Rink: All the Hockey Talk You Need

If you love hockey, the place where the action happens matters as much as the players. A good rink keeps the game fast, safe, and fun. On this page we gather every article that talks about rinks – whether it’s about ice quality, surface colour, or how to pick the right venue for a local match. Below you’ll find quick guides, useful tips and a snapshot of the newest stories on the topic.

What Makes a Great Rink?

First off, the surface itself. Ice rinks need a steady temperature, a clean surface and a solid base. Most clubs use a concrete slab with a refrigerant system underneath. Keep the ice at around -5°C for speed, but don’t let it get too cold or it becomes hard to glide on. Regular resurfacing with a Zamboni removes peaks and fills low spots – a smooth surface means fewer falls and better puck control.

For field hockey, the colour matters. Blue pitches became popular because the bright yellow ball pops against the background, helping players track it better. A blue surface also reduces glare for spectators and cameras. If you’re setting up a new field, choose a UV‑stable synthetic turf and make sure the paint is specifically designed for sports use.

Safety is another piece of the puzzle. On ice, a good dasher board system absorbs impact and keeps the puck in play. On grass or turf, proper drainage prevents puddles that can cause slips. Always check that the surrounding netting or glass is intact before a game starts.

Latest Rink Stories on The Hockey Den

Our recent posts dive into the quirks of rinks you’ll probably never hear about. "Why are some hockey pitches blue?" explains the science behind colour choice and how it improves visibility for players and fans. "Championship predictions: Where Millwall, QPR and Charlton land after a frantic summer" isn’t about rinks directly, but it shows how a well‑maintained home ground can give a team an edge in a tight league.

If you’re curious about the history of rink design, check out the article on "Is a long stick better than a short stick in hockey?". It touches on how rink dimensions influence stick selection and playing style. And for those wondering about the emotional side of the game, "What have been some of the most horrific injuries in Ice Hockey?" reminds us why proper rink maintenance and safety gear go hand‑in‑hand.

We also cover practical questions like "What is the rule of thumb for fitting into ice hockey skates?" – the answer often depends on how well the skate matches the rink’s hardness. A softer rink means you can afford a slightly looser fit, while a very hard surface requires a tight boot for control.

All these stories are grouped under the "rink" tag so you can quickly find the information that matters to you. Whether you’re a player, coach, or just a fan who likes to know what’s happening behind the boards, this page is your one‑stop hub for rink‑related content.

Got a question about your local rink? Drop a comment on any of the posts and the community will jump in with tips. Keep checking back – we add new articles whenever there’s fresh news, equipment reviews or maintenance tricks to share.