Equipment
Short track speed skating comes with its unique set of equipment requirements, crucial for both safety and performance. These essentials are not exclusive to race days; they are mandatory during weekly practice sessions as well.
There is no dedicated speed skate store in Newmarket or the GTA. Typically, our athletes order from reputable sources like Xactskateshop.com or speedskatingequipment.ca, along with other dedicated speed skating stores across Canada. It’s crucial to consider varying delivery times when making online purchases, so we advise ordering well in advance of your first session. Additionally, speed skating equipment is available for in-person purchase at competition meets. If you find yourself without certain pieces of equipment on Day 1, we may offer temporary lending solutions.
Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for Day 1. Find detailed descriptions of each item below, and you can view photos of all the equipment at the bottom of the page. For any questions or assistance, feel free to reach out to us anytime by emailing info@newmarketspeedskating.com We’re here to help!
Equipment Checklist
| # | Equipment | Description | Check? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Helmet | Purchase or bring hockey/ski helmet | |
| 2 | Protective Eyewear | Purchase online | |
| 3 | Neck Guard | Purchase or bring hockey neck guard | |
| 4 | Cut-Resistant Gloves | Purchase online | |
| 5 | Knee Pads | Purchase or bring volleyball/soccer pads | |
| 6 | Shin Pads | Purchase or bring soccer pads | |
| 7 | Cut Proof Socks | Buy online or from NJSSC during registration | |
| 8 | Skin Suit* | Optional. Bring outerwear if no skin suit | |
| 9 | Outer-clothing | Required if not wearing skin suit | |
| 10 | Skates | NJSSC will provide rentals | |
| 11 | Skate Guards | Buy online or from NJSSC during registration | |
| 12 | Skate Blade Covers/Soakers | Buy online or make yourself | |
| 13 | Water Bottle | Any bottle is fine but no metal please |
*If wearing a skin suit, don’t forget thermal under clothing and outer hoodie or jacket
Equipment Descriptions
1. Helmet
Skaters commonly choose a dedicated speed skating helmet. Alternatively, a hockey or snowboard/ski helmet is acceptable, meeting the ASTM F 1849 – 07 guideline. Please refrain from using bike helmets. Purchase online before the season or bring your hockey/ski/snowboard helmet.
2. Protective Eyewear
For practice, skaters need shatter-proof glasses with clear lenses. Competing requires a retention strap for the glasses. Examples and straps are available for purchase online.
3. Neck Guard
A cut-proof neck guard is essential. You can acquire one from speed skate vendors or opt for a dedicated hockey neck guard, readily available at sports stores in Newmarket. Please note that, starting in 2023, neck guards for meets must reach the top of your throat (level with the chin).
4. Cut-Resistant Gloves
Protect your hands with cut-resistant material. You can either wear normal gloves with a light cut-resistant liner or choose dedicated cut-resistant gloves. Speed skate specificity is not mandatory.
5. Knee Pads
Opt for soft knee pads, providing protection from falls. Avoid hard plastic variants. Purchase them from any sports store in Newmarket.
6. Shin Pads
Shin pads should be made of hard plastic, with or without speed skate specificity. Inserts are recommended if worn with a skin suit or long socks. Purchase these at any sporting goods store.
7. Cut-Proof Socks
In addition to regular sports socks, skaters are required to wear cut-proof socks. These can be obtained during Newmarket Speed Skating Club registration or at various speed skating retailers.
8. Skin Suit (Optional)
The club offers NJSSC skin suits for purchase. Bulk orders will be placed post-season, taking around 6-8 weeks for manufacturing and shipping. Skaters with skin suits typically wear thermal underclothing, long thermal pants, and an outer layer (hoodie or jacket) for added warmth.
9. Outer-clothing for Those with No Skin Suit
Skaters without a skin suit can opt for a winter sports jacket (e.g., snow/ski/snowboard), a warm layer underneath, and snow pants or warm tech pants. Choose comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, avoiding bulky jackets.
10. Skates
Skaters must wear speed skates, and rental is provided by NJSSC during registration. Skates are taken home after each practice and will require occasional hand-sharpening.
11. Skate Guards
Mandatory for protecting skate blades from damage. Purchase these during NJSSC registration or from online speed skate shops.
12. Skate Blade Covers – Soakers
After each session, wipe skate blades with a cloth and cover them with soakers to prevent rusting overnight.
13. Water Bottle
Bring a non-metal water bottle to each practice for hydration. Metal bottles are discouraged as they may stick to the ice surface.