Ice hockey is played five skaters and a goalie a side on ice with blade skates and a hard rubber puck. Inline hockey is commonly played four skaters and a goalie a side on sport court or similar surfaces, with wheeled skates and a lighter plastic puck or ball. Inline leagues often limit contact and use lighter pants and protection. Many skills transfer, but skates, stopping and edge work feel different.
The games share a lot, but the surface changes the gear and the rules.
Side by side
| Ice | Inline | |
|---|---|---|
| Skaters per side | 5 plus goalie | Often 4 plus goalie |
| Surface | Ice | Sport court, concrete |
| Skates | Blades | Wheels and a chassis |
| Puck | Hard rubber | Plastic puck or ball |
| Contact | Body checking at older levels | Usually limited |
| Pants | Hockey pants | Lighter girdle and shell |
Wheels
Wheels are rated by diameter and durometer. Softer wheels grip on smooth indoor courts; harder wheels last outdoors. Many skates use a Hi-Lo setup with smaller front wheels.
Related: hockey skate sizing and street hockey balls.
Common questions
Can I use ice hockey gear for inline?
Your helmet, gloves and stick work for both. You need inline skates, and many players switch to lighter inline pants.
What wheel hardness should I use?
Softer wheels grip better indoors; harder wheels last longer outdoors on rough surfaces. Check the durometer rating.
Is inline hockey a good way to train for ice?
Many players use it for stickhandling and conditioning. Stopping and edge work feel different, so skate on ice too.