Ice Hockey Sticks

Finding the right ice hockey stick can be a rather daunting endeavor for many ice hockey players. For while most equipment either fits or does not, the hockey stick rebels against such a simple classification due to its subjective nature. Two players of the same age, height, and skill level might prefer a different type or length of stick or a different flex in their blade. There is no rhyme or reason to it because choosing a stick is more like choosing which toppings you want on a pizza; it is all a matter of preference.

That being said, where does an ice hockey player start? There is a large variety of ice hockey sticks available, so it is important for a player to narrow down his or her options by figuring out what to look at during this search.

First wooden sticks, which have been around since ice hockey’s humble beginnings, and though their popularity has dwindled since the creation of composite ice hockey sticks there are still several players out there who prefer the feel of the wooden stick. However, to meld the lightweight feel of a composite hockey stick with that of a wooden one, many ice hockey players have chosen to go with a two-piece stick that has a wooden blade as a sort of compromise between the two options.

Of course, the choice between one and two piece sticks also depends on the player. On the one hand, having a composite shaft can have the advantage of lasting a player for a very long time, possibly for years depending on the amount of pressure the player puts on his or her stick. However, those who prefer the one piece ice hockey sticks tell other players that it is because these sticks are more lightweight, and offer a more consistent feel. Though if a one piece stick breaks, the player will need to replace the whole thing.

Once the player has decided on these options, he still needs to choose a blade pattern, stick size and flex, and how to tape and wax it to his or her liking. These are the most personal decisions a player can make when buying an ice hockey stick, so it is important for them to talk with their coach or another ice hockey store professional about his or her options when trying to make this decision. Besides, experimenting with all of the different options available is half of the fun!

Check Out all the In-Stock Hockey Sticks From These Great Manufacturers: