RULE CHANGES FOR GOALKEEPER EQUIPMENT

We have received many questions about the new rules for goalkeeper clothing/protection announced by the IFF, which will take effect from the 2027/28 season. We would therefore like to clarify what will apply.

Based on the IFF Rules of the Game 2026 the manufacturers of the Floorball Goalkeeper equipment (trousers, shirts and under armor protective panzer (vest)) are allowed to sell their present equipment freely during the present season. The Game Rules provide that the goalkeeper is responsible for using equipment that is body shaped, but there are no restrictions presently for the manufacturers.

Therefore, all UNIHOC goalkeeper clothing and protective equipment are fully approved for play and no new restrictions apply during the current season for the said goalkeeper clothing/protection gear, which means that all UNIHOC products can be used as usual.

From the 2027/28 season, the IFF will introduce new rules concerning the dimensions of goalkeeper clothing and protective equipment, in accordance to the Material Regulations 2026, which will then be informed more in detail in the later part of November 2026. However, it is important to note that these rules will only apply at the very highest level of play, namely:

The Main IFF Events (World Floorball Championships, U19 World Floorball Championships, Champions Cup and Euro Floorball Cup) and the highest league in the countries participating in the IFF Main Events for the seasons 2027-2028 and 2028-2029.

IMPORTANT: For goalkeepers playing in divisions below the top league, the coming rules will not mean any changes. In other words, all clothing and protective equipment currently available on the market will also be approved for the 2027/28 season. From summer 2029, however, the rules will also apply to the second-highest league, and from summer 2031, they will apply to all leagues.

It is also important to point out that floorball’s rules (the IFF Material Regulations) have long stipulated that goalkeepers may only wear clothing that does not cover more than their own body size, and this rule will continue to apply:

“The goalkeeper’s protective equipment must be shaped to the body and must not cover more than the goalkeeper’s body.”

We understand that the information surrounding the new rules taking effect in summer 2027 has created some uncertainty, but there is no reason to refrain from purchasing new goalkeeper clothing or protective equipment today. All our products are approved for play and may be used in accordance with the current regulations.

If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us or your local UNIHOC retailer.