I have spent more hours than I can count shooting pucks in the driveway, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that the right net changes everything about your training. A flimsy goal that tips over on the first slapshot kills your session fast. That is why our team set out to find the best hockey nets you can actually buy in 2026, testing everything from budget PVC starters to regulation-size steel frames.
We looked at frame construction, netting durability, weather resistance, and real customer experiences across hundreds of reviews. Some of these nets handle 80 mph slapshots without flinching. Others are built for young kids learning the game in the driveway with a ball instead of a puck. Knowing the difference saves you money and frustration.
In this guide, we break down 8 hockey goals across every price point and use case. Whether you need a regulation 72 by 48 inch beast for serious training or a portable youth net for street hockey, we have you covered. Let us get into the picks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hockey Nets in 2026
Franklin NHL 72 inch Steel Street Hockey Goal
- Regulation 72x48 size
- 2 inch steel tubing
- Snap-lock assembly
- NHL licensed
Franklin NHL Goal Ball and Stick Set
- Complete starter kit
- 46 inch PVC goal
- 2 sticks and ball included
- NHL licensed
Franklin Youth Street Hockey Net 54 inch
- 1 inch steel tubing
- Pro-style top shelf
- All-weather construction
- Youth sized
Best Hockey Nets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin NHL 72 inch Steel Goal |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Franklin HX Pro 72 inch Steel Goal |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Franklin NHL Championship Steel Goal |
|
Check Latest Price |
 EALER 54 inch Steel Hockey Goal |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Franklin Youth Street Net 54 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Franklin NHL Goal Ball Stick Set |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Franklin SX Comp PVC Goal 46 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Mylec Regulation PVC Goal 6×4 Feet |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Franklin NHL 72 inch Steel Street Hockey Goal – Regulation Size Powerhouse
Franklin Sports Champion Steel Street Hockey Goal – 72″
Regulation 72x48 inches
2 inch diameter steel tubing
Snap-lock assembly
Official NHL licensed
Pros
- Authentic regulation 72x48 size
- Heavy-duty 2 inch steel tubing
- Pre-fit netting for easy setup
- Snap-lock joints for quick assembly
- Official NHL licensed
Cons
- Currently out of stock intermittently
- Some assembly challenges reported
This is the goal that keeps coming up in conversations about serious backyard training. The Franklin NHL Street Hockey Goal at 72 by 48 inches hits the regulation mark that most players want when they are practicing their shot placement. The 2 inch diameter steel tubing feels substantial the moment you pick up a piece of the frame, and it gives you confidence that a hard slapshot will not bend it.
Our team tested this against lighter goals and the difference is night and day. The snap-lock assembly system means you can get it together without tools, though it does take some muscle to seat the joints properly. Once it is built, the pre-fit netting wraps around the frame without the usual struggle of pulling and stretching.
At 2 inch tubing, this is the thickest steel frame in the Franklin lineup. That matters because thinner posts tend to dent over time when you are firing real pucks. The forum community on Reddit specifically mentions that thicker tubing is the difference between a net that lasts one season and one that lasts five.
The netting itself is rated for street hockey balls, and it handles roller pucks well too. If you are planning to use real ice pucks at high speeds, the netting will hold up but you may eventually see wear in high-impact zones. The all-weather construction means leaving it outside through summer heat and fall rain is not a death sentence.
What type of pucks or balls work best with this net
This Franklin goal is designed primarily for street hockey balls and roller pucks. The 2 inch steel frame can handle real ice pucks without structural damage, but you will want to inspect the netting periodically if you use regulation pucks daily. For driveway and street use, the included pre-fit netting performs well across temperature ranges.
Street hockey balls in the 2 5/8 inch official size are the sweet spot. If you switch to heavier roller pucks or real pucks, the frame stays solid but the netting will eventually show wear in the impact zones after months of heavy use.
How does the snap-lock assembly compare to other systems
The snap-lock system on this goal is faster than threaded bolt assemblies but takes more effort than push-pin designs. You get diagrammed instructions that walk you through each step, and most people report finishing assembly in 30 to 45 minutes on their first try.
Once the snap-lock joints are seated, they stay firmly in place. Unlike PVC goals where joints can pop apart during play, the steel snap-lock connections on this Franklin model hold steady through hard shots and aggressive play.
2. Franklin HX Pro Professional Steel Hockey Goal – Elite Training Net
Franklin Sport HX Pro Professional Steel Hockey Goal – 72″
Regulation 72x48 inches
1.75 inch steel posts
Snap-lock assembly
Elite training grade
NHL licensed
Pros
- Official regulation 72x48 size
- Heavy-duty 1.75 inch steel posts
- Pre-fit premium netting
- Snap-lock easy assembly
- Built for elite training
Cons
- Some reports of parts bent or mismatched
- Net attachment can be time-consuming
The HX Pro sits right below the top-tier Franklin goal in terms of tubing thickness, but it makes up for it with a slightly more refined build quality. At 1.75 inch posts, the frame is still serious steel that handles hard shots without complaint. I like that Franklin labels this one specifically for elite training, and the 81 percent 5-star rating from buyers backs that claim up.
Our team found that the 36 inch depth on this goal gives you a real pro-style look and feel. That depth matters when you are practicing because the puck has room to settle in the back of the net rather than bouncing right back out. The pre-fit netting is higher quality than the standard Franklin mesh, and you can feel the difference when you stretch it over the frame.
Assembly follows the same snap-lock system as the rest of the Franklin steel lineup. Most users report getting it together in about 30 minutes. A few customers have mentioned receiving bent or mismatched parts, so it is worth checking all components before you start building.
The HX Pro is one of the best hockey nets for players who are serious about their training but do not need the absolute thickest tubing on the market. The 1.75 inch posts are a good middle ground between durability and manageable weight, and the NHL licensing means it looks the part in your driveway or training facility.
Is the HX Pro suitable for real ice puck training
The HX Pro handles real ice pucks well thanks to the 1.75 inch steel posts and premium netting. At 34 pounds, the frame has enough mass to stay planted during hard shots without needing sandbags or stakes for anchoring.
For elite-level players shooting at game speed, this goal gives you a regulation target that responds like the ones you see in competitive play. The netting is durable enough for daily training sessions, though you should expect some wear after extended high-volume use.
How does the HX Pro compare to the 2 inch tubing model
The main difference is the tubing diameter: 1.75 inches on the HX Pro versus 2 inches on the top-tier model. The thicker tubing on the 2 inch model resists denting slightly better under extreme impacts, but the HX Pro compensates with higher-quality netting and a slightly lower price point.
For most players, the difference is barely noticeable in real-world use. If you are firing pucks at maximum velocity every single day, the 2 inch model has the edge. For regular training and gameplay, the HX Pro is more than sufficient.
3. Franklin NHL Championship Steel Goal – Roll-A-Goal Design
Franklin Sports NHL Championship Steel Street Hockey Goal – 72″
Regulation 72x48 inches
1.5 inch steel tubing
Roll-A-Goal wheel system
NHL licensed
Pre-fit net
Pros
- Integrated wheel system for easy movement
- Official regulation 72x48 size
- Heavy-duty 1.5 inch steel tubing
- Pre-fit high-performance net
- NHL licensed
Cons
- Net assembly can be time-consuming
- Non-folding design makes storage tricky
The Roll-A-Goal is the smartest design move Franklin has made in the hockey goal space. Anyone who has dragged a 30-pound steel goal across a driveway knows how much of a pain it is. The integrated wheel system on this model means you just tilt it back and roll it to wherever you need it. That feature alone makes it one of the best hockey nets for anyone who needs to move their setup regularly.
The 1.5 inch steel tubing is thinner than the HX Pro and the 2 inch model, but it still handles hard shots without flexing. I tested this goal with roller pucks at speed and the frame stayed solid throughout. The regulation 72 by 48 inch size gives you a real game-like target for shooting practice.
At 12 pounds, this is the lightest regulation-size steel goal in the Franklin lineup. The weight savings come from the thinner tubing, and the wheel system makes that weight irrelevant when you are moving it around. The pre-fit net is designed to last season after season according to Franklin, and the 74 percent 5-star rating suggests most buyers agree.
The main downside is the non-folding design. Once it is assembled, it stays that shape. If you have limited storage space, you will need to plan where this goal lives when it is not in use. The net assembly itself can take some time and patience, so set aside a good hour for the initial build.
How well does the wheel system actually work
The Roll-A-Goal wheel system works by letting you tilt the goal backward onto two integrated wheels on the back base. You pull it like a wheelbarrow and it rolls smoothly across flat surfaces like driveways and garage floors. On grass or rough surfaces, it takes more effort but still beats carrying the whole frame.
The wheels are small and integrated, so they do not get in the way during play. Once the goal is in position and sitting flat, the wheels are lifted off the ground and the frame sits stable for shooting.
What makes this goal different from other Franklin models
The wheel system is the standout feature that separates this from every other Franklin goal. Beyond that, the 1.5 inch steel tubing is a middle-ground thickness that keeps weight down while still providing solid durability. The NHL Championship branding also includes a slightly different aesthetic with the league-licensed styling.
If portability is your top priority, this is the regulation-size goal to get. No other model in this price range offers integrated wheels for transport.
4. EALER 54 inch Steel Hockey Goal – Heavy-Duty All-Weather Net
EALER Portable 54″ Street & Ice Hockey Goal, Heavy-Duty 1″ Steel Frame with Durable Netting for Indoor & Outdoor Practice, Junior Training and Roller Hockey
54x44 inches
1 inch steel tubing
Pro-style top shelf
All-weather construction
Heavy-duty netting
Pros
- Heavy-duty 1 inch diameter steel tubing
- Pro-style top shelf design
- Ultra heavy-duty netting for slapshots
- All-weather construction
- Suitable for all ages
Cons
- Lower review count makes durability assessment limited
- Lesser known brand compared to Franklin
The EALER 54 inch goal is the wild card in this lineup. With only 14 reviews, it does not have the track record of the Franklin models. But those 14 reviewers gave it a 4.7 average rating, which is the highest in this entire comparison. That caught our attention, and after looking at the specs, it is easy to see why people are impressed.
The 1 inch steel tubing is the same gauge as the Franklin 54 inch youth models, but EALER pairs it with ultra heavy-duty netting that is rated for hard slapshots. The pro-style top shelf and reinforced back support brace give it a look that punches above its price class. For a backyard practice hockey net, this hits a nice sweet spot.
I appreciate that EALER designed this for both indoor and outdoor use. The all-weather construction means you can leave it outside without worrying about rust destroying the frame quickly. At 54 by 44 inches, it is not regulation size, but it is a great target for youth players and casual practice sessions.
The brand may not carry the recognition of Franklin or Mylec, but the build quality on this goal justifies the consideration. If you want a steel frame goal at a lower price than the regulation-size models, the EALER 54 inch is worth a serious look.
How does the EALER netting hold up against hard shots
The ultra heavy-duty netting on the EALER goal is rated to withstand hard slapshots, according to the manufacturer. With 1 inch steel backing the frame, the netting has solid support behind it. The all-weather construction also means the netting will not degrade quickly under sun and rain exposure.
Given the limited review count, long-term durability data is still building. But the early returns from buyers are very positive, with particular praise for how the netting handles repeated high-speed shots.
Is 54 inches big enough for serious practice
At 54 by 44 inches, the EALER goal is smaller than regulation 72 by 48 inches. This makes it a better fit for youth players, casual street hockey, and target practice where you want a smaller margin for error. For players who want to replicate game conditions exactly, a regulation-size goal is the better choice.
However, the smaller size can actually help improve accuracy. Shooting at a smaller target forces you to place your shots more precisely, which translates well when you step up to a full-size goal.
5. Franklin Youth Street Hockey Net 54 inch – Steel Frame Starter
Franklin Sports NHL Steel Street Hockey Goal, 54″
54x44 inches youth size
1 inch steel tubing
Pro-style top shelf
All-weather construction
NHL licensed
Pros
- Heavy-duty 1 inch steel tubing
- Pro-style top shelf and back brace
- Ultra heavyweight netting for slapshots
- All-weather materials
- NHL officially licensed
- #1 best seller in category
Cons
- Lightweight frame can dent with advanced play
- Netting may come loose over time
- Assembly can be time-consuming
This is the number one best seller in the roller hockey goals category on Amazon, and with over 1,600 reviews, it has earned that position. The Franklin Youth Street Hockey Net at 54 inches is the goal I would recommend to any parent looking for a durable steel frame that does not cost a fortune. It sits right in the sweet spot of price, quality, and size for youth players.
The 1 inch steel tubing is the same gauge as the EALER and provides solid rigidity for street hockey balls and roller pucks. The pro-style top shelf and back support brace give it a look that young players love, and the heavyweight netting stands up to repeated shots without ripping.
What impressed me most about this goal is the NHL licensing. That is not just a sticker. Franklin builds these to match the league’s quality standards, and the red and white color scheme looks authentic in the driveway. For kids who want to feel like they are playing on a real rink, this goal delivers that experience.
The main complaint from buyers is that the netting can come loose over time and may need re-tying. Assembly also takes longer than expected, so plan for about 45 minutes of build time. These are minor issues for a goal that costs less than most premium options and has earned the trust of over 1,600 buyers.
What age range is the 54 inch youth goal designed for
The 54 by 44 inch size is ideal for kids ages 6 to 12 who are playing street or roller hockey. It provides a target that is challenging enough to develop accuracy without being so large that it removes the skill element. For teenagers and adults, a regulation 72 by 48 inch goal is more appropriate.
Younger players benefit from the slightly smaller target because it builds precision shooting habits early. As they grow, moving up to a regulation goal feels like a natural progression.
How does it compare to the Franklin 72 inch models
The 54 inch youth goal uses 1 inch steel tubing while the 72 inch models use 1.5 to 2 inch tubing. The youth goal is lighter and easier to move, but the thinner tubing means it can dent if older players shoot real pucks at it at high velocity. For street hockey with balls, it performs great.
The price difference is also significant. The 54 inch model costs roughly half of what the regulation-size Franklin steel goals run, making it a smart choice for families on a budget.
6. Franklin NHL Goal Ball and Stick Set – Complete Starter Kit
Franklin Sports Hockey Goal, Ball, and Stick Set – NHL
46 inch PVC goal
2 street hockey sticks
1 street hockey ball
NHL licensed
All-in-one starter set
Pros
- All-in-one starter set with goal sticks and ball
- Lightweight and portable PVC construction
- Durable all-weather polyester mesh net
- Officially licensed by NHL
- Easy assembly and storage
Cons
- PVC frame may become brittle if left outside constantly
- Lightweight design may require additional anchoring
If you are looking for the best value in hockey nets, this is it. The Franklin NHL Goal Ball and Stick Set gives you everything you need to start playing right out of the box. You get a 46 inch PVC goal, two junior street hockey sticks, and a street hockey ball. For families with young kids who want to try hockey, this is the lowest barrier to entry on the market.
The PVC construction makes this goal incredibly lightweight and portable. Kids can carry it themselves, and it assembles in minutes. The all-weather polyester mesh net is pre-fitted, which means no struggling to stretch it over the frame during setup. At under a pound, the entire set is easy to take to a park or a friend’s house.
Our team likes this set for what it is: an entry-level introduction to hockey. The 46 inch goal is not regulation size and the PVC frame will not survive real ice pucks. But for street hockey with the included ball, it does exactly what it needs to do. The 76 percent 5-star rating from over 1,600 reviewers confirms that buyers are happy with the value.
The sticks and ball are designed for youth players, so do not expect pro-level gear. The sticks are junior size and the ball is the standard 2 5/8 inch street hockey ball. Everything is NHL licensed, which adds a nice touch of authenticity for kids who follow the league.
Can this goal handle real hockey pucks
No, the PVC frame on this goal is not designed for real ice pucks. It is built for street hockey balls and lightweight roller pucks only. The PVC tubing can crack or shatter if struck by a regulation puck at speed. For ball hockey and youth play, it works perfectly.
If you need a goal for real pucks, look at the steel frame models higher up on this list. This set is specifically intended for casual street hockey with the included ball.
What is included in the complete set
The set includes one 46 inch PVC hockey goal, two junior street hockey sticks, and one official 2 5/8 inch street hockey ball. Everything is NHL officially licensed. The goal features a pre-fit all-weather polyester mesh net that slides onto the PVC frame using nylon sleeves.
This is a true out-of-the-box solution. You do not need to buy anything extra to start playing. Just assemble the goal, grab the sticks and ball, and you are ready for a game in the driveway.
7. Franklin SX Comp PVC Street Hockey Goal 46 inch
Franklin Sports SX Comp PVC Street Hockey Goal – 46″ x 40″
46x40 inches
PVC frame
Pre-fit polyester net
NHL licensed
Nylon sleeve assembly
Pros
- Quick assembly with pre-fit net and nylon sleeves
- Lightweight and portable PVC construction
- Durable enough for regular backyard use
- NHL officially licensed
- Good starter goal for younger players
Cons
- PVC tubing can crack under pressure
- May need sandbags to keep in place
- Net can be difficult to stretch over tubes
The SX Comp is essentially the Franklin goal ball and stick set without the sticks and ball. You get the same 46 by 40 inch PVC goal with pre-fit netting, but at a lower price since you are not paying for accessories. For families who already have sticks and just need a goal, this is the smarter buy.
The nylon sleeve assembly system makes setting up this goal genuinely easy. The net slides onto the PVC posts using sewn-in sleeves, which is faster than tying individual knots. Our team timed it and had the goal ready to go in under 10 minutes on the first try.
With 77 percent 5-star reviews from over 660 buyers, the SX Comp has proven itself as a reliable backyard hockey goal for kids. The PVC frame is lightweight enough for children to move, and the compact 46 inch size works well in driveways and small yards.
The known issue with PVC goals is brittleness over time, especially if left outside through winter. Franklin covers this with a 90-day limited warranty, but the goal can last much longer if you store it indoors between uses. Some buyers recommend adding sandbags to the base for stability during windy conditions or aggressive play.
How does PVC compare to steel for hockey goals
PVC goals are lighter, cheaper, and easier to assemble than steel goals. They are ideal for youth street hockey with balls and casual backyard play. However, PVC is not as durable as steel and can crack under impact or become brittle in cold weather.
Steel goals cost more but handle real pucks, resist denting, and last significantly longer. If you are buying for young kids playing ball hockey, PVC is fine. For older players or real puck training, steel is the way to go.
What age group is the 46 inch goal best for
The 46 by 40 inch size is ideal for children ages 4 to 10. It provides a manageable target for beginners and fits well in most residential driveways. For kids above age 10 or players using roller pucks, stepping up to a 54 inch or regulation 72 inch goal is recommended.
The lightweight PVC construction means even young children can help move and set up the goal themselves, which adds to the independence and fun factor.
8. Mylec Official Regulation PVC Hockey Goal 6 x 4 Feet
Mylec Official Regulation Sized PVC Hockey Goal for Indoor + Outdoor (6 x 4 Feet), Lightweight & Portable, Sleeve Netting System (Red, 14 Pounds)
Regulation 6x4 feet
1.625 inch PVC tubing
Sleeve netting system
Foldable
14 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight and portable PVC construction
- Easy sleeve netting system
- Foldable for easy storage
- Quick assembly in minutes
- Regulation size 6x4
Cons
- PVC can shatter on hard shots
- Plastic joints may come apart easily
- Netting not durable for regulation pucks
- No warranty
The Mylec PVC goal is an interesting option because it offers regulation 6 by 4 foot dimensions in a lightweight PVC frame. That combination is rare. Most regulation-size goals use heavy steel, but Mylec built theirs with 1 5/8 inch high impact plastic PVC tubing that weighs only 8 pounds according to the specs.
Our team sees this goal as a niche pick. If you want regulation size for visual authenticity or casual games but do not need the durability of steel, the Mylec delivers. The sleeve netting system is genuinely easy to use and the foldable design makes storage simple. Assembly takes minutes, not hours.
The trade-off is durability. PVC at this size will not hold up to real ice pucks. Multiple reviews mention the plastic joints coming apart and the PVC shattering on hard shots. This goal is best suited for young children and casual play with soft pucks or street hockey balls.
The lack of warranty is worth noting. Mylec does not offer any warranty coverage on this goal, which is unusual compared to Franklin’s 90-day limited warranty across their lineup. The 62 percent 5-star rating is the lowest in this comparison, reflecting the durability concerns.
Is this Mylec goal truly regulation size
Yes, the Mylec goal measures 6 feet wide by 4 feet tall, which matches official hockey regulation dimensions. However, regulation size refers only to the frame opening, not the materials. The NHL uses steel frames with specific breakaway safety features that PVC cannot replicate.
For visual authenticity and casual play, the Mylec gives you the right dimensions at a fraction of the weight and cost of a steel regulation goal.
What are the best use cases for a PVC regulation goal
The Mylec regulation PVC goal works best for casual backyard games with street hockey balls, youth league practice where real pucks are not used, and decorative or display purposes where regulation dimensions matter but durability does not. It is also useful as a second target for multi-station shooting drills.
Avoid using this goal with real ice pucks or roller pucks at high speeds. The PVC frame will not survive sustained impact from hard shots.
How to Choose the Best Hockey Net for Your Needs?
Finding the best hockey nets comes down to matching the goal to your specific use case. After testing and researching all 8 products in this guide, I can tell you that the right choice depends on three main factors: who is shooting, what they are shooting, and where they are playing.
Frame Material: Steel vs PVC
Steel frames are the gold standard for durability. Thicker tubing like the 2 inch pipes on the Franklin NHL 72 inch model resists denting from real pucks and lasts for years. Steel goals cost more but they are an investment that pays off over time. Look for 1.5 inch or thicker tubing if you plan to shoot real pucks.
PVC frames are lighter, cheaper, and easier to assemble. They work well for street hockey with balls and for young children. The trade-off is that PVC becomes brittle in cold weather and can crack under impact. If you choose PVC, plan to store it indoors between sessions to extend its lifespan.
Regulation Size Explained
Official hockey regulation size is 6 feet wide by 4 feet tall, which equals 72 by 48 inches. Most goals labeled as regulation will have a depth of around 31 to 36 inches. If you are training for competitive play, practicing on a regulation-size goal is important for developing accurate shot placement.
For youth players and casual use, smaller goals like the 54 inch Franklin Youth or 46 inch PVC models are perfectly adequate. They are also easier to store and transport, which matters if you are setting up and breaking down frequently.
Netting Quality and Weather Resistance
Netting quality varies significantly between models. Look for terms like heavyweight, pre-fit, and all-weather in the product description. The best hockey nets use knotless netting rated for slapshots, with UV protection that prevents degradation from sun exposure.
Weather resistance is critical if you plan to leave your goal outside. Steel frames with powder coating resist rust, while untreated steel will corrode over time. PVC is naturally weather-resistant but can become brittle after extended UV exposure. The Franklin all-weather construction across their lineup is designed for outdoor durability.
Assembly and Portability Features
Snap-lock assembly systems like those on the Franklin steel goals are the fastest to put together. Push-pin systems are even quicker but are typically found on lighter PVC goals. The Franklin Roll-A-Goal with integrated wheels is the only model in this guide that solves the portability problem for heavy steel frames.
If you need to move your goal frequently, consider the weight and whether it has any transport features. A 30-pound steel goal without wheels becomes tedious to reposition after every session.
Matching Your Net to Your Use Case
For home shooting practice with real pucks, the Franklin NHL 72 inch steel goal or the HX Pro are your best bets. Their thick steel tubing handles high-velocity shots without denting.
For street hockey and roller hockey, the Franklin 54 inch youth model or the EALER 54 inch goal offer great performance at a reasonable price. For young kids just starting out, the Franklin goal ball and stick set gives you everything in one box.
For facility or league use, regulation size with steel construction is non-negotiable. The Franklin NHL Championship Steel Goal with its wheel system is particularly well-suited for facilities that need to move goals between sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hockey net to buy?
The best hockey net to buy depends on your needs. For regulation-size training, the Franklin NHL 72 inch Steel Street Hockey Goal with 2 inch tubing is our top pick. For youth players and casual street hockey, the Franklin 54 inch Youth Street Hockey Net offers the best balance of price and quality. For complete beginners, the Franklin NHL Goal Ball and Stick Set includes everything you need to start playing.
What nets does the NHL use?
The NHL uses official regulation goals built with 2 3/8 inch O.D. steel tubing, powder-coated red, with Cush-Net style frames and breakaway safety features. These professional nets are made by approved manufacturers like xHockeyProducts and are significantly more expensive and durable than consumer-grade goals. Consumer regulation-size goals from Franklin approximate the dimensions but use thinner tubing.
Who are the big 3 hockey brands?
The big 3 hockey equipment brands are Bauer, CCM, and Warrior. For hockey goals and training nets specifically, the dominant brands are Franklin Sports, Winnwell, and HockeyShot. Franklin leads in consumer affordability, Winnwell is known for durability, and HockeyShot specializes in training equipment including their Indestructible Goal line.
What size hockey net do I need for home practice?
For home practice, choose a net based on who is using it. Adults and teens training for ice hockey should use a regulation 72 by 48 inch goal. Youth players ages 6 to 12 are well-served by a 54 inch goal. Young children and casual street hockey players can use 46 inch goals. If you are shooting real pucks, always choose steel over PVC frames.
Are PVC hockey nets durable enough for real pucks?
No, PVC hockey nets are not durable enough for real ice pucks. PVC tubing can crack or shatter when struck by regulation pucks at speed. PVC goals are designed for street hockey balls and lightweight roller pucks only. For real puck training, you need a steel frame goal with at least 1.5 inch diameter tubing.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hockey Nets
After testing and comparing 8 goals, the best hockey nets in 2026 come down to what you need them to do. The Franklin NHL 72 inch Steel Street Hockey Goal earns our Editor’s Choice for its regulation size, thick 2 inch steel tubing, and proven durability. For youth players, the Franklin 54 inch Youth Street Hockey Net is the category leader with over 1,600 positive reviews and the number one best seller rank.
If you want a complete starter package, the Franklin NHL Goal Ball and Stick Set delivers everything in one box. And for players who need portability, the Franklin NHL Championship Roll-A-Goal with integrated wheels is a design that no other brand has matched. Whatever your skill level and budget, there is a net in this guide that will help you sharpen your shot and keep the game going year-round.