A hockey parent’s guide to choosing the right neck guard

The truth about neck guards – most aren’t protecting your kid

Every hockey parent wants their player to be safe. But the hard truth is that most neck guards on the market today aren’t doing the job. Foam padding and flimsy materials create a false sense of security, leaving your kid dangerously exposed to skate blade injuries.

At Titan, we refuse to accept good enough when it comes to player safety. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you the facts so you can make the only right choice when it comes to protecting your player.

1. Parent pain points: the real questions to ask

Many parents assume that if a neck guard is labeled “protective,” it’s doing its job. That assumption is dangerous. Most traditional neck guards only offer basic padding, not true cut resistance. If you’re wondering what actually keeps your player safe, start by asking the right questions:

“Do these neck guards actually work?” – Most don’t. Thin, foam-based options won’t stop a skate blade. Titan’s A8/A9-rated cut-resistant fabric will.
“Will my kid still be able to move and play?” – Absolutely. Titan’s Stretch ProCurve™ Collar moves with the player, unlike bulky or ill-fitting gear that shifts and leaves gaps.
“How do I know what level of material I need?” – The answer is simple: If it’s not A8/A9 cut resistance, it’s not enough. Anything less is a gamble on your child’s safety.
“Are these comfortable enough for a full game?” – Titan’s ergonomic, breathable fit eliminates irritation, sweat build up, and distraction, so players can focus on the game, not their gear. We recently heard that one of our youth customers slept in their Titan baselayer – we guess you can say it’s comfortable.

2. The ugly truth about most neck guards

Not all neck guards are created equal. The hockey industry is filled with products that offer a false sense of security without delivering real protection. Here’s what most brands don’t tell you:

Foam padding ≠ protection – Most neck guards on the market only reduce impact, not prevent cuts.
Loose, strap-on designs shift during play – If it moves, it leaves gaps. That’s a recipe for disaster.
Low ANSI ratings mean zero real-world protection – A2, A3, even A6-rated neck guards are barely better than a thick sock. Titan delivers A8/A9 protection, the highest level available.
Cheap options are cheap for a reason – When safety is compromised for cost savings, players pay the price.

3. Why fit and comfort matter as much as protection

A neck guard can be the most protective gear on the market, but if it’s uncomfortable, players won’t wear it. Titan ensures protection without sacrificing comfort by focusing on:

Ergonomic fit – Our design contours to the neck, ensuring no exposed areas.
Moisture-wicking materials – Sweat buildup can be distracting but Titan’s fabric keeps players dry. Our Chief Product Officer spent 17 years at Under Armour as the VP of Design – he knows a thing or two about performance fabrics.
No velcro hassles – Velcro-based guards shift and detach during play. Titan’s integrated fit stays locked in place.

When gear is comfortable, players keep it on; and, when it’s protective, it keeps them safe. Titan does both.

4. Choosing the right neck guard: a no-BS guide for parents

You don’t need a PhD in materials science to choose the right neck guard. Here’s a simple breakdown of what to look for:

Protection first – If it’s not A8/A9 cut resistance, it’s not doing enough.
Forget outdated strap-on guards – They move, shift, and fail.
Look for full coverage – The entire neck should be shielded, not a small strip across the front.
Avoid marketing hype – Many brands slap “cut-resistant” on the label, but the real question is: at what level?

5. The Titan difference – where other neck guards fail, we deliver

Titan doesn’t just meet safety standards, we set them. Here’s what makes our gear stand out:

A8/A9 ANSI cut resistance – The highest level on the market. No compromises.
Stretch ProCurve™ Collar – Full neck protection, zero gaps, maximum comfort.
ArcGuard™ Technology – Engineered for 360° coverage where players need it most.
Built for performance – Lightweight, breathable, and battle-tested under real hockey conditions.

Stop gambling with safety

Most neck guards are nothing more than a false sense of security. They don’t stop a skate blade. They don’t stay in place. They don’t provide full coverage. Titan does.

You wouldn’t let your kid play without a helmet or pads, so why risk it with a neck guard that doesn’t actually protect them?

The right choice is clear. Equip your player with Titan Battlegear – the toughest, safest, most battle-ready gear on the ice.

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