Buying Guides

Top Neck Guards for Hockey Players In 2024

By Biraj Khanal / 11 January 2024 09:20 AM

Source : puckpath

Flying pucks, tangled sticks, and fierce competition – hockey's a thrilling mix, but neck injuries lurk amidst the action.

Enter the neck guard, your silent guardian on the ice. This lightweight shield deflects errant shots and sticks contact, safeguarding your precious vertebrae.

Imagine the crunch of a puck careering off your neck – neck guards make that a distant memory.

They're not bulky or restrictive, fitting snugly under your helmet, allowing you to pirouette and slap shots with a full range of motion.

1. Aegis Interceptor (Bibless And With Bib)

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Bibless Version:

  • Amazon: $37.95.
  • HockeyMonkey: $44.99.
  • Pure Hockey: $35.99.

Aegis W/ Bib:

  • Amazon: $35.95. 
  • HockeyMonkey: $39.99.
  • Pure Hockey: $37.99.

The neck guard features a 4mm D3O insert, a soft and flexible material that hardens on impact to absorb shock and disperse energy.

The lining of the neck guard is made with DuPont™ Kevlar® fiber.

Many reviewers appreciate the D3O impact protection and Kevlar cut resistance, feeling more confident on the ice.

Some users report issues with the Kevlar lining fraying or tearing relatively quickly, especially for active players.

2. CCM 900 Cut Resistant Neck Guard

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Price: 

  • CCM Hockey: $24.99

The BNQ-certified CCM 900 Cut Resistant Neck Guard features an outer shell made with Kevlar, a material that is five times stronger than steel and highly resistant to cuts.

Despite its protective properties, the CCM 900 Cut Resistant Neck Guard is still breathable and comfortable. 

The two-piece design and mesh panels allow for good airflow, preventing overheating and discomfort.

While lightweight, the two-piece design might feel slightly bulkier compared to some single-piece models.

3. Bauer NG NLP22 Premium Bib

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Price:

  • Amazon: $34.99
  • Hockey Monkey: $30.99
  • Perani's Hockey World: $29.99

The liner utilizes this technology to enhance moisture wicking and evaporation, keeping you cool and dry during intense play.

The liner is 51% Cocona 37.5® polyester, and 49% polyester. The top is 100% Polyester.

The bib is made from a similar lightweight and breathable material as the neck guard, minimizing bulkiness and heat retention.

Some users report feeling "claustrophobic" due to the limited head movement range.

4. CCM 600 Cut Resistant Neck Guard

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Price: 

  • Amazon: $19.99
  • CCM Hockey: $16.99
  • Hockey Monkey: $19.99

It boasts a shaped design fit, which makes it comfortable and contours the neck. The 1680D Polyester and Foam built inside the guard provides you with must-have cut protection during the games.

A soft liner interior is present to restrict skin irritations, and with the velcro strap adjustment, you can customize it to your best fit.

The arched design conforms to the neck's natural curve, providing a snug yet non-restrictive feel.

However, depending on the player's equipment and posture, the neck guard might slightly obstruct peripheral vision.

5. Shock Doctor Ultra Neck Guard

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Price:

  • Shock Doctor: $19.99
  • Amazon: $19.99 - $46.92
  • Dick Sporting Goods: $19.99

This neck guard is super light and is flexible for superior movement and has an adjustable strap for a secure fit. 

With the low-profile anatomical curved design, it provided the ultimate comfort for the players. The BNQ certified is made with premium cut-resistant aramid fiber, soft knit lining, and durable outer materials.

Customers mentioned its quality as high-quality material, convenient, and protective from any injuries. 

Some users point out that the Ultra prioritizes comfort and mobility over heavy-duty protection.

6. Bauer NG NLP21 Premium

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Price:

  • Hockey World: $24.99
  • Amazon: $24.99
  • The Hockey Shop: $29.99

This incredibly strong material, used in bulletproof vests, lines the neck guard for exceptional cut resistance against skate blades.

The NG NLP21 is surprisingly lightweight and breathable, allowing for optimal airflow and preventing overheating.

If you're a serious athlete who demands the best possible protection without sacrificing comfort, the Bauer NG NLP21 Premium is a top contender.

However, it can also slightly restrict head movement compared to looser guards.

7. Bauer NG NLP8 Core Neck Guard

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Price: 

  • Amazon: $24.99
  • Bauer: $19.99
  • Hockey Monkey: $20.99

Constructed with high-density foam and a mesh back panel, the NG NLP8 provides adequate protection without feeling bulky or suffocating.

A hook-and-loop closure system ensures a secure and customized fit for different neck sizes.

Compared to the premium NG NLP21, the NG NLP8 comes at a significantly lower price, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious athletes.

It's not equipped with Kevlar® like the high-end NG NLP21, but it's sufficient for most recreational play.

8. Warrior Ritual X4 E+ Senior Protective Neck Guard

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  • Hockey Monkey: $79.99
  • Amazon: $59.99
  • HockeyShop: $59.73 ( $79.99 CAD)

The X4 E+ uses a combination of high-density foams to absorb impact and reduce the force of pucks and sticks.

The neck guard is designed to move with you, allowing for natural head movement and flexibility during play.

This is ideal for goalies who prioritize comfort and breathability, especially during longer practices or games.

Compared to guards with multiple adjustment points, the X4 E+ relies primarily on the velcro strap. 

9. Warrior Ritual X3 Pro Senior Protective Neck Guard

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Price:

  • Goalie Monkey: $149.99
  • Hockey Monkey: $141.93
  • Hockey Shop: $141.93

Proprietary X-Foam combines exceptional impact absorption with lightweight flexibility, providing both confidence and agility.

The X3 Pro offers enhanced protection for the vulnerable clavicle area, extending further down the chest and back compared to some models.

Even with its robust protection, the X3 Pro feels surprisingly light, keeping you agile and ready for lightning-fast reactions.

Recreational players or those who prefer a looser fit might find the snugness and enhanced protection a bit overkill.

10. CCM Pro Cut Resistant Bibbed Neck Guard

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Price: $34.99 on Hockey Monkey

This guard stands out with its Kevlar® lining, offering significant protection against cuts and slashes from sticks and pucks, ideal for high-impact situations and advanced-level play.

The bib itself likely utilizes high-density foam for absorbing impacts and minimizing bruises from pucks or collisions.

This guard is built to withstand the rigors of regular use and practice sessions.

While its discontinued status makes it less readily available, its features might still be appealing for some players.

11. CCM 100 Hockey Neck Guard

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Price: $25.00 to $ 40.00

This guard utilizes 1680D polyester and foam construction to help prevent cuts and scrapes from sticks and pucks, suitable for recreational and early-level play.

The adjustable velcro strap allows for a customized and secure fit for different neck sizes.

This neck guard meets the BNQ certification for neck protectors, offering some assurance of its protective capabilities.

The item is currently out of stock and not available through official CCM channels, but may be found through third-party retailers or online marketplaces for $25 to $40 USD..