Introduction:
Great things start with small beginnings. Any sport can be practised at home if one is persistent enough to improve the necessary skills to be good at something. Hockey is one such sport that allows you to practice your aim and accuracy just right at your driveway or backyard.
That’s what a hockey net backstop is for. Whether it’s you or your kid that are practising, either of you both is bound to miss some shots. And sometimes, these shots can damage your home. A hockey backstop should prevent that from happening. Let’s take a look at some of the best options for you.
Top Seven (7) Hockey Net Backstop Reviews
1. EZGoal Hockey Folding Pro Goal
Key Features:
- Pro-style curved framing
- 18 gauge steel for the frame
- UV resistant net
- Folding mechanism
- Regulation sized
The EZGoal Hockey Folding Pro Goal is one durable hockey backstop that can be utilized indoors and outdoors for hockey practice.
It’s reliably constructed and it can take on a beating plus any outdoor elements should it be utilized outside. The powder-coated steel frame as well as the curved design makes sure that it will be good value for your money as it promises long service life.
It is easy to store and boasts UV resistant netting that’s heavy-duty.
Pros
- Reliable construction
- UV netting keeps it protected from all sorts of elements
- Easy to assemble
- Great value for money
Cons
- Does not come with a shooting tutor
2. EZGoal Hockey Backstop Kit
Key Features:
- 10 by 6 feet backstop
- 19 gauge steel for the frame
- Four corner pocket targets
- Comes with laces and hooks
The most convenient thing about the EZGoal Hockey Backstop Kit is that the side swings either forward for your corner shots or back when it’s for storage. With this backstop, you’d be sure that no pucks will ever hit anything outside it.
It comes with a frame, net, targets, and ropes. You’ll have four corner pocket targets that will come with laces and hooks too. This is made with sturdy 19 gauge steel that’s going to last really long.
Pros
- Easy to setup
- Comes with a manual
- Super strong frame
- Lacing intact with a welded wire
Cons
- Does not come with a net
4. Acon Wave 500 Backstop Net
Key Features:
- Heavy duty
- Can be used for multiple sports
- Dimensions: 16 by 9 feet
The Acon Wave 500 Backstop Net is the most versatile and widest backstop on our list. With a size of 16 by 9 feet, this unit will make sure that no shots go astray and hit anything or anyone.
This can actually be used for other sports like lacrosse and baseball other than hockey.
Pros
- Wide cast of netting
- Versatile and can be used for other sports
- Durable net
Cons
- No other components aside from the net
5. Acon Wave B160 Backstop Net
Key Features:
- For 63 by 45 inch goals
- Heavy duty netting
- UV treated
- Designed specifically for pucks
The Acon Wave B160 Backstop Net is made solely for the ACON 160 goal. Shoot confidently at the corners as this net backstop is sure to save all of those shots from going astray. Designed specifically for pucks, they will just bounce nicely and keep them at the front.
Pros
- Super durable netting
- Withstands all the outdoor elements
- Has good warranty
Cons
- Does not fit any other types or sized goal
6. Acon Wave B183 Backstop Net
Key Features:
- For 72 x 48 inch goal
- Heavy puck usage
- Regulation sized
- UV treated
Our penultimate entry to our list is Acon Wave’s B183 Backstop Net. This one is fit for official sized goals so you know what that means. Even pros can practice with it if they are so inclined.
It’s made tough and can take on a beating for a long time.
Pros
- For regulation sized goals
- Heavy duty and will handle hard hits for a long time
Cons
- The netting material does not bode well in cold weather
7. Winnwell USA Hockey 72 inch Proform Goal w/Backstop
Key Features:
- For 72 inch goals
- One inch heavy tubing
- No tool setup
Pros
- Easy to store and setup
- Extreme resistance against the elements
- Will last for a long time
Cons
- Won’t rebound your shots properly
Evolution of Hockey Net Backstop
The evolution of hockey net backstop is intertwined with that of the net. During the infancy of the game of hockey itself, the net was the first component to be standardized and that happened around the 1920s backstops were utilized to anchor the net in place even for professional games in the NHL.
Fast-forward to the 1980s, different forms of anchoring the net in place were utilized such as a magnetized anchoring system. The current anchoring system was implemented in the 1990s and the modern hockey backstop was then sold commercially by different manufacturers to the public.
Hockey Net Backstop: FAQs
Q: How does a hockey net stay in place?
Marsh Pegs are the components that keep a hockey net in place. These are flexible enough that when the net comes off the moorings will prevent injury, but it is then firm enough that the net will not slide with every bump.
Q: What is the size of a hockey net?
As per NHL rules, the standard hockey net should be about 6 x 4 feet in dimensions. This creates an opening of the goal of 72 inches wide by 48 inches tall with a 44 inches footprint of the goal.
Q: How can a backstop be stabilized for it to remain up?
The net is the key component for stabilizing and holding the backstop up. It, in turn, protects the backstop and at the same time secures it with its ropes.
Final Thoughts
A hockey net backstop makes sure that you play the game you love at the comfort of your home. It’s safe not just for your windows, furniture, and other delicate things surrounding your practice area but for the players themselves.
Playing with peace of mind leads to the fast development of necessary skills for the game you love such as hockey.