The Street Hockey Shop - Your Ultimate Guide to Street Hockey Equipment
Welcome to The Street Hockey Shop, your one-stop destination for all things street hockey. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to upgrade your gear or a beginner just getting started, we've got you covered with comprehensive guides, expert reviews, and top product recommendations to enhance your street hockey experience.
Table
- What is Street Hockey?
- Essential Street Hockey Equipment
- Popular Street Hockey Brands
- Getting Started with Street Hockey
- Maintaining Your Street Hockey Equipment
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between street hockey and ice hockey equipment?
- Can I use ice hockey sticks for street hockey?
- What surface is best for street hockey?
- How much does basic street hockey equipment cost?
- Is street hockey dangerous?
- What age can kids start playing street hockey?
- Do I need a team to play street hockey?
What is Street Hockey?
Street hockey, also known as road hockey or ball hockey, is an adaptation of ice hockey played on streets, parking lots, or any paved surface. It's an accessible and exciting sport that brings the thrill of hockey to neighborhoods across America. Unlike ice hockey, street hockey doesn't require ice rinks or expensive skating skills, making it a popular recreational activity for players of all ages.
The beauty of street hockey lies in its simplicity and accessibility. All you need is a stick, a ball or puck, some basic protective gear, and a flat surface to play on. This accessibility has made street hockey a beloved pastime in communities nationwide, fostering camaraderie, physical fitness, and competitive spirit among players.
Essential Street Hockey Equipment
To enjoy a great game of street hockey, you'll need the right equipment. Here's a breakdown of the essential gear you'll need:
Street Hockey Sticks
The stick is perhaps the most fundamental piece of equipment in street hockey. Unlike ice hockey sticks, street hockey sticks are designed specifically for use on hard surfaces, with reinforced blades that can withstand the abrasion of asphalt or concrete.
When choosing a street hockey stick, consider factors like:
- Material: Composite sticks offer durability and performance, while wooden sticks provide a traditional feel at a lower cost.
- Length: Your stick should reach between your chin and nose when standing in shoes.
- Flex: A measure of how much the stick bends when pressure is applied. Beginners typically benefit from a lower flex rating.
- Curve: The bend in the blade affects how the puck or ball handles. Different curves suit different playing styles.
For a comprehensive guide on selecting the perfect stick, check out our detailed street hockey sticks guide.
Street Hockey Pucks and Balls
Unlike ice hockey, which exclusively uses pucks, street hockey can be played with either specialized street hockey pucks or balls.
Street Hockey Pucks are designed specifically for use on non-ice surfaces. They're typically made of lightweight plastic with a hollow core and small nubs on the surface to reduce friction and allow for smoother movement on asphalt or concrete.
Street Hockey Balls are an alternative to pucks and are often preferred for certain playing conditions. They're typically made of dense plastic or rubber and come in various designs optimized for different surfaces and weather conditions.
For more information on choosing between pucks and balls, visit our comprehensive guide to street hockey pucks and balls.
Goalie Equipment
Goalies require specialized equipment to protect themselves while defending the net. A complete set of street hockey goalie equipment typically includes:
- Goalie Pads: Leg pads that protect the goalie's legs and help block shots.
- Chest Protector: Shields the torso from high-velocity shots.
- Goalie Gloves: Includes a blocker for one hand and a catching glove for the other.
- Goalie Mask: Essential for protecting the face and head.
For a detailed breakdown of goalie equipment options, check out our street hockey goalie equipment guide.
Nets and Goals
A proper goal is essential for any street hockey game. Street hockey nets come in various sizes and designs, from professional-grade goals to portable options that can be easily set up and taken down.
When selecting a net, consider factors like:
- Size: Regulation size is 6' x 4', but smaller options are available for recreational play.
- Portability: Some nets can be folded or disassembled for easy transport and storage.
- Durability: Look for weather-resistant materials if your net will be used outdoors.
Explore our complete guide to street hockey nets and goals for more information.
Protective Gear
Safety should always be a priority in street hockey. While the level of protection needed may vary based on the intensity of play, some basic protective equipment includes:
- Helmet: Protects the head from falls and flying pucks or balls.
- Gloves: Shield hands from impacts and abrasions.
- Shin Guards: Protect the lower legs from sticks and projectiles.
- Elbow Pads: Cushion falls and impacts to the elbows.
For recreational players, minimal protection may suffice, while competitive players might opt for more comprehensive gear. Learn more about safety equipment in our street hockey protective gear guide.
Complete Sets
For beginners or those looking to outfit multiple players, complete street hockey sets offer a convenient and often cost-effective solution. These sets typically include sticks, balls or pucks, and sometimes goals or basic protective equipment.
Complete sets are ideal for:
- Families looking to play together
- Schools or community centers
- Beginners who need all the basics at once
Discover the best options in our street hockey sets guide.
Popular Street Hockey Brands
Several brands have established themselves as leaders in the street hockey equipment market. Here are some of the most reputable names to look for:
Bauer
Originally known for ice hockey equipment, Bauer has successfully transferred its expertise to the street hockey market. The brand is renowned for its high-quality sticks, protective gear, and goalie equipment.
Franklin
Franklin Sports is a versatile sporting goods company that offers a wide range of street hockey equipment, particularly known for their affordable complete sets and goals.
Mylec
Mylec is one of the oldest and most respected names in street hockey, credited with inventing the original plastic street hockey puck. They offer a comprehensive range of equipment, from sticks and pucks to goals and protective gear.
A&R Sports
A&R Sports specializes in hockey and skating equipment, offering quality street hockey products at competitive prices.
Getting Started with Street Hockey
If you're new to street hockey, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Start with the basics: Invest in a quality stick, appropriate for your height and playing style, along with a street hockey ball or puck.
- Find the right surface: Look for a flat, smooth surface like a driveway, parking lot, or quiet street. Avoid areas with heavy traffic or significant cracks and potholes.
- Gather players: Street hockey can be played with as few as two people (one-on-one) or with full teams. Recruit friends, family members, or neighbors to join in the fun.
- Set up boundaries: Use cones, chalk, or natural landmarks to define the playing area and goal locations if you don't have a proper net.
- Learn the rules: While street hockey rules can be adapted based on the number of players and available space, familiarizing yourself with basic hockey rules will enhance the experience.
- Prioritize safety: Even in casual games, basic protective equipment like helmets and gloves can prevent injuries.
For a more detailed guide on getting started, check out our beginner's guide to street hockey.
Maintaining Your Street Hockey Equipment
Proper maintenance of your street hockey equipment not only extends its lifespan but also ensures optimal performance during play. Here are some basic maintenance tips:
- Sticks: Inspect blades regularly for wear and tear. Use hockey tape to reinforce high-wear areas.
- Pucks and Balls: Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris that can affect performance.
- Protective Gear: Air out after use to prevent odor buildup. Clean fabric components according to manufacturer instructions.
- Nets: Check for tears or damage regularly. Store indoors or cover when not in use for extended periods to protect from weather damage.
Learn more about equipment care in our maintenance guide for street hockey equipment.
Conclusion
Street hockey offers an accessible and exciting way to enjoy the sport of hockey without the need for ice or expensive equipment. With the right gear, anyone can experience the thrill of the game right in their neighborhood.
At The Street Hockey Shop, we're committed to providing you with comprehensive information and top product recommendations to enhance your street hockey experience. Browse our detailed guides on specific equipment categories to find the perfect gear for your needs, skill level, and budget.
Whether you're shooting around casually with friends or competing in organized leagues, having the right equipment makes all the difference. Explore our site to discover everything you need to know about street hockey gear, techniques, and more.
Ready to elevate your street hockey game? Check out our category guides and product recommendations to find the perfect equipment for your needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between street hockey and ice hockey equipment?
Street hockey equipment is specifically designed for use on hard surfaces like asphalt or concrete. The main differences include:
- Street hockey sticks have more durable blades to withstand abrasion
- Street hockey pucks are lighter and designed to glide on non-ice surfaces
- Protective gear for street hockey often emphasizes abrasion resistance over impact protection
Can I use ice hockey sticks for street hockey?
While it's possible to use ice hockey sticks for casual street hockey play, they're not ideal for regular use on hard surfaces. Ice hockey stick blades will wear down quickly on asphalt or concrete, significantly shortening their lifespan. For regular street hockey play, it's recommended to invest in sticks specifically designed for street hockey.
What surface is best for street hockey?
The ideal surface for street hockey is smooth, flat asphalt or concrete with minimal cracks or debris. Tennis courts, basketball courts, empty parking lots, and quiet residential streets are all popular options. The smoother the surface, the better the puck or ball will glide, creating a more enjoyable playing experience.
How much does basic street hockey equipment cost?
The cost of basic street hockey equipment can vary widely based on quality and brand, but here's a general price range for essential items:
- Street hockey stick: $20-$60
- Street hockey ball or puck: $5-$15
- Basic protective gear (helmet, gloves): $50-$100
- Street hockey net: $50-$150
- Complete starter set: $80-$200
Is street hockey dangerous?
Like any sport involving physical activity and equipment, street hockey carries some risk of injury. However, with proper protective gear and adherence to safety guidelines, these risks can be significantly minimized. Common injuries include scrapes and bruises from falls, but serious injuries are relatively rare, especially in recreational play.
What age can kids start playing street hockey?
Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can begin playing street hockey with age-appropriate equipment and supervision. Many sporting goods companies offer youth-sized sticks, lightweight balls, and protective gear designed specifically for young players. For very young children, using a softer ball and emphasizing basic skills over competitive play is recommended.
Do I need a team to play street hockey?
No, street hockey is versatile and can be enjoyed in various formats. While traditional team play is popular, you can also practice skills individually, play one-on-one, or create modified games for small groups. Many players start by simply shooting at a net or wall for practice before joining or organizing group games.
Last update 2025-05-31. Price and product availability may change.