Hey Wretchard.
No equipment is mandatory but mouthguards, shin pads ,jock (if you value your crown jewels)and hocky gloves are highly recommended. You can purchase these items online or go to a hockey shop near Mokdong ice rink ( things are quiet expensive there). Most players do not play with any kind of protection.
As for the physical aspect., it can get quite rough at times, especially during the playoffs but that is the reason why we have refs. For the most part, we are all out there to have fun and are well aware that we are not pros and this is in fact just a beer league
hope to c ya out there
Michel