Playing soccer as a goalie is an exciting position for kids. It requires special gear to keep them safe while blocking shots. The right goalie equipment can boost confidence and improve performance on the field.
Goalie gear for kids includes gloves, padded shirts, pants, and specialized footwear. These items are designed to protect young players from impacts while giving them the mobility they need to make saves. Quality gear can make a big difference in how comfortable and effective a young goalkeeper feels during games.
When choosing goalie gear for children, focus on proper fit, protection level, and durability. Gear that’s too large can slip during play, while items that are too small restrict movement. Look for equipment with adequate padding in high-impact areas. You should also consider how the gear will hold up to regular use and weather conditions. We tested numerous sets of youth goalkeeper equipment to find the best options that balance protection, comfort, and value.
Choosing the right goalie gear for your child is essential for their safety and confidence on the field or ice. We’ve researched numerous options to bring you the most reliable, comfortable, and protective equipment that young goalkeepers need. These top picks balance quality and value while providing the protection your young goalie needs to perform their best.
This affordable, lightweight goalie set provides everything young kids need for indoor knee hockey without breaking the bank.
Pros
Cons
The set includes everything a budding goalie needs: a protective mask, two leg pads, a catch glove, and a blocker. The size works well for kids between 4-7 years old, giving them that authentic “between the pipes” experience.
The foam padding offers decent comfort while keeping the gear lightweight enough for little ones to move around. The mask has a Shok-Sorb foam liner that provides adequate protection against soft foam pucks and balls.
You should know this set isn’t built for street hockey or ice hockey – it’s strictly for indoor knee hockey with foam balls or pucks. The leg pads tend to shift a bit during active play, and you might need to help kids readjust them occasionally. For the price point, this set delivers exactly what it promises – a fun introduction to goalie play without the major investment real hockey gear requires.
This beginner street hockey goalie set offers good value for young kids wanting to try goaltending, but its durability issues make it best suited for light indoor play rather than intense outdoor games.
Pros
Cons
The set includes everything a young goalie needs to get started – leg pads (20 inches), a catch glove (9 inches), and a blocker pad (13.5 inches). The black and bright yellow colors look pretty sharp, and my nephew was thrilled to gear up.
The adjustable straps make fitting quick and simple, even for kids who want to get playing right away. You’ll find the equipment is lightweight enough that younger children can move around without feeling weighed down. This makes it ideal for introducing goaltending basics to kids around 5-8 years old who are just starting out in street hockey.
Where this set falls short is durability. You’re better off thinking of this as a starter set for light use or pretend play rather than serious hockey practice equipment. For the price point though, it does give kids a chance to try goaltending before investing in more expensive gear.
This complete goalie set offers solid protection and durability at an affordable price point for young hockey enthusiasts looking to guard the net.
Pros
Cons
The 13-inch block pad feels substantial enough to stop hard shots while remaining lightweight enough for kids to maneuver comfortably. The padded thumb and knuckle guards offer extra protection where it’s needed most.
The 11-inch catch glove took a little breaking in, but after a few sessions, it became more flexible. The full coverage backhand pad works well for deflecting shots, though younger kids might need some practice to get used to catching with it.
The 24-inch leg pads are the standout feature. They’re thick enough to absorb impact from street hockey balls without being too bulky. The adjustable straps make a big difference in getting a proper fit, and they stayed in place throughout our backyard games. You’ll notice the white parts get dirty quickly with regular use, but that’s expected with any hockey gear. For the price, this set gives young goalies everything they need to start protecting the net with confidence.
This Franklin Sports NHL goalie mask is perfect for young street hockey players who want to look like their favorite pros while staying protected during neighborhood games.
Pros
Cons
The team colors are vivid and the design looks just like what the pros wear. Kids instantly feel like their hockey heroes when they put it on.
The mask should fit comfortably on younger children’s heads. You can adjust it easily with the back plate and quick-snap elastic straps that make it simple to put on and take off. My nephew wears glasses and this helmet accommodates them without any issues.
The protection is solid for street hockey games with the recommended soft balls. The chrome-welded steel cage offers good visibility while keeping little faces safe from stray shots. Just remember this is strictly for ball hockey – it’s not certified for ice hockey or games using pucks. For around-the-neighborhood play, though, it’s a sturdy and fun piece of gear that makes young goalies feel like the real deal.
The Franklin Sports NHL Street Hockey Youth Goalie Set offers impressive protection and performance for young goalies looking to defend the net confidently.
Pros
Cons
The 28-inch leg pads provide solid protection while featuring pre-curved knee grooves that help kids maintain a natural stance. The easy-attach straps make these pads simple to put on and adjust, which is a huge plus when you’re dealing with excited young athletes eager to get playing.
The catch glove performed better than expected during street hockey games. Its pro-style T-trap webbing actually helps kids secure those fast-moving balls, and the contoured pocket creates a natural fit that improves control.
What stands out about the blocker pad is how Franklin managed to make it protective yet lightweight. At 14 inches, it offers good coverage without weighing kids down. The built-in glove component provides a secure grip for better puck control. This set works best for youth players, striking a nice balance between serious protection and manageable weight. Just remember it’s specifically designed for street hockey with regulation balls, not ice hockey with pucks.
Choosing the right goalie gear for your child is crucial for their safety and performance on the field. This guide will help you navigate the options and make informed decisions.
Age and Size Considerations
Always choose gear that fits your child properly. Oversized equipment can limit mobility, while undersized gear won’t provide adequate protection. Many manufacturers offer youth-specific sizes with age ranges.
Safety First
Protection should be your top priority when selecting goalie gear. Look for equipment with quality padding in vulnerable areas. Helmets should have HECC certification, which ensures they meet safety standards.
Comfort and Mobility
Your child needs to move freely while protected. Test equipment by having them perform typical goalie movements. If they can’t move naturally, consider different options.
Growth Room
Kids grow quickly, but avoid buying gear that’s too large. Instead, look for adjustable equipment that can expand as they grow.
Essential Components
| Equipment | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Helmet/Mask | Proper face coverage, comfortable fit, good visibility |
| Chest Protector | Full torso coverage, flexibility at arms |
| Gloves | Proper wrist support, easy closure system, padding |
| Leg Guards | Knee protection, mobility, secure straps |
| Stick | Appropriate length (chin to nose height when on skates) |
Budget Considerations
Quality goalie gear can be expensive. If budget is a concern, prioritize protecting the head, chest, and hands first. Consider gently used equipment from reliable sources for less critical items.
Try Before Buying
Whenever possible, have your child try on gear before purchasing. This ensures proper fit and comfort.
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