Where to Sell and Donate Hockey Gear: Making the Most of Your Used Equipment
Outgrown gear, equipment from a player who's moved on, or simply a gear upgrade that leaves quality used equipment behind — every hockey family eventually faces the question of what to do with used gear. Selling and donating are both good options, and the right choice depends on the gear's condition and your priorities.
Where to Sell Used Gear
- Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji — the most active secondary markets for hockey gear in most Canadian communities; local pickup makes large items easy to transact
- Local hockey community groups — Facebook groups specific to your minor hockey association or local hockey community often move gear quickly to motivated buyers
- Pro shop trade-in programs — some shops accept used gear for store credit; typically 20–30% of used value but completely hassle-free
- Online marketplaces — SidelineSwap is hockey-specific and has strong reach for higher-value items worth the shipping logistics
Where to Donate
- Your local Minor Hockey Association — most run gear exchanges or can connect donations directly with families who need it
- Hockey Equipment Assistance Program (HEAP) — Canada's largest organized gear redistribution program with collection points nationally
- Local rink lending programs — many community arenas maintain gear lending libraries for families trying the sport for the first time
What Makes Good Donated Gear
Safety equipment — helmets and neck guards — should only be donated if they meet current certification standards and have no history of significant impact. Check the manufacture date on helmets; most have certified lifespans. Everything else in good working condition is appropriate to donate. Gear you'd hesitate to put on your own child shouldn't go to someone else's.