Hockey Stick Sizes and Flexes: A Comprehensive Guide for Players of All Ages

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on hockey stick sizes and flexes!

Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out in the world of hockey, understanding the differences between Senior, Intermediate, Junior, and Youth hockey sticks is crucial for finding the perfect fit for your game.

In this guide, we'll explore the unique characteristics of each stick category, from shaft shape to flex options, and provide insights into who they're best suited for. Before diving into the specifics, let's preface our discussion with some key notes to keep in mind throughout this journey.

First, it's essential to recognize that while we categorize sticks based on age and size, there's often overlap between groups. Players grow at different rates, and individual preferences also play a significant role in stick selection.

Additionally, understanding how to gauge the right stick length and flex for your body type and playing style is crucial. As a general rule of thumb, aim to have your stick land between your bottom lip and the bottom of your nose when standing flat-footed with the stick in front of you. Moreover, when selecting flex, consider a stick that is approximately half your body weight to ensure optimal performance on the ice.

Lastly, all measurements on stick length are shaft measurements, adhering to industry standards, measured from the inside of the shaft down until you reach the bottom of the blade. With these key principles in mind, let's explore the nuances of senior, intermediate, junior, and youth hockey sticks in greater detail.

Senior Hockey Sticks:

Senior hockey sticks are characterized by their thicker shaft shape, typically falling between 60" to 62" in height, with extended options reaching up to 68". These sticks are designed for players aged 14 and above. Players using senior sticks are usually 5'6" and taller, weighing at least 140lbs, although smaller adults may also opt for them. Flex ratings start at 65 and can reach as high as 130 or even 155 for pro stock sticks, like those favored by Zdeno Chara.

Intermediate Hockey Sticks:

Intermediate sticks feature a slightly smaller shaft shape compared to senior sticks, with flex options ranging between 55 and 65. They typically measure between 57" to 59" in height. Intermediate sticks cater to players aged 11 to 16 that weigh around 110-140lbs and have a height between 4'6" and 5'5". They're also popular among adult women hockey players. These sticks can come in extended height options as well to achieve a lower flex while maintaining the height of a senior stick.

Junior Hockey Sticks:

Junior sticks are significantly smaller in shaft shape compared to senior and intermediate sticks. They offer flex options of either 40 or 50, with corresponding heights of 52" for 40 flex and 54" for 50 flex sticks. These sticks are designed for players aged 6 to 12, with heights ranging from 3'9" to 4'9". Junior sticks often feature smaller blades, especially in the 40 flex category, tailored to the needs of younger players to enhance puck handling.

Youth Hockey Sticks:

Youth sticks are similar to junior sticks but are designed for even younger players. They offer flex options as low as 10, with typical choices of 20 and 30 flex. Heights are tied to flex, with 20 flex sticks measuring 45" and 30 flex sticks measuring 48". These sticks are intended for players up to 7 years old, with their height usually not exceeding 4' and weight not surpassing 60lbs.

As you embark on your journey to find the perfect hockey stick, remember that the right equipment can make all the difference in your performance on the ice. At HockeyStickMan, whether you prefer to shop online or visit us in-store, we've got you covered with an extensive selection of sticks in every size category. From senior to youth sticks, including pro stock options, our inventory boasts a diverse range of choices to suit every player's needs and preferences. Plus, with our pro stock offerings, you'll discover a plethora of custom stick options unavailable at the retail level, allowing you to tailor your equipment to your unique playing style. So, why wait? Elevate your game today with a visit to HockeyStickMan and gear up for success on the ice!