Pre-Season Hockey Kit Checklist 2026/27
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The new season is here. Whether you're returning to club hockey after the summer or picking up a stick for the first time, here's everything you need to make sure you're properly kitted out before the first match.
The Essential Kit List
1. Hockey Stick
Check your stick for cracks, delamination or a worn-out grip. If the head is cracked or the shaft is delaminating, it's time for a new one. If the grip is worn, a re-grip is a quick and inexpensive fix — read our re-gripping guide for how to do it yourself.
If you're buying a new stick: use our Hockey Stick Finder for a personalised recommendation, or browse by brand: Grays | Y1 | Kookaburra | Mercian
2. Shin Pads
Check your shin pads for cracks in the shell and make sure they still fit. Junior players may have grown over the summer and need a larger size. Read our shin pad guide for sizing advice. Browse: Hockey Shin Pads
3. Gumshield
Gumshields degrade over time and should be replaced every season. If yours is discoloured, cracked or no longer fits snugly, replace it before the season starts. Browse: Hockey Gumshields
4. Hockey Shoes
Check your shoes for worn studs and damaged uppers. Worn studs significantly reduce grip on astro turf. Junior players may have gone up a shoe size over the summer. Browse: Hockey Footwear
5. Gloves
If you wear a glove, check it for wear on the palm and knuckle protection. A glove that's lost its hard-shell protection is no longer doing its job. Browse: Hockey Gloves 2026/27
6. Grip
If you haven't re-gripped since last season, now's the time. A fresh grip makes a noticeable difference to feel and control. Browse: Hockey Grips & Tape
7. Bag
Check your bag for broken zips and worn straps. A bag that fails mid-season is an unnecessary hassle. Browse: Stick Bags | Backpacks
8. Balls
Stock up on training balls before the season starts. Browse: Hockey Balls
For Goalkeepers
Check all GK kit for wear and damage — particularly kickers (check for cracks in the shell), legguards (check the straps and buckles), and body armour (check the hard-shell panels). Browse: All Goalkeeping Kit
Free UK Delivery at The Hockey Shed
We offer free UK delivery on orders over £50. Everything you need for the new season is in stock now — browse the full range at The Hockey Shed.