In the next entry of my head-to-toe equipment fitting series we have the chest protector, an often misjudged area of protection. Your trusty chesty covers the most surface area of all of your body and should be carefully selected.
Contrary to nearly all other pieces of your gear, the chest protector is entirely for the protection of you and doesn't add to your kits style points outwardly. This gear is never visible on the ice [unless you're one of those feisty, fisty-cuff kinda goalies ;)] and aesthetics should not play a role in your choice. These are also referred to as a 'c/a unit' or 'chest and arm' protector from some vendors.
Equipment manufactures will provide size ranges for all of their equipment and this will help narrow your selection but should not decide for you. Measure the goalie's height, arm span, and chest size and length to compare to the sizing guidelines of the specific manufacturer. After you have chosen an approximate size based on manufacturer guides, adjust the C/A to your preferences.
Now we really begin! Start by raising your arms fully out from your sides (like you would measure your wing span) and then bring your palms together fully directly in front of you. With the chest protector adjusted already, the wrist straps should end 1-2 inches before your wrist bones in a fully grown goalie. A tender who is still growing can have the straps on or just past the wrist bone. This will provide room to grow without hindering glove or blocker movements. Some units will have lace, velcro, or other means at the shoulder to allow for adjustments to arm length.
Bending your arms to a full 90 degree and beyond, your elbows should sit nearly centred in the elbow caps. Most of these are non-adjustable, so make sure to test a full range of motions. Ensure the arm floaters break is in the crook of your elbow and does not impede you (some floaters may have adjustments to pull them up or down). Your shoulders should be square underneath the caps of the C/A and will not protrude past.
The neck "guard" will sit at the base of the neck. This is not designed to sit any higher, and if it is, the unit is too small or adjusted incorrectly. The design is intended to provide the goalie the ability to move freely in their stance and will rise slightly when the goalie moves to their ready stance. A supplementary neck guard should always be worn underneath the unit (this is covered below).
The chest and belly portion of the protector should extend roughly to your belt/waist line and be snug around your sides without bothering you or impeding your arms. A goalie that tucks in their chest protector may want a slightly longer unit to overlap with their pants.
Your ideal chest protector provides a full range of motion and maximum coverage to your body. Many goalies will up-size equipment for coverage, but this is not recommended. An oversized C/A will expose your body and hinder your movement more than the minimal extra net coverage gained. A small exception to this would be growing goalies, as this will provide extra life to the equipment and lessen the blow on parent's wallets. Be sure to not overdo it; be conscious of the gaps mentioned above. As goalie gear has evolved, many manufacturers have provided features that make units incredibly adjustable and accommodate a range of sizes for the one set 'size'.
And now you're set! Once you've found the chest protector that's just for you, make sure to see how it integrates with the rest of your gear before you get it all sweaty. Your helmet, gloves, and pants should all work seamlessly with a properly fitted unit. Think about puck handling as well, as the range of motion may feel different! New units will take time to break in and may feel awkward at first. Used C/A's are a great way to get already broken in gear at a good discount. As always, inspect all used items for damage.
BONUS: Neck Protectors - These units have come a long way in past few years, with many small manufacturers making top-tier protection that does not sacrifice mobility or comfort. Neck protectors should be worn beneath the goalie's chest unit. These should cover the clavicles partially and extend out of the C/A and up the neck to prevent pucks, or worse, skates from striking the goalie. Protectors should fit snugly, but comfortably. These should fit under your chest protector without discomfort or changing the fit of your unit. Generally these will come in either a junior or senior sizing, with some having a shirt style option. Be sure to wear a protector that you are most comfortable in! As a closing note, I only recommend neck protectors that come with a cut or BNQ certification. These have been tested to provide protection against cuts and generally provide coverage all the way around the neck, including cover the back/spine portion.
happy tending!
mek
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