The first pair of pants that I bought when I started playing were CCM 220s. Honestly, what level of hockey you are playing is the most important factor in deciding on a pair of pants. The 220 is without a doubt a low-level recreational hockey item.

I used this model for about a year before upgrading to the 420. In that first year I wasn’t facing too many heavy shots. I had the occasional bruise with the 220 pants. But hey, bruises are a part of being a goalie, so no big deal. Recently, I decided (for reasons I am still uncertain of) to wear these pants in a high-level game. I got tagged nine inches above my knee right through the pads on the pants and ended up with a grapefruit size bruise. It was also the only time the ref had to stop a game because he thought I was injured.

The 220 is a pretty durable pair of pants. After a year, my pair still looks like they are brand new (yeah, I still have them as backups, I just hope I don’t ever need to use them).

The five-hole pads hold up pretty well on these. They close up nicely and the pants are comfortable with a minimum break-in time. There is a rather minimal amount of padding in the tailbone which is a negative. The thigh pads are rather thin and do on occasion leave a gap that even light shots will sneak into.

They do not have the tabs to attach kneepads, which is a nice feature in some of the newer pants. I guess that if you are at a level where these pants would suffice, kneepads would not be a major issue though.

Bottom line is that these pants are good for what they are. If you are a new goalie playing at a novice or low recreational level they will work for you. I certainly wouldn’t recommend playing in any situation where you are going to be facing hard shots.

© Scott Noble – Unauthorized use prohibited

A few of my other reviews that you might find helpful:
Fitting Goalie Gear
CCM 420 Goal Pants
Hockey Skate buying demystified

Recommended: Yes