New Protective equipment.

[eric42434224 1]

I am slowly in the process of upgrading my equipment. I purchased all my gear online back in January when I wasnt sure if my new idea of playing hockey again was going to fly or not. I got it all for under $500. As you can imagine, some of the stuff wasnt that great. I am now thinking of replacing my protective gear. I have the Bauer Supreme Classic shoulder and elbow pads, and I really like the old-school style....but....I am seeing the lack of protection they offer. I block a lot of shots, and have some nasty welts from getting hit in the belly, and I have really hurt my elbows a couple times falling on the ice.

I have tried on new stuff at the LHS and it all seems the same. The fits are all OK, I just wonder about the protection, and mobility....as well as brands the LHS doesnt have which is mostly Bauer. Also, do you think the package deals for shins/elbow/shoulder pads are a good deal?

Any input or suggestions?

[DarkStar50 680]

Buy what fits and you are comfortable wearing with the level of protection you desire. Seems simple enough to me! :lol:

[lefty57 0]

Buy what fits and you are comfortable wearing with the level of protection you desire. Seems simple enough to me! :lol:

And there are plenty of reviews and posts regarding protective equipment on the site !

[Goonsquad 209]

Just remember more protection = bulkier fit.

[eric42434224 1]

Buy what fits and you are comfortable wearing with the level of protection you desire. Seems simple enough to me! :lol:

Of course I understand that, but the availability of equipment to try on is limited. I was just looking for some input from the members with experience or preferences.

For example, I see the Bauer pro defender series, and it doesnt "look" like the most protective, and it is the most expensive. Are they worth the money?

I have recieved invaluable experience form members here on skates, so I thought I would go back to the well.

[JR Boucicaut 3810]

Buy what fits and you are comfortable wearing with the level of protection you desire. Seems simple enough to me! :lol:

Of course I understand that, but the availability of equipment to try on is limited. I was just looking for some input from the members with experience or preferences.

For example, I see the Bauer pro defender series, and it doesnt "look" like the most protective, and it is the most expensive. Are they worth the money?

I have recieved invaluable experience form members here on skates, so I thought I would go back to the well.

There's 4 years worth of well.

[Chadd 916]

I block a lot of shots, and have some nasty welts from getting hit in the belly, and I have really hurt my elbows a couple times falling on the ice.Any input or suggestions?

You have a goalie, let him block the shots.

Seriously though, try things on now that you have some idea of what you like and dislike about your current equipment. If you can find something that meets your current needs from the local shops, go ahead and buy it. Don't worry about what other options may be out there IF there is something available that meets your needs. If you can't find anything locally, a road trip may be in order, assuming you want to try things on and not order blindly.