400 Goalie Mask Integrated chrome plated carbon steel wire. Large window provides enhanced peripheral vision and a fully adjustable five-point back plate strap. |
Itech 1400 Goalie Mask These masks come in a variety of Marvel Comic superheros. Great for the young star goalie who loves characters like The Hulk, Iron Man, Spiderman, and Wolverine. |
Vaughn 7500 Goalie Mask Featuring a recessed cage area that improves peripheral vision and gives wider sign lines. Contoured design reduces flat spots for puck deflection to lessen impacts. |
Pro Masks
These are the same masks the guys in the NHL wear. They come in black or white; it's up to you to get a custom paint job.
Historic Masks
Here are some of the coolest hockey masks ever to grace the ice.
- Gilles Gratton Mask : Gratoony the Loony allegedly growled at his opponents wearing this famous tiger mask.
- Mike Richter Mask : Richter had a wonderfully simple tribute to New York City when he played for the Rangers.
- Gary Bromley Mask ; Bromleys's nickname was “Bones,” which is where he got the idea to make the design of his mask a bare skull.
- Gerry Cheevers Mask : Cheevers would add stitches to his plain white mask every time he was hit in the face with a puck, the end result was this.
Helmet Size and Fit
The comfort of a helmet is crucial, and part of getting an easy-to-wear helmet is to get one that fits well. The proper fit means the best protection, as does a certification by the HCAA or CSA. For kids playing in a league, that certification is a must-have.
- Both adult and child sized helmets are available and most juniors in their teens can easily wear adult helmets.
- Keep in mind that very young players do not need expensive helmets.
- When in doubt about sizing, make sure that the helmet you choose has adjustable padding so that you can conform it to your head.
- When trying on the helmet, it should fit snugly and not shift position once strapped on.
- Double check with the manufacturer to make sure that they don't have any special sizing differences that you should be aware of since not all companies size the same.
Features
- There is the option of a single or dual-layer foam system. The single layer is adequate for young kids, but the dual-layer is certainly the only choice for older junior players. Adults and intermediates who must deal with heavy hitting opponents should invest in reinforced Kevlar helmets instead of nylon helmets made for juniors.
- The cage should not obstruct your view in any way, which is usually best measured by trying the mask on yourself.
- Stainless steel cages offer the best protection, but cost more money.
- Choose from basic colors or unique painted helmets that are more stylish.
Goalie Mask Brands
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