© Bandits Goalie School - 2008
With the summer quickly approaching, it seems routine for goalies to want new equipment around this time of the year. Whether it’s been outgrown, broken down or simply old team colors, the question always remains for parents, where can I find the best deal!
With the internet being such an accessible search engine for buyers these days, it’s no wonder the internet is usually the first place a buyer will look before going out and making their final purchase. Yes, an advantage can be seen in today’s market when a buyer purchases gear online which in turn can save the buyer a few less dollars than in an ordinary retail store setting. However, if you look at the big picture, goalie equipment is extremely expensive no matter if you buy it online or at a retailer store. Customers still need to go out and spend some time doing equipment research. This can consist of comparing one piece of equipment to another, price shopping and more importantly, trying on different products for fitting purposes in person.
When purchasing new equipment at a retail store, you have the ability to not only try it on in person but a chance to speak to a knowledgeable store owner or employee that might be well informed about the equipment you're looking to purchase. While retail stores may tend to be a little more expensive then online store pricing, you can always count on being able to try different pieces of equipment on first hand, possibly demoing the products on the ice and in person customer service. However, some consumers might go to a retail store first, try on several different models, compare them and once their mind is made up on a certain product, they’ll go to the internet to find better pricing, possibly free shipping incentives and a reputable return policy.
You may be wondering what influences goalies to purchase one product over another regardless of the price…..major advertising! For manufactures they tend to use their pro players to showcase new equipment that might not be out on the market yet, using them in print advertisements, yearly equipment catalogs or even TV commercials. By doing this, goalies tend to see what the latest equipment trends are and want to use the same brand, model and color schemes as their favorite pro goalie.
One must also consider looking at the economical aspects of purchasing new equipment to used equipment on a regular basis. Sometimes finding the right size, color or model can be difficult. Whether you’re doing your research at local retail stores and on the internet, you’ll eventually find what you’re looking for. If a goalie is still young and growing like a weed, don’t be afraid to look into purchasing used equipment. You can always find used equipment on EBay, GSBB, local sports stores and even on the cork boards at local ice arenas. Used equipment still serves its purpose especially if you can find a great deal which can hold you over for half a season or even till next year. Parents, make sure you also do your own research along with your child are both on the same page when making your final purchase decision whether it’s buying new or used equipment.
Our Bandits staff fields numerous of equipment questions each year. We encourage parents, coaches and goalies to forward any goalie equipment comments or questions they may have this spring and summer when doing research or shopping to
info@banditsgoaltending.com. Ultimately, use your time this spring and summer to research all kinds of different brands and models of equipment and see which one not only fits properly but which one fits into the family’s budget too.
Good Luck!
To learn more about Bandits Goalie School, go to: Bandits Goalie Camp - Learn to Rob the Shooters Blind!