New rules for goalie gear

NHL teams

Goalie gear and its role in declining scoring in the league were debated during last season. In response general managers on Tuesday approved the new criteria that defines the maximum dimensions of a goaltender's jersey, pants and chest and arm pads.

The new standards were decided by a group including Dallas' GM Bob Gainey, goaltenders Glenn Healy, Curtis Joseph, Patrick Roy and John Vanbiesbrouck. Former former NHL goalie Dave Dryden was involved as a consultant.

"We're pleased we were able to work with the Players' Association on these standards and we appreciate the goaltenders' input on standards that will provide the shooters with a little more scoring space," NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said.

Regulation of the goalie gear follows the new rules set earlier in the off season that included moving the net two feet farther out into open ice and making the goal crease smaller.

The jersey may not be wider than 29 inches across at the chest, 30 inches across at the hips, nine inches wide at the wrist or 14 inches from the front of the shoulder to the back. No inserts or additions may be made and the jersey may not be longer than 32 inches and it may not cover any area between the legs.

The protection for the chest and arms must be more form-fitting and no raised ridges will be permitted on the front, sides or top. The pants legs may not be wider than 11 inches across the front of the thigh and no inside or outside ridges will be permitted.

The league will also consider restrictions for the catching glove, but that will not be implemented before 1999-2000 season.