Best Ice Hockey Neck Guards
Ice hockey neck guards have become increasingly more popular over the last couple decades. While this piece of equipment is not required, it can make the game much safer. Hockey players of all skill levels can wear neck guards.
What are ice hockey neck guards used for?
Hockey neck guards are a piece of protective equipment worn around the hockey player’s neck. They come in a few different styles and are worn by both goalies as well as skaters. Neck guards offer protection against lacerations and damage to the neck area. Injuries in the past such as one suffered by goaltender Clint Malarchuck in 1989 have made the necessity for neck guards even greater. Malarchuk took an errant skate blade to the neck, and almost died on the ice.
Neck guards usually feature shock resistant padding along with a highly durable lining. They are designed to protect the neck while also remaining cool enough for players to wear during games. Neck guards are typically more common in lower level hockey leagues.
Things To Consider
When looking for a neck guard, you'll want to consider the following:
- Are you looking for a skater neck guard or a goalie neck guard?
- How much do you want to spend on a neck guard?
- Do you want a thicker or thinner neck guard?
- Is there a certain certification level of neck guard that you need to wear?
Types of Hockey Neck Guards
The three types of neck guards are neck guard shirts, neck protectors, and goalie neck guards.
Neck Guard Shirt
Neck guard shirts are typically long sleeve athletic shirts with neck guards built into the collar. The neck guard on these shirts is typically thinner than other types of neck guards. These can be very comfortable to wear and still protective against cuts.
Neck Protector
Neck protectors are collars that go around a skater’s neck. They are usually thicker than the collars on neck guard shirts, offering better cut and impact protection. They may feel less comfortable and restrict movement a little more than other types of neck guards.
Goalie Neck Guard
Goalie neck guards are constructed similarly to neck protectors in the sense that they wrap around the neck and are made with thick protective materials. Goalie neck guards, however, provide a little bit more protection to the upper shoulder and collarbone areas as well.
Considerations
When deciding which neck guard to buy, always consider the durability, cost, and sizes.
Durability
Neck guards can last quite a long time. Since the neck is not usually one of the most contacted areas of the body, neck guards will usually retain their protectiveness for a while. If a neck guard begins to tear or become ruined with moisture, it is usually time to replace it.
Cost
The cost of neck guards usually varies based on the type. Neck protectors are often the cheapest and can be found for less than $30. Most goalie neck guards usually cost around $30 to $60. Neck guard shirts are often the most expensive as they serve as an athletic undershirt as well as a neck protector. These are typically anywhere for $50 to $80.
Sizes
Neck protectors and goalie neck guards usually come in a few different sizes: youth, junior, and senior. The way to figure out which size is best for you is to simply measure the circumference of your neck. Most neck guard shirts will come in regular shirt sizes.
What are the best hockey neck guards?
- CCM Hockey 900 Cut Resistant Neck Guard
- A&R Sports Hockey Neck Guard
- Shock Doctor Ultra 2.0 Neck Guard
- CCM Hockey Pro Bibbed Cut Resistant Neck Guard
- Aegis Interceptor G Hockey Goalie Neck Guard
- CCM Hockey 600 Cut Resistant Neck Guard
- GY Ice Hockey Goalie Neck Guard
- PowerTek v7.0 Hockey Long Sleeve Compression Shirt with Neck Guard
- PowerTek V3.0 Ice Hockey Neck Guard
- Exalt Neck Protector
1. CCM Hockey 900 Cut Resistant Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $22.99
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Brand: CCM
The CCM Hockey Cut Resistant Neck Guard is one of the top-ranked neck guards on the market. It has a soft two-piece construction to be able to move comfortably and freely. It is made up of cut-resistant materials that protect the neck against any sharp material or skate blade. It includes a soft liner that will help keep sweat off and an adjustable velcro strap that allows you to be as comfortable as possible while wearing it. Along with this, It is BNQ certified protected. It comes in a senior and junior size, with adjustable velcro to help keep it secure and comfortable to your own standards.
2. A&R Sports Hockey Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $12.44
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Brand: A&R Sports
The A&R Sports Hockey Neck Guard features a nylon material to keep your neck comfortable and cool. It has the ability to contour the shape for your own neck’s comfort making it more personalized. This neck guard features an adjustable strap as well. A & R has been a leading sports brand in accessories for the past 20 years, making it a reliable and trusted company for both neck guards and other hockey accessories you may need. This comes in one size, senior. This neck guard is also the cheapest out of all the ones mentioned on our list.
3. Shock Doctor Ultra 2.0 Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $19.99
- Rating: 2.6/5
- Brand: Shock Doctor
The Shock Doctor Ultra Neck Guard is different in that it has a pre-curved neck form to already be molded to your neck without adjustment. This neck guard enhances protection with its cut-resist fiber technology and adjustable strap to adjust the level of comfort. What is different about the Shock Doctor Ultra 2.0 Neck Guard is the BioFit feature. This allows for a contoured neck wrap pre-curved with a lower density foam. This Shock Doctor neck guard is very lightweight and smooth to the touch compared to competitors that are stiffer at first. This neck guard will be more comfortable since it does not mold as harshly to the skin.
4. CCM Hockey Pro Bibbed Cut Resistant Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $32.99
- Rating: 4/5
- Brand: CCM
The CCM Hockey Pro Bibbed Cut Resistant Neck Guard has two sizes: junior and senior. The senior is for sizes 13.5-17, while the junior is for 10-14. This neck guard is CE and BNQ certified for cut protection against sharp skates or blades. The CCM Pro Bibbed Neck Guard is a mix of cotton, Kevlar, and rubber and has a fit contouring effect that allows it to mold to the shape of your neck. This neck guard is different because of its extended coverage that goes further down the neck without disrupting your breathing.
5. Aegis Interceptor G Hockey Goalie Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $64.95
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Brand: Aegis
The Aegis Interceptor G Hockey Goalie Neck Guard, as the name suggests, is built especially for goaltenders. It uses D30 technology that allows it to have soft and flexible material that absorbs both energy and impact and allows it to return to its own “flexible” state. It’s made specifically for goalies because it offers more protection than the other neck guards by covering a larger area where a goalie may get hit. It goes over both shoulders and down onto the chest to sit and protect. The Aegis Interceptor Goalie Neck Guard has an average ranking of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with most comments saying that it offers good protection, is lightweight, and is comfortable. This is also the most expensive out of all the neck guards that are mentioned here.
6. CCM Hockey 600 Cut Resistant Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $15.99
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Brand: CCM
The CCM Hockey 600 Cut Resistant Neck Guard comes in senior, junior, and youth sizes, depending on your neck size. It covers the entire neck and is easily adjustable, similar to the ones listed previously. The price of this neck guard is comparable to A&R and Shock Doctor’s, at under $20. This neck guard is made out of polyester and foam and has an arched shape design fit that allows it to contour the neck. It also features a soft liner on the interior to prevent skin irritation and uncomfortableness. Lastly, it is BNQ certified for protection.
7. GY Ice Hockey Goalie Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $23.89
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Brand: GY
The GY Ice Hockey Goalie Neck Guard is made specifically for goalies to allow for more protection in areas that other hockey players may not need. It uses polycarbonate material that provides high-end protection. This neck guard also fits hockey goalie helmets with an adjustable attachment included. It is ranked a 4 out of 5 stars on Amazon and is priced affordably at $23.89. This neck guard comes in only one size to fit all goalie helmets. It also comes with lace attachments to connect the neck guard to the helmet, a feature the other goalie neck guard do not have.
8. PowerTek v7.0 Hockey Long Sleeve Compression Shirt with Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $44.99
- Rating: 3.8/5
- Brand: PowerTek
The PowerTek Hockey Long Sleeve Compression Shirt with Neck Guard is different from any of the other items on this list because it is a compression shirt with a built-in neck guard instead of a separate neck guard. It has an adjustable close collar that is easy to use and easily accessible. It comes in adult XL or XXL sizes. The PowerTek v7.0 Compression Shirt with Neck Guard offers the most convenience, with a base layer compression shirt and neck guard attached. There is built-in reinforced material around the neck and collar for extra protection as well. The shirt can be washed and is highly durable. The average reviews of the shirt say it has good coverage, is highly compressive, and fits great overall.
9. PowerTek V3.0 Ice Hockey Neck Guard
Specifications:
- Price: $13.99
- Rating: 5/5
- Brand: PowerTek
The PowerTek V3.0 Ice Hockey Neck Guard is made with nylon material and has an adjustable closure for the best fit. It is available in all sizes, including youth, junior, and senior. This neck guard is also BNQ certified for protection. It has a soft and comfortable interior to limit neck irritation and allows for a more secure and stable fit. This is one of the more affordable neck guards on the market, only costing $13.99. It has a sleek black design and is lightweight for easy movement.
10. Exalt Neck Protector
Specifications:
- Price: $14.95
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Brand: Exalt
The Exalt Neck Protector has an affordable low price of $14.95. Its reviews state that it is high-quality with excellent neck protection but runs a little small. This neck guard has a universal design that is supposed to fit all ages and sizes in one fit. It is made of lightweight foam that is guaranteed to protect from bruises and welts. It is a breathable fabric that is also stain-resistant and easy to wash. The neck guard is molded so it can contour to the shape of your neck and is designed to flex and move with your head for any quick movements you make.
FAQ
What are the benefits of using a neck guard in hockey?
Neck guards protect against sharp objects such as blades or sticks from cutting the neck. Neck guards in hockey protect the most vital areas of a hockey player’s neck. The neck is very prone to being cut and a laceration can puncture a nerve or artery.
How much does a neck guard cost?
Neck guards have a wide range of costs. Most neck protectors will cost less than $30. Goalie neck guards, which offer more protection than neck protectors, can usually be found for around $60 or less. Neck guard shirts can be the most expensive as they have multiple functions and can range in price from $40 to $80.
Are you required to wear a neck guard in hockey?
Most higher level hockey leagues do not require the use of neck guards. However, neck guards are highly recommended by most leagues and may be required in youth or recreational leagues. The NHL does not require neck guards and they are very rarely worn.