The difference between youth, junior, and intermediate hockey equipment generally relates to the size and level of the player using it. Use your judgement when using the general guidelines below. A player close to the end of an age range but larger in stature may very well be ready to move to the next category, for example. 

Youth (ages 5-8)

Youth equipment is designed for the youngest and smallest players, typically ages 5-8. The sizing for youth equipment is smaller and more lightweight than other sizes, and is designed to provide maximum protection for the youngest players while also allowing for ease of movement. Youth sticks are shorter and have a narrower shaft than sticks for older players.

Right - Code TMP Pro 25 Flex Youth Stick - PP28

Junior (ages 9-12)

Junior equipment is designed for slightly older players, usually ages 9-12. The sizing for junior equipment is larger than youth equipment but smaller than adult or senior equipment. The gear is designed to provide good protection while also accommodating the growing bodies of young players. Junior sticks are longer and wider than youth sticks but shorter than senior sticks.

Intermediate (ages 13-16)

Intermediate equipment is designed for players who are too big for junior equipment but not yet ready for adult or senior equipment. The sizing for intermediate equipment is typically for players aged 13-16 or older than 16 but smaller in size. Intermediate gear is designed to offer more protection than junior equipment and is often similar in design to senior gear, but with a slightly smaller size. Intermediate sticks have a slightly thinner shaft than senior sticks.