bartolomeo1021 0 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 Hello,I am currently picking up ice hockey as an adult after playing simple street hockey as a kid and have some questions on gear and such.1. would you recommend a cage versus a full visor and why/why not?2. I'm usually a fan of you get what you pay for but was curious to know if I would be wasting my money getting mid-upper level protection gear when I plan on playing in a non checking adult learning league?Thank you,Bart Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Vuronov 18 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 Hi, welcome to the board and to ice hockey!This is, of course, just my 2 cents but as to yours questions:1. First, what do you mean by a full visor? Are you referring to a half-shield or a full plastic mask (like a half-shield with a plastic bottom grill attached? Regardless, I personally prefer a cage. Yes, the visibility is less than a half-shield or no shield at all (especially when the puck gets stuck around my feet) but once you get used to it you mostly forget it's even there and the airflow is much better for me and the protection and weight is superior IMHO.The most important thing to me though is safety and the cage does perfectly in that department. We don't get paid to play and lord knows our dental/medical bills won't be handled by a team, so I prefer to take zero risks. It's like what my dad used to say about driving, "just cause you're safe doesn't mean everyone else will be." and it's the accidental stick or elbow that seems to happen more often in my experience than any thing intentional.2. First question is how serious are you about pursuing ice hockey? Ideally, I'd recommend borrowing some gear that fits and seeing just how you take to the game on ice before putting down any real money. That way, if you decide that ice isn't for you you're not out $. Now if you decide this ice thing really is for you, I'd recommend getting mid-level gear from the previous model year which can usually be found at a good discount. If you have a hockey store nearby, try everything and mix and match gear that FITS best for your body. That way you can end up with good gear that's adequate to the level you're playing at at an affordable price!But be forewarned, if you stick with ice hockey, and expecially if you become a regular in these forums...be prepared to start wanting to shell out for the bling :-P Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
romdj 26 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 I'd recommend that you get the heavy duty protection for stuff like pants and shins (it will improve your skating as you won't be afraid to fall) as for the upper body, I don't know that's more of a personal preference thing. Between a cage and visor, get a cage, you'll have good visibility and better protection, you never know in beginner leagues with pucks elevating all over the place, high sticks etc etc... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IPv6Freely 2100 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 Cage, no question. When I started, I had way too many close calls with sticks and pucks. Especially in lower levels, it can get pretty bad with people having no control over their sticks or their shots.For the gear, I went one step above bottom of the line for most of it, since I wasn't sure if Id like it and keep playing. You can gradually replace pieces as you get better and get more serious.Don't skimp on your helmet, your cup, and your pants. Helmet and cup for obvious reasons, and for your pants, make sure you get something with good tailbone protection. Everything else you can probably go for lower end at first. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bartolomeo1021 0 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 When I said full visor I was talking about thishttp://www.playersbench.com/store/1033720%21BAUE/BAUER+CONCEPT+II+SRWhen I played football I used to wear a clear visor and never had any real issues with the ventilation and honestly was more curious as to if it's simply a cosmetic thing with the cage vs. full shield. I'm very serious about hockey, it's something I've wanted to do for the last 8 years but never could due to my schedule being too full. I guess some of my fear with purchasing the more pricey gear is being looked at as the new guy who has gear that he hasn't earned if you understand what I'm saying. Luckily I live close to players bench and they've been quite helpful with my skate purchase but I wanted to get some additional opinions before I take the plunge and completely outfit myself. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
IPv6Freely 2100 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 When I said full visor I was talking about thishttp://www.playersbe...R CONCEPT II SRWhen I played football I used to wear a clear visor and never had any real issues with the ventilation and honestly was more curious as to if it's simply a cosmetic thing with the cage vs. full shield. I'm very serious about hockey, it's something I've wanted to do for the last 8 years but never could due to my schedule being too full. I guess some of my fear with purchasing the more pricey gear is being looked at as the new guy who has gear that he hasn't earned if you understand what I'm saying. Luckily I live close to players bench and they've been quite helpful with my skate purchase but I wanted to get some additional opinions before I take the plunge and completely outfit myself.I understand where you're coming from. I'm sure there are plenty of people, even on my team, who think im a dumbass for always having new gear and sticks. Especially now that I've started buying stuff like gloves that match our jerseys. Frankly, I just don't care what they think. I buy what I like and can afford. Buying low end stuff because you're on a budget is fine, but buying low end stuff just so you don't get chirped is ridiculous.If you're comfortable with a full face shield like the one you linked to, by all means use it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Chadd 916 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 I would go with a cage, better airflow, more durable and way cheaper to replace. I would suggest not going too high end with your gear as most guys tend to replace their first set of gear within the first year or two as your develop preferences in your gear. Make sure your helmet and skates fit properly, that is crucial.As long as you aren't bragging about having high end gear, people aren't going to say anything, or care for the most part. Get the stuff that feels the most comfortable to you. You're lucky that you have a shop with a good selection near you, not everyone has that luxury. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wrangler 157 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 Choose your gear for protection and mobility, not based on what others may think.As to cage vs. shield, it's pretty much the obvious stuff. The cage blocks some of your vision. The plastic shield can fog, scratch, and inhibit ventilation. Fogging may differ from your football experience, based on temperature and humidity differences. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kessel'sOversizedSuit 18 Report post Posted July 4, 2012 I wear the bauer HLC Half Shield, which is essentially the half visor version of the Concept II you've linked to. The one thing I would say is that my visor does tend to fog up pretty regularly in spite of the fact that I spray it with some anti-fog practically before every use. I'm always having to bring a towel to the bench to wipe it so I can see. It's not as bad as the RBE (which was ridiculously bad) but still bad enough that I need a towel. The point I'm trying to make here is that it's annoying to have to wipe it all the time. However, if I had to undo straps and lift the whole thing up to wipe it every time (which you'd have to do with the Concept II) that would send me right over the edge. Maybe you don't care about that, but I would.If I was going for full face protection, I'd be considering a cage for sure. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TheProfessor 2 Report post Posted July 6, 2012 Cage all the way. Like Kessel said, it is a pain in the ass to wipe off sweat and fog every shift. And eventually ,it will get scratched up.Search the forums and find pants that offer a good amount of protection for hips and tailbone, so you won't be afraid of falling. I also like to go mid to upper shins so I get the added protection for the side of the knee.Good luck, find a team that you have fun playing with! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
chippa13 1844 Report post Posted July 6, 2012 My advice on the gear is to go with closeout gear. You'll be able to go a little higher end for the same or less money as current mid/upper level gear and get the same or better protection. Remember, beginners fall a lot and you'll be happier that you went for a little better protection/comfort than if you cheaped out. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Andoy 5 Report post Posted July 6, 2012 For beginners a proper fitting helmet, skates, and pants is what I found what helped me when i picked up ice hockey back in highschool. Compared to other sports hockey is a lot harder to pickup because your body is going through movement it is not accustomed to - it resulted in a lot of bruises at the hip and tailbone from falls. So on top of the suggestions here I'd suggested getting a pair of proper pants. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rightfield 0 Report post Posted July 9, 2012 1. It's a personal preference thing but I highly recommend a cage. Cages are low maintence and doesn't fog. Can't go wrong with a CCM 480fm or the newer 580fm.2. Stick with relatively low cost gear underneath your jersey i.e sherwood shin pads and shoulder pads, Reebok 4k Elbow Pads. Splurge on a nice pair of 4 roll hockey gloves (Warrior Franchises, Bauer Pro 4-Roll, etc etc), pick up a nice pair of Tack pants and pick up a respectable helmet like a Bauer 4500. Buy wooden sticks with various flexes, curves and lie and figure out what works for you. If I had to do all over again I would of done it like this instead of going all out on gear. You'll end up changing it up once you figure out what works for you. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bartolomeo1021 0 Report post Posted July 10, 2012 1. It's a personal preference thing but I highly recommend a cage. Cages are low maintence and doesn't fog. Can't go wrong with a CCM 480fm or the newer 580fm.2. Stick with relatively low cost gear underneath your jersey i.e sherwood shin pads and shoulder pads, Reebok 4k Elbow Pads. Splurge on a nice pair of 4 roll hockey gloves (Warrior Franchises, Bauer Pro 4-Roll, etc etc), pick up a nice pair of Tack pants and pick up a respectable helmet like a Bauer 4500. Buy wooden sticks with various flexes, curves and lie and figure out what works for you. If I had to do all over again I would of done it like this instead of going all out on gear. You'll end up changing it up once you figure out what works for you.I've read a little bit about lie, flex, the toe and heel and some of the other ways to tweak a stick and was wondering if there is one feature that is more controlling when contributing to the stick's style of play? I was also curious what the point of the pattern on the face of the stick is for if it just get covered up with tape? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ibeck 38 Report post Posted July 10, 2012 If you really want a visor that doesn't fog, try finding the pro oakley one that lots of pro players use. This things do NOT fog at all on the ice. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
kovalchuk71 212 Report post Posted July 10, 2012 I've read a little bit about lie, flex, the toe and heel and some of the other ways to tweak a stick and was wondering if there is one feature that is more controlling when contributing to the stick's style of play? I was also curious what the point of the pattern on the face of the stick is for if it just get covered up with tape?Pattern = Curve of the stick. There is not a literal "pattern" on the face of the blade. Just an interchangeable name. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ktang 34 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 You can try used gear, too. It will give some of the gear whores an excuse to re-acquire. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kessel'sOversizedSuit 18 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 I've read a little bit about lie, flex, the toe and heel and some of the other ways to tweak a stick and was wondering if there is one feature that is more controlling when contributing to the stick's style of play? I was also curious what the point of the pattern on the face of the stick is for if it just get covered up with tape?As Kovalchuk71 says above, a stick's "pattern" refers to the lie and curve of the blade. Every pattern has different advantages and some will suit your style while others won't. That is why it's a good idea to start with wood sticks with various patterns. You never know what you'll like (or not) until you try. So it makes sense to experiment with a low cost stick. I've been playing for three years now, and I'm still not fully decided on a pattern, although I'm starting to learn what I don't like. Progress!When you talk specifically about a pattern on the blade that will get covered up by tape, I'm wondering if you're referring to the Reebok 6k/9k/11k blades? If so, the dimples on those blades are supposed to provide strength or something, but I don't buy it. I have a 9k, and once it's taped, the dimples are a not factor in that they don't provide any texture that would improve grip or anything like that. They're not supposed to in any event according to the corporate babble. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bartolomeo1021 0 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 As Kovalchuk71 says above, a stick's "pattern" refers to the lie and curve of the blade. Every pattern has different advantages and some will suit your style while others won't. That is why it's a good idea to start with wood sticks with various patterns. You never know what you'll like (or not) until you try. So it makes sense to experiment with a low cost stick. I've been playing for three years now, and I'm still not fully decided on a pattern, although I'm starting to learn what I don't like. Progress!When you talk specifically about a pattern on the blade that will get covered up by tape, I'm wondering if you're referring to the Reebok 6k/9k/11k blades? If so, the dimples on those blades are supposed to provide strength or something, but I don't buy it. I have a 9k, and once it's taped, the dimples are a not factor in that they don't provide any texture that would improve grip or anything like that. They're not supposed to in any event according to the corporate babble.No I didn't realize pattern was the lie and curve Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rightfield 0 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 I've read a little bit about lie, flex, the toe and heel and some of the other ways to tweak a stick and was wondering if there is one feature that is more controlling when contributing to the stick's style of play? I was also curious what the point of the pattern on the face of the stick is for if it just get covered up with tape?I think Lie and Flex are your most important factors because they are related when it comes to stick length.If you're cutting your stick, you'll need to check if your Lie is correct once you cut your stick. Note, once you cut your stick, you're increasing the Flex so it's probably best to get a lower Flex stick if you're planning to cut it.Once you get that sorted out, then on to the fun stuff, Blade Patterns. They all have their strengths and weakness. Bauer has a great summary of what each different curve can do and all the companies sell the same pattern but different names and codes (minus the door jam special).http://www.bauer.com/gear/player/sticks Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
akravetz 29 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 hi, I am a relative newbie having been playing nearly every week for the past two years. That's when I started two years ago. I say what these guys are saying, borrow gear at first if you can, see what you like and then buy. Cage all the way. I have one and honestly, once you get used to it, I have no blocked vision. I just see right through it and often, during a game, don't know it is there. Pants are key. Get some that have a good tailbone protection. I have an old TPS pair which I got from a friend and they have great butt protection. Honestly, when I started to play, I needed it a lot more than I do now. I would also invest more in elbow pads and shin guards than shoulder pads or a stick. I know, you need a stick to shoot but if you are just starting, any stick is going to do as you are going to learn how to use that stick and it will be fine as it is yours. Falling down sucks and taking pucks off the shins sucks even more. It's part of the game but week after week of getting hit, well, it hurts. (I play defense so I am trying to get in the way of shots). I echo also what someone said, don't skimp on a helmet. Skates and Helmet, I would say, are the most important thing. Good luck and have fun. It's a great sport. I only wish I had started younger. Andy in Peoria Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
black hills tj 5 Report post Posted July 11, 2012 Some good advice in here. I just recently started playing as well. I'd say that the one thing you shouldn't skimp out on is skates. If your skates are not comfortable, your feet are going to hurt, and the game won't be enjoyable. Next would probably be a helmet. Find one that fits right and is comfortable. Having a headache after warmups because there is a goofy spot in a helmet that seems to hit that tiny little pressure point on your head sucks. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bartolomeo1021 0 Report post Posted July 12, 2012 What's a good rule of thumb for break in time on skates? I had mine baked and they are pretty comfy but I've noticed that I get pretty sore after awhile and occasionally my feet hurt for the first 5 minutes or so after I take them off. is this normal? I expected my feet to hurt from the muscles getting into shape but I don't really know what is the difference between a break in period and a poorly fitting skate Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
black hills tj 5 Report post Posted July 12, 2012 I honestly couldn't tell you, sorry. I haven't got a new set of skates in a while. I don't go through skates very fast. The set of vapors I'm in now wasn't baked when I got them years ago. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kessel'sOversizedSuit 18 Report post Posted July 12, 2012 If your skates fit well and were baked, they should be like gloves within 5-10 of hours of on ice time. That's been my experience. But then, I'm in a more mid-level boot (One70) so I haven't had to deal with the ultra stiff boots which I understand some guys on here wear around the house for a month before skating. I don't know how they can wait! lol. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites