
U.S.-Canada Trade War Drives Up Costs of Youth Hockey Gear
The U.S. and Canada’s tariff clash is pushing hockey equipment prices higher, with families facing near‑$1,000 costs for full gear and limited options to cut expenses.
Sep 8, 2026
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The U.S. and Canada’s tariff clash is pushing hockey equipment prices higher, with families facing near‑$1,000 costs for full gear and limited options to cut expenses.

A 50% U.S. tariff on Canadian goods and Canada's retaliatory tariffs have driven up the price of carbon‑fiber hockey sticks and full equipment sets, pushing families in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to seek cheaper but riskier alternatives.

The U.S.-Canada trade war is pushing youth hockey equipment prices higher, with families facing nearly $1,000 outlays for gear and uncertainty over quality as they consider second‑hand or online purchases.