How to Size a Hockey Shin Guard

Shin Guards can either be worn above or below the skate tongue. One isn’t better than the other and the choice is a completely personal preference. However, each one requires a different measurement to ensure a proper fit for complete coverage and the necessary range of motion.

Over the Skate Tongue - Shin Guard Sizing

Sitting at a 90-degree angle with skates on your feet, measure from the bottom of your kneecap to the top of your foot parallel with your ankle. Correspond this measurement with the sizing chart below or on the description page. This is the most popular style that offers more coverage and is best suited for defensemen and shot-blocking forwards.

Under the Skate Tongue - Shin Guard Sizing

Simply subtract 1" from your Over the Skate Tongue measurement, which equals going one pad size down. This style provides a lighter, lower-profile, and snug fit that's suited for the quick and agile player.

Strap the shin guard to your leg and make sure to have it over or under the skate tongue depending on the measurement you previously took.

All gaps are sealed between the skate and the shin guard, thus ensuring complete coverage and protection. The knee should rest at the center of the knee doughnut, providing full leg mobility.

If the shin guards are too small, there will be visible gaps in protection between the skates and the shin guards, which increases the risk of injury. If the knee is above or below the center of the knee doughnut, it will inhibit the range of motion needed for the skating stride.

The information below is a general sizing guideline and DOES NOT guarantee fit. The chart is not specific to any item or brand so if a product does have specific sizing guidelines on the product page, DO NOT reference the general sizing guidelines below.

Now that you have found out what size you should wear, check out our quick buying guide below that will help you figure out what level of play and what shin guard fit profile best suits your needs!