What equipment should I buy next?

[SKW7194 0]

Very new to playing hockey.

Started learning to skate about 6 months ago and started taking beginner hockey lessons in the last week.

Thus far I have Bauer Vapor X40 skates, Bauer 4500 helmet and a cheap wooden Sherwood stick. For my lessons right now I'm required to have skates, stick, gloves and helmet and I've been using the loaner gloves they have at the rink.

Should I get my own gloves next, upgrade to a composite stick or look at something else entirely?

[rawkstar 45]

Do not bother with a composite stick.

Get your own gloves. Just something cheap, but at least you won't be covered with other people's sweat.

You're going to fall a lot, so get some protective equipment, I suggest shin pads and elbow pads at the very least. Pants and a cup would be good.

[cmflynn 16]

I'd look at elbow and shin pads next, you'll skate harder if you're not worried about falling and busting up your elbows or knees. Getting your own gloves will be nice but if you comfortable with the loaners use them as long as you can. I would start budgeting for new skates since you'll probably notice those X40's breaking down pretty quickly. As for the stick, I'd just keep using the woodie till it breaks unless you see a mid range stick on sale for cheap

[SKW7194 0]

I hadn't really thought about pads yet but that makes sense. I've definitely beat up my elbows more than once.

I knew the X40s were going to be a short term solution. I wanted to go a model or two higher but they were out of stock and I didn't want to spend another day in rental skates.

Thanks for the feedback guys! Much appreciated.

[lpgbackups 17]

my cooper elbow pads from the 60's or 70's...my uncle gave them to me during my very first season as an atom in 1994... still using it in today in beer league...love the smooth comfort and flexibility.

[flyers10 57]

Get protection first. With it you'll be able to push yourself more with no fear of getting hurt when falling. And you will a lot. Shins,elbows,pants,shoulders and cup. New stick should be your last purchase.

[FrankC1031 0]

If you have one in your area you should over to your local Play It again sports and grab some gear. I would focus on gloves, shins, & elbow pads. Maybe down the road grab some shock doctor cup compression shorts (supper comfortable and you barely feel the cup when you're skating). I would agree with everyone else that you should save the composite stick for last.

[SKW7194 0]

Just ordered elbow pads and shin guards.

Going to look into pants and gloves next, probably.