Why are smelling salts being banned in youth hockey?

Smelling salts are being banned due to unnecessary health risks and the negative message they send to young athletes about proper sport preparation.

Who is responsible for ensuring smelling salts are not used by players?

Coaches are now held responsible for ensuring smelling salts are not brought into locker rooms, onto the bench, or used by any players under their supervision.

Are other sports leagues also examining policies on smelling salts?

Yes, leagues such as the NFL prohibited teams from providing smelling salts in 2025, and Hockey Québec announced a ban in 2025, with Hockey Alberta also examining its policies.

Home / Sports / Smelling Salts Banned: Hockey Parents Warned

Smelling Salts Banned: Hockey Parents Warned

6 Feb

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Summary

Coaches are now responsible for preventing smelling salt use by players.
Smelling salts pose unnecessary health risks, sending wrong messages.
Concerns grow as leagues examine policies on smelling salt use.

Youth hockey associations are implementing stricter rules regarding the use of smelling salts. The Bow Valley Hockey Society (BVHS) has issued a directive holding coaches responsible for preventing players from possessing or using these ammonia inhalants. This measure follows an undisclosed incident involving BVHS players, with Hockey Calgary acknowledging the situation was isolated and handled by the association.

Smelling salts, used by some athletes for a perceived performance boost, are now under scrutiny for their health risks. Experts note the temporary nature of the stimulant effect and lack of proven performance enhancement. Concerns include respiratory irritation and other potential issues. Hockey Québec banned their use in 2025, and the NFL prohibited them in 2025, citing risks of masking concussions.

Organizations like Hockey Alberta are reviewing their policies on smelling salts, prioritizing player safety. BVHS, serving communities in Calgary's southeast, aims to educate young athletes on safe sport preparation. The trend of copying professional athletes' practices, including smelling salt use, is also being addressed by these policy changes.