Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Hockey Sticks
While a hockey stick might seem like a simple piece of equipment, there are many considerations when shopping for the right stick for your hockey player. Choosing an inappropriate size and type of stick might actually be detrimental to their game. Here are a few tips to consider.
Overview: Hockey sticks are available for right-handed or left-handed players in a wide variety of sizes, lengths, stick flex and curvatures. The length of the stick is cut down to match the height of the player. Curved stick blades and flexible shafts are for more advanced players. Beginning players should use a stick that fits their hands and has very little curvature to enable them to master both their forehand and backhand shots and passes. Cheaper sticks are just as functional as more expensive sticks and younger players aren’t strong enough to take advantage of more flexible shafts. Additionally, players need a different stick for off-ice practice since off-ice activity is very hard on equipment.
Stick Sizing: When sizing the stick to the player, don’t cut it too long and wait for them to grow into it. A proper length is essential for optimal stickhandling. To measure the stick correctly, place it on the ground in front of a barefooted player. Put the stick on its toe and measure to the player’s nose. Mark the stick at nose level and cut off any excess.
Editor’s Note: Special thanks to Sports Esteem for this article.
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