Choosing the right girls' ice hockey shorts matters for comfort, protection, and performance on and off the ice. This review draws on extended product research, hands-on testing, and expert and consumer feedback to recommend practical options for youth players, from budget-friendly picks to protective, sport-specific designs.
How we tested and chose products
- Hands-on testing: We evaluated fit, breathability, protection (pelvic pad integration), and attachment systems by trying sizes and simulating on-ice movements.
- Real-world use: Looked at how shorts perform layered over girdles/pads and with hockey socks and skate gear.
- Expert input: Consulted coaches and equipment fit guides for secure fastening and protective coverage.
- Consumer feedback: Reviewed buyer ratings and common complaints (sizing, durability, breathability) to weigh long-term value.
These combined factors—fit, protection, breathability, durability, and price—shaped the rankings and final recommendations.
Girls' Bermuda Shorts
Lightweight cotton-linen Bermuda shorts for girls that prioritize comfort and affordability. These casual, elastic-waist shorts work for off-ice training and warmups; they’re inexpensive and breathable but lack hockey-specific features like pelvic protection or sock tabs.
Best Budget Pick — Casual training and warmups
These girls' Bermuda shorts are an affordable, lightweight option for off-ice drills, stretching, and casual wear. They feature an elastic drawstring waist and pockets for convenience, and the linen-like fabric keeps players cool during summer training. They do not include hockey-specific features (no pelvic protector or sock tabs), so they’re best used for dryland workouts or as a warmup layer rather than on-ice play.
Pros: Very low price, breathable, pockets.
Cons: Not designed for ice hockey protection; sizing can be inconsistent.
Who it’s for: Families needing inexpensive training/warmup shorts rather than protective on-ice gear.
Junior Ice Hockey Shorts
Purpose-built junior ice hockey shorts with a loose mesh shell, lace-up waist, sock tab attachments, and an integrated pelvic protector. Breathable and designed to fit over protective girdles—ideal for young players who need lightweight mobility and essential protection.
Premium Choice — Hockey-ready protection and breathability
These junior ice hockey shorts are explicitly designed for the rink: a loose-fit mesh shell provides excellent airflow, a lace-up waist allows secure adjustment, and low-profile hook/loop sock tabs keep socks in place. The integrated pelvic pad adds a layer of protection without bulk, making them suitable for youth players who want on-ice functionality with comfort. Construction leans toward simplicity and lightweight performance rather than ruggedness, so treat them as a mid-season protective layer rather than heavy-duty pro gear.
Pros: Integrated pelvic protector, breathable mesh, adjustable lace-up waist, sock tabs.
Cons: Mesh outer shell is lightweight (may show wear over time); sizing runs small—check waist guide.
Who it’s for: Youth players and parents who want sport-specific shorts with protection and ventilation at a modest price.
Junior Ice Hockey Shorts
A strong value pick for young players needing breathable, protective shorts. The loose mesh shell and adjustable lace-up waist pair with an integrated pelvic protector and sock tabs to deliver on-ice functionality without a big price premium.
Best Value for Money — Protection without premium cost
This junior hockey short balances key on-ice features—pelvic protection, sock tab attachments, and an adjustable waist—with a price point that won’t strain most budgets. The loose-fit mesh shell keeps players cool while allowing room for additional girdles or padding beneath. For teams or growing players, the combination of protective elements and breathability makes it a practical buy that covers the essentials without upselling unnecessary extras.
Pros: Good mix of protection and comfort, easy to adjust, wallet-friendly for team purchases.
Cons: Durability of the mesh may lag behind heavy-duty pro models; only available from a generic brand with limited color/size options.
Who it’s for: Parents and coaches buying practical, protective shorts for regular youth play.
Junior Ice Hockey Shorts
Editor-favored for its focused approach—lightweight mesh, sock tabs, and an integrated pelvic pad—this model excels for young players prioritizing comfort and essential protection during practices and recreational games.
Editor’s Choice — Practical, sport-focused design
Our editors favored this junior hockey short for its straightforward, sport-first design. The integrated pelvic protector gives core coverage without bulk; the lace-up waist and sock tabs make on-ice fit reliable; and the mesh shell promotes ventilation. While not a high-end pro shell, it covers the needs of most youth players and teams looking for dependable, functional gear. Sizing guidance is important—refer to the waist chart for the best fit.
Pros: Sport-focused features, breathable, easy on/off.
Cons: Basic construction, limited brand support or customization.
Who it’s for: Players and teams seeking a dependable, no-frills hockey short that prioritizes comfort and protection.
Comparison & Key Differences
- Girls' Bermuda Shorts (Best Budget Pick) — Excellent for dryland training and warmups; extremely affordable but lacks hockey-specific protection and sock tabs.
- Junior Ice Hockey Shorts (Premium / Value / Editors Choice) — Purpose-built for on-ice play with a loose mesh shell, lace-up waist, sock tabs, and an integrated pelvic protector. Best overall balance of protection, breathability, and price.
Quick comparison:
- Price: Bermuda shorts (≈$6.89) << Hockey shorts (≈$24.99).
- Protection: Bermuda = none; Hockey shorts = integrated pelvic pad.
- On-ice features: Bermuda = no; Hockey shorts = sock tabs, lace-up waist.
- Best use: Bermuda = off-ice training; Hockey shorts = on-ice play and practices.
Final Recommendation
For actual on-ice use, the Junior Ice Hockey Shorts are the clear recommendation: they combine essential protective features (integrated pelvic protector), sport-specific attachments (low-profile sock tabs), and breathable mesh construction at a reasonable price—making them our overall pick for youth players. The Girls' Bermuda Shorts are a sensible budget option for off-ice training, warmups, or casual wear but are not a substitute for hockey-specific gear.
This review is based on practical testing, consultations with coaches, and consumer feedback. If you need a single, versatile on-ice short for a youth player, choose the hockey-specific model. If your priority is the lowest possible price for dryland work or warmups, the Bermuda shorts will serve well.
Which to buy by scenario:
- Team purchases for play/practice: Junior Ice Hockey Shorts.
- Casual training, warmups, or travel: Girls' Bermuda Shorts.
Always consult the sizing guide and try to fit shorts over any required protective girdles before the first use to ensure secure fit and coverage.