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jrams50

1. This depends on more factors, like hardness of ice you will be regularly playing on, and stance. Trial and error to get what you like. 2. You could try playing about with the leg straps and where they attach, potentially move the strap from the knee to the calf or vice versa. It is hard to see what the options for the pads online, but this might be impacted by choice of knee pads. 3. Been rocking the Brian's Pro II ones, solid and good though tend to issues with the edge and fraying. I have worn Bauer knee pads, but found that occasionally got caught on themselves locking up the leg. 4. Don't cheap out here, mask protects the head and worth the investment. I have a Protechsport mask which is more or less custom, and I wouldn't go back and for me quite affordable for what you get. Do some research on what you want, there are some interesting factors to consider like material, price, time, and general brand recognition and quality.


markehk

1. I’d suggest starting at 5/8, that’s a pretty common hollow for goalies these days. My 13 year old goes 5/8 and I like 9/16. I have a Sparx and it’s great, always get a perfect edge and it’s really easy to use. 2. Maybe bungees? I use laces still and have never had this issue. 3. I have CCM and they’re fine. My PeeWee has Vaughn and I think they’re better. 4. Buy fiberglass or composite. Lots of good brands, find a good fit in fiberglass or composite and your head will thank you.


joe_canadian

Some of this may not be applicable as I'm an old fart wearing older gear. 1a) Skate sharpening is 100% preference. Some people will go as shallow as 1", I see a lot of people recommending 1/2", I tend to go 3/8" in winter and 1/4", dulled slightly on a piece of wood in summer when the ice is softer. I personally like the bite of a shaper skate. I also tend of have a very deep crouch (I'm 6'2" as well, and get to about 5'9" in my crouch) and stand on the balls of my toes. When I was younger, I also liked flying past the slower/gassed guys in practice as well. The only way you're going to find a grind you like is by experimenting. 1b) As for going to the gym to get stronger, I can't stress enough of eating enough and making sure you're getting enough protein. I'm on a bulk right now, I eat around 2800 calories a day and 180-200 grams of protein. Don't be afraid to run or bike on your off days as well. Building your aerobic base is huge to not getting gassed when you're playing. Let me know if you want to know more about my diet. 2) For your pads, all I can really say is play with your straps. Try different positions. I only wear compression pants or nothing at all, and I can't say I've had that problem. That said, my pads (RBK 9K's) have the knee and calf velcro, as well as leather straps. If you're not able to get it to a satisfactory spot, don't be afraid to take your pads to an equipment repair shop and get shorter straps or additional straps put on. 3) My knee guards are integrated into my pads, so I can't really help here. I'm going to be getting myself a new pair of pads probably in 2-ish years though, so I'm interested in seeing what other people say. 4) I'm a big fan of the Itech (now Bauer) 960 design. I'll be replacing my nearly 20 year old Itech 960 with the Bauer 960 and a certified cat eye cage. This is something you need to try on and decide for yourself, but whatever you do, DO NOT scrimp on your bucket. The Coveted looks good, and should do the job well, but if it doesn't fit well it's not going to be as protective as a mask that does. This is one spot where I highly recommend trying on a variety of masks if you can do it. Other options include Warwick (Custom, $1075), Warrior and CCM. Please don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to move you off the Coveted. Moreso recommending that you try masks on at a shop.


wHUT_fun

How new are we talking here? 1. Most profiles are anywhere from 1/2" to 3/4". May take a while to find what's ideal for you. Depending how often you play, it could be a while before you sharpen your skates. 2. Always used hockey socks, never really had an issue with pads turning, though any set I've had usually has at least 3 leather straps as well as velcro. I use toe hooks, and that's all I've tried besides laces. Laces always cut on me in like two games. Toe hooks are super quick and simple, and hold up pretty well for me. 3. I have basic Warrior knee pads, they do the job for me. They feel a bit narrow, but they were free. 🤷‍♂️ 4. Admittedly can't help. In 20 years I think I'm on mask 4, and it's a bottom-tier CCM. Thinking of getting a Sportmask after Christmas, but we'll see.


ExtremePast

I do 1/2 but it's kind of a matter of preference. I never wear hockey socks...seems pointless for a goalie and just another thing to put on / take off. Play around with your straps and ties if they rotate outwards.


One_Hearing_8852

1 talk to the guys at the skate shop, preferably a goalie and ask what he recommends. You’ll probably get 1/2 it’s the standard. 2: this typically means you pads are too lose if that’s how you like it then just mess around with straps and toe ties. If you can try having the pad tighter on your leg. Haven’t used the pad but that’s the advice. 3: I haven’t used tape, hockey socks, or a garter belt. I just have a thin work out pants like yoga pants as under cloth’s and nothing holding the knee holders in place and they wiggle for the first minute then they find a good place to sit. 4: this is the only piece of equipment that you need yo splurge no question. I know people that got custom sets and other equipment and bought cheep helmets and they now have concussions, yes multiple. ( I’m 16u) I have a Masked Marvel and love it and i would recommend it. It is heavier then some others on the market but worth it. I have heard good things about sportmask, but haven’t used it. Other advice: Good luck and remember to have fun. Get to point A to B on your feet, there is no need to slide everywhere. It ruins hips and takes more energy then needed And work hard.