Hockey Gloves Size Chart
| Player Height | Age Range | Glove Size (inches) | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3'0" - 4'0" | 5-7 years | 8" - 9" | Youth |
| 4'0" - 4'6" | 7-9 years | 10" - 11" | Youth |
| 4'6" - 5'0" | 9-12 years | 12" | Junior |
| 5'0" - 5'6" | 12-14 years | 13" | Junior/Senior |
| 5'6" - 6'0" | 14+ years | 14" | Senior |
| 6'0" - 6'6" | 16+ years | 15" | Senior |
Note: This chart provides general guidelines. Personal preference for fit (tight vs. loose) may affect sizing.
How to Measure for Hockey Gloves
Method 1: Measuring from Fingertip to Elbow
This is the most accurate method for sizing hockey gloves:
- Extend your arm and keep it straight.
- Measure from the tip of your middle finger to the end of your elbow pad (or where your elbow pad would sit).
- Convert the measurement to inches.
- This measurement in inches corresponds to your glove size. For example, if you measure 14 inches, you would wear a 14" glove.
Method 2: Using Your Height and Age
If you cannot measure directly, use the size chart above to estimate based on height and age.
How to Check for Proper Fit
The Perfect Fit Should:
- Fingertip Position: Your fingertips should brush the end of the glove fingers without being compressed.
- Wrist Coverage: The cuff should extend to cover your wrist bone while allowing full range of motion.
- Thumb Movement: You should be able to move your thumb freely without restriction.
- Palm Contact: Your palm should make full contact with the palm of the glove.
- Mobility Test: You should be able to open and close your hand easily and grip a stick properly.
Signs of Poor Fit:
Too Small If:
- Fingers feel compressed at the ends
- Restricted mobility when gripping a stick
- Wrist exposure when in playing position
- Uncomfortable pressure points
Too Large If:
- Fingers don't reach the end of the finger stalls
- Glove shifts or rotates on your hand during movement
- Unable to properly grip a stick
- Excess material bunches at the palm
Breaking In New Hockey Gloves
New hockey gloves may feel stiff at first. Here are some tips to break them in:
- Stick Handling Practice: Simply using the gloves for stick handling practices will help break them in naturally.
- Manual Flexing: Repeatedly open and close your hands in the gloves to help soften the material.
- Light Moisture: Slightly dampening the palms with a small amount of water can help accelerate the break-in process.
- Avoid: Using heat sources (like hair dryers) or placing gloves in the dryer, as this can damage the materials.
Quick Fitting Tips
- Always try on gloves while holding a hockey stick to test grip.
- Youth players should consider room for growth, but not at the expense of protection.
- Anatomical fit gloves provide better dexterity but may feel tighter initially.
- Different brands may fit differently - try multiple brands if possible.
- Higher-end gloves typically offer better mobility and protection.
Position Specific Considerations
Forwards
Typically prefer more flexible gloves that offer increased mobility and stick feel. Many forwards choose gloves with tapered fit.
Defensemen
Often select gloves with additional protection in the backhand and fingers to block shots. Traditional or classic fit is popular.
Goalies
Require specialized goalie gloves (blocker and catcher) rather than player gloves. See our goalie equipment guides.