Hockey Goalie Stick Left Or Right
For a hockey goalie, choosing the right stick can make all the difference. It's not just about the brand or the color, but also the hand orientation. The hand orientation of a goalie stick can be left or right, and it can have a big impact on your performance. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the difference between left and right-hand orientation and help you choose the right one for your game.
What Is Hand Orientation in Hockey Goalie Sticks?
The hand orientation in a hockey goalie stick refers to the position of the goalie's hand on the stick. Like regular hockey sticks, goalie sticks come in left or right-handed orientations. A goalie who catches with their left hand will choose a stick with a right-hand orientation, and a goalie who catches with their right hand will choose a stick with a left-hand orientation.
How to Determine Your Dominant Hand in Hockey
Before choosing a hand orientation, it's essential to know which hand you use to catch the puck. To determine which hand is your dominant hand, try the following exercise:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and your arms relaxed by your side.
- Have someone throw a ball or a puck at you.
- Whichever hand you naturally use to catch the ball or puck is your dominant hand.
Once you know your dominant hand, you can choose the appropriate hand orientation for your goalie stick.
The Risks of Using the Wrong Hand Orientation
Using the wrong hand orientation can negatively impact your game as a goalie. For example, if you're a right-handed catcher and use a stick with a right-hand orientation, you'll have less control over the stick and the puck. Your blocker won't be as effective, and you'll have a harder time making glove saves. The same is true if you're a left-handed catcher using a stick with a left-hand orientation.
Using the correct hand orientation ensures that you have the proper control and balance over your stick, and that your body is in the best position to make saves.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hand Orientation
If you're new to hockey or have never played goalie before, it can be challenging to determine your dominant hand and choose the right hand orientation. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
- Think about how you naturally catch a ball or a puck. Pay attention to which hand you use to make glove saves.
- Try holding a regular hockey stick with both hands and see which hand feels more comfortable at the top of the stick.
- Ask a coach or teammate to watch you play and give you feedback on which hand orientation would be best for you.
Remember that choosing the right hand orientation is essential for your game as a goalie. Take your time to determine which hand feels most comfortable and natural for you, and choose the appropriate hand orientation for your stick.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing the right hand orientation for your hockey goalie stick is critical for your performance on the ice. Make sure you know your dominant hand and choose the appropriate hand orientation (left or right) for your stick. With the right hand orientation, you'll have better control over your stick and be in the best position to make saves. Happy playing!