SAFETY ON THE ICE
Protective Equipment
Short track protective equipment
Speed skating uses sharp blades and close racing, so skaters need equipment suitable for their skill level and program. Common short track protection includes:
- A securely fastened helmet appropriate for the activity
- Cut-resistant gloves or hand protection
- Neck protection
- Knee and shin protection
- Ankle and lower-leg cut protection
- Appropriate protective clothing, including cut-resistant protection where required
- Eye protection for racing when required by the current rules or event organizer
Important: Equipment rules differ by level and event and can change. This summary is not a substitute for the club coach’s instructions or current Speed Skating Canada regulations. Confirm competition requirements before purchasing race equipment.
Speed Skating Canada’s short track equipment overview ↗ · Current SSC Red Book resource library ↗
Before every practice
- Check your helmet fit and chin strap.
- Inspect blade attachment bolts, laces and boots.
- Wear hard blade guards whenever walking off the ice.
- Dry blades fully after skating, then use soakers to transport them.
- Ask a coach before using unfamiliar equipment or making a repair.