Info & Tips

Blog Menu

7 Best Hockey Bag Essentials You Can Get For Under $100

Posted by Jim Loughran · July 27, 2024

If there’s one thing that hockey players at all levels need, it is a reliable bag.

Hockey requires multiple pieces of equipment – we're talking helmets, skates, pads, pucks, and so on.

So, you need some way to lug your stuff, hence the vital hockey bag.

As you become more seasoned, you realize your bag should contain items to serve you in any situation.

ADD SOME POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE TILES TO YOUR HOME TRAINING ARSENAL

In hockey, you need to adjust equipment, handle minor inconveniences, or have gear that can give you a competitive advantage.

Stocking hockey bag essentials also gives you added peace of mind.

No borrowing from teammates or jerry-rigging equipment to get on the ice.

When packing your bag to head to practice or the game, think of the things that help you during preparation.

These are the must-have items that should fill every pocket and corner of your bag.

The good thing is these 7 hockey bag essentials we mention are inexpensive (we’re talking under $100).

Go through our list and add these items to your hockey bag ASAP:

1. Goon Guard Hockey Mouth Guard Strapless

Experience unparalleled protection and comfort with Goon Guard, the premier mouth guard for hockey, crafted from a patented fitting material.

Its thin profile provides a secure lockdown fit, ensuring it stays in place during intense gameplay.

Designed for easy breathing and clear communication, Goon Guard's custom fit allows players to chirp the competition effortlessly.

The mouth guard is also braces-compatible and remoldable, making it perfect for players at any stage.

Endorsed by Let's Play Hockey Minnesota and approved by professional athletes, Goon Guard is the trusted choice for serious hockey players.

2. Frost Blade and Surface Coat

If you love ice skating but hate the hassle of frequent blade sharpening, our special spray formulation is perfect for you.

Liquid Frost for Blades and Surfaces offers superior protection for your skate blades, preventing dull edges and enhancing your glide on synthetic rink surfaces.

By reducing surface friction, this innovative spray minimizes the need for frequent sharpening, keeping your blades in top condition longer.

Simply spray a fine mist onto the included microfiber cloth and wipe it across the blade to create a protective barrier.

This easy application prolongs blade sharpness and makes your skating experience smoother and more enjoyable.

3. Sharpening Tool for Your Skates

Skates will lose their sharpness after hours of training, fun, or competitive play.

Sometimes, blades can dull unexpectedly from contact with a hard surface.

Dull blades can limit your speed and maneuverability. In some cases, they can cause falls or injuries.

If you don’t have the time to get your skates professionally sharpened, you’ll need a quick solution.

A portable or pocket sharpening tool can sharpen your edges at your preferred radius of hollow.

You get a convenient, cost-effective way to ensure you maintain your skating performance.

Try the portable Maintain The Edge Skate Sharpener for quick touch-ups on your blades without taking up space in your hockey bag.

4. Hockey Tape

Do you need to prepare, repair, or maintain your stick before hitting the ice?

You need the tools to make this happen.

First, ensure you have high-quality hockey tape for maintenance and performance purposes.

Tape wrapped around the blade of your stick improves puck control and shooting accuracy.

Taping your handle prevents slippage, allowing for more precise control and powerful shots.

It’s even useful for emergency repairs, such as securing straps or covering small tears in equipment.

Try Howie’s Hockey Tape for a convenient yet high-quality and cost-effective solution.

When you maintain your equipment, it works better, and you perform better!

5. Visor and Cage Attachment

Hockey helmets focus on protecting your head and most come with a cage to protect your face from pucks and sticks.

Some hockey players swap from a full cage to a visor.

Depending on the level of play or specific league requirements, you may need to switch between a visor and a cage.

Depending on the level of play or specific league requirements, you may need to switch between a visor and a cage, ensuring you meet safety standards.

Having both options allows you to adapt quickly and stay compliant, giving you the flexibility to choose the best protection for your needs.

6. Skate Guards

You might overlook this essential item, but without them, you can put your skates in danger.

The metal blades on your skates can dull or suffer damage as you walk on them from the locker room to the rink.

The damage can impact your performance, reducing speed or even causing injury.

Skate guards are hard or soft covers for your blades.

Soft guards may not provide as much protection but can help absorb moisture, increasing the longevity of your skates.

Once on, guards protect the metal from damage and help maintain your sharp edges.

Try the Superguard Ice Skate Guard or the softer Elite Hockey ProSkate Guard.

Investing in a good pair of skate guards prolongs the life of your blades and ensures you get the best performance on the ice every time you play.

7. First Aid Kit

Hockey is a brutal, sometimes violent sport. After a game, you can feel like you've been in a few car crashes.

Sometimes, you end up with bruises, bumps, cuts, and sprains.

That’s why a hockey bag essential must be a first aid kit.

You can quickly treat wounds, manage pain, and prevent infections until you can check your doctor for something more severe.

First aid kits can also help you treat a bruise or wound to get back on the ice.

Your first aid kit should have an ice pack, bandages, and antiseptic wipes. We recommend this 265-piece kit that has everything you need during the grueling season.

Other Useful Throw-ins

A small investment can help you upgrade your hockey bag with these 7 essentials.

But there are other items we recommend to help you perform at your best. Make sure to pick up:

A Water Bottle: Stay hydrated to perform your best in training or competitive games. Grab the Under Armour Playmaker Water Bottle Jug with its easy grip and 64oz capacity.
Electrolytes: You’re not only losing water during sports but also essential minerals and amino acids. Keep a couple of sticks of Liquid I.V. Sugar-free Electrolyte Packs in your hockey bag.
Extra Hockey Laces: On the rare occasion your hockey laces break, you won’t be left on the sidelines because you don’t have a spare. You won’t regret having this pair of Elite Hockey Prolace Waxed Laces in your bag.

Conclusion

Becoming the best hockey player you can be goes beyond practice and exercise.

The details matter, too.

Any athlete or competitor will tell you preparation is the key to success.

Having a fully equipped hockey bag with essentials to handle any challenge is equally important.

From backup sticks to first aid kits, each item serves a specific purpose in enhancing your performance and safety.

These items are also less than $100 and can provide value well beyond the price.

Review your hockey bag, make a list of what's missing, and invest in these essential items today to elevate your game.

7 Gifts For Hockey Players For the Ultimate Performance Boost

Posted by Jim Loughran · July 12, 2024

Finding gifts for hockey players in your life takes effort.

Sure, you can get sticks, skates, or helmets.

But it’s likely they already have the equipment they need and prefer.

You’re better off getting them a gift certificate so they can take the time to pick out their gear of choice.

But if there’s one thing that will give you brownie points, it’s a gift that will contribute to their performance.

Get Thoughtful Gifts for the Hockey Players in Your Life

Hockey players strive to be faster, stronger, more accurate, and well-conditioned.

The game is fast-paced and physical.

SEE WHY THE THE ORIGINAL SYNTHETIC ICE TILE DEVELOPED BY POLYGLIDE ICE LEADS THE PACK!

While hockey is lots of fun, the more you play, the more you search for ways to be better than your opponents.

If you’re shopping for the hockey player in your life and you’re struggling for ideas, you’re in luck.

We have 7 of the best gifts for hockey players that focus on improving their performance.

Get High-Performance Wear

When you first start playing hockey, you invest in the bare minimum.

As you figure out your position, style of play, and strengths, you get the appropriate gear to maximize those attributes.

For some, that means a lighter hockey stick or faster skates.

But it should not stop there.

Even the gear you wear can contribute to your performance.

Well-designed gear with a proper fit allows for better strides, faster turns, and smoother performances.

Some keep you warm enough to give that little extra effort needed in crunch time.

Grab the hockey player in your life some performance gear to give them the extra edge on the ice.

1. STX Stallion 300 Senior Ice Hockey Shoulder Pads

Hockey players need padding that’s durable, powerful and allows for optimal movement.

The STX Stallion 300 shoulder pads offer superior protection and comfort for any senior hockey player.

The lightweight materials make it a perfect gift for power players without sacrificing mobility.

At the same time, target zones like the shoulders, chest, and ribs are fortified to protect the body and distribute forces.

Those shoulder and body checks will roll off you with minimal pain or disturbance to your game.

2. Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Leggings

It doesn’t matter who you are or how long you’ve been playing ice hockey. It gets cold. The chill can slow you down as the game wears on. You can’t bundle up on the ice, so you need clothing that can keep you as warm as possible without impacting your performance.

The Under Armour ColdGear Leggings are essential for staying warm and comfortable in chilly conditions.

The dual-layer fabric helps keep you warm on the inside while dying quickly on the outside. It’s the best way for the hockey player in your life to stay warm and dry without impacting performance.

Train Like a Pro at Home

What you do off the ice impacts your performance just as much – if not more – than what you do on it.

Off the ice is where you build strength, flexibility, and mobility.

Off-ice training translates into harder, faster shots, more vigorous checks, and improved balance.

It’s where you can work on the fine details of your puck handling, shooting, and conditioning.

If you’re on the hunt for a gift for hockey players, don’t focus only on gear for the ice but also on the things that can help them off the ice.

Here are two cool off-ice gift ideas.

3. PolyGlide Synthetic Ice Pro-Glide Infused Panel

Synthetic ice tiles are connected to create indoor and outdoor rinks.

With just one panel of synthetic ice, however, hockey players can work on stick handling, moving in tight spaces, and much more.

These panels are made of special hybrid Polyethylene that are extremely close to the look and feel of actual ice.

They can be used on any flat surface inside or outside throughout the year, making them the perfect off-ice training tool.

While you can buy multiple tiles to build an entire at-home rink, you only need one panel to practice close control with your hockey stick, balance, or other technically difficult skills.

Grab a panel and a hockey net with goal targets to practice these skills and your shooting power and accuracy.

4. TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle

Powerful arms, a strong core, and a lower body are the attributes of a competent hockey player.

Consistent work on these muscle groups can help players achieve their maximum potential in these areas.

But it’s more than spamming bench presses and squats in the gym.

You also need explosive and functional strength, ensuring muscles can go through their full range of motion (ROM) without discomfort.

Investing in a suspension trainer like the TRX can help hockey players achieve this and much more.

Hook these bands up to a door or any sturdy overhead anchor point (think rafters or beams) to execute hundreds of exercises.

TRX bands are known for their durability and versatility.

Perform hundreds of push, pull, lunge, and plank exercises to keep you pliable and explosive while building the muscles needed to be an excellent hockey player.

It’s also great for plyometric sessions on days off or for physical therapy following injury.

On the road and need a gym?

Grab your bands and get to work.

For the ultimate boost in hockey performance, TRX bands are the gift that keeps on giving.

The Gift of Recovery

The best athletes focus on recovery just as much as they do strength training and performance.

They understand that being an athlete is taxing on the body.

Creating an environment where muscles and joints can heal while reducing inflammation helps hockey players return to the ice with minimal aches and pains.

Recovery also reduces the incidence of soft tissue injuries, which can keep the most talented players out of commission.

Cold plunges and infrared saunas are gaining popularity for their recovery and anti-inflammatory benefits.

But if these are out of your budget, there are still some fantastic yet affordable recovery items you can gift the hockey player in your life.

5. Theragun Mini Massage Gun by Therabody

The bumps, bruises, and soreness that come with hockey are nothing to laugh at.

The knots and tightness that follow can limit your performance the next time on the ice.

Massage those sore muscles with Therabody’s Mini Massage Gun. The Theragun is 20% lighter and 30% smaller than most massage guns but still packs a punch.

The three speeds allow you to release the tension from achy muscles while gradually increasing the intensity for improved post-workout recovery.

The three interchangeable heads allow you to target large and small muscle groups with precision.

A gift that helps with recovery off the ice can translate to improved performances on the ice.

6. FitKing Air Compression Recovery Massage Boots

What if there was a way to apply the benefits of the Therabody massage gun to the lower body all at once?

Then, get these recovery massage boots.

Covering your entire lower limbs, these compression boots dispense dynamic pressure and massage features to the quads, hamstrings, calves and feet.

With intuitive controls and built-in pressure sensors, it’s a great way to reduce swelling, speed up recovery, and lower pain and soreness after spending hours on skates.

The hockey player in your life will thank you.

Fuel the Machine

Fuel is essential for maximum performance.

Some athletes need an insane amount of high-quality calories (we see you, JJ Watt) to maintain muscle mass while expending large amounts of energy during practice and games.

Others strive for micronutrients that help lower inflammation, increase endurance, and speed up recovery.

Adult hockey players can burn upwards of 5,000-6,000 calories daily between training sessions and competitive play.

One of the best gifts for hockey players is that of fuel to keep them going.

7. Feel Vegan Protein Bars – 10 Pack

Protein forms the building blocks of muscle, providing the essential amino acids needed for maintenance and growth.

Most athletes focus on high-protein diets, but as many can attest, it’s hard to reach those macros daily.

Having convenient protein-filled snacks can help hockey players hit calorie and protein goals.

Give the gift of some clean, vegan protein bars.

Feel protein bars contain complete proteins like hemp, pea, pumpkin, and chia seeds.

They get 15g of protein plus healthy carbs from dates, sunflower butter, and maca root for sustained energy.

Conclusion

Athletes are constantly striving to improve their games.

The right resources can boost performance from beginner to professional.

These gifts for hockey players are thoughtful, helping them in areas they may overlook.

From improving strength and skill to optimizing recovery and hydration, these gifts can make any special occasion more memorable.

At PolyGlide Synthetic Ice, we go beyond providing rinks and ice-skating products.

We believe in building the complete skater.

If these recommendations helped, consider reading some of our blogs on practice equipment tools, rinks, and much more.

Be a part of the journey to become the best player possible.

Beginners Guide to Skate America for Figure Skaters to Enjoy

Posted by Jim Loughran · July 05, 2024

Skate America has long been a crucial event in the figure skating calendar, showcasing some of the sport's finest talents.

Over the years, you've seen incredible performances that captivate audiences and set new standards in the figure skating world.

From jaw-dropping jumps to elegant spins, the competition never fails to excite.

Understanding the intricacies of the judging system can deepen your appreciation for the sport.

The complex scoring system evaluates both technical proficiency and artistic expression, which divides the competition into clear, assessable components.

Recognizing how judges score these elements helps you better appreciate the expertise and athleticism required.

PREPARE FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT BY TRAINING AT HOME WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

When revisiting past Skate America events, you’ll notice recurring themes: consistent excellence from top skaters and memorable routines that stand out in figure skating history.

Each event provides examples of how the judging criteria are applied, making the viewing experience more engaging and informative.

The Grandeur of Skate America

Skate America is a cornerstone event in the Grand Prix of Figure Skating, with its prestige reflected through top-tier performances and historic victories.

This event, hosted in the United States, showcases the enormity of the competition and its influence on the sport.

A Prestigious ISU Grand Prix Event

Skate America is part of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series.

As the inaugural competition of the series, it sets the tone for the season.

Held annually in the United States since 1979, it attracts elite skaters from around the globe.

The event is recognized for its rigorous judging standards and high-quality performances.

Each competitor aims to make a strong impression, contributing to the event’s esteemed reputation.

Participation in Skate America often plays a critical role in qualifying for other significant competitions.

Notable Champions and Performances

Skate America has seen many memorable performances from legendary skaters. Icons like Michelle Kwan, Kristi Yamaguchi, and Nathan Chen have all left their mark here.

Their routines are celebrated for technical precision and artistic excellence.

These champions' achievements highlight the competitive spirit and skill level demanded at Skate America.

The event often serves as a preview for upcoming global championships, making each performance crucial not only for the athletes but for the sport’s followers and enthusiasts as well.

Judging the Artistry and Athleticism

In Skate America, both artistry and athleticism are crucial for a skater's performance.

Each component is meticulously evaluated by judges to ensure fair and comprehensive scoring.

Understanding Judging Criteria

Judging criteria encompass multiple aspects of a skater’s performance.

Artistry involves musical interpretation, choreography, and expression.

Judges look for the seamless integration of movements with music, creating a harmonious and visually captivating experience.

Athleticism focuses on the technical difficulty and precision of elements like jumps, spins, and footwork.

Elements such as triple jumps are assessed for height, distance, and landing quality.

Athletes are expected to consistently execute these elements with precision and minimal errors.

Execution and Technical Elements

Execution includes the accuracy of movements and the overall fluidity of the performance.

Judges scrutinize each component, from take-off to landing, especially in triple jumps, where any flaw can significantly impact scores.

Technical elements are crucial. Judges assess spins, footwork, and combination jumps.

Each element's complexity is evaluated, with higher points awarded for more challenging maneuvers.

Athletes must perform these with control and within the program's allotted time, emphasizing skill and consistency.

Celebrating Phenomenal Skaters

Various talented athletes have highlighted Skate America events, showcasing incredible skills and athleticism.

From awe-inspiring singles performances to captivating pairs and ice dance routines, these skaters have left lasting impressions.

Star Performers in Singles Skating

In Men's Singles, Michael Weiss stands out for his pioneering use of the Triple Axel.

His dedication and innovation helped elevate the competition to new heights.

Women's Singles have seen incredible talent, notably from skaters like Kristi Yamaguchi and Michelle Kwan, who both displayed technical prowess and artistic expression.

Several athletes have achieved unforgettable moments, impressing judges and audiences alike with their precise jumps, spins, and choreography.

These performances remain benchmarks for aspiring skaters.

Dynamic Duos in Pairs and Ice Dance

Pair Skating teams have delivered breathtaking lifts and synchronized elements.

Teams like Ekaterina Gordeeva and Sergei Grinkov wowed with their seamless unity and intricate routines.

Pairs routines highlight not only athletic skill but also the deep trust between partners.

In Ice Dance, champions like Meryl Davis and Charlie White brought a new level of artistry and athleticism.

Their routines combined complex footwork with expressive storytelling, engaging audiences and setting new standards in ice dancing.

Teams excel in creating emotional connections through their performances, adding depth to their technical achievements.

Evolution and Milestones

Skate America has seen numerous changes that have shaped the event into what it is today.

Key moments have included significant rule adjustments and record-breaking performances by legendary skaters.

Significant Changes Over the Years

Over the years, the structure and rules of Skate America have evolved.

Important changes to preliminary assignments have streamlined the competition, ensuring fairness and improved scheduling.

The introduction of host picks allowed organizers to select notable skaters, increasing viewer interest and competition quality.

Additionally, adjustments to the qualifying process have made it more competitive, ensuring that only the best skaters reach the main event.

Results from these changes have positively affected how the competition is viewed globally.

These evolutions have helped create a more engaging and fair experience for both skaters and fans alike.

Historic Firsts and Records

Skate America has witnessed numerous historic firsts and records.

In 1995, Michelle Kwan made headlines as the youngest World Champion at Skate America, showcasing exceptional talent at a young age.

Nathan Chen's quad jumps in 2017 set a new standard, breaking previous records and lifting the competition to new technical heights.

Skate America has also been pivotal for many skaters aiming to qualify for World Championships, often serving as a stepping stone for their international careers.

Highlight moments and record-breaking performances have cemented Skate America’s status as a premier event, drawing global attention and setting competitive standards.

Global Impact and Contributions

Skate America has not only showcased top-tier skating but also played a significant role in fostering international talent and transcending borders through sport.

Its influence extends beyond national competitions, impacting global skating cultures and promoting international collaboration.

Fostering International Talents

Skate America has been pivotal in nurturing talents from diverse backgrounds.

Many skaters from Canada, Japan, and Russia have used this platform to shine on the world stage.

Canadian skaters like Patrick Chan and Kaetlyn Osmond have demonstrated commendable performances, raising their international profiles.

The event has also bolstered the careers of Japanese skaters such as Yuzuru Hanyu and Shoma Uno, who have become household names.

Organizations like the International Skating Union have noted the growth in participation from various countries, attributing it in part to the high standards set by Skate America.

Russian athletes, including Evgenia Medvedeva, have also found great success, helping to bring technical prowess to the fore.

Skate America's inclusive environment encourages skaters to push their limits and achieve their best, regardless of their origin.

Transcending Borders Through Sport

By bringing together athletes from France, China, Germany, and other nations, Skate America fosters a spirit of unity.

This event has transcended cultural and geographic barriers, creating a global community centered around figure skating.

Notably, French skaters like Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron have captivated audiences with their artistry.

Chinese competitors, including Sui Wenjing and Han Cong, have benefited from the exposure and competition, showcasing their talents on an international scale.

Germany’s strong dance pairs and single skaters have also thrived, contributing to the diverse mix of styles and techniques seen at Skate America.

The role of World Skate and other governing bodies has been crucial in maintaining the competitive and collaborative spirit of the event, promoting sportsmanship and cultural exchange.

Conclusion

The Skate America events have showcased some of the finest talents in figure skating.

The competition highlights unforgettable performances and intense rivalries.

The judging criteria for these events are meticulous and detailed.

Judges closely evaluate elements like technical skill, artistic expression, and overall presentation.

The scoring system emphasizes both short programs and free skates.

Each segment has its unique set of requirements and scoring nuances.

Notable skaters from various countries have left their mark on Skate America.

Their performances often set new standards and inspire upcoming talent.

For future competitions, the elements that skaters must focus on will likely evolve.

Staying updated with these changes is crucial for those involved in the sport.

Indoor Ice Skating: 7 Best Options to Consider with Synthetic Ice

Posted by Jim Loughran · July 04, 2024

There’s something magical about ice skating, whether doing it for fun, playing ice hockey, or being a competitive figure skater.

Young or old, big or small, when winter comes, it’s time to lace up those boots.

If you want to skate beyond the Holidays, you’ll need access to an indoor rink.

Indoor ice rinks and traditional ice skating as a whole come with limitations.

TAKE YOUR OFF-ICE HOCKEY TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

Outdoor ice skating can be largely seasonal, as cold temperatures are needed to maintain a rink.

This limits indoor ice skating to the rinks in your area or those that are available for recreational skating.

If you’re also looking for skating opportunities in the warmer months, unless you have access to an indoor rink, you’re out of luck.

Traditional indoor rinks are also expensive to set up and maintain.

They require thousands of gallons of water and electricity, and they have complex refrigeration systems that must be managed by professionals.

The rinks need regular resurfacing to ensure a smooth surface every time.

Innovations have allowed indoor ice skating, hockey, and other ice sports to circumvent these limitations.

Synthetic ice rinks are growing in popularity and are now readily available for commercial and personal use.

Setting Up Your Own Rink?

That’s right.

You can set up your own indoor rink for ice skating.

Synthetic ice has been around for decades but is seeing a renaissance in the skating world.

These are unique materials made of polyethylene, a durable plastic product.

Polyethylene is infused with special surfacing agents to provide a slick solution you can ice skate on using your real skates.

Synthetic ice is also customizable, allowing you to fit them into the indoor space.

This has opened up lots of possibilities, allowing ice skating enthusiasts to skate to their heart’s content without the many limitations of refrigerated rinks or natural ice.

If you’re considering setting up your own indoor ice rink, you need to take a few factors into account, so you have the best possible experience.

Here are the seven options to consider with synthetic ice.

1. Tiles or Panels?

You’ll often see the terms synthetic ice ‘tiles’ and ‘panels.’

Some synthetic ice providers use these terms interchangeably.

Yet, there are key differences that can determine factors like skating experience, durability, and long-term costs.

Synthetic ice tiles are often smaller and lighter than panels.

Tiles were made to meet the demands of individual skaters or small groups that wanted to set up a home rink for recreational use or practice.

They are ideal for small spaces and practice areas like a spare room, garage, or driveway.

Tiles are also easier to handle and transport and are often cheaper than panels.

Synthetic ice panels are larger, heavier, and more durable.

They are ideal for large rinks that will accommodate multiple people or professional skaters who have intense training sessions.

Their durability and weight make them more expensive, and they also require freight forwarding.

Choose the right tile or panel based on your long-term goals.

2. Modular or Interlocking Panels?

Rinks are made of multiple synthetic ice pieces to cover the desired surface area.

Each tile or panel must be connected to the other to form a large rink.

Synthetic ice often comes with different interlocking systems, which can impact their construction.

Some contain puzzle-like tiles with dovetailed joints, and others have grooved connections that need to be pinned.

Interlocking tiles are ideal for portable rinks, temporary and permanant installations.

If you’re looking to DIY your rink in a couple of hours, an interlocking solution is ideal.

Modular options are often present on panels.

These connect to other pieces with a tongue and groove profile that requires inserting multiple plastic dowels with a rubber mallet to lock them together.

3. Business, Training, or Pleasure?

What’s the reason for your rink?

This is something you should think about well in advance.

If you’re creating a commercial rink, large synthetic ice panels are best.

These durable panels can hold up to high skating traffic and will last longer than synthetic ice tiles.

If you have a small space and need to train the basics, you can get an interlocking synthetic ice starter kit.

For more advanced training, for instance, hockey or practicing complex jumps, consider a larger rink with panels.

4. Should You Go For Solid-Core Construction?

Did you know synthetic ice can have a solid-core construction?

With a solid-core makeup, the rink has the same properties on both sides.

In other words, you can flip the tile or panel without impacting performance.

Some brands are only skateable on one side.

A solid-core makeup extends the lifespan of your rink.

When one side is worn down, just flip it over and continue skating!

5. The Best Option for Temporary vs Permanent Rinks

Ice skating should be a permanent fixture in your life, but the rink?

Not so much.

You’ll need to determine if your rink will be a permanent or temporary fixture.

For instance, commercial synthetic ice rinks are temporary to meet the demands of the Holidays.

However, these still require panels.

Choosing an easy-to-install panel solution is ideal for temporary business use.

Home rinks for basic training or for kids to have fun can benefit from synthetic ice tiles, especially if space is limited.

However, if you’re considering a permanent rink in your home that won’t be moved, panels work best.

6. Ice Rink Versatility – Sock Skating, Curling, and More

Whether you choose a temporary, easy-to-install rink or a long-term solution, you get versatility.

Ice rinks aren’t limited to ice skating.

You can use them for sock skating, roller skating, curling, and other cool activities.

What else do you consider when setting up your indoor ice skating rink?

This can help you make the best decision that will benefit everyone for years.

7. Where Should You Source Your Synthetic Ice?

As synthetic ice has risen in popularity, so has the supply of products.

You can buy generic tiles on Amazon and some sporting goods stores.

However, these tiles have the same simple, single-sided features that you see on a hockey shooting tile.

PolyGlide Ice directly designs, manufactures, and sells synthetic ice that closely mimics the real feel of ice.

They can also provide customizable ice surfaces, with staff that can provide expert advice for all your ice needs.

Another option is to consider renting your rink from a commercial supplier that also may be able to provide services with your rink package.

Consider project size, budget, brand, quality, and customer service.

Conclusion

Synthetic ice rinks are fantastic options for indoor ice skating, hockey, and everything in between.

The materials used for these rinks can last for years, and choosing a solid core guarantees their durability.

You’re also not limited to seasonal weather, so your rink will be in operation at all times.

Their lower maintenance appeal (no Zamboni resurfacing!) means you can invest more upfront to create the rink of your dreams.

Take these options into consideration when setting up indoor ice skating.

It will save you time and you won’t have to come back to the drawing board because you did not choose the right type of synthetic ice.

At PolyGlide Synthetic Ice, our special "Hybrid" polymer blend provides a durable, versatile option for building a rink of any size.

Combine multiple tiles or panels to make a rink perfect for your garage or a commercial space large enough for many skaters.

We believe that ice skating should be accessible year-round.

Using this revolutionary alternative changes the game, making you not miss a beat on your skating journey.

7 Best Hockey Practice Equipment Tools To Max Out Your Skills

Posted by Jim Loughran · June 13, 2024

Some of the best hockey players are known for individual attributes that took their games to the next level:

Bobby Orr and Paul Coffey are known for their speed
Alex Ovechkin is known for his power
Wayne Gretzky is known for his accuracy

Every hockey player, from the youngest mite to the seasoned pro, strives to be faster, more powerful, and more accurate on the ice.

Excelling at even one of those skills can set you apart from the competition.

How do you achieve this?

Simple.

Spending countless hours training on and off the ice.

But that's not all.

You must utilize the right hockey practice equipment to maximize your training sessions.

TAKE YOUR OFF-ICE HOCKEY TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH POLYGLIDE SYNTHETIC ICE

Whether in-store or online, you can find countless hockey practice equipment from different brands.

These items can improve your general performance or focus on specific attributes, like speed, power, or accuracy.

According to statistics, the global market value of ice hockey equipment will reach USD 1.91 billion by 2023 and is projected to grow to at least USD 2.43 billion by 2028.

So, the demand for hockey equipment – and the right equipment – remains quite high.

Hockey training equipment goes beyond the basics.

Yes, you need a stick, puck, helmet, gloves, and pads to play the game.

Hockey practice equipment enhances fine motor skills, helps you land or take hits, helps you stick that puck in the top corner of the net, or navigates tight spaces.

This guide delves into the essential equipment you need to focus on developing these core abilities that make up some of the best hockey players to ever grace the ice.

Improve Your Speed

If you wanted to improve your ice hockey speed, what would you do?

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or a seasoned player aiming to refine your explosiveness, you'd need a solid on-ice and off-ice training plan.

On the ice, you'll focus on improving your skating mechanics, power skating, and movements with and without the puck.

Off the ice, you'll work on building your lower body, agility, and explosiveness.

These strategies combine to significantly improve a hockey player's speed.

Here are some hockey practice equipment recommendations to outpace the competition on the ice:

1. Speed and Agility Training Set

Agility drills are crucial for developing quick changes of direction and efficient footwork.

Building your sprinting speed also translates well to the ice.

You can do that and much more with a speed and agility training set.

This set contains a speed ladder, cones, resistance parachutes, and hurdles. Combine these to be faster and more agile.

2. Adjustable Ankle Weights for On and Off-Ice Work

Can you make your lower body, such as your calves and ankles, more powerful than before?

If you can apply resistance to the lower body, you'll naturally increase your speed in skates.

With some ankle weights, you can achieve this.

These straps are adjustable to up to 20 lbs, and you can naturally improve your speed and power in the actual game without them.

3. Stability Balance Ball to Combine Speed and Control

What does stability have to do with speed?

You can be fast, but without balance and control, you won't direct your speed effectively.

Speed with control allows you to move between opponents and to change direction as needed. It also helps with deceleration.

This stability ball helps to improve your balance and strengthen your lower legs and core.

Improve Your Power

Did you know one of the fastest recorded shots lies at 108mph?

Yes, Zdeno Chara did it.

A physical specimen.

But genetics alone is not enough to hit a shot so powerful.

It takes practical training to improve power in all aspects of the game.

A powerful player can overpower opponents for loose pucks along the boards.

Win battles in the corners.

And, like Chara, unleash devastating slapshots that leave goalies scrambling.

You can get to higher heights with consistent training that improves your shot and skating power.

Adding hockey practice equipment to the mix ensures you'll be pushing your limits as you age.

Here are some valuable tools to improve your power:

4. Improve Strength with a Weighted Hockey Stick

Add a weight to your hockey stick and watch the magic happen.

If you can be more comfortable with a heavier hockey stick, you'll become stronger in actual games.

While there are heavier sticks you can buy, you can also invest in a hockey stick weight so you can still use your favorite stick.

This weight is a strap that goes around the base of your hockey stick, adding up to 14 ounces.

You can improve your speed, agility, and power.

5. Plyo Box Jumps for Power and Explosiveness

Power is not limited to slap shots.

You can also work on becoming a powerful, explosive skater.

Powerful skating allows you to outmaneuver your opponents and transfer the energy generated to passes and shots.

Plyometrics, a form of high-intensity explosive exercise, is a given for all athletes.

With a plyo box jump, you can build your lower body with weekly exercise, translating to more power on the ice.

6. Speed Radar Gun for Hockey

How do you know if you're improving your shot speed? What gets measured gets managed.

With a radar gun, you can gauge your shot power in real time.

Pick up this handy radar gun that connects to your phone.

Track your progress with the app so you'll know what you need to do to improve.

7. The Bounce Bar Rebounder by PolyGlide Ice

Passing is an essential part of being an accurate hockey player.

You want the ideal hockey practice equipment to enhance your passing.

A rebounder is a popular tool used by hockey players to improve passing accuracy while training alone.

Through passing the puck at specific angles, the rebounder returns the puck to the player in the perfect position.

Try this fantastic piece of hockey practice equipment to become a pass master and manage games.

Conclusion

Hockey is a fun, competitive sport that kids, teens, and adults can enjoy.

When you decide to take it seriously, however, you'll want to improve the skills that make hockey players great.

Mastering your speed, power, and accuracy helps to create a well-rounded hockey arsenal.

Consider mixing in the hockey practice equipment mentioned above with your regular training routines to take your performance to the next level.

You can start working on these attributes at almost any age.

Some of these you can perform both on and off the ice.

And if you need more access to ice, you can invest in synthetic ice starter kits, allowing you to practice at any time, year-round.

More importantly, you must be consistent.

Dedicating yourself to regular training with the right tools will propel you toward becoming a faster, more powerful, and more accurate player – a force to be reckoned with on the ice.