Ringette sticks are made specifically for the sport. The tip should be tapered over 250 mm. Maximum and 17 to 25 mm. X 27 to 35 mm. The referees have a gauge to measure the tip for compliance. Some dressing over the year will be required as the tip ‘mushrooms’ over. A commercial ringette stick can be bought for under $50.00 and they have a metal tip to prevent the mushrooming. The maximum length is to the height of the player's rib cage standing in skates. Individual players may prefer a shorter stick. Ringette Canada Rules on Equipment

 

Equipment should be dried after each use. A small cloth should be part of each player’s bag for wiping skates and sticks should be carried so the playing end does not bang on the ground.

Skates

Skates are the most important as they provide support, mobility and protection. The counter (heel area) and ankle area should be stiff. You can test the heel area by grasping the skate from behind and pinching the two sides together. Twist them – are they soft, limp or pliable? The quality of blade determines how often it has to be sharpened, hence, how long it lasts. 

When fitting skates, start with one pair of light-weight synthetic socks (cotton socks tend to stick to the skin when wet and cause blisters) and your shoe size. Youth sizes 6 - 13 1/2 , Junior sizes 1 – 6 and Adult sizes 7+. If the skates are too large and you try to take up slack by tightening the laces, the blood circulation will be restricted resulting in cold feet. An ideal fit will place the toe 1/4 inch from the front of the skate. Pretty hard to judge! You can measure this by pushing their foot to the front of the skate. When you can place one finger behind the heel the skate is the right size. The boot should hold the heel ridged like a medical cast. A narrow foot may require leather inserts to take up space in the heel side area. All children have strong ankles but not strong enough for the transition period from shoe to blade. It comes after varying lengths of time. For several years, all children need unyielding ankle support.

To tie the skate, divide it into thirds. The bottom third should be moderate tension (take up slack). The middle third should be slightly looser. The top third needs to be pulled tightly (taking up all loose leather holding the foot firmly). These are relative terms. Good skates will not require bull strength to tie. Do not wrap laces that are too long around the ankle area as it restricts ankle movement. 

Sizes are not standard. Try them on. Spring is a good time for used equipment. Good skates can be purchased for between $25.00 and $75.00 depending on new, used and sale price. Remember proper fitting quality skates will improve their skating up to 30%, last for a half dozen children and make skating more fun.

Typical Goalie Gear