Right Handed Hockey Stick Vs Left Handed
Choosing the perfect hockey stick can be a difficult decision for a player, especially for those who are just starting out in the sport. One important factor you need to consider is your hand preference. Do you play left handed or right handed? In this article, we will explore the differences and benefits of right handed vs. left handed hockey sticks.
Understanding the Basics
Before we compare right handed and left handed hockey sticks, let's first understand the basic parts of a hockey stick. The blade, shaft, and grip are the three main components. The blade is the curved end of the stick that contacts the puck. The shaft is the long, straight portion that connects the blade to the grip. The grip is the handle at the end of the stick that the player holds.
The difference between Right and Left Handed Hockey Sticks
The main difference between right handed and left handed hockey sticks is the orientation of the blade. In a right handed stick, the blade is positioned at a 90-degree angle to the right of the shaft, while in a left handed stick, the blade is positioned at a 90-degree angle to the left of the shaft. This means that a right handed stick is held in the left hand and a left handed stick is held in the right hand.
Which Hand Should You Use?
Choosing which hand to use when playing hockey is a personal preference. Some players prefer to use their dominant hand on top of the stick for greater control, while others prefer to use their non-dominant hand on top for more power. Generally, players who are left handed will use a left handed stick, and players who are right handed will use a right handed stick. However, this is not always the case.
The Benefits of Using a Right Handed Hockey Stick
Using a right handed hockey stick can provide several benefits. These include:
- Better control: The left hand is typically the more dominant hand for most people, so holding the stick with the left hand on top can provide better control over the movement of the blade.
- Easier for beginners: For those who are new to the sport, using a right handed stick may be easier to learn since it is more commonly used.
- More comfortable: Some players simply find using a right handed stick more comfortable, regardless of which hand is their dominant hand.
The Benefits of Using a Left Handed Hockey Stick
Using a left handed hockey stick can also provide several benefits. These include:
- More power: Some players find that holding the stick with their non-dominant hand on top provides more power in their shots.
- Greater reach: Using a left handed stick can provide greater reach for players since the blade is positioned to the left of the shaft.
- More control for certain positions: For some positions, such as defensemen, using a left handed stick can provide greater control when passing and shooting.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to use a right handed or left handed hockey stick comes down to personal preference. Some players find one more comfortable or easier to use than the other. It's important to try out both and see which one works best for you.