FlyChicaga
Registered User
Back when I played in high school, we'd be required to wear a full mask. Same was for shinny hockey, they had rules about it. Now, they don't anymore, and it seems like maybe 15% of the guys we play with wear a full mask. Most don't wear any mask at all, and just a few a half shield. For the past few months playing, I've only been using a half shield, and started wearing a mouthguard to protect my teeth. As of late though, thanks to some horror stories of losing teeth from shots or sticks to the face, I'm leaning on going back to the full cage.
Thing is, I'm torn. I like the visibility and open air I get from the half shield, while protecting my eyes. But I like the protection the cage gives. I feel with the full cage that I'll get more aggressive, standing in front of the net more (I do already, but get a little gunshy when I see someone T-up for a slapper) for the deflection, and I'd probably drop more to block shots from the point. (I play center normally).
I guess my question is, should I just get over my feelings that I'm a big ***** for wearing a full cage, or can I be happy with a half-shield and a good mouthguard that I'll keep all my teeth?
Thing is, I'm torn. I like the visibility and open air I get from the half shield, while protecting my eyes. But I like the protection the cage gives. I feel with the full cage that I'll get more aggressive, standing in front of the net more (I do already, but get a little gunshy when I see someone T-up for a slapper) for the deflection, and I'd probably drop more to block shots from the point. (I play center normally).
I guess my question is, should I just get over my feelings that I'm a big ***** for wearing a full cage, or can I be happy with a half-shield and a good mouthguard that I'll keep all my teeth?