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Ah, the moment has arrived when your child has expressed interest in sports, and now you need to find the perfect hockey stick for them. Fortunately, we’ve done much of the legwork and gathered insights from several hockey professionals. Selecting sports equipment can be challenging, especially if you’re not well-versed in the game. While it might be tempting to just grab any hockey stick off the shelf, there’s a bit of strategy involved in finding the right one for your child.
How to Choose a Youth Hockey Stick
Hockey expert Jake Thompson, who has dedicated his life to the sport and currently collaborates with youth teams and coaches, likens kids’ hockey sticks to smartphones—there’s always something new out there. However, he cautions parents not to get swept up by the latest trends. “It’s not about finding the flashiest stick,” he explains. “Typically, high-end sticks are very light, which benefits elite players, but for young players, the focus should be on length and flex.” Stick length refers to its physical size, while flex pertains to how much the stick bends, which influences the shot’s power and accuracy. A stick with a higher flex is stiffer and is usually determined by the child’s weight.
“If the flex is too stiff, it can hinder shooting and puck control,” warns Emily Carter, a former member of the U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey teams and a current coach. “Remember, cutting down the stick height affects flex as well.”
Thompson often observes that parents mistakenly purchase sticks with the wrong flex for two main reasons: they believe a stiffer stick will last longer and they underestimate their child’s strength, opting for a larger flex number. However, choosing the wrong flex can limit their development on the ice.
Determining the Right Size Stick for Your Child
A simple rule for flex is to aim for a number that matches half of your child’s body weight. Youth hockey sticks generally range from a 20 flex for younger children up to a 70 flex.
For length, Carter advises, “A stick should reach your child’s nose when they’re wearing shoes and their chin when they are on skates (remember, skates add about 2-3 inches).” It might be tempting to buy a longer stick for future growth, but this isn’t advisable. Instead, consider purchasing stick extensions to accommodate growth until you’re ready to buy a new one. Thompson emphasizes that proper stick length is crucial for mastering skating mechanics. “Youth practices often stress the importance of bending knees,” says Thompson. “A stick that is too long can make it awkward for young players to stickhandle and shoot, leading them to stay upright.”
Ultimately, take the time to explore what’s available and find what works best for your child. Hockey sticks can be pricey, so Carter recommends keeping your budget in mind. “At a young age, you don’t need to go for the top brands,” she notes. If your child is joining a local league, coaches can also assist in finding the ideal stick, including the necessary flex and length.
We’ve compiled a selection of youth hockey sticks to help kickstart your search. Welcome to the world of hockey, parent!
Recommended Youth Hockey Sticks
- Bauer Youth Vapor Prodigy Ice Hockey Stick
Lightweight and durable, this stick has three flex options. The Micro Feel II shaft and grip facilitate control, while the AERO FOAM I blade enhances shooting accuracy.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - CCM JetSpeed Grip Youth Hockey Stick
Designed for smaller players with a 20 flex, this stick is lightweight for easy handling. It also features a blade curve to help kids improve their shooting skills.
Price: $79.98 at Hockey Monkey - Warrior Youth Alpha DX 1 Pink Ice Hockey Stick
This eye-catching stick has a 30 flex and combines materials for optimal performance. Its lightweight blade is perfect for quick shots and puck control.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - Twigz ABS Youth Wood Hockey Stick
Available in left-handed, right-handed, or straight models, this wooden stick is ideal for street hockey but can also be used for casual ice play.
Price: $19.98 at Hockey Monkey - CCM Tacks AS3 Grip Youth Hockey Stick
A newer design aimed at enhancing puck control and shooting for small players. The durable shaft ends in a lightweight blade perfect for young athletes.
Price: $54.99 at Hockey Monkey - Sher-Wood Youth Rekker M90 Grip Ice Hockey Stick
Ultra-lightweight, this stick allows young players to maneuver easily on the ice. The DropKick Taper enables quick shots, while FLYLYTE technology ensures durability.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - Warrior Junior Swagger SR2 Hockey Goalie Stick
Specifically designed for goalies, this 19-inch stick features a lightweight foam core paddle for easy handling and durability against collisions.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
This guide serves as a helpful resource for navigating the world of youth hockey sticks. For more information on home insemination, be sure to check out this post on home insemination and visit Make a Mom for reliable products. For additional insights, Healthline offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
Finding the right hockey stick for your child involves understanding flex and length, ensuring proper fit and performance. With options available for all skill levels, you can make an informed choice without breaking the bank.
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