Handball is a fast-paced team sport that is played on a court with two teams of seven players each. Each team tries to throw a small ball into the opposing team's goal.
The goal is defended by a goalie and the offensive team players try to score by throwing the ball into the goal from various positions on the court. The game is played with a special handball, which can be caught with one hand, thrown with the other, and dribbled or bounced off the floor.
Are you new to the sport and wondering how to play handball? Familiarize yourself with the rules of handball.
There are a few pieces of equipment that are highly recommended for handball players, like gloves and proper uniforms. Some other essentials that help provide comfort and give you the ability to perform at your best can include knee and shin pads, a sports bra, and a headband to keep the sweat out of your eyes.
Check out our Handball Equipment Starter Kit to see what you need to start playing handball.
Looking to create a custom handball jersey for your next event? Get started on a design with our team here!
Handball Equipment Starter Kit
Updated for 2026: What Canadian Handball Teams Should Prioritize
Handball equipment does not need to be complicated, especially for school teams, rec leagues, intramural programs, and community clubs. The best starter kit focuses on protection, comfort, grip, and team identification so players can move confidently during fast transitions, jumps, blocks, and shots.
For Canadian teams, it is also worth thinking about where you play most often. Indoor gym programs usually need non-marking shoes, breathable uniforms, and gear that can handle frequent washing. Outdoor or multi-surface sessions may require more attention to traction, weather, and layering.
- For new players: start with proper shoes, knee protection, and a comfortable uniform before adding extras.
- For school teams: choose durable pieces that are easy to size across a full roster.
- For tournaments: plan ahead for matching jerseys, alternate colours, and clear numbers.
- For clubs: consider custom sublimation jerseys so names, numbers, logos, and sponsor details stay sharp over the season.
1. Knee & shin pads
Knee pads and shin pads are an important piece of equipment in handball. The padding helps to protect your legs if a ball is accidentally thrown at you, or if you fall. Knee and shin pads also provide extra cushioning when you are diving for the ball, helping to reduce the impact on your joints. Both are important for protecting the areas from potential injuries that can occur in a high-contact sport like handball.
2. Gloves
Sports gloves are very important in handball because they provide essential protection and cushioning to your hands, wrists and fingers. They also help players maintain a strong grip on the ball and give them better control while passing, throwing and shooting.
High-quality, custom sports gloves are more stylish and comfortable to wear than the generic gloves you can buy at the store. Design your own custom full sublimation sports gloves, perfect for handball.
3. Team Uniforms
Having a uniform for your team helps to create an overall sense of unity and pride in the team. It also allows your team to stand out from the other teams at tournaments and events.
Wearing the same uniform also helps to quickly identify which players are on your team and which players are on the opposing team when things are getting intense on the field.
The type of uniform worn will vary depending on where you’re playing. For outdoor handball courts, it’s best to wear shorts and a t-shirt or similar clothing. Indoor handball courts typically require more specialized sports apparel, such as jerseys and sports tights, or championship jerseys if you’re playing in a special event.
We offer custom full sublimation shorts, booty shorts, sports bras and headband which are all great for handball. Our premium sport fabric is moisture-wicking and lightweight, which allows you to feel comfortable and dry for all of your games.
Why Custom Sublimation Jerseys Work Well for Handball
Because handball is so quick, uniforms need to be easy to recognize at a glance. Custom sublimation jerseys are a strong option because the design is dyed directly into the fabric instead of being added on top, which helps team colours, logos, player names, and numbers stay clean and visible through repeated practices and games.
For Canadian school and rec-league teams, sublimation also makes it easier to build a complete team look without worrying about peeling numbers or heavy decoration. You can match jerseys with shorts, warmups, headbands, or other accessories while keeping the kit lightweight and comfortable.
Useful uniform details to plan before ordering
- Player numbers: choose a number size and colour contrast that officials and teammates can read quickly.
- Goalie colours: consider a contrasting goalie jersey so the position is easy to identify during play.
- Roster names: confirm spelling before production, especially for school teams ordering many uniforms at once.
- Fabric choice: prioritize moisture-wicking, breathable material for indoor gyms and tournament weekends.
- Fit: decide whether your team prefers a relaxed fit, athletic fit, or a mix of adult and youth sizing.
Get started on your own custom designs today and create a custom handball jersey, shorts, headband and more!
4. Running shoes or Cleats
Running shoes are designed for comfort, cushioning, and shock absorption, whereas cleats are designed for stability and grip on a variety of surfaces. Generally speaking, if you’re playing outdoors then you should opt for cleats, and if you’re playing indoors then running shoes are a better option.
When playing in an indoor gym, make sure to choose shoes that have non-marking soles.
Ordering Tips for School, Club, and Rec Teams
If you are organizing gear for a full handball team, a little planning can save time and reduce last-minute stress. This is especially true for Canadian teams ordering before a league launch, school tournament, provincial event, or spring/summer rec season.
- Collect sizes early: give players a deadline and include youth, women’s, and adult sizing where needed.
- Order a few extras: spare jerseys can help with late registrations, lost uniforms, or substitute players.
- Confirm colour rules: some leagues or tournaments may require light and dark options, or a separate goalie colour.
- Build in production time: custom gear is worth planning ahead for, especially when artwork, approvals, and shipping are involved.
- Keep the design readable: bold numbers and strong contrast are more practical than overly busy graphics.
TeamGear can help teams turn a logo, school colours, or a rough idea into a clean handball uniform design that works on court and looks consistent across the roster.
5. Protective eyewear or goggles
Protective eyewear is important in handball because the game moves at a rapid pace, and there’s always the unfortunate possibility that it could hit someone in the face. Protective eyewear, or goggles, will help protect your eyes from any potential injuries during play.
Protective prescription eyewear is also available if you need prescription lenses to see clearly on the field.
Final Checklist Before Your First Game
Before heading to practice or game day, check that every player has the basics: proper footwear, protective gear, a comfortable uniform, water, and any personal support items they rely on. Handball is fast, physical, and exciting, so being prepared helps players focus on passing, defending, shooting, and enjoying the game.
If your team is getting organized for a new season, tournament, or school program, you can explore custom sublimation jerseys and team apparel with TeamGear Canada.
