Different Definitions of Off Ice Pucks

Definitions of Off Ice Pucks: From Roller pucks to Xenopucks

You think you know someone…. Well, the same applies to hockey pucks and why should it be any different? Previously we worked on a couple of articles that grazed this problem but didn’t directly address it. Found here(Best Off Ice Puck pt1) and here ( Best Off Ice Puck pt2). So here we will list out some different types of pucks for non-ice surfaces.

Methodology

We aim to use the most realistic system for classifying the off-ice hockey puck market. As such, we determined that the end use case a puck is most important. Our question is “What is the goal of the puck you are using?”. For instance, are you playing a fun game or training to become better?

This framework will allow us to categorize. However, as usual when painting in broad brushstrokes, there will be overlap and inconsistencies. Nevertheless, this will be where it starts and then we move down the funnel to be more specific in use cases.

A final note here is that this method comes from our on the ground experience with the hockey community. The Xenopuck team spends quite a bit of time on the road at tournaments, and it is here that we learned of the bifurcation between work and play. So without further diatribe, let’s begin.

Fun/Game Pucks

Most of the time when you think of roller pucks you will be talking of this type of puck. Think here about the IDS Pro Shot Pucks, Sonic Pucks, or Rocket Pucks. Compared to an ice puck they are all much lighter and will have nubs on the flat surface that provide the low friction medium for a nice slide.

So, why do we classify them as game/fun pucks? The simplest answer is because they are made for the roller hockey game. Big tourneys such NARCH and TORHS will play games with pucks of this ilk. If you have ever messed around with one of the fun pucks then you know it can be shot, handled, and passed with great ease. This makes it very fun to play against others with. If you’re an ice player then it feels like your hands are NHL worthy. Not burst your bubble, but it is just the puck being lighter.

When it comes to the fun pucks there are many variations, but most are in essence similar. They all have nubs and will all eventually wear down. While the weight may vary slightly, the puck never reaches the 6oz similarity to an ice puck. Some come close such as the GB roller and one or two more. Everyone has a preference for their specific location, surface of play, and skill level.

To conclude here, the fun pucks are mostly used for games and to have a good time. Where this analysis goes off the rails a little is where the line of games and training meet. Simply put, whenever you are playing a game there is usually some benefit to the overall growth in your cognitive and physical skillset. Think about how important games are to development of timing, scoring, passing, defense, vision, etc.. That is one incongruity, another is that many hockey trainers see a major benefit to using lighter pucks (and heavier ones). The logic goes something like, lighter pucks allow for faster motor function (i.e. stickhandling, shooting, and passing) which thereby teaches the body/mind that it is 1.) possible and 2.) skills are actively working at an overload level. So while these pucks do have training application, they are mainly used in the fun/game areas of off ice hockey.

 

Training Pucks

Here is where the Xenopucks team gets really excited. This is our domain and we thrive when talking about skill development. Off Ice training Pucks (Xenopucks, GB, Smart Hockey, etc..) should be made for the hockey player that wants to train off the ice with something that will help build their hockey acumen.

Using the Xenopuck as an example, it is made of super durable materials that have the feel of an ice puck, but also have the same weight as an ice puck (6oz). This allows an ice player (or roller) to work with something that has characteristics of an in-game situation. Which is super important. As our game is so fast paced that if you are caught thinking on the ice then there may be some serious problems in the next split second.

In effect, when training with a puck it is important to work at the fundamentals of your game. An ideal example is that of being able to stickhandle while not looking at the puck. Take a quick look at how many times an NHLer looks at the puck while on his stick. This skill can be easily trained while off the ice, but while doing so, you will want something that meets or exceeds an ice hockey puck feel. Now scale this same idea to a roller rink while ripping shots. Keep your head up and look at what you are shooting at, but make sure you have a puck that is meant for it.

While you can play games with these pucks, it is generally going to lead to some problems. There can be difficulty in durability, ease of use, and safety. So just use caution if you intend to do so.

This is the environment of the training pucks. The world of Xenopucks among others. Next time you get a chance take a feel of the different pucks out there and see what might work for you. For now keep plugging away and putting in the good work.

Hockey Balls

Lots of different versions of this, but think a hockey ball or tennis ball These are very fun and used for a game called ball hockey (also very fun!). Can be used on roads, pavement, carpet, or the surface of the moon. Mainly for enjoyment and a good fun time. Not really for training although they do have warmup balls and 6oz ones too.

 

Postscript

Recently a famous hockey influencer did a big breakdown on the best roller/off-ice pucks on the market today. Would you guess it? Yes, the Xenopuck was featured among the contestants. There something to be said for a person who is honestly telling you their thoughts. This in our opinion is to be fully admired and we believe the creator did just that. Many people are out there to make the mullah, but rare few are living by the creed of sincere opinion regardless of compensation.

The spirit of competition is a beautiful thing and makes the world a better place. Without the ever dynamic changes of life then this reality would be very boring indeed. What is fascinating is that a small idea can make such a huge difference. The inventor of the Xenopuck was indeed a man with a KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) mentality and what a change it has made. At this point in time tens of thousands of people are using the Xenopuck in their training regimen and more are turning to it every day. Innovation should be kept at the forefront, and we thank God for it.

Please everyone stay safe for this year and those to follow, God Bless you and your families.  

 

Written By: 

Carter LaVigne