Goalie Pads Fitting Guide

Understanding Goalie Pad Sizing

Goalie pad sizing has evolved over the years, and there are now two main sizing systems you should be aware of:

Traditional ATK Method

ATK = Ankle to Knee measurement is the classic method where pads are sized by the distance from your ankle bone to the middle of your knee cap when standing.

Common in older pad models and youth sizes.

Modern Height Method

Total pad height in inches is now more common with modern pads. These measurements are standardized across many brands.

Most pro-level pads use this sizing system.

Important: Always check the manufacturer's sizing guide for the specific model you're considering, as sizing can vary between brands and pad models.

How to Measure for Goalie Pads

Method 1: Floor-to-Knee (FTK) Measurement

This is the most common and reliable method for modern goalie pads:

1. Stand barefoot on a hard, flat surface.
2. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart.
3. Have someone measure from the floor to the middle of your kneecap.
4. Record this measurement in inches.

Floor-to-Knee (FTK) measurement diagram

Method 2: Ankle-to-Knee (ATK) Measurement

Used for traditional pad sizing:

1. Stand barefoot on a hard, flat surface.
2. Measure from your ankle bone to the center of your kneecap.
3. Record this measurement in inches.

Many modern pads will list both the total pad height and the equivalent ATK measurement to help goalies transitioning between sizing systems.

Goalie Pad Size Chart

Floor to Knee (FTK)	Ankle to Knee (ATK)	Pad Height	Typical Age/Level
13" - 14"	7" - 7.5"	24" - 25"	Youth (5-7 years)
14" - 15"	7.5" - 8"	26" - 27"	Youth (7-9 years)
15" - 16"	8" - 8.5"	28" - 29"	Youth/Junior (9-11 years)
16" - 17"	8.5" - 9"	30" - 31"	Junior (11-13 years)
17" - 18"	9" - 9.5"	32" - 33"	Intermediate (13-15 years)
18" - 19"	9.5" - 10"	34" - 35"	Senior (15+ years)
19" - 20"	10" - 11"	36" - 37"	Senior/Pro (Adult)
20" - 21"	11" - 12"	38" - 39"	Pro (Adult Tall)

Note: These are general guidelines. Goalies with non-standard proportions (e.g., long legs relative to height) may need to adjust accordingly.

Checking for Proper Fit

Properly Fitted Pads Should:

• Knee Position: Your knee should land directly in the knee stack/cradle when in butterfly position.
• Thigh Rise: Should completely cover the thigh without extending past the hip in the butterfly position.
• Ankle Flex: Should allow proper ankle flexion when walking or in your stance.

• Toe Ties/Straps: Should secure the pad to your skate without restricting movement.
• Five-Hole Coverage: Pads should meet or nearly meet when butterfly position is held.
• Standing Height: Should reach approximately 2-3 inches above the knee when standing.

Signs of Poor Fit:

Too Small If:

• Knee lands below the knee stack when in butterfly
• Exposed thigh areas when in butterfly
• Pad rotates excessively on the leg
• Restricted mobility and movement

Too Large If:

• Knee landing above the knee stack
• Pad extends well beyond the top of the hip
• Excessive shifting or "flopping" of the pad
• Difficulty walking or getting up quickly

Pad Strapping Guide

Proper strapping is just as important as pad size for optimal performance:

Modern Strapping (Recommended)

• Elastic Toe Ties: Provide flexibility while keeping the pad attached to the skate.
• Loose Calf Wraps: Allow the pad to rotate freely for better butterfly slides.
• Knee Elastic: Snug enough to keep the knee in the cradle but not tight.

Traditional Strapping

• Leather Toe Ties: More secure but less flexible.
• Tight Calf Wraps: Keep pad more firmly against the leg.
• Multiple Leg Straps: More connection points but restricted rotation.