If you’ve ever watched your kid waddle across the locker room tugging at their hockey pants, you’ve probably wondered—how should Hockey Pants fit? The truth is, getting the right fit for hockey pants is a delicate balance between protection and mobility.
Too loose, and they’ll sag, leaving key areas exposed. Too tight, and your player might skate like they’re in a denim straight jacket. And if you’re relying on suspenders to hold everything together, you’re not alone—hockey suspenders are a secret weapon in many parents’ gear arsenal.
Whether you’re strapping in a Mite or managing the growth spurts of a Bantam, understanding how hockey pants should fit can make all the difference in performance and safety.
From Bauer’s tailored girdles to CCM’s tried-and-true Tacks, each brand offers unique fits and features, and sometimes the humble suspender is the final piece of the puzzle. Let’s break down the essentials, from sizing to the best accessories to keep those pants in place—because nothing ruins a breakaway like pants falling to your knees.
Understanding the importance of a proper fit helps in choosing the right pants. Whether you’re an experienced player or a beginner, knowing how to pick the right pants is crucial.
The Fundamentals of Hockey Pant Fit
Getting the right fit in hockey pants is key for both performance and safety. It doesn’t matter if you’re new or have been playing for years. Knowing how hockey pants should fit can greatly impact your game – and I have found this has changed over time as my son grew.
You want pants that protect you well and don’t get in the way of your movements.
There are many types of hockey pants out there, from brands like CCM, Bauer, STX and Warrior. Each brand has its own special features and fit. For instance, CCM pants are known for being durable and comfy. Bauer pants, on the other hand, are light and flexible.
When picking out hockey pants, there are a few things to think about:
- Waist size and fit
- Knee length and protection
- Thigh and hip padding
- Flexibility and mobility
By focusing on these points and picking the right pants, you can play better and stay safe. Next, we’ll look at the important measurements for hockey pants and how to get a good fit.
How Should Hockey Pants Fit?
1. Why the Right Fit Matters
- Protection: Properly fitting pants cover the hips, thighs, kidneys, and tailbone.
- Mobility: Pants shouldn’t restrict movement – think full crossovers and deep knee bends.
- Comfort: Ill-fitting pants = distracted player. We don’t need that.
2. The Basics of Hockey Pant Fit
- Waist: Snug, but not so tight it feels like Thanksgiving dinner aftermath.
- Length: Overlaps the top of the shin guards by about ½ inch.
- Hips & Thighs: Padding should line up with the natural curves—no gaps or “floaty” sections.
- Spine/Tailbone: The spine guard should align with the small of the back, staying tucked in when bent over.
3. Quick Fit Test (Locker Room Style)
- Have the player squat like they’re tying their skates.
- Watch for gaps between the pants and shin guards or exposed lower back.
- Ask them to skate or mimic strides – if they can’t move, the pants are too tight.
4. Hockey Pant Options by Brand
| Brand | Fit Type | Best For | Notable Feature | Adjustability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCM Tacks AS580 | Traditional, roomy fit | All-around protection | Molded spine + thigh guards | 1-inch length extension |
| Bauer ACP Elite | Close-to-body (girdle) | Players preferring mobility | Lightweight, molded foam padding | Velcro closures for custom fit |
| Warrior Covert | Tapered, flexible | Mobility + speed | High-density foam, sleek design | Internal belt system |
| STX Surgeon | Precision fit | Fast, agile players | Ventilated liner for moisture | Adjustable girdle-style legs |
How Should Hockey Pants Fit: Essential Measurements
To find the right fit for hockey pants, you need to know the key measurements. A sizing guide can help you get the perfect fit. This ensures you’re safe and perform well on the ice. You should measure your waist, inseam, and thigh size.
Major Brands and Their Fit Characteristics
Different brands offer unique features and fit profiles. Here are some popular options:
CCM Super Tacks AS1
Known for high-density foam padding, these pants provide excellent protection for the hips, thighs, and kidneys. They offer a snug fit that contours to the body, enhancing mobility.
Bauer Vapor 2X Pro
Designed for elite players, these pants feature a tapered fit, offering a close-to-the-body feel. They are lightweight yet provide robust protection, with an adjustable waist for a customized fit.
Warrior Covert QRE 20 Pro
These pants are designed for players seeking a balance between lightweight protection and mobility. They feature high-density foam padding and an adjustable liner system for a custom fit.
STX Surgeon RX 2.1
Ideal for players looking for a precision fit, these pants offer high-density foam protection in key impact zones and a ventilated liner for moisture management.
Easton Stealth S3
Featuring a poly-rib insert with single-density foam, these pants provide protection and flexibility. They are lightweight, making them suitable for players seeking enhanced mobility.
Tips for Fitting and Choosing the Right Pants
- Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, have your child try on the pants with their full gear, including shoulder and shin pads, to ensure compatibility and comfort. Pure Hockey
- Consider Growth: For youth players, consider pants with adjustable features or sizing systems that can accommodate growth, ensuring longevity and continued protection.
- Check for Mobility: Have your child perform typical on-ice movements, such as squatting or skating strides, to ensure the pants do not restrict their range of motion.
- Consult Sizing Charts: Each brand may have slight variations in sizing. Refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart and measure your child’s waist and height accurately to select the appropriate size. The Hockey Depot
Before my son just switched from the Bauer Supreme ACP Elite Ice Hockey Girdle (which he loved for the functionality of being able to take on and off quickely is designed for competitive players seeking a close-to-the-body fit that enhances mobility without compromising protection. He just switched to the CCM AS 580 – which he loves for the padding.
Key Features of the Bauer Supreme ACP Elite Girdle:
- Protection: Equipped with molded plastic and standard foam in key impact areas, including the hips, thighs, spine, and kidneys, ensuring comprehensive coverage during play. Ice Warehouse
- Fit and Mobility: The girdle offers a tailored fit with a large Velcro closure around the waist and adjustable attachments around the legs, allowing players to customize the fit according to their preference. Ice Warehouse
- Liner: Incorporates Bauer’s Thermo Max liner, which is soft, comfortable, and designed to wick away sweat and moisture, keeping players dry throughout the game. Ice Warehouse
User Feedback:
- Comfort and Fit: Users appreciate the snug, anatomical fit of the girdle, which enhances mobility on the ice. The adjustable features allow for a personalized fit, accommodating various body types. Pure Hockey
- Protection: While the girdle provides adequate protection for most players, some users have noted that the padding feels thinner compared to other models, raising concerns about its effectiveness in high-impact situations. Mod Squad Hockey
- Durability: There are mixed reviews regarding durability. Some players have reported signs of wear after a few months of use, particularly with the logos peeling off and seams tearing, suggesting that the girdle may not withstand intense, frequent play over extended periods. Pure Hockey
Considerations:
- Level of Play: The ACP Elite Girdle is suitable for competitive play but may not offer the level of protection required for higher-contact leagues. Players participating in more aggressive play might consider higher-end models with enhanced padding.
- Fit Preference: The girdle’s design caters to players who prefer a close, responsive fit. Those accustomed to traditional hockey pants might need time to adjust to the girdle’s form-fitting nature.
How Should Hockey Pants Fit (and Stay Up)?
1. Why Fit Matters (and Why It’s Tricky)
- Protection First: Hockey pants cover critical areas – hips, thighs, and tailbone. A good fit keeps everything where it should be, even during big hits.
- Movement Matters: Pants that are too tight can slow your player down, while baggy pants can shift around, leaving them unprotected.
- The Real Struggle: Some players grow faster than others, and sometimes the right size still slips down. That’s where suspenders and accessories come in.
2. How Should Hockey Pants Fit? (The Quick Breakdown)
- Waist: Snug but not constricting. Should stay up without sliding, even without suspenders.
- Length: Overlaps the top of the shin guards by about ½ inch. No exposed thigh or knees when bending.
- Hips/Thighs: Padding should contour to the body, sitting flush without sagging.
- Back/Tailbone: The spine guard should align with the lower back and stay there during movement.
3. The Suspender Solution: Keeping Pants Where They Belong
- Why Use Suspenders? Sometimes hockey pants just won’t stay put – whether your player’s between sizes or prefers a looser fit. Suspenders prevent sagging and keep pants in position no matter how aggressive the game gets.
- Types of Suspenders:
- Traditional Elastic Suspenders (A&R, Bauer, CCM): Adjustable, durable, and attach to any hockey pants with built-in buttons.
- TronX Suspenders: Known for their affordability and universal fit across age groups (Junior to Senior sizes).
- Wide Strap Suspenders: Better for older players who need more support without the dig-in feeling from thinner straps.
4. Beyond Suspenders – Other Accessories for Hockey Pants
- Garter Belts: Not just for socks—some garter belts clip onto pants to provide an extra layer of security.
- Pant Shells: Essential for girdle users, shells mimic the classic hockey pant look and add a layer of abrasion resistance.
- Jock Shorts/Compression Shorts: Many come with Velcro tabs, helping secure hockey socks and keep pants in place. Plus, they protect sensitive areas.
- Belt Systems (Built-In): Some pants, like Bauer or CCM models, come with integrated belts that tighten around the waist for a secure fit.
5. Choosing the Right Setup
When to Upgrade: If pants constantly slide even with suspenders, it might be time to size up or explore other models with better waist adjustments.
For Young Players: Suspenders are often the easiest solution for growing kids who are still building muscle or outgrowing gear quickly.
For Older Players: Belt-tightened pants or girdle/shell combos might offer more tailored fit and less bulk.
TronX Ice Hockey Pant Suspenders
The TronX Hockey Pant Suspenders are designed to keep your hockey pants securely in place during play. They feature 1.5-inch woven elastic straps and flexible rubber loops, ensuring compatibility with most hockey pants. Available in various sizes, they cater to Junior (waist sizes 22″ – 30″), Senior (32″ – 50″), and Senior XL (44″ – 60″) players.
Users have noted that these suspenders are effective in maintaining the position of hockey pants during intense gameplay. The adjustable straps provide a customizable fit, enhancing comfort. However, some users have mentioned that the rubber loops may wear over time, suggesting a need for periodic inspection and potential replacement to maintain optimal functionality.
Keeping Hockey Pants in Place – The Final Takeaway
At the end of the day, how hockey pants should fit comes down to finding that sweet spot between comfort, protection, and movement. Whether you’re suiting up your little Mite for their first season or trying to keep up with a growing Bantam, the right fit matters—not just for performance, but for keeping them safe on the ice.
If hockey pants start to sag (and they will), suspenders, belts, and garter belts are your best friends. Accessories like TronX, Bauer, or CCM suspenders make a world of difference for keeping pants where they belong, especially for younger players still growing into their gear.
When in doubt, head to your local pro shop, let your kid try on a few pairs, and ask the staff for advice. No one knows gear better than the folks who fit skaters every day. And trust me—a little extra time spent now means fewer gear adjustments in the middle of the game.
Now go out there, lace up, and enjoy the ride. Because before you know it, those gear struggles will turn into memories you’ll miss someday (even if your kid still manages to lose their gloves). 🏒
References
Pure Hockey. “How to Fit Hockey Pants.” Pure Hockey, www.purehockey.com/c/how-to-fit-hockey-pants. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
Ice Warehouse. “Bauer Supreme ACP Elite Senior Ice Hockey Girdle.” Ice Warehouse, www.icewarehouse.com/Bauer_Supreme_ACP_Elite/descpage-ACPEG.html. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
HockeyMonkey. “CCM Tacks AS580 Senior Hockey Pants.” HockeyMonkey, www.hockeymonkey.com/product/ccm-tacks-as580-ice-hockey-pants-senior/itm/47676-41. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
HockeyTron. “TronX Ice Hockey Pant Suspenders.” HockeyTron, hockeytron.com/products/tronx-ice-hockey-pant-suspenders. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
Ice Warehouse. “A&R Hockey Pant Suspenders.” Ice Warehouse, www.icewarehouse.com/AR_Hockey_Pant_Suspenders__Sr__Jr/descpage-ARSUS.html. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
HockeyMonkey. “Bauer Hockey Pant Suspenders.” HockeyMonkey, www.hockeymonkey.com/accessories/suspenders.html. Accessed 1 Jan. 2025.
