Gear Upgrade

[Wallzy41 9]

Here's My Current Gear, what should I upgrade if I make the team( Open Division, Double-A Schools in PIHL)?

Helmet: Itech HC95, Bauer 5100

Facial Prot.:Itech RBE VIII cage, RBE V shield

Throat Guard: Reebok 3k

Shoulder Pads: Cooper SP600

Elbow Pads: CCM* EP90 - Planning to Upgrade to 8k Pro's

Gloves: CCM V02, CCM Pro Tacks

Stick: Koho Torpedo, Sherwood 5030

Pants: Protex HP5000( CCM 652's rebranded)

Shins: Cooper SG650

Skate Boot: Bauer X:15(8.5d), One05(9.0R)

Skate Holder/Runner LSPro 272, LSPro280

[sickwilly 37]

I don't know much about the Itech lid you're currently using. Personally, I'd spend up to make sure I had a top of the line (and properly fitting) helmet/cage.

[Wallzy41 9]

It's my backup lid. I'm using the 5100/Shield in Rec League... and 5100/Cage everywhere else.

[sickwilly 37]

It might help to mention how much $$$ you have at your disposal, too. The 5100 lid looks like it might be pretty solid (missed that in the original post), then again, I've never used one and can't say for sure. For me, I'd be most comfortable knowing that I'm wearing the best head protection available. I'm probably biased because of my concussion history.

As for sticks, I might try out a nice 2-piece setup unless you're really attached to the 5030 or the Torpedo. It might help you get a little more on your shot than your current sticks. Again, I'm biased towards 2-piece setups vs OPS because you can change blades/patterns with less expense. There's a ton of great information and opinions on various sticks/setups in other threads already. You may also get some good suggestions in this topic if you add more info about your height, weight, position, experience/skill, shooting style, etc.

[Harv 86]

Open in PIHL AA?

Serra? Hampton?

[NYRSinceBirth 0]

The 5100 should be fine. I know plenty of kids/guys in that bucket that play contact and are fine, lots of pros too, it's very comfortable and not anbad helmet at all.

Not 100% on the shoulders or shins, but the 6k stuff can be found for a great price and offer great protection. The shins especially, near pro quality for an amazing price.

8k elbows are awesome from what I've heard and I believe the Giant has some in stock.

Again, not too sure inthe pants, is it a mid level pant? Some Tacla's or higher end Bauers (from personal experience) play very well, and I've heard great things from the Hustlers.

If you like woodies, you can't go wrong with 5030's, and as I only use 2 pieces, I'll second the suggestion. F you want to try an affordable OPS the X40 and Dolo's are great choices. But stick feel is totally personal so it's really a matter of you trying them out and see what fits you best.

You might want gloves with decent protection: R8s and Bauer Pro 4 Rolls offer great protection, are affordable. The fit and preference on fit might become an issue, but top end Eagles with MSH2 offer very thin palms with durabilty so try a few of those on if you have the money.

Lastly, and possibly most importantly for you, is to invest in a good pair of skates. You're skates are low end and might not last the rigors of a season. Find what fits, then get the best you can afford. The LSPro Does not allow for the replacement of steel which can limit the runner's lifetime (if you sharpen often) or take a shot off the foot/holder. The main thing is to find what fits: forget brand loyalty or preference, get whatever fits best (whatever company that is) and get them. Try and shoot for a mid/higher end product inthis department, the fit/support/and hopefully durability will be there for you.

[epstud74 24]

How do you just go out for HS hockey? dang ha

[TBLfan 25]

Everything sounds fine to me BUT, I'd consider upgrading the elbows(as you plan to) and strongly consider new shin pads. The shoulder pads are really whatever you prefer, if I was in a checking league I'd be wearing Bauer Supreme Classic shoulders... so if you think you're fine there, then I wouldn't try to push you towards buying anywhere else.

I wouldn't wear the V02 gloves in those games. Just use your Pro Tacks if you can, those will be fine.

The pants are fine, 652 and up are tanks. A 652 pant is more protective than anything Bauer offers.

[DarkStar50 680]

Save some $ and plan to spend at least $200+ on a good pair of skates. the skates you have now will put you at a disadvantage against a player of similar skills to yours wearing better skates than what you currently own. Stiffer, stronger skates with more support will help you become a better skater. The two most important pieces of equipment are at the top and bottom of your body. Your helmet is fine for now. Your current skates should be replaced.

[SirJW 207]

Hold off on gloves, pants and helmet til you make the team and find out the color rules, your team may have a deal or even give them to you.

[Jarick 5]

Definitely the skates, I can't imagine you get too much support or life out of those.

[CharlesC 0]

I would look at getting skates for sure. You should also possibly look into your shoulder and shin pads (shoulder pads definitely if it's a full contact league).