Ice Hockey vs Ice Skating
Ice Hockey vs Ice Skating: how they compare on difficulty, intensity, cost of kit and what suits you — so you can choose with confidence.
At a glance
Every row is drawn from each sport’s own profile — no scores, just the facts side by side.
| Ice Hockey | Ice Skating | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Team Sports | Winter Sports |
| Getting started | Rewards practice | Beginner friendly |
| Intensity | High intensity | Moderate intensity |
| Where you play | indoor or outdoor | indoor or outdoor |
| Format | Team sport (small teams on the ice) | Solo or group |
| Essential kit | Ice skates, Hockey stick and Protective gear (helmet, pads and gloves) | Ice skates, Warm, flexible clothing and Gloves |
What they share
- Both can be played indoors and outdoors.
How they differ
- Ice Hockey is a team sports sport; Ice Skating is winter sports.
- Ice Skating tends to be gentler to pick up, while Ice Hockey rewards more practice early on.
- Ice Hockey is typically the higher-intensity of the two; Ice Skating is generally more moderate.
Which might suit you
There is no better or worse here — only what fits your goals, your schedule and what you enjoy.
- 1If you are brand new to sport, many people find Ice Skating a slightly gentler place to start.
- 2If you want a higher-intensity workout, Ice Hockey tends to ask more of you.
- 3In the end, the best choice is the one you will enjoy and keep coming back to.
Explore each sport
Full beginner-friendly guides to both.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Ice Hockey and Ice Skating?
Ice Hockey is a team sports sport and Ice Skating is winter sports, so they feel quite different in pace and setting. The table above lays out how they compare on difficulty, intensity, where you play and the kit you need.
Is Ice Hockey or Ice Skating easier for beginners?
Many beginners find Ice Skating a little easier to pick up at first, but both are approachable with a beginner lesson or a patient partner. What matters most is starting gently and building up.
Can I do both Ice Hockey and Ice Skating?
Yes — there is no need to choose only one. Playing both adds variety, works your body in different ways and keeps sport interesting over the long term.