March 17, 2025

Hockey Equipment Rash: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

A rash from hockey equipment is a common problem for players at all levels. The combination of sweat, friction, and bacteria trapped inside gear can lead to itching, redness, and even painful infections. If not treated properly, these rashes can become persistent and uncomfortable, affecting your performance on the ice.

This guide breaks down the most common rashes caused by different hockey gear, how to treat them, and ways to prevent irritation so you can stay focused on the game.

1. Common Causes of Rashes from Hockey Equipment

Helmet, gloves, and hockey stick over an action-packed game, highlighting essential hockey equipment.

1.1 Helmet Rash

Hockey helmets trap heat and sweat, creating a moist environment that irritates the skin.
The padding inside the helmet absorbs sweat, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Tight helmet straps can cause chafing, leading to red, sore skin, especially under the chin and around the forehead.

1.2 Shoulder Pad Rash

The thick padding absorbs sweat but doesn't always dry properly, increasing bacterial growth.
Rough or stiff materials can rub against the skin, leading to irritation and friction burns.
Wearing shoulder pads for long periods without washing them allows bacteria and fungi to thrive.

1.3 Elbow Pad Rash

Tight elbow pad straps limit airflow, causing excessive sweating and irritation.
Constant arm movement leads to friction, which can cause chafing and rashes.
Sweat-soaked elbow pads can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of skin infections.

1.4 Glove Rash

Hockey gloves trap sweat and moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria.
Many players rarely wash their gloves, leading to a buildup of bacteria that can cause rashes or even staph infections.
Constant hand movement inside damp gloves can cause friction burns or blisters.

1.5 Shin Guard Rash

Tight-fitting shin guards rub against the skin, causing friction burns or pressure sores.
Excess sweat builds up under the guards, leading to bacterial and fungal infections.
Heat and moisture inside the shin guards can make the skin more prone to irritation, especially when worn for extended periods.

2. How to Treat a Rash from Hockey Equipment

If you’ve developed a rash from hockey equipment, don’t ignore it—treating it quickly can prevent it from getting worse. Whether it’s caused by friction, sweat buildup, or bacteria, here’s what you can do to relieve irritation and promote healing.

2.1 Immediate Care

Wash the area: Use mild soap and lukewarm water to remove sweat, bacteria, and irritants. Avoid scrubbing too hard.
Let it fully dry: Pat the skin dry with a clean towel and allow it to air dry before putting your gear back on. Moisture can make irritation worse.

2.2 Over-the-Counter Treatments

Anti-chafing balms or powders: These help reduce friction and protect the skin. Apply before wearing gear.
Hydrocortisone cream: If the rash is itchy or inflamed due to an allergic reaction, this can help calm irritation.
Antifungal or antibacterial creams: If you notice redness, swelling, or signs of infection, applying an antifungal or antibacterial cream can help eliminate harmful microbes.

2.3 When to See a Doctor

If the rash worsens, spreads, or doesn’t improve after a few days of treatment.
If you notice pus, swelling, or extreme pain, which may indicate a bacterial infection.
If you develop a fever, which could mean a more serious infection that requires medical attention.

Taking care of your skin and keeping your hockey gear clean can help prevent rashes from coming back. Want to know the best prevention methods? Keep reading!

3. How to Prevent Rashes from Hockey Equipment

The best way to deal with a rash from hockey equipment is to prevent it before it starts. Sweat, bacteria, and friction are the main culprits, but with the right hygiene and gear care, you can keep your skin irritation-free. Here’s how.

3.1 Keep Your Gear Clean

Wash your gear regularly: Bacteria and fungi thrive in damp, sweaty equipment. Clean your pads, gloves, and helmet lining frequently.
Air it out after every use: Moisture buildup creates the perfect environment for infections. Dry your gear completely before using it again.

3.2 Use Matguard Disinfectant Products

Matguard disinfectant products used to clean hockey gear and prevent rashes from hockey equipment.

Helmet & Pad Disinfectant Spray/Wipes: Quickly kill bacteria and fungi in helmets, shoulder pads, and shin guards to reduce skin irritation.
Body Washing Wipes: Wipe down your skin after games and practices to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria before they cause a rash. Our body washing wipes help prevent rashes from spreading as well as forming.

3.3 Wear a Base Layer

Moisture-wicking clothing: Wearing a compression shirt and leggings under your pads helps absorb sweat and prevent direct skin contact with rough gear.
Reduces friction: Base layers act as a barrier to minimize rubbing and irritation.

3.4 Apply Skin Protection

Use anti-chafing creams or powders: Apply before putting on your gear to create a protective layer against friction.
Try medicated powders: They absorb excess sweat and help prevent irritation and bacterial growth.

Hockey gear rashes are common, but with the right care, they’re completely preventable. Keeping your equipment clean, using protective skin products, and letting your gear dry properly can make a huge difference. Matguard USA’s disinfectant sprays and body washing wipes help keep your gear fresh and bacteria-free, reducing the risk of skin irritation so you can stay focused on the game.

FAQ: Hockey Equipment Rashes

1. What are the common reasons for a hockey equipment rash?

Hockey rashes are usually caused by sweat buildup, friction, bacteria, fungi, and allergic reactions to gear materials.

2. What are the best products for a hockey equipment rash?

Anti-chafing balms, hydrocortisone cream, antifungal or antibacterial ointments, and disinfectant sprays like Matguard Helmet & Pad Disinfectant help treat and prevent rashes.