The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) has indicated that it is making hockey neck guards as a mandatory piece of equipment that must be worn for all levels of competition. This will include Winter Olympics and the World Championships tournaments, both Men’s and Women’s Teams.

The neck guards, also known as laceration neck protectors are now mandatory for the senior categories in addition to the U20 and U18 categories, for which neck laceration protectors had already been enforced as per IIHF Official Rule Book. The exact date this mandate will go into effect for the senior categories will be determined by the supply situation.

The IIHF remains in close contact with its suppliers to ensure they are able to respond to the current high demand. Read More