06/04/2026
🏒 DID YOU KNOW? 🏒
One of the biggest questions for new hockey families is:
“What does my player actually need to wear?” 🤔
For Mites, players typically need:
• Helmet (“bucket”) with cage
• Neck guard (required by USA Hockey)
• Shoulder pads
• Elbow pads
• Hockey gloves
• Hockey pants (“breezers”)
• Shin guards
• Hockey socks (worn over shin guards)
• Skates
• Stick
• Athletic cup/pelvic protector (“jock” or “jill”)
• Base layer/clothes worn under gear (typically dry-fit, long-underwear)
💡 Neck guards are required for ALL practices and games under USA Hockey rules.
💡 Mouth guards are strongly recommended and may become required at older levels depending on age group and league requirements.
VAHA also provides:
• Practice jersey
• Game jersey
VAHA also offers equipment rental for a small seasonal fee (typically around $25, though pricing is subject to change). Rental gear generally includes:
• Helmet
• Shoulder pads
• Elbow pads
• Gloves
• Breezers
• Shin guards
Skates and sticks are typically purchased separately.
Many families also choose to purchase:
• Hockey bag
• Water bottle
• Extra base layers
• Tape for sticks/socks
• Skate guards (“soakers”)
We know the gear list can feel overwhelming at first, but hockey families are some of the most helpful people around and are always willing to help newer families figure out what’s actually needed and where to find it affordably. 💙🏒
