Analysis and Design of Women's Protective Ice Hockey Equipment

Abstract

Because of the violent nature of ice hockey the sport has traditionally been dominated by men. As a result, all of the existing equipment has been designed for men. Currently, a growing interest by women to play the sport is leading to the formation of women's ice hockey leagues across the country. A design deficiency exists which may make this a very risky sport for women to play. The lack of a particular system of protection for women directed the research toward the design of hockey equipment for women. The solution that was designed was a result of the conclusions drawn during research to attempt to provide ample defense for an emerging, new market of women ice hockey players.