The right ice hockey stick can help improve your skills and make you a better player, but there’s more to choosing a stick than the length and material. Here's what you need to know to find the stick that fits your style of play.
Types of hockey sticks
Wood: Wood hockey sticks have been replaced by composite types at almost every level of the sport. Even so, wood sticks are inexpensive and easily cut to the player's size, making them great for beginners.
One-piece composite: A composite hockey stick made of carbon fibre and graphite offers a lightweight yet durable shaft and superior flexibility. One-piece construction means there is no break or seam between the blade and the shaft.
Two-piece composite: The two-piece composite allows you to replace your shaft or blade between games, making it both versatile and cost-effective for players still figuring out their style.
Features and factors to consider when choosing a hockey stick
There are a few things to consider before purchasing a hockey stick.
Shaft: The shaft gives you control over your hockey stick. Consider material, length, flexibility and grip when making your purchase.
Blade: The blade's angle and degree of curve improves puck-handling and passing accuracy. Consider your playing style when choosing a blade.
Toe: A curved toe (at the end of the blade) makes it easier for offensive players to lift the puck and for defensive players to control it.
Left-handed/right-handed: This indicates the direction of the curve in the stick blade. A right-handed person often uses a left-handed hockey stick and vice versa. Try out the sticks for yourself and get one that feels right.
Playing position: Shorter sticks allow forwards and offensive players to keep better control of the puck, closer to the body and well-protected. Longer sticks offer defensive players more leverage and superior reach for intercepting passes and retrieving loose pucks.
Length: To measure a stick for the correct length, stand it in front of you with the blade on the ground. The top of the shaft should reach your nose if you're wearing shoes or your chin if you're wearing skates.
Skating style: Players who handle the puck close to the ice do best with a wider angle or flatter stick lie between the shaft and blade, while a player skating with a more upright stance will do best with a narrower or steeper stick lie.
Flex: Flex refers to the stiffness of the shaft. A stiffer flex adds power to slapshots and stick-checking for defensemen. A more flexible shaft improves the shooting accuracy of offensive players.
Grip: A rubber grip is an optional piece that slides onto the top of the shaft, or you can make your own by wrapping the top of the shaft with hockey tape. A grip can improve stick control and prevent the shaft from slipping out of your hands.
Your stick is a piece of hockey equipment that has to feel right. Make sure you choose the type and style of stick that best suits your game and lets you play with confidence.
