Trade tensions cause hockey gear orders to stall amid tariff uncertainty

In recent weeks, the imminent implementation of reciprocal tariffs on Canadian imports by President Donald Trump has created significant uncertainty within the hockey equipment market. As of April 1, 2025, the prospect of a 25% tariff on goods imported from Canada has introduced complications for businesses like Roustan Hockey, which sells a vast number of hockey sticks and gear to American customers. Graeme Roustan, the owner of Roustan Hockey, has reported that approximately 40% of his sales come from U.S. buyers, many of whom are hesitating to place large orders due to unclear pricing resulting from these tariffs. The hockey equipment industry is particularly vulnerable, as it relies heavily on cross-border trade with Canada, where much of the gear is manufactured. For instance, companies like Christian and Northland manufacture sticks and other equipment in Canada, and their sales to the United States could be severely impacted by a tariff introduction. According to Roustan, teams and organizations are currently postponing their orders for bulk purchases, creating a ripple effect that could lead to reduced sales and higher prices if the tariffs are fully enacted. Industry experts have voiced concerns regarding the long-term implications of these tariffs. The Sports & Fitness Industry Association emphasized the negative effects tariffs could impose on sports equipment prices across the board. Given the industry’s interconnectedness, what happens in the hockey market can influence various other sports sectors negatively. For many young players, the costs of essential hockey equipment, such as skates and sticks, can already be prohibitive, and a 25% increase in prices could further out of reach for these families. Moreover, some players are also importing custom gear from other countries like China and Japan, adding another layer of complexity as the tariffs might also affect those goods. As the uncertainty surrounding the tariffs continues, many stakeholders in the hockey community fear that the overall landscape for hockey players and consumers is at risk, potentially stunting growth in youth participation and the sport's popularity. Ultimately, the implications of these tariffs resonate well beyond just the financial aspects; they underscore larger struggles within the trade dynamics of the sport and the everyday decisions of hockey families across North America.