What's the Difference Between
Sherwood Rekker & Code Protective Gear?

Choosing between Sherwood's protective gear lines can be tricky, but IW Hockey is here to help simplify the decision. Each line brings its own strengths and performance focus to match different playing styles. Let's break down how the Sherwood Rekker Morph and Sherwood Code Encrypt lines stack up to help you find the perfect fit for your game. We also dive into Sherwood's True Touch and HOF families, which are staples in the hockey world for recreational players.

The Sherwood Rekker Morph Protective Line was made for the player who thrives on their physical game and power; the grinder who battles in the corners, blocks shots without hesitation, and isn't afraid to sacrifice their body to make a play. Through its high-profile design, the Morph family delivers premium impact protection and maximum coverage while still allowing top-level mobility, so you can confidently play a heavy, hard-nosed game without losing range of motion.

At the heart of the line is Sherwood's Nitrex Foam, an elite-level impact-absorbing material that is designed to handle repeated, high-energy impacts while maintaining comfort and flexibility. Unlike traditional foams, Nitrex offers the same top-level performance in all rink temperatures, ensuring it efficiently disperses energy to minimize the sting from slashes, checks, or blocked shots. It's paired with compress-molded HD foams and PE inserts for reinforced protection in every key zone.

Strategic padding placement and AIZ (Anatomical Isolated Zones) deliver comprehensive protection from every angle, ensuring no vulnerable spot is left exposed. Each piece of gear contours to the body and moves seamlessly with your stride, allowing you to confidently face any challenge on the ice without hindering your ability to go bar down. Designed for players who battle for their goals and bring grit and physical intensity to every shift, the Morph line will give you the confidence to play your game.

Sherwood has expanded the Rekker family to now include protective gear specifically for women. With designs tailored for elite, performance, and recreational players, women and girls of all ages and skill levels can now experience gear that fits their body shape for premium comfort, coverage, and protection.

The Sherwood Code Encrypt Family is built for the quick, creative player who thrives on speed, mobility, and control. Designed with a low-profile, lightweight construction, it allows players to move freely and react faster while still maintaining elite-level protection across all pieces.

At the core of the Encrypt line is Viconic Impact Protection, an advanced impact protection package that takes blunt force impact energy and disperses it over a wider area. This provides exceptional impact management for hard collisions and heavy-contact plays, which are sometimes unavoidable in fast-paced gameplay.

Supporting the protection package is FeatherliteX and Sherwood's 360-degree Wrap fit. Together, these technologies work to reduce the overall weight of the protection while providing players a secure and harness-like fit. This unique combo eliminates gaps and unwanted shifting so you can stay focused during your dekes and not the gear. Designed with an emphasis on mobility and a lightweight fit, the Encrypt line is built for today's fast, agile playmakers who thrive on quick transitions but can still deliver a big hit.

The Sherwood HOF and True Touch Protective Lines deliver dependable, affordable protection for developing and recreational players. The HOF line brings a classic fit and traditional feel, perfect for skaters who value comfort, coverage, and durability in a straightforward design. The True Touch line adds a modern, lightweight fit that offers great mobility and flexibility for newer players gaining confidence on the ice. Together, they provide trusted protection options for those who want reliable performance without the high-end price tag.

What is the main difference between Sherwood Rekker and Code protective gear?
Rekker features a high-profile design that focuses on maximum coverage and elite-level protection, perfect for physical players who battle in the corners and block shots. Code, on the other hand, delivers a low-profile, lightweight fit built for speed, mobility, and agility, ideal for playmakers who thrive on quick transitions.

Is one better suited for forwards or defensemen?
Not necessarily. Both lines suit different playing styles rather than positions. Physical forwards and defensive-minded players often prefer Rekker for its coverage and impact absorption, while quick forwards and puck-moving defensemen tend to choose Code for its lightweight feel and mobility.

How do the shoulder pads compare in terms of fit and protection?
The Rekker line offers more coverage and protection, especially for players who take and give contact regularly. The Code shoulder pads focus on mobility and breathability, with a slimmer profile that allows players to move freely without sacrificing key protection zones.

How does sizing differ between the two lines?
Both Rekker and Code follow the same Sherwood sizing standards, which are consistent across all protective categories. You can find specific sizing charts on each product page to ensure the best fit.

What are the main technologies that each line offers?
The Rekker Morph line uses Nitrex Foam, a premier impact-absorbing material that performs in all rink temperatures and provides consistent, high-level protection. The Code Encrypt line features Viconic Impact Protection, which disperses energy away from the body for elite-level impact management and comfort.

Can I mix and match pieces from both lines?
Absolutely! Players can customize their setup to match their play style. For example, a player could wear Rekker shoulder pads for maximum upper body coverage and Code shin guards for increased mobility.

Which line has a better fit?
It depends on what your specific needs are. The Rekker Morph line uses Sherwood’s AIZ (Anatomical Isolated Zone), providing a fit that maximizes coverage and eliminates gaps in protection. The Code Encrypt line features 360-degree Wrap Technology, offering a snug, contouring fit that moves naturally with your body.

Which line is lighter and more breathable?
The Code Encrypt family is lighter and more breathable, using exposed foams and ventilated base materials to reduce weight and enhance airflow. Rekker is slightly heavier due to its additional padding and reinforcements for maximum coverage.

Do either of them include antimicrobial or odor control features?
Yes! Both the Rekker and Code lines feature MicroBan technology in their liners, which helps control odor and bacteria while wicking away moisture to keep gear fresh.

What players do these lines represent?
The Rekker player is a tough, two-way competitor who battles hard, finishes checks, and blocks shots. The Code player is an agile, crafty playmaker who relies on quick hands, sharp transitions, and speed to control the game.