Categories: SPORTS

PGD Ice Hockey Goalie Mask Review

PGD is not one of the better known brands of hockey equipment, but does make a sturdy goalie mask. The PGD goalie mask came highly recommended over a lower grade Itech goalie mask that was about $50 cheaper. The mask is made of a sturdy multi-layer fiberglass and plastic material, providing great stability and durability for the goaltender. Like all goalie masks, the PGD mask has a separate skull plate on the back that can be easily adjusted with three elastic straps.

One element that sets the PGD goalie mask apart from many others is the Kevlar strip that is embedded in the mask itself, running from the midpoint of the forehead to the back of the mask. This helps protect the goalie from shots that are taken to the head from a straight ahead position.

The sides of the PGD goalie mask are typical, but not reinforced with Kevlar as is the front portion. Since the goaltender should always be facing the puck, it is rare to take a shot in the side of the head, so there isn’t a need for the Kevlar to be embedded in the sides.

The internal part of the goalie mask is made up of several pieces of dense memory foam. This helps the mask form to the goalie’s head and provide better protection. The foam is inserted into the helmet in several pieces, creating a puzzle-like form inside the mask. This allows for a better fit on the goalie’s head and also helps disperse shock created from a puck hitting the outside of the mask.

A nice addition the PGD mask offers is a Velcro strip on the inside of the mask at the forehead line. This allows the goalie to insert a separate sweatband into the mask to help trap excess moisture while playing. The inserts are interchangeable and can be made out of a wicking material or a towel material. This is much easier than wearing a skull cap or bandanna under the helmet, both of which may cause slippage between the goalie’s head and the helmet, resulting in possible danger for the goalie.

The cage found on the PGD mask is a cat-eye style. It allows for excellent visibility and is made of an extremely durable steel. The form of the cage and the design of the mask allow any head-on impact the goalie may incur to be dissipated through the mask. Therefore, the cage is designed to allow the vibrations from a shot to go through the mask, protecting the goalie’s head better.

Similar masks on the market with many of the same qualities cost a good deal more than the PGD mask. I’ve played in mine for several years and the only problem I have is a very small chip out of the chin of the mask from one shot. The protection and visibility the PGD mask offers are amazing and I highly recommend this mask to any goalie in search of a new mask.