Vancouver's LGBTQ+ Hockey Association
Equipment Requirements
Unless otherwise addressed in the Rules, all protective equipment must be ice-hockey specific and shall be worn in accordance with the manufacturers original design and in a manner to ensure player safety. If after one warning by a Referee, a player refuses to correct their equipment deficiency or continues to wear the equipment apart from its original design intent, a Misconduct penalty will be assessed to the offending Player.
Helmets & Goalie Masks
Helmets are mandatory and must be worn by all Players and Referees. Helmets must be CSA approved with properly fastened chinstraps. A Minor penalty will be assessed to any Player that does not have their helmet chin strap fastened properly. This rule will be enforced by the Referees and League Officials for all games and during warm-ups. Ear-guards for helmets are not mandatory.
If a Goaltender chooses to use a non-CSA approved cage (i.e., Cat’s Eye Mask), a waiver is included within the online registration that is completed prior to the first game, absolving the ASHL of any responsibility for any injury incurred.
Facial Equipment
Any player not wearing a minimum of a half visor or cage will be asked to leave the ice surface immediately and will not be permitted to return until they have the proper facial protection in place. The visor/cage must be fastened securely to the helmet as per CSA Approved Regulations with all straps firmly attached as per manufacturer’s design. If a player other than a goaltender, loses their visor/cage during the course of play, they must not intentionally participate in the play and return to their bench. Should the player intentionally participate in the play, the official will immediately stop play and assess a minor penalty to the offending player for Delay of Game/Ineligible Player.
NOTE: Every Referee will be required to wear a half visor.
Neck Guards
Neck guards are recommended for all Players in all divisions. Goaltenders are strongly encouraged to wear a CSA approved neck guard in all League games.
Goaltender Skates
Only Goaltenders are permitted to use Goaltender skates.
Mouth Guards
Mouth guards are strongly recommended for all Players in all divisions.
Goaltender Equipment
A Goaltender must wear protective equipment specifically designed for ice hockey Goaltenders and be complete with approved: mask, leg guards (pads), chest protection and gloves designed for use by Goaltenders.
Stick & Equipment Measurements
Stick and equipment measurements will not be permitted. However, if in the opinion of an Official, any stick or equipment poses a threat to the safety of other Players, the Player will be asked to remove it from the game.
Source: ASHL Official Rule Book 2025