Gear Suggestions for Total newbie Goalie (Mostly Roller)

[gokings55 0]

Hi Everyone,

I've played roller hockey for about 10 years, strictly recreation. I play in a 30 and over men's league. I want to start goaltending. I'll mainly play roller on sport court but may play ice from time to time. I may not even stick with goalie but want to play a few seasons before I retire and hang up my skates. I rather not go the used route.

I'm about 5'11" and heavy set. My ankle to knee measurement is 18 inches. I plan on buying closeout gear from either monkey or giant. I would greatly appreciate suggestions on best bang for my use. My budget is about 800-1000 for everything but skates. I was thinking maybe the Vapor xx's or xxx's for pads, and have no idea about sizing. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[skooled 0]

monkey has a great set of CCM V6 pads in a 35" that would be great for you. I was going to grab a set, then got my eagles for a steal!!! they are also +1" in the thigh, so will help you fill that 5-hole!!!

[camhockey16 5]

the biggest determining factor should be if you play in a puck league or ball league - i assume you play in a puck league?

[TBLfan 25]

The most important piece of equipment here is your mask. My best advice is to not buy an itech if you're looking to save money. The best bang for your buck mask is a NXI phantom. If you can find a refurb you might get an awesome deal, depending on what level you plan on playing I might even have one for you.

They go for about $350 now, but you can find refurbs for less. Theres one in ok condition on ebay for under $100 but you'd need to get a new cage.

I'd also recommend getting pad covers to save some life of your pads. I know you dont want used equipment but used but in good condition pads can definitely be had for a lot less than retail. My buddy got a pair of velos IIs for $250 over a year ago that were in great condition, he got them from the goaliestore forums.

[DCott 0]

The best bang for your buck mask is a NXI phantom. If you can find a refurb you might get an awesome deal, depending on what level you plan on playing I might even have one for you.

They go for about $350 now, but you can find refurbs for less. Theres one in ok condition on ebay for under $100 but you'd need to get a new cage.

agreed, the NXI is a fantastic mask. Lightweight and very tough. I've had mine for about 7-8 years now(for ice), not a single crack, chip or dent, even in the cage. Haven't had to replace any straps, clips or padding either. That thing is a tank.

I would also recommend goalie skates if you really plan on getting into it. Playing on skater skates is impossible for me (or maybe its just on wheels in general), and the low profile chassis and lo cut boot will help alot.

[gokings55 0]

Thanks for the replies so far. I would be playing with a puck, mainly sonic pucks, for roller I'll always play on sport court and pick up ice hockey from time to time.

I'll be ordering soon since my league starts in about two weeks and I'd like to go to pick a few times to practice.

I am considering the CCM V6's since they seem to be my size and I like the thigh rise for covering the 5 hole. do the Vapor XX pads also have a + thigh rise?

I also asked our regular goalie today and he said don't get a bulky chest protector because it restricts movement, but more padding seems good to me, what do you guys think?

[camhockey16 5]

if you are playing with a puck i wouldn't mess around with getting any type of roller pads - i would try to buy some cheaper ice pads because they will protect you alot better.

as far as the chest protector goes - i think its up to you - would you rather have the extra protection while you are getting used to playing goalie or do you want less protection but be able to move a little easier?

[vision 0]

Until, and if, NXi can get it's act together, I'd recommend steering clear of them. Unless you are able to find what you want on somebody's shelf and are comfortable with the possibility that you will have no ability to get the shell fixed or components for it. It's sad as the masks themselves are very good values, especially for the price.

::m

[nyrmetros 0]

my friend is also looking to get into being a golie for roller hockey. we play outdoors on a nyc asphaukt rink. We were able to borrow the leg pads, chest protector, blocker and glove from another goalie who had left over gear just sitting in his garage. I figure my friend needs a goalie helmet, throat protector, goalie shorts, and a stick. He does not know how to skate yet so he will be playing on foot to start off.

We need the cheapest $$ equipment possible. Used is fine, except for the helmet. would a cheap itech street hockey helmet be ok. We use propucks in our games. I don't have the physical dimensions on my friend with me, can find out a bit later.

[vision 0]

Are your heads cheap? If the answer is yes, then you should go with a street hockey mask. In other words, don't skimp in this area. You can find a number of masks in the mid-200 dollar range that will serve your needs well. To be honest, a used mask can be a good value if, and only if, the seller can provide you with the history and if you are prepared, if necessary, to refurbish the mask which can be as simple as replacing the existing foam, either with new foam or something better.

::m

[nyrmetros 0]

Are your heads cheap? If the answer is yes, then you should go with a street hockey mask. In other words, don't skimp in this area. You can find a number of masks in the mid-200 dollar range that will serve your needs well. To be honest, a used mask can be a good value if, and only if, the seller can provide you with the history and if you are prepared, if necessary, to refurbish the mask which can be as simple as replacing the existing foam, either with new foam or something better.

::m

well, seems that my friend just bought a used itech players helmet from our LHS for $20. It has the cage and ear guards. He thinks that will be good enough untill some more $ comes his way. Next is the throat guard and a goalie stick. He doesn't think he will need hockey/goalie shorts/pants.... he still needs to get a cup. any thoughts?

[DasGoalie 0]

mission makes pads specifically for roller hockey and i picked up a pair for my roller league and ive never been happier. they do not stick to the court like traditional synthetic leather pads, they are much MUCH lighter and they were $199 for a middle of the road pad-everything i was looking for.

[nyrmetros 0]

any suggestions for a a cheap $ roller hockey goalie stick? keep in mind we use propucks....