How to Choose Your First Hockey Stick
A practical guide to stick length, flex, curve, and lie for new players.
Your hockey stick is the most personal piece of equipment you own. The right stick feels like an extension of your arms. The wrong one fights you every shift. Here's what to consider when buying your first stick.
Length
Stand in your skates (or shoes with an extra inch for skate height) and hold the stick vertically in front of you. The top of the stick should reach somewhere between your chin and nose.
- Chin height: Better for stickhandling and control
- Nose height: Better for reach and poke checks (defensemen often prefer this)
You can always cut a stick down, but you can't add length. When in doubt, buy slightly longer and trim.
Flex
Flex is how much the stick bends when you shoot. Lower numbers mean more flex (softer stick). Higher numbers mean less flex (stiffer stick).
General guideline: Your flex should be roughly half your body weight in pounds.
- 150 lb player = 75 flex
- 180 lb player = 85-90 flex
- 200+ lb player = 95-100 flex
Beginners: Err on the softer side. A stick that's too stiff won't flex when you shoot, and you won't get any power. You can feel the stick "load" when the flex is right.
Curve
The curve is the bend in the blade. There are hundreds of curve patterns, but they generally fall into three categories:
- Slight curve (mid): Easier to control backhands. Good all-around choice for beginners.
- Moderate curve (toe): Lifts the puck more easily. Popular with forwards.
- Deep curve: Great for wrist shots, terrible for backhands. Not recommended for beginners.
For your first stick: Pick a mid-curve pattern. You'll learn proper mechanics without the blade compensating for you.
Lie
The lie is the angle between the shaft and the blade. Most sticks are lie 5 or 6. If you skate upright, a higher lie (6) keeps the blade flat on the ice. If you skate with a deep knee bend, a lower lie (5) works better.
How to tell: If the toe of your blade is off the ice when you're in your skating stance, you need a lower lie. If the heel is off the ice, you need a higher lie.
Price
You don't need a $300 stick to learn hockey. A $50-80 stick from a reputable brand will serve a beginner well. As your skills develop and you understand your preferences, you can invest in higher-end options.
The most expensive stick in the store won't make you a better player. Spend the difference on ice time instead.