Navigating the world of youth sports can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to selecting the right hockey sticks for your child. The good news? We’ve done the research for you, gathering insights from hockey experts to simplify your shopping journey. While it may be tempting to pick any stick off the shelf, there are specific factors to consider that can significantly impact your child’s performance on the ice.
How to Choose the Right Youth Hockey Stick
Hockey specialist Alex Carter, who has spent years working with young players and coaches in the NHL, notes that choosing a hockey stick is akin to shopping for kids’ smartphones—there’s always something new and shiny. However, he emphasizes that parents should not get distracted by the latest trends. “What matters most is the stick’s length and flex,” he advises. The length indicates how tall the stick is, while flex refers to how much the stick bends, influencing shot power. A stick with a higher flex is stiffer, which can be challenging for younger players.
Maya Lewis, a former member of the U.S. Women’s Olympic Ice Hockey team, adds, “If the flex is too stiff, shooting and stickhandling can become difficult. Be mindful of adjustments if you need to cut the stick down.”
Carter frequently sees parents purchasing sticks with too much flex for their child’s strength, believing it will be more durable. However, the wrong flex can limit a child’s development in the sport.
Determining the Right Stick Size for Your Child
A good rule of thumb for flex is to select a number that corresponds to about half your child’s body weight. Youth sticks typically range from a flex of 20 for smaller players to 70 for older kids. For stick length, Maya recommends, “A stick should reach your child’s nose while wearing shoes and their chin when on skates.”
While it may be tempting to buy a longer stick for future growth, it’s best to avoid this practice. Stick extensions are available, allowing you to accommodate your child’s growth without jumping to a new stick too soon. Carter stresses the importance of proper stick length for developing good skating mechanics, advising against sticks that are too long which can hinder a child’s ability to bend their knees correctly.
In the end, explore the options available and find what suits your child best. Youth hockey sticks can be quite expensive, so keep your budget in mind. As Maya points out, “At a young age, you don’t need to go for the top brand.” Coaches can also provide valuable recommendations on the appropriate stick for your child.
Recommended Hockey Sticks for Kids
- Bauer Youth Vapor Prodigy Ice Hockey Stick
This lightweight and durable stick comes in three flex options, featuring a Micro Feel II shaft and grip for easier control, while the AERO FOAM I blade enhances shot accuracy.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - CCM JetSpeed Grip Youth Hockey Stick
Designed for smaller children, this stick features a single flex of 20, which is lightweight and manageable for little hands.
Price: $79.98 at Hockey Monkey - Warrior Youth Alpha DX 1 Pink Ice Hockey Stick
A vibrant option with a 30 flex, this stick balances lightweight materials for fast shooting and puck handling, perfect for young players.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - Twigz ABS Youth Wood Hockey Stick
Available in different models, this all-wood stick is suitable for casual play and street hockey, though not ideal for competitive use.
Price: $19.98 at Hockey Monkey - CCM Tacks AS3 Grip Youth Hockey Stick
This newer model features a durable shaft and a lightweight blade, designed to enhance puck control and shooting skills.
Price: $54.99 at Hockey Monkey - Sher-Wood Youth Rekker M90 Grip Ice Hockey Stick
Ultra-lightweight for agility on the ice, this stick includes the DropKick Taper for quick shots and is built to last.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods - Warrior Junior Swagger SR2 Hockey Goalie Stick
Tailored for young goalies, this lightweight stick is 19 inches long and features a foam core paddle for easy handling.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
As you embark on this journey, remember to check out additional resources on pregnancy and consumer safety for more guidance. And for more information on related topics, you can explore this blog post.
Summary
Selecting the right hockey stick for your child involves understanding key factors such as flex and length. By following expert advice and considering your child’s needs, you can find a stick that enhances their performance while staying within budget. With a variety of options available, you can ensure your young athlete is well-equipped to enjoy the game!
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