Skates
Most kids fit a hockey skate 1 to 1.5 sizes smaller than their street shoe. Confirm at a hockey shop with a baking process if the brand supports it.
A hot-spot fit is the goal: heel locked, toes lightly brushing the cap when standing, fully off the cap when bent in the stance.
Used skates are fine if the boot has not broken down. Look at the heel counter. If it has lost shape, pass.
Helmet
HECC certification mandatory. The sticker has an expiration date. Past that date, the helmet is not legal for play.
Cage or full shield required for youth. Sized by helmet model.
Stick
Junior, intermediate, senior. The right length stands between chin and tip of nose with skates on.
Flex rating roughly half the player's weight in pounds.