Shin guards are essential for hockey players. The function of shin guards is to protect the shin from injury or friction during the game. Shin guards or pads are not just for hockey players. They can be used for any game to protect the shin from injuries. Hockey can be quite an aggressive game, and it is important to protect your body throughout the game. There are many types and models of shin guards for hockey, and it might be difficult if you are looking for a shin guard. Here is a guide to help you in choosing the best field hockey shin guard.
Choosing a shin guard
Quality of material
The quality of material is important because this is what will determine the kind of protection that the shin guard will offer. A good shin is guard usually made of plastic, but it also has padding to offer protection from shock. Make sure that you look for a shin guard that has proper padding to make sure that you are well protected in case of a fall. The thicker the padding, the better the shin guard or pad.
Good fitting
The shin guard should fit properly on your leg for purposes of comfort while playing and to also offer you protection when playing. For every height, the manufacturers give a guideline of the shin size. However, you still have to do a manual fitting to find the most comfortable shin guard. You should make sure that the shin guard doesn’t restrict your movement and make sure that it is not too tight or too loose.
The kind of player you are
When choosing a shin guard, take time and determine the type of player that you are. If you guard the net, then you should look for shin guards that will protect you from an impact. On the other hand, if you are the aggressive player and you are likely to compete with other players aggressively, then you need to be ready to be hit by the hockey stick from time to time.
New or used shins
You don’t have to buy new shins guards for your hockey game. You can still get used shin guards at a good deal. All you have to do is to make sure that you inspect them to make sure that they are in good condition.