Trapper (ice hockey)
Goaltender's catching glove worn on the non-dominant hand.
A trapper—also called a catch glove or simply a glove—is worn by an ice hockey goaltender on the hand they do not use to hold their stick, helping them catch and stop the puck. Originally shaped like a baseball glove, it later became a highly specialized piece of gear built solely for catching pucks. Over time, a string mesh was added to the pocket, and protection for the palm and wrist was greatly increased. The part of the glove that covers the wrist, known as the "cheater," developed from the gauntlet-style gloves used in the 1920s. Goaltender Emile Francis first introduced the trapper while playing for the Chicago Black Hawks during the 1946–47 season. The pocket sits between the thumb and first finger; most goaltenders aim to catch the puck there because it reduces discomfort and lowers the chance the puck will fall out and create a rebound. Because it goes on the non-dominant hand, the trapper can be held in several ways depending on the goaltender’s style and preference. Younger goaltenders often hold it with the palm facing the shooter, rather than using the traditional "shake hands" grip.
- Introduced by
- Emile Francis
- Team at introduction
- Chicago Black Hawks
- Season introduced
- 1946-47
Lore & Background
The trapper originally had the same shape as a baseball glove, but evolved into a highly specific piece of equipment designed specifically for catching the puck. Changes made over time include the addition of a string mesh in the pocket of the trapper and substantially more palm and wrist protection. The 'cheater' portion of the glove covers the wrist, which evolved from gauntlet-like gloves from the 1920s. The trapper was introduced by goaltender Emile Francis while playing for the Chicago Black Hawks during the 1946-47 season. The pocket is the area of the trapper between the thumb and first finger of the glove, and is where most goaltenders try to catch the puck, as it reduces discomfort and minimizes the chance of the puck falling out of the glove. Worn on the non-dominant hand, the trapper can be held in a variety of positions depending upon individual style and preference. Younger goaltenders tend to hold the glove with the palm facing towards the shooter, instead of in the traditional 'shake hands' position.
Reader's Guide
The trapper's significance lies in its specialized evolution from a general baseball-style glove to a purpose-built catching tool for goaltenders. The addition of a string mesh in the pocket improved puck retention, while increased palm and wrist protection enhanced safety. The 'cheater' portion covering the wrist, derived from 1920s gauntlet-style gloves, represents a key design innovation. Emile Francis's introduction of the trapper during the 1946-47 season for the Chicago Black Hawks marked a pivotal moment in goaltending equipment history. The pocket between thumb and first finger became the standard catching area, reducing discomfort and rebound chances. Positioning of the glove varies by individual style, with younger goaltenders often adopting a palm-facing-shooter grip rather than the traditional 'shake hands' position. The trapper remains an essential piece of goaltending gear, distinct from the blocker worn on the dominant hand.
Did You Know?
- The trapper is also referred to as a catch glove or simply glove.
- It was introduced by goaltender Emile Francis during the 1946-47 season.
- Younger goaltenders often hold the trapper with the palm facing the shooter instead of in the traditional 'shake hands' position.
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