How to Choose an Ice Hockey Goaltender Stick

For many goalies, the stick is as important as any of the protective equipment. You must choose a stick that is comfortable for you, is the right size to handle and provides the length and coverage you need in a game. Many stand-up style goalies prefer a longer paddle, while many butterfly goalies will lean toward a shorter paddle. However, it is all personal preference and you should try several sticks before deciding on one to play with for a long time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Find out exactly what stipulations your league has on the requirements of the size and length of the goaltender's stick. Many adult rec leagues do not have specific stipulations on size, but professional leagues do. Be sure to do your research prior to going into a store and testing a variety of sticks so you don't end up spending a lot of money on a stick and then find out you are unable to use it in a game.
2. Wear goalie skates when trying out a new stick. Most hockey stores are fine with putting skates on in the store. This will help you to get into your proper goal tending stance and figure out what paddle height you want the stick to be at to be the most effective for you. Since butterfly goalies are generally closer to the ice, they usually want a shorter paddle, so when they are low, the foot of the stick lies flush with the ice. Stand-up goalies usually lean toward a longer paddle, because they are more upright, so they prefer the length to keep the stick's foot flush to the ice.
3. Test out several sticks. You'll need to look at three main things; material, curve, and paddle length. Some goalies prefer wooden sticks over composites, others are vice-versa. It's a very personal choice. Choose whatever feels more comfortable to you. The curve is also based on preference. You want a curve that will stop the puck, but not cause it to ramp up toward you, or to fly off the toe of your stick. Flatter sticks are better for beginning goalies.
4. Stand in your goalie stance with your skates on and try out several sticks. Holding the stick in your blocker hand, make sure the entire foot of the blade lies flat against the ground. If the toe is touching, but there is a gap near the heal, you should get a stick with a longer paddle. If the heel is down, but the toe is up in the air, you should try a stick with a shorter paddle.
5. Purchase more than one of the same stick when you find one you like. This way you will have a back up in case your stick breaks during a game. It's not a good idea to have a back up stick that is different from your main stick. This could cause problems in your goaltending, since the curve or paddle length may not be the same as what you are used to.

Tips & Warnings

• When you find a stick you like, buy several of the exact same. There is nothing worse for a goalie than trying to use a different stick in the middle of a game after breaking the one he's used to playing with.
• Always try out a stick in the store while wearing your hockey skates. This will put you at the proper level you'd be at on the ice. You can also get into your goalie stance this way and make sure the stick fits and lies on the ice exactly how you like it.
• Never cut off the end of a goalie stick. They are properly balanced between the length of the stick and the length of the shaft, so cutting a goalie stick down could affect the goaltender's game.