How to Buy Roller Hockey Pants
Your roller hockey pants fit over your protective pads and shin guards, often serving as part of your team uniform, similar to a hockey jersey. They’re not protective padding, but they are reinforced against wear and tear so you won’t be buying new inline pants every time you get scraped up in a game. While buying them is straightforward, you do need to consider a few variables. This guide to buying roller hockey pants addresses the main points and explains the important differences between inline hockey pants and ice hockey pants.
Roller hockey pants are breathable and lightweight, designed to fit over protective equipment yet not constrict a skater's stride. Most inline pants are made in a combination of nylon, polyester, mesh, and spandex. They usually include an adjustable or elastic waistband and reinforced knees and seat—the areas you don’t want to rip when you take a fall.
When shopping for roller hockey pants, don't make the mistake of thinking you're getting a piece of equipment that provides substantial protection. While reinforced in high-wear areas, roller hockey pants do not have padding. They are not designed to protect you in the event of a fall or collision. To protect your mid-section, tailbone, and legs, you'll need to wear an inline girdle and shin guards.
While not all inline hockey pants are made the same, most have the same basic features. When shopping, consider these options:
REINFORCED KNEES AND SEAT
Just about every pair of inline pants will have some reinforcement in the knees and seat. Again, the reinforcement is not protection. At least, not for you—pants cover your protective equipment and save it from getting torn or abraded when you fall.
A general rule of thumb is the higher the price point, the heavier the reinforcement and the more durable the pants.
ADJUSTABLE BELTS
Most inline hockey pants are made with a belt that has a wider fit-range than an elastic waistband. Some pants come with a dual-belt system that can be cinched over either hip for a more custom fit.
Adjustable Belts
As mentioned, most inline hockey pants are made with a belt. Belts generally have a wider fit-range than elastic waistbands. Some pants come with a dual-belt system that can be cinched over either hip for a more custom fit.
THE INLINE PANT WAISTBAND
Some players appreciate the flexibility and mobility of an elastic waistband versus a belt. A few styles include lace ties with the elastic waistband, like sweatpants, for players who prefer that kind of fit.
INLINE PANT VENTILATION
Stretch mesh is now a common material in the majority of inline hockey pants. It's typically used in areas that trap heat and/or require flex, like the calf, thigh, and groin. Pants at higher price points offer more breathability and ventilation, so keep that in mind if you prioritize these features.
SHIN STRAPS
Roller hockey pants often come with shin straps. Also known as "shin slings," these straps tighten around the shin guards and secure with Velcro. They're a nice added feature on some but not all pants, and save the time and expense of using tape.
When buying inline pants, use your waist size rather than your inseam or weight as a guide for finding the best fit. Order a size larger than your typical pant size, especially if you prefer a looser feel.
The right fit for inline pants depends on whether you plan to wear a girdle beneath them. We recommend wearing an inline hockey girdle, since pants provide almost no protection. Your roller hockey pants need to fit comfortably over your girdle and shin guards to keep your legs moving freely with each stroke.
Roller hockey pants and ice hockey pants are two different animals, so avoid substituting one for the other. Roller hockey pants are not protective; they cover your pads and they’re designed to handle play in warm conditions, allowing for optimal ventilation and mobility. Ice hockey pants are protective equipment, stacked with padding, and they’re designed to perform in cold conditions. While new inline players may be tempted to fit their ice hockey pant shells over their inline girdles, we don’t recommend it. They’re not designed to work together, so you’ll end up with a fit that impedes your roller hockey game.
Clean your inline pants in the washing machine using warm water and the gentle cycle. Never use bleach or detergents with bleach, which will damage your pants. Instead, use special laundry detergent formulated for sports apparel. Or, hand wash your inline pants in the sink or tub following the same guidelines, and then rinse them well. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before throwing your roller hockey pants into the dryer. Some may need to be air dried.
Are you new to inline hockey or buying a pair of roller hockey pants for your child? Pure Hockey carries a wide selection of inline pants and girdles for players of every age and at every level of play. If you’re still unsure about which roller hockey pants may be right for you, visit a Pure Hockey store for expert advice or contact our customer service team.
If you’re shopping for other gear, check out our hockey equipment buying & fitting guides and purchase with confidence. Our Low-Price Guarantee promises the most competitive prices.