HockeySize Elbow pads are the piece where brands measure differently, so read the chart you are using.
Two ways to measure
CCM sizes elbow pads by forearm circumference, measured around the thickest part. Bauer and Warrior size them by length, from the tip of the elbow to the wrist crease with the arm bent at 90 degrees. The finder asks for both and uses the right one per brand.
How it should fit
- The cup sits centred on the point of the elbow and stays there when you bend and straighten the arm.
- The forearm guard reaches the cuff of the glove, meeting it or slightly under it.
- The bicep guard reaches the shoulder pad cap.
Slipping
Pads that rotate or slide down are the most common complaint. The fix is usually the strap positions or a snugger size rather than a longer one; a pad that is too long pushes against the glove and rides up. A base layer sleeve or a strip of tape can help, but a pad that needs tape to stay put is probably the wrong size.
Size the arm as a set
Gloves, elbow pads and shoulder pads should be tried together. The right elbow pad closes the gap to both neighbours; if you are between sizes, choose the one that closes the gap to the glove.