Safety equipment required in ice hockey includes a helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, shin guards, gloves, and a protective cup. Goaltenders wear additional gear like leg pads and blockers to shield themselves from the puck and physical impacts. This equipment is crucial for minimizing the risk of injury during games, as ice hockey is a high-speed and contact-heavy sport. Proper use of safety gear ensures that players can focus on their performance while maintaining safety on the ice.