Personal preference determines how loose or tight the ice hockey pants are worn, but make sure they are not so loose that they shift out of position. Most ice hockey pants come equipped with a belt to secure the hockey pants firmly at the waist. Determine the appropriate length of the pant based on the knee. For proper protection, the pants should be long enough so that it covers the knee when you bend. Above the waist, the pants’ padding should extend to the lower rib cage and the bottom of the shoulder pads. In addition, look for hockey pants that offer front and backside padding. Some pants may offer a hidden zipper, which, when unzipped, will allow the pant to be lengthened to fit the growing player.