After a decade of fitting countless hockey players and witnessing countless weekend tournaments, it’s become evident that many parents misunderstand the importance of proper stick fitting, particularly regarding length and flex.

Many parents mistakenly believe that buying a longer stick will make it last longer. However, this often leads to negative consequences. In two years, when your child outgrows that longer stick, it will likely break or become obsolete as they desire the latest model on the market.

Ultimately, purchasing a stick that’s too long can hinder your child’s development on the ice. It’s crucial to prioritize finding the right fit and avoid the temptation to overbuy.

Determining the Right Length:

• Without Skates: The stick should reach your nose.
• With Skates: The stick should reach below your chin.

Proper stick length is crucial for optimal performance. An improperly sized stick can significantly impact:

• Shooting Accuracy: Incorrect length alters the stick’s lie, affecting your ability to aim accurately. A stick that’s too long makes it difficult to lift the puck, while a stick that’s too short can diminish power and accuracy.
• Puck Handling: An improperly sized stick can hinder puck control. A stick that’s too long can be cumbersome to handle, while a stick that’s too short can strain the player’s back and force them to bend over excessively.
• Confidence and Enjoyment: Ultimately, we want our children to succeed and enjoy the game. The stick is a fundamental piece of equipment, and the right fit is essential for building confidence and fostering a positive playing experience.

The Evolution of Flex:

In the past, NHL players favored extremely stiff sticks (110+ flex). However, the trend has shifted dramatically in recent years. While 85+ flex was once the norm, today, 70-90 flex is more common. Johnny Gaudreau, known for his exceptional speed and agility, famously utilized an extremely low flex stick, often in the 55-flex range. This unconventional choice allows him to maximize puck release speed and quickness, perfectly complementing his dynamic playing style.

Why is Flex Crucial?

Flex in a hockey stick is crucial for maximizing shot power and accuracy. It refers to how much the stick bends under pressure. When a player shoots, the flex allows the stick to act like a spring, storing energy and then releasing it upon contact with the puck. This stored energy translates into increased shot velocity and accuracy, giving players a significant advantage on the ice.

Finding the Right Flex:

A general guideline is to select a flex that is less than half your body weight. For example, a 100-pound child should ideally use a 40-flex stick or even lower (e.g., 50 flex).

Important Note: Cutting a stick increases its stiffness. For every inch cut off, the flex increases by approximately 5 points. This is crucial to remember, especially when fitting younger players.

Curve and Kick Point:

Curve: For youth and junior players, P92 or P28 curves are generally recommended. These open curves facilitate easier puck lifting.

• P92 Curve: Recommended for players who can easily lift the puck.
• P28 Curve: A good option for players who may need a slight advantage in lifting the puck.

The kick point of a hockey stick refers to the area where the stick flexes the most. This significantly impacts shot release and power.

• Low Kick Point: Flexes closer to the blade, promoting a quick, explosive release ideal for wrist shots and snap shots. Favored by players who rely on speed and agility, often found near the net.
• Mid Kick Point: Flexes in the middle of the shaft, offering a balance of power and quickness. A versatile option suitable for a wide range of players and shooting styles.
• High Kick Point: High Kick Point sticks flex closer to the handle, maximizing power for slap shots and powerful wrist shots from distance, making them ideal for strong shooters, especially defensemen. However, modern hockey emphasizes quicker puck movement, leading many defensemen to favor mid-kick point sticks that offer a balance of power and speed, enabling faster shot releases and quicker decision-making.

The ideal kick point varies depending on individual playing style, shooting mechanics, and position. Experimentation is crucial to find the best fit for each player.

Determining Handedness:

• Simple Test: Have your child grab a broom or stick. The hand they naturally reach towards the top of the object indicates their dominant hand.
• General Rule: In recent years, the trend has been to place the dominant hand on top of the stick.

Key Takeaways:

Proper stick fitting is crucial for optimal performance. Understanding flex, length, curve, and kick point will help you select the right stick for your child and maximize their on-ice success.