What Equipment Do I Need?
Proper equipment is important for safety! We strongly recommend that everyone wear a helmet and proper curling shoes.
Curling Shoes: Curling shoes generally are equipped with adhered sliders that are on the opposite foot from the throwing hand. You will also need to purchase a gripper that slips over the slider foot. The slider is only exposed when a curler is delivering a rock and the gripper is placed on the slider foot for all other times. If using a stick to deliver the rock, then the slider is not exposed.
In lieu of purchasing curling shoes, new curlers can start with a clean pair of running shoes (reserved only for curling so you don't bring any dirt onto the ice surface). Orillia Curling Club has a supply of slip/step on sliders and grippers that can be borrowed, but they must be returned after each game. We do recommended a proper curling shoe as they grip the ice better.
Remember to purchase new grippers as soon as they show any sign of wear. Pieces of rubber are often found on the ice when members wear old ones, and this can create a danger to curlers and affect the path of a stone.
Gloves: Gloves not only keep you warm but also keeps a good grip on your broom and stone.
Broom: There are curling brooms at the club, but to be sure that you have one we recommend that you buy your own. There are many different styles available, it doesn't have to be the best! If you are new, ask members about their brooms and why they like them. Straw brooms are not allowed on the ice surface.
Clothing: Special curling clothing can be purchased but many curlers wear what they already own. It is important that the clothes allow for a good range of motion and are layered so you can remove outer layers as your body temperature heats up during sweeping. It is important to wear pants that allow you to squat and stretch. Long sleeves, warmer type tops, sweaters, soft shell jackets, etc. are good choices. Avoid wearing garments that shed such as, fleece, fur etc. since even a small particle on the ice can change the direction of the rock.
Delivery Sticks: If you have a bad back, knees or can’t lunge anymore, the curling stick will allow you to curl without crouching down and sliding out during the rock delivery. These have been a great addition to the game of curling allowing folks to continue to curl for more years than what was possible prior to the introduction of the stick and for people of all abilities to learn to curl.
Delivery Stabilizer: As you learn how to curl, you may find that you would prefer to use a delivery stabilizer instead of a broom when throwing a rock. It might be easier to maintain your balance. There are a few stabilizers available for use by curlers to try. We recommend purchasing your own stabilizer once you determine you prefer using one.
Helmet: There are many good options for helmets. There are specialized Curling Helmets, however, many members wear bicycle or hockey helmets. It is important that the helmet does not come off and particularly protects the back of the head.
Where can I get it?
There are a few places that sell curling equipment. Real curling equipment can be purchased at a specialized Curling Store (e.g. Shot Rock, Barrie) but alternatives mentioned above can be purchased at most sports stores.
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and traditionally offers a good new curler package
175 Essa Rd., Barrie, ON L4N 3L2 705-734-3332
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705-725-0080
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www.canadiantire.ca |
Curling equipment can also be purchased from several on-line sources.
How can I increase my safety?
- Wear proper equipment
- Do not run on the ice
- Carefully step onto the ice
- Do not stand only on your slider foot (e.g. when getting up or moving a stone)
- Use a stabilizer or a curling stick if you are having trouble throwing a rock normally
- Stay well away from sweepers
- Sweepers, when waiting on the other team to play, stand on the line between the ice sheets near the middle of the rink and pay attention of what is happening on rinks beside you.
- When standing on the ice keep your broom vertical and do not swing it around.
- When moving stones, be very careful to not push them into someone's path or behind them.
