Hockey Goalie Stick Sizing Chart By Height
As a hockey goalie, one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is your goalie stick. A properly sized stick will not only help you establish better control, it will also improve your stance and movement on the ice. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to determine the correct goalie stick size for you based on your height.
Understanding the Basics of Goalie Sticks
Before we dive into the sizing charts, let's take a quick look at the basics of goalie sticks. Generally speaking, goalie sticks are longer and wider than player sticks. They're usually made of either wood or composite materials and come with a straight or curved blade. The blade size is also larger compared to player sticks.
Both the length and paddle size of a goalie stick affect the goalie's stance and movement. Therefore, it's extremely important to choose a stick that is the right size for you.
Using a Sizing Chart to Choose the Right Goalie Stick
Sizing charts are a great tool to help you determine the right goalie stick size based on your height. Here’s a comprehensive sizing chart that will help you choose the right length and paddle size:
A goalie stick is measured in two ways: length and paddle size. Length is the measurement from the heel of the blade to the end of the shaft, while paddle size is the measurement from the blade to the knob below the paddle.
When choosing a goalie stick, make sure to measure against your skates and in your goalie stance. The ideal stick length should reach anywhere from your chin to your nose. Meanwhile, the paddle size should be around two inches shorter than the distance from the ice to your knee when you're in your stance.
Tips for Choosing the Right Goalie Stick
Aside from using the sizing chart, here are some additional tips to consider when choosing a goalie stick:
- Pay attention to the stick’s flex. A stick that is too stiff or too flexible will affect your movements and shot control.
- Consider the blade curve. A straight blade is ideal for rebound control, while a curved blade is better for puck handling.
- Choose a composite stick if you prefer a lighter weight stick. Wood sticks are heavier.
- Try different sticks before making a purchase. This will give you a better feel for the different sizes and shapes available.
Conclusion
Choosing the right goalie stick is crucial for any hockey goalie. Make sure to use a sizing chart to determine the correct length and paddle size for your height. Additionally, consider the flex, blade curve, and weight of the stick. Finally, it's always a good idea to try out different sticks to see which one feels the most comfortable for you on the ice.
