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Guide To The Average Cost Of Hockey Equipment

In this article, you will find our Guide To The Average Cost Of Hockey Equipment.

Sports Zone has been operating in Waterloo for over 16 years. We are committed to providing hockey enthusiasts with the highest quality equipment available at unbeatable prices both in-store and online - contact us today to learn more!

When assessing the average cost of hockey equipment, it's important to remember there are some articles to buy new, and others you can look for used. Let's dig in and take a deeper look.

Guide To The Average Cost Of Hockey Equipment

What You Can Expect To Pay

The average cost of hockey equipment depends on whether you go all out with the top brands or settled for used hockey equipment, but here's a general guideline via newtohockey.com:

  • All New: $500 – $1000 (Depending on what sales you find)
  • New and Used: $300 – $500
  • Mostly all used: $200 – $300

As we will discuss later in this article, there are some pieces that can be bought used, and other pieces you should prepare to set aside a larger budget to purchase new.

The fact that kids grow so quickly means it's prudent to prioritize used equipment for youth hockey players, thereby lowering the average cost of hockey equipment for kids. Adults can invest a bit more, knowing they're likely to use their gear for many years to come.

Don't forget the hockey bag when assessing the average cost of hockey equipment!

What You Need To Play

Above, we covered the average cost of hockey equipment, but if you're a parent in need of gear for your child or an adult new to playing the game, you may not know what exactly what you even need.

Here are the basics:

It's a fairly lengthy list, enough to fill your hockey bag, which you should also add to your list.

But don't fret - Sports Zone is here to help. We not only offer the very best in hockey equipment, we also offer the following used items: shoulder padspantsglovesshin guards, and elbow pads.

Used options are limited, and that's because there are certain pieces that warrant spending on new due to safety and hygeine, raising the average cost of hockey equipment.

To make things easier, though, we offer a trade-in program so you can bring in your old equipment and get credit towards new gear.

Here's a look at some of our new arrivals:

When To Spend And When To Save

As mentioned above, there are some pieces of hockey equipment you should buy new, and others where you can definitely get away with taking the used route.

This CBC article sheds some light on when you can save and on what you should spend:

  • Helmet - Spend: This is one of the most important pieces of equipment, and you want to make sure you get one that has not been banged up as that could compromise head safety.

  • Protective Gear - Save: Again, shoulder padspantsglovesshin guards, and elbow pads can all be purchased second-hand. This can really save you a lot of money! For protective gear, it's best to look for gently used items.

  • Jock, Undergarments - Spend: For these items, the hygienic choice is to go new. You just don't know where these items have been in the past and it's not worth the health risk.

  • Skates - Spend or Save: Skates are another item you can save on, and you can benefit from putting your feet into a used pair that have already been broken in. However, buying new allows for optimization opportunities. Sports Zone, for example, has a Bauer 3D skate lab that scans and measures each foot for the best possible fit.

  • Sticks - Spend: When taking to the ice, you want to make sure your stick will provide peak performance. Sticks can be weakened by use over time, so invest in a high-quality stick such as the Bauer Supreme ADV. At Sports Zone, we have a CCM Performance Lab that can help you find the best stick just for you. Here's Matt Duchene of the Nashville Predators taking it for a test run:

Visit Sports Zone For The Best in New and Used Hockey Equipment

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major brands you need to play your best. The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport - and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need hockey equipment, skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, figure skates, or baseball equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Sports Zone is a serious player in the sporting store market. Because we purchase our sports products in volume, we provide the same discount levels offered by national chains and big-box retailers. Our price match promise means we won’t just match another store’s advertised price - we’ll beat it by an additional 5%! 

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or, you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"Friendly owners and staff, want the best for their customers and will go above and beyond helping you find the equipment that will fit your price range and your needs. Personal service that you just don't get with bigger sports stores around the city."

- Eric Bell

Sports Equipment Kitchener

In today's post, we are going to take a look at the best sports equipment Kitchener has to offer. 

Whether you're into hockey, figure skating, baseball, softball, lacrosse, ringette, field hockey or soccer, you deserve the best sports equipment Kitchener has to offer - contact Sports Zone today to learn more

Now let's dig in!

Sports Equipment Kitchener

The Sports Equipment You Need

Kitchener area residents are very active, and there's a high demand for high-quality sports equipment. Luckily, Sports Zone is here for you!

We are a premier local leader in the sports gear industry and have approximately 15,000 square feet of inventory space filled with new and used sporting equipment. We also have a massive online store with over 11,000 items!

Our inventory includes: 

We have the equipment you need to dominate your softball league

As the area's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes with the high-performance sports gear that has helped them excel in their chosen sport. We are happy to do the same for you.

Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

Sports Zone is proud to have been chosen to offer the Bauer Supreme ADV, a limited-edition, high-performance stick released on October 12, 2019. To learn more about this stick, contact us today.

The Bauer Supreme ADV is a prime example of Sports Zone carrying the very best in sports equipment

Why Sports Zone Is The Best Place For Sports Equipment In Kitchener

The Sports Zone difference is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience with all the sports equipment and apparel that athletes need to excel at their sport.

Specialized services:

  • Two machines dedicated for hockey skate sharpening
  • One machine dedicated as a figure skate detailing and sharpening center

We employ a tool and die approach to our skate sharpening; after all, we are cutting steel! Our sharpeners use a machinist square tool to meter it to perfection and the end result is better blade performance on the ice.

But that's not all!

    • Skate blade and holder replacements to most makes
    • Rivet and eyelet repair
    • Helmet hardware
    • Glove re-lacing as well as small goalie repairs
    • SRS shaft repair system. 

Sports Zone Kitchener also features a Bauer 3D skate lab for the best possible fit! We also have a state of the art CCM stick fitter, where you can handle a stick embedded with a chip and sensors that will analyze how you shoot and recommend proper flex and curve. There's even a batting cage to try out the latest in bats!

Where To Find The Best Sports Equipment in Kitchener

Sports Zone is located at 92 Lodge Street in Waterloo, ON.

Hours:

      • MON TO FRI 10AM TO 8PM
      •   
      • SAT 9AM - 5PM
      •  
      • SUN 11AM - 5PM

Want The Best Sports Equipment Kitchener Has To Offer? Come to Sports Zone!

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major brands you need to play your best.

The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We offer you a personal, small-store experience with all the sports equipment and apparel you need to excel at your sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes like you with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need football team gear, hockey equipment, skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, figure skates, or baseball equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

WHAT SPORTS ZONE CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING:

"I've been going to Sports Zone for my figure skating needs and my brother for his hockey equipment for the longest time. Vince and Susan are amazing people to work with and treat their customers amazingly well. They have incredible knowledge about their products and only want the best for their customers."
-Kimberley Slimming

 

Bauer Supreme ADV Hockey Stick: Improve Your Game

Image courtesy: https://www.bauer.com/en-CA/adv-learn-more.html

Today, we're introducing the Bauer Supreme ADV hockey stick.

Sports Zone is proud to have been chosen to offer this limited-edition product. The Bauer Supreme ADV was released on October 12, 2019 in limitied quantities. To learn more about this stick, contact us today.

The Bauer Supreme ADV is set apart by its lighter weight. It also features a number of attractive qualities. Let's dig in and see why this stick is so special!

Bauer Supreme ADV Hockey Stick - Available at Sports Zone!

What sets this stick apart?

The Supreme ADV features Bauer's new Sonic Taper Technology. It reduces weight, improves stability, and creates an energy transfer down through the stick for a faster and more powerful release. 

An optimized flex profile also allows you to lean much easier into the shots and achieve maximum release velocity on every type of shot.

Additionally, the Bauer Supreme ADV comes with FastCore - this is their new blade core, created with two different foams and fused together.

The strike zone in the middle of the blade helps maximize energy and the outer area is designed to reduce weight.

In total, the Supreme ADV weighs only 375 grams - the lightest Supreme stick ever.

Improve your confidence with the Bauer Supreme ADV

Bauer Supreme ADV - Key Features You Need to Know

The original ADV came from Bauer's Vapor line of sticks. Launched in 2018, it was anointed as the lightest stick to ever hit the market, weighing only 355 grams as a senior stick.

It was built using Advanced Carbon Layering, a specialized design technique that uses thin carbon layers and optimizes fibre placement in order to decrease weight and maintain durability. There were, at first, concerns about its durability. However, it appears as though Bauer has been able to balance weight, strength, and power in the new Supreme ADV.

  • The center part of the FastCore blade is designed to be a strike zone for maximum energy transfer
  • Unique geometry is behind the creation of the Sonic Taper, made possible by reducing carbon layers
  • The stick weighs only 375 grams
  • An optimized flex profile gives you maximum release velocity on any type of shot
  • The outer part of the FastCore blade helps reduce weight

The Supreme brand was originally known as a slap shot stick and intended more for defensemen. It's now for the versatile player at all positions - every ounce of energy put into the stick is rewarded with maximum power.

As Hockey World Blog points out, "The Bauer Supreme ADV stick has been rumoured for a while now. Glimpses of it began popping up here and there, but it wasn’t really until training camps began to start that we got a better look at it.

At that time, we started to see photos of Jack Eichel using the new Bauer Supreme ADV stick, as well as William Nylander with his own Bauer Supreme ADV stick.

The weight is key here. Previous Supreme sticks weighed in at a minimum of 415 grams. With the Sonic Taper technology, Bauer was able to remove excess material, design a unique seven-sided shaft, and produce a light-weight stick that packs a great punch. Quite simply, it's one of the best new sticks on the market, which is why Sports Zone was picked to carry it.

The Supreme ADV is super light but offers a rocket release

Get your hands on the Bauer Supreme ADV at Sports Zone!

Sports Zone Canada has been a part of the Kitchener – Waterloo community for over 16 years. 

Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport, and we can do the same for you.

We carry the very best in:

Pop in today to get your mitts on the Bauer Supreme ADV.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"I like this store. It has a great selection of sports equipment. I have always had good service and good advice and that is why I drive past a few other sports stores to get to this one."

Dennis Brubacher

Sports Zone is located at 92 Lodge Street in Waterloo, ON.

Hours:

  • MON TO FRI 10AM TO 8PM
  •   
  • SAT 9AM - 5PM
  •  
  • SUN 11AM - 5PM

Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Contouring

In today's article, we will be talking about Kitchener-Waterloo skate contouring.

Skate contouring is all about altering the lengthwise shape of your skate blade, or how much of a flat spot it has. The experts at Sports Zone offer this important service at our location in Waterloo - visit us today to learn more!

Skate contouring is recommended in order to maximize your skating potential. Let's take a deeper look at what it means and how it can help your movement on the ice.

Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Contouring

Sports Zone is located at 92 Lodge Street in Waterloo, ON.

Hours:

  • MON TO FRI 10AM TO 8PM
  •   
  • SAT 9AM - 5PM
  •  
  • SUN 11AM - 5PM

What Sports Zone Can Offer

We are equipped with three Blademaster skate sharpening machines:

  • Two machines dedicated for hockey skate sharpening
  • One machine dedicated as a figure skate detailing and sharpening center

Blademaster is the global leader in skate care equipment and supplies.

Additionally, we employ a tool and die approach to our skate sharpening. What that means is on top of our machines that run over the entire blade, our sharpeners also use a special square machinist tool to meter the blade to perfection, giving you the perfect edges.

Our prices:

Hockey Skate Sharpening - $6.00 (tax included)
Figure Skate Sharpening - $12.00 (tax included)

Sports Zone also takes care of Kitchener-Waterloo skate contouring or profiling using Blademaster contouring tools.

Take advantage of a Kitchener-Waterloo skate contouring service before you jump back out on the ice

What is Skate Contouring?

Contouring, or profiling, is the process of altering the shape of the skate blade lengthwise to maximize your skating potential. The main thing it alters is the blade's radius, meaning the flat area of the blade upon which you glide across the ice.

According to Sparx Hockey, the radius "imagines the length of the skate blade (from heel to toe) as part of a larger circle. The most common sizes are a 9 foot radius, an 11 foot radius and a 13 foot radius, although they are not limited to just these. With a smaller radius (9 ft), less of the skate blade comes in contact with the ice. With a larger radius (13 ft), more of the skate blade comes in contact with the ice."

Both approaches have their pros and cons, and that is why it is important for each individual player to test and see what works best.

Generally speaking, however, a smaller radius is better for agility and maneuverability and a larger radius is better for speed. If you're just starting to test different contouring options, keep that in mind.

As SSM Produkt notes, "When you buy a new pair of skates they have some given radius shape. Different brands [use] different shapes."

Generally speaking, here's what you're likely to find out of the box:

Treat yourself to a new pair of skates, and make sure you get them profiled

Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Contouring: When To Get It Done

The answer to this question is similar to when to get your skates sharpened: It depends on how often you skate and what you use them for!

We recommend having your skate's profile assessed when you bring them in for sharpening.

Skate Amherstburg offers the following helpful timeline:

"When skaters start out shuffling across the ice, once or twice a season should be fine. When skaters start to use their edges more and dig into the ice, maybe 3 or 4 times a season. This is assuming skating once a week for one hour. When figure skaters reach a more advanced level, doing single and double jumps, skating 4-6 hours a week, once every month would be advisable. When Hockey players start skating one or two games a week, at a more advanced skating level, once every 4-6 games is a good bench mark."

Parents will want to keep an eye on the condition of young one's skates, while more experienced skaters will develop a feel for when they need to get their blades contoured.

We can answer all your questions on this topic - visit us today!

Trust Sports Zone For The Best in Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Sharpening!

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major hockey skate and figure skate brands you need to skate at your best.

Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

Whether you need a skate sharpening, hockey equipment, new skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, or other sports equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or, you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"Great store. Best sharpenings in town. I wouldn't take my skates anywhere else. Just recently I had some rivets fixed on them and they did a great job! Staff is very knowledgeable and is very helpful when it comes to sticks and blade curves.
Keelan Stephen-Masters

New vs. Used Hockey Equipment: What You Need To Know

In this article, we will discuss new vs. used hockey equipment, and what you need to know when planning for a new season.

Sports Zone offers the very best in new and used hockey equipment, and we allow trade-ins so that you can maximize your dollar - visit us today to learn more.

Now let's dig in and take a closer look at the benefits of investing in new hockey gear and when it's appropriate to purchase used equipment.

New vs. Used Hockey Equipment: What You Need To Know

The Essentials

If you're new to playing hockey, you may not know what you need in order to gear up. It's a decent-sized list, sure to fill your hockey bag, which is a good starting point!

So, what will you need?

Here at Sports Zone, we offer the following used items: shoulder pads, pants, gloves, shin guards, and elbow pads. Used options are limited, and that's because there are certain pieces that warrant buying new, and others where you can confidently purchase used.

To make things even easier, we offer a trade-in program so you can bring in your old equipment and get credit towards new gear.

Spend Or Save With Used Hockey Equipment

There are some pieces of hockey equipment you should buy new, and others where you can seek out the best in used hockey equipment.

This CBC article sheds some light on when you can save and on what you should spend:

  • Helmet - Spend: You want to make sure you get one that has not been dented or cracked. Buying new is the best way to ensure it's able to properly protect your head.
  • Protective Gear - Save: Items like shoulder padspantsglovesshin guards, and elbow pads can all be purchased used, and you can save a lot of money by settling for gently used items instead of new.
  • Jock, Undergarments - Spend: For hygiene's sake, buy new! You just don't know where these items have been and it's not worth the health risk.
  • Sticks - Spend: When taking to the ice, you want a stick that will provide maximum performance. Sticks are weakened by use over time, meaning you should invest in a high-quality stick such as the Bauer Supreme ADV.
  • Skates - Spend or Save: Skates are another savings opportunity, and you can save yourself a lot of aches and pains by sliding into a used pair that have already been broken in. Buying new allows for optimization opportunities. Sports Zone, for example, has a Bauer 3D skate lab that scans and measures each foot for the best possible fit!

Common Hockey Equipment Questions

How Much?

The estimated cost depends on whether you go all out with the top brands or settled for used hockey equipment, but here's a general guideline via newtohockey.com:

  • All new: $500 – $1,000 depending on what sales you find
  • New and Used: $300 – $500
  • Mostly all used: $200 – $300

Again, protective gear doesn't need to be bought new, and there's a great opportunity for savings there. Your skates could end up costing you the most, followed by your helmet and gloves. The stick is an x-factor because you could choose to go all out with a premium model.

Do I need to buy everything at once?

No. All you really need to start playing is a stick and skates. If you want to play pick-up hockey, you will probably need skates, gloves, a stick and a helmet. If you play in a competitive league, you'll need full equipment. All this to say, you can slowly transition into all the equipment you need over time. 

You don't have to break the bank to get the best hockey equipment. Seek out sales, buy out of season, take advantage of trade-in programs, and rely on experts to make sure it's all up to code.

"The most important thing to keep in mind when sourcing all sports equipment is the safety of the piece," according to Active For Life.

Hockey helmets must have a CSA (Canadian Standards Association) sticker and must be free from cracks. For skates, ensure there are no missing or rusted rivets, rusted or cracked blades, or cut leather. For all other pieces, look for signs of wear and tear and most importantly, make sure they fit properly.

Sports Zone is a serious player in the sporting store market. Because we purchase our sports products in volume, we provide the same discount levels offered by national chains and big-box retailers. Our price match promise means we won’t just match another store’s advertised price - we’ll beat it by an additional 5%! 

How Do I Start Playing Hockey?

There are entry programs for kids, and here's a great guide on how to start playing hockey as an adult as well as information on how to find the best equipment.

Sports Zone can make sure you're outfitted with the best new or used hockey equipment

Visit Sports Zone For The Best in New and Used Hockey Equipment

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major brands you need to play your best. The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes like you with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need hockey equipment, skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, figure skates, or baseball equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"My son has special needs for his skates as his feet are very wide and curved. Vince (owner) was able to look at his feet and special order skates for him and additionally heat molded them to his feet. This changed my son's skating experience which is now pain free! This is the place to go for sporting specialization and knowledgeable staff." 
-Mary S.

 



2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback Bat

Today, we're going to take a look at the 2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback bat.

Experienced softball players know the Miken name, and can attest to how Miken bats deliver maximum power and distance. Sports Zone can help find the best bat for you - contact us today.

The 2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback bat is a special release for slowpitch players. Let's dig in and see why.

The 2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback Bat offers maximum power and distance

2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback Bat

Miken is offering a limited edition re-release of the popular Freak 30 USSSA Softball Bat. 

This model is limited to 1500 in quantity, with each one laser engraved numerically.

Don't miss out on acquiring this prime piece of sports equipment.

What sets this bat apart?

Imagine for a moment that you were able to get your hands on a 1960s Ford Mustang. The power, the speed, the comfort, the performance - it's all there in its throwback glory.

That's what getting your hands on this bat would be like!

The 2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback bat features a two-piece composite construction that's finetuned with Miken's Flex 2 Power Technology.

What does that mean?

"By optimizing the flex in the handle, overall bat speed is maximized through the hitting zone. Pair that additional bat speed with a 12 inch barrel and 0.5 ounce end load, you get the perfect formula for maximum distance and power potential. Nothing but the finest materials go into any Miken Slowpitch bat, and the Freak 30 is no exception. Constructed from 100% premium aerospace grade carbon composite fibers that deliver the legendary performance and durability that you'd expect from any Miken Slowpitch Bat." (Source: Headgear Sports)

Dominate your softball league with the 2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback bat

2019 Miken Freak 30 Throwback Bat Features

  • Kevin Filby Signature Model
  • 12-inch barrel length, 2 1/4 inch barrel diameter
  • Maxload swing weight (0.5 oz End Load)
  • 2-piece composite slowpitch bat
  • 100% premium aerospace grade fibers to deliver legendary performance and durability 
  • Flex 2 Power Technology: Optimizes flex and barrel loading to maximize speed through the zone
  • Triple Matrix Core Technology
  • Shorter barrel combined with end-loaded swing weight creates a concentrated sweet spot for maximum distance.

In short, this bat offers one of the biggest “sweet spots” on any 12″ barrel in the game because the speed of the bat head is optimized to excel when passing through the hitting zone. This results in reduced lag, increased distance, maximum power, and a high on base percentage!

Get the 2019 Miken Freak Throwback Bat at Sports Zone!

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major brands you need to play at your best.

Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes with the high-performance sports gear that has helped them excel in their chosen sport - and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need hockey gear, figure skates, or baseball equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or, you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

WHAT SPORTS ZONE CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING:

"A good selection of equipment, good prices, helpful staff. Best choice in KW for hockey or baseball."

- David Archibald

How To Find The Best Sports Equipment

Today, we are going to take a quick look at how to find the best sports equipment.

Sports Zone Canada has been a part of the Kitchener – Waterloo community for over 16 years. We are committed to providing sporting enthusiasts with the highest quality sports equipment and apparel available, all at unbeatable prices - contact us today to learn more!

Whether you're into hockey, soccer, baseball, football, ringette, lacrosse, field hockey or figure staking, you deserve the best sports equipment. Let's dig in and explore how you can find it.

How To Find The Best Sports Equipment

Seek Out Independent Retailers

When looking for the best sports equipment, there are certain advantages that independent retailers have over big box stores. Here are a few, according to Yellow Pages:

Variety of choice

Basic sports gear and accessories can be found at a big-box store, but you won’t necessarily have a huge selection to choose from. Independent retailers offer different equipment in various models from all the top brands.

Quality

You want to make sure you're getting the highest quality sports equipment. Independent retailers will be well versed in the best brands and models, and be proud to offer them. Big box stores, on the other hand, may offer only the basics.

Pro tips

Owners and staff at independent retailers are often experts after years of purchasing and selling the best sports equipment. They can help you choose the best gear and will advise you on how to use and maintain it.

Sports Zone is the largest independent sports retailer in the area. We are a local leader in the sports gear industry and have approximately 15,000 square feet of inventory space filled with new and used sporting equipment.

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major sports brands you need to play your best. The Sports Zone difference is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

Learn How To Get The Best Bang For Your Buck

You don't have to break the bank to get the best sports equipment. 

Seek out sales, buy out of season, take advantage of trade-in programs, and rely on experts to make sure it's all up to code.

"The most important thing to keep in mind when sourcing all sports equipment is the safety of the piece," reminds Active For Life. "In order to keep your child safe, all equipment must fit them properly. Hockey helmets must have a CSA (Canadian Standards Association) sticker on them and must be free from cracks, must have a functioning chin strap, and must fit snugly. For skates, ensure there are no missing or rusted rivets, rusted or cracked blades, or cut leather. For all other pieces, look for signs of wear and tear and again, most importantly, make sure they fit your child properly."

Sports Zone is a serious player in the sporting store market. Because we purchase our sports products in volume, we provide the same discount levels offered by national chains and big box retailers. Our price match promise means we won’t just match another store’s advertised price - we’ll beat it by an additional 5%! Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

Get Properly Sized

The best sports equipment will fit you perfectly. You, therefore, want to shop at a store that offers optimization opportunities. 

Sports Zone, for example, features a Bauer 3D skate lab for the best possible fit!

Re-imagine the feeling of a perfect fit using state-of-the-art technology and algorithms to bring your game to the next level

Sports Zone also offers custom skate sharpening and contouring, as well as a batting cage to try out the latest in bats.

We also have a state of the art CCM stick fitter, where you can handle a stick embedded with a chip and sensors that will analyze how you shoot and will then recommend proper flex and curve for you!

From the Financial Post:

"CCM Stick Fitter is designed to recommend the best stick for the individual player, bringing pro-level insights to players of all ages and abilities. Current and aspiring players across the globe will have direct access to key knowledge and information to make the overall process of selecting and purchasing a stick simpler and more efficient." 

Here's Matt Duchene of the Nashville Predators putting the CCM Stick Fitter to good use

Want The Best Sports Equipment? Come to Sports Zone!

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major brands you need to play your best.

The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes like you with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need hockey equipment, skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, figure skates, or baseball equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"My son has special needs for his skates as his feet are very wide and curved. Vince (owner) was able to look at his feet and special order skates for him and additionally heat molded them to his feet. This changed my son's skating skating experience which is now pain free! This is the place to go for sporting specialization and knowledgeable staff." - Mary S.

Where's the Best Skate Sharpening in Kitchener-Waterloo?

Today, we're going to discuss Kitchener-Waterloo skate sharpening.

Whether you play hockey, figure skate, or participate in recreational skating, it's important to have fresh blades when taking to the ice. Sports Zone can meter your blades to perfection and the end result is better performance on the ice - visit us today to learn more.

Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Sharpening

Sports Zone is located at 92 Lodge Street in Waterloo, ON.

Hours:

  • MON TO FRI 10AM TO 8PM
  •   
  • SAT 9AM - 5PM
  •  
  • SUN 11AM - 5PM

What Sets Sports Zone Apart

We are equipped with three Blademaster skate sharpening machines.

  • Two machines dedicated for hockey skate sharpening
  • One machine dedicated as a figure skate detailing and sharpening center

Blademaster is the global leader in skate care equipment and supplies.

Additionally, we employ a tool and die approach to our skate sharpening. What that means is on top of our machines that run over the entire blade, our sharpeners also use a machinist square tool to meter the blade to perfection, giving you the perfect edges.

Our prices:

Hockey Skate Sharpening - $6.00 (tax included)
Figure Skate Sharpening - $12.00 (tax included)

sharp skates

Get an edge on the competition with Kitchener-Waterloo skate sharpening

How To Know Your Skates Have Been Sharpened Properly

There are three factors involved in the perfect skate sharpening, according to Sparx Hockey: Even edges, sharp edges, and a smooth surface.

  • Even edgesAfter having your skates sharpened, turn the skate upside down and look down at the skating surface - it should appear perfectly level. A quick test for even edges is to lay a loonie on top of the blade. If the coin appears level, your edges are sufficiently even.
  • Sharp edges: "The key to confidently turning and stopping is knowing that your edge will be there when you need it. A quick test for a sharp edge is to hold the skate upside down, place one thumbnail on the edge of the blade and gently pull down and away from the blade. A good, sharp blade will, with very little pressure, easily scrape a layer of your thumbnail,  leaving the remnants on the blade." (Source: Sparx Hockey)
  • Sharp surface: There should be no lines, bumps, or grooves on the outside of the blade. Give it a quick slide with your thumb and examine under a bright light to make sure.

You'll also want to be aware of the radius of hollow; the small groove at the bottom of the blade. 

Some skaters prefer a small RoH because it allows for:

  • Harder and more aggressive turns
  • Greater bite in the ice for acceleration
  • Greater grip on the ice when, for example, battling for position in front of the net

Other players prefer a larger RoH because they feel that a flatter profile:

  • Retains sufficient edge to still stop and turn
  • Provides greater forgiveness on the ice and the ability to slide a bit laterally when making quick changes in direction or drifting moves (e.g. lining up a one-timer)
  • Results in less friction and thus more speed when gliding
  • Causes less fatigue because there is less friction to overcome

(Source: Sparx Hockey)

The experts at Sports Zone can help you determine what kind of blade is best for you.

Teddy Richards, head equipment manager for the Florida Panthers, gives a lesson on skate sharpening

Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Sharpening: When To Get It Done

The answer to this question depends on how often you skate and what you use them for.

Skate Amherstburg offers the following helpful timeline:

"When skaters start out shuffling across the ice, once or twice a season should be fine. When skaters start to use their edges more and dig into the ice, maybe 3 or 4 times a season. This is assuming skating once a week for one hour. When figure skaters reach a more advanced level, doing single and double jumps, skating 4-6 hours a week, once every month would be advisable. When Hockey players start skating one or two games a week, at a more advanced skating level, once every 4-6 games is a good bench mark."

Parents will want to keep an eye on the condition of young one's skates, while more experienced skaters will develop a feel for when they need to get their blades sharpened.

We can answer all your questions on skate sharpening topics - visit us today!

Trust Sports Zone For The Best in Kitchener-Waterloo Skate Sharpening!

Like the major chain sporting retailers, we carry all the major hockey skate and figure skate brands you need to play your best.

Sports Zone also has a trade-in program. Bring in your used equipment and get credit towards your next purchase!

The Sports Zone difference, however, is our personalized level of service. We pledge to offer the customer a personal, small-store service experience but with all the sports equipment and apparel athletes need to excel at their sport.

As Waterloo's largest independent sports retailer, we've provided thousands of athletes with the high-performance sports gear that helped them excel in their chosen sport - and we can do the same for you.

Whether you need a skate sharpening, hockey equipment, skates, hockey sticks, goalie equipment, figure skates, or other sports equipment, Sports Zone has what you need at the best price, guaranteed!

Visit us today to get the best sports equipment you need to compete and take advantage of our in-store services.

Or, you can order online if you're outside the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

What Sports Zone Customers Are Saying:

"I've been going to Sportszone for my figure skating needs and my brother for his hockey equipment for the longest time. Vince and Susan are amazing people to work with and treat their customers amazingly well. They have incredible knowledge about their products and only want the best for their customers."
- Kimberley Slimming

 

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