Choosing a hockey stick is a more complicated process than you might think. There are several factors to consider, along with the player’s personal preferences. The length of your stick affects how you handle the puck, shoot, and receive. While there are a few standard types of hockey sticks, many brands also offer custom options. At Cooke’s Skate Supply, we will help you find the perfect hockey stick for every player.
Hockey sticks are more complex than they appear. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right stick.
Understanding the Categories
Manufacturers typically organize their hockey sticks into four categories: youth, junior, intermediate, and senior. These labels refer to the stick’s length. In general, youth sticks are 45 to 49 inches, and junior sticks are 46 to 53 inches. There is an overlap because youth and junior sticks also have different flex levels. Intermediate sticks have an average length of 54 inches; senior sticks are 56 to 63 inches. Your correct stick length is determined by your height while on skates. When you visit Cooke’s Skate Supply to buy a new stick, remember to bring your skates with you!
Types of Sticks
Hockey sticks vary in more than just length. There are also different materials and combinations of materials. Here are the three most common:
- One Piece Wood: This is the most traditional type of stick. With a wood shaft and wood or composite blade, this type of stick has proven itself durable and is generally the least expensive option. Composite blades are more durable, and ABS blades are perfect for outdoor use.
- One Piece Composite: If you’re looking for a lightweight option with consistent flex, a one-piece composite stick may be the right choice. However, these sticks can be expensive. Since the design fuses the shaft and blade, if a portion of the blade is broken, you can cut the shaft and insert a replaceable blade.
- Blade/Shaft Combo: Although very rare, the best feature of a blade/shaft combo stick is that if it breaks, there’s no need to replace the entire stick. Attached by heat glue, this stick also allows players to mix and match, creating the perfect stick for their needs.
What’s Your Flex Number?
In hockey, flex is the term referencing the stiffness of the stick. When you shoot, your stick bends as it makes contact with the puck or ice, creating the “flex,” which increases your shot power. The higher the flex number, the stiffer the stick. The shorter you make the stick, the stiffer it becomes. Like everything else, manufacturer’s flex is slightly different from one company to the next, and stick flex is a personal choice.
When considering which flex will work best for you, consider your style of play and position. For younger players, choosing the proper flex is critical to learning the game.
Finding your Curve
Once you’ve figured out the flex, it’s time to think about the blade. The curve is the bend from heel to toe and plays a significant role when shooting the puck. Several factors are considered when finding your curve. First, you guessed it, preference. Next, you’ll want to think about your style, where you want the puck to sit, and how a heel, mid, or toe flex can change the dynamics of your shot.
