The right fit for a Player Shin GuardUpdated 10 months ago

Important Things To Consider:

• Age, Height and Weight
• Level of Play
• Distance Between the Middle of the Kneecap and top of your Skate

When choosing a shin pad, the first thing to consider is whether you will wear it over the skate tongue or if the tongue will be in front of the pad. This determines the length you need. 

Your knee should fit in the center of the kneecap, which is usually padded for comfort and guidance. Once the pad is strapped on, it should be snug and secure, without twisting or rotating. There are many strapping options available, so you need to decide what you like best. Some models come with anchor straps or thicker straps that provide a more secure fit. Anchor straps are stretchy and are fastened above or below the calf muscle to keep the pad in place. Thicker straps across the calf wrap/guard provide full protection and ensure that the calf guard reaches across your leg.

Remember, as the price increases, you typically get more adjustments, options, and higher density foams and technologies. So, choose a shin pad that fits your budget and offers the features and comfort you require.

Sizing A Shin Pad Over Top Of Your Skate Tongue:

To properly size a shin pad when fitting it over the top of your skate tongue, measure the length of your leg (in inches) from the middle of your knee cap, when it is bent at a 90 degree angle, to the top of the boot of the skate. Once you have this measurement, round the number up to the next whole number (for example, 13.2” becomes 14”). Since the shin pad is sitting over the skate tongue, it allows you to wear a slightly larger pad without compromising your mobility. This is usually seen as an advantage because it provides extra protection to areas like the tongue of your skate. If you are sizing a player and want to allow for growth room, we recommend this method as well, as it permits the use of a larger pad while still maintaining motion and mobility.

Sizing A Shin Pad Underneath Your Skate Tongue:

To size a shin pad correctly when fitting under the top of your skate tongue, measure the length (in inches) of your leg from the middle of your knee cap, when it is bent at a 90 degree angle, to the top of the boot of the skate. Once you have this measurement, round the number down to the next whole number (i.e. 13.5” becomes 13”). Because the shin pad is shipping underneath the skate tongue, the pad will not be able to sit right against the edge of the skate and thus a slightly shorter shin pad is used. If a shin pad that is too big is tried on, you will notice that the shin pad is shifted up and the kneecap falls out of the designated spot. If this happens your shin and knee will not be properly protected and you are more susceptible to having your shin pad rotate or more as well.

Compare your height, weight and age to the charts provided to find your best fit. As well, use the measurement that was taken above to compare to the provided charts. Another good estimation is to look at your old/existing shin pads to see what size they are. If you are growing and have outgrown them, then next size up is probably for you. If you liked the way your shin pads felt, it may be smart to continue with the same size.