Sport & Fitness

Figure skating & hockey

3 kinds worth knowing, 8 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of figure skating & hockey — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Gifts in this category usually go to someone already on the ice every week, like a kid in minor hockey, an adult rec-league player or a figure skater with regular practice times. The gifts that get used replace something worn out or fill a real gap in the bag. Hockey gloves and a new composite stick are the classic upgrades, but they depend on size, hand and position, so they're better when you've checked first. If you can't find out the details, go for something fun or low-stakes, like a mini stick set for the basement, or small extras like blade covers or a sharpening kit.

Kind 1 of 3

Hockey gloves that fit the player

Gloves get more wear than almost anything else in a hockey bag, and palms wear thin quickly, so a new pair is rarely wasted. They come in youth, junior, intermediate and senior sizes, usually listed in inches. Before buying, look at the size on the player's current pair and ask whether they've outgrown it. Some players like a snug, flexible fit for stickhandling. Others prefer a roomier, stiffer glove. Check that the cuff length works with their elbow pads, and pick colours that match the team jersey if that matters to them.

  • Representative photo-style image of protective hockey gloves — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $50–$100

    Protective hockey gloves

    Essential for hand protection, these gloves shield players from impacts and provide a secure grip on the stick.

Kind 2 of 3

Choosing a composite stick

Composite sticks are lighter than wood and many players feel they get a quicker release. This gift suits a player who's serious about the game or has just moved up a level. It's also one of the most personal pieces of gear, so get the details right. You need to know whether they shoot left or right, what flex they use, what curve they like and what length they cut the stick to. The easiest way to find out is to look at the stick they use now. Flex is usually printed on the shaft.

  • Representative photo-style image of composite hockey stick — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually over $100

    Composite hockey stick

    A durable hockey stick is essential for players seeking improved puck control and powerful shots on the ice.

Kind 3 of 3

Mini sticks for hallway games

A mini stick set is a pair of short sticks with a soft ball or small puck, made for playing on your knees in a hallway, basement or rec room. It suits kids of almost any age, siblings and cousins, and hockey families who want something to do on game nights. There's no sizing to guess, which makes it an easy gift from relatives. Before buying, check how many sticks come in the set, whether it includes nets and whether the ball is soft enough for indoor use near furniture.

  • Illustration of Mini Hockey Stick Set

    Curated pick$15–$25

    Mini Hockey Stick Set

    Tiny sticks, a soft ball, and a hallway that becomes a rink by lunch

How to choose figure skating & hockey as a gift

  • Look at the player's current gear for sizes, stick flex, curve and shooting hand before buying anything that has to fit.
  • Ask a parent or teammate quietly about what's worn out; replacing a tired item beats adding a duplicate.
  • For young players who are still growing, small extras like blade covers or mini sticks last longer than sized gear.
  • Figure skaters often have coach or club preferences for dresses and accessories, so check before choosing colours or styles.

Usually safe to skip

  • A stick picked at random usually misses, because the wrong hand, flex or curve can make it hard for the player to use.
  • Generic hockey decor and novelty mugs rarely get used by active players, who would rather have something for the rink.
  • Skates bought as a surprise often need to be exchanged, since fit varies a lot by foot shape and brand sizing.

Questions people ask about figure skating & hockey

How do I find out what hockey glove size to buy?
Look inside the cuff of the player's current gloves, where the size in inches is usually printed. If they've been complaining that their gloves feel tight, go up one size. For kids, check the age range for each size, since they grow quickly.
What flex composite stick should I get as a gift?
Match the flex printed on the stick they use now. A common rule of thumb is roughly half the player's body weight in pounds, but players have strong preferences. Copy what they already use rather than guessing.
Is a mini stick set a good gift for older kids?
Yes. Mini sticks are popular with teens and even adults for basement games. Pick a set with at least two sticks and a soft ball so siblings or friends can play together indoors.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All figure skating & hockey picks

Show:AllSpecific productsGift ideasBudget:AnyUnder $15$15–$25$25–$50$50–$100Over $100

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