Hockey is one of the most popular sports to play. However, for many parents, the financial commitment can be daunting and, in some cases, totally unaffordable. This can be compounded by the fact that, depending on your child’s age, they may quickly grow out of their equipment after one season. Yet, with a few simple tips, you too can save money on hockey equipment. Here are 7 top tips to help you buy hockey equipment on a budget.

1. Avoid The Latest Model

Whilst it may be tempting to buy the latest hockey equipment in the hope that it can improve your game and technique, last season’s merchandise can be just as effective for a fraction of the price. Instead of spending lots of money on the latest models, look for gear from previous seasons which may be on offer. This is particularly important for kids, as they may grow out of the gear quickly. Save buying top models for when your child is a bit older or their hockey playing has become more established.

2. Buy Second-Hand Equipment

Similarly, you can get good quality hockey equipment at many second-hand shops. This is especially true if you live in a hockey-focused town. It can be a good idea to check your local classifieds, as well as online classifieds, including Kijiji and Craigslist.

3. Get Hand-Me-Downs From Friends Or At Swap Days

Many hockey associations will host swap days. These are an opportunity for players of all ages and sizes to trade or swap gear which no longer fits them. Similarly, check with your friends, family and neighbors to see if they have any old equipment or gear which they no longer use. This can be a particularly good idea if your child is in the early stages of playing hockey as it can considerably reduce your spending costs.

4. Check Bigger Hockey Stores

Purchasing a new kit from scratch can be very expensive. However, large hockey stores sometimes offer complete kits for a much cheaper price. This can be a great option if your child is just starting out as the kits contain all the basic equipment, apart from the skates and helmet.

5. Choose Durability

Despite the costs, durability is important. This is particularly true of hockey sticks, which can be extremely expensive, but which also risk being damaged and broken.

“Whilst it may be tempting to opt for carbon fiber sticks, choosing a wooden stick or one made of wood-composite can be much better value for money. Wooden sticks tend to be more durable, therefore last longer, and also help to build a player’s strength,” says Hazel Grant, a journalist at Draft Beyond and Research papers UK.

6. Check For Grants

Some organizations and brands are now offering grants to children and families who might otherwise not be able to afford to play sports, including hockey. Kidsport is a particularly good site to browse if you’re hoping to apply for a grant.

7. Always Buy The Correct Fitting Size

Although you can save money on much of the hockey equipment, it’s important to always make sure that your child is wearing gear that is the correct size to properly protect and support them. Gear which is the wrong size will prove dangerous and could lead to injury. In particular, try to avoid buying used helmets. If you do, it’s important to check that it is less than six years old and has a CSA sticker on it.

Conclusion

There are many ways to ensure that your child has the correct and required hockey equipment, without needing to spend lots of cash. Make sure that you research various stores and online sites for good-quality second-hand hockey equipment, or look to past seasons for cheaper alternatives. Above all, make sure that any equipment you buy is safe and fits your child correctly.

Ashley Halsey is a professional writer at Business assignments and Gum Essays. She has been involved in numerous projects throughout the country, including offering parenting tips and budgeting advice to her readers. She regularly attends business training courses, where she enjoys keeping up-to-date with the latest developments. A mother of two active children, Ashley can often be found attending games at the weekend with her family.