how do I know when to get new pads? (3 large photos)

[Chadillac]

Well I'm wondering, do I need new pads? I know i'll need new pads for 2010 because of the 12"-11". I'm practicing with my highschool and might possibly get game time with them. I'm also planing to get on a D5 hockey team. I rented these pads from my local league a few months ago, obviously used, and I have already had to replace the knee lock straps, replace the boot laces, and restitch the boot buckle in.
EDIT: I go to open hockey 1-2 times a week and I get a goalie lesson every week. I know I'm new and I'm not trying to focus on equipment too much but I want to have suitable equipment for me because I know this is what I want to do and I'm going to do whatever it takes to do it through highschool and hopefully past that.

Here are pics:



This is where it lies when I bend my knees:

[hroark2112]

They don't look like they're in bad shape at all. A bit short, but not too bad.

Are you done growing yet? If not, wait a while, especially if you know you have to go to 11" next season.

[Arnie36]

just a bit short but still usable. i say hold off.

[ScottBattram]

The look to be in good shape, however the knee is sitting pretty high on the pad. Ideally, you want your knee to be dead center of the middle knee roll within the knee lock.

I like the graphics too!

[Smoove]

They do look a bit small, it is hard to tell without your skate being attached to the pad. If I were in your skates I would build a 1" boot riser so that the thigh board will protect your knees properly.

[TIMMAAYY]

I bet if he had his skates on that his knee would be dead center.... well, at least a half inch lower.

And they do appear to be in very good shape.

If you want to lace in some risers, I have some you can try... brand new... never used.... from Sara at PAW. Got them for my old Smiths and my new set got here before I had the chance to try them.

[Jim]

as mentioned they are getting small..
I would go with new pads.. as i wore small pads my whole career till recently
i went from a 32" to a 35+1 and what a difference in 5 hole coverage.
my knee was hitting high on the craddle but now is low in the craddle.
My next set will be 34+2 or 34+3 and should be perfect.

If you can borrow a larger pair of pads for a few practices.. you will see what a big difference larger pads can make.

Also it will save your pants.. my pants were getting the plastic material in the thigh area shattered.. i was replacing them often.

good luck wth the pad size transition

Cheers
Jim

[Chadillac]

Thanks for the comments.

Am I done growing? Well I think my ATK is close to done, but I could be wrong. I'm 15. ATK is around 19"

There is space in between the boot and my foot where the skate would go so I think it's accuruate in that asspect.

Tim, how much dough would that cost me. Ha.

[TIMMAAYY]

Nada. If you wanna try 'em, they're yours. I'll probably never use them.