Hockey Stick: Flex and Kick Point - We Clarify the Concepts
When buying a new hockey stick, it can be difficult to understand the differences between different models. What does it really mean when a stick has a high flex and what does it mean to play with a stiff versus a soft stick? We give you the answers.
"Flex" is a measure of the stiffness of a hockey stick
The higher the flex number, the stiffer the stick. Generally, heavier players need a higher flex than lighter players so that they can put their weight on the stick without it bending too much or breaking. Besides body weight, the choice of flex also depends on playing style and personal preference, as some players prefer a softer stick and others prefer a stiffer one.
Hockey sticks are divided into the following categories, with sticks for children having the lowest flex and sticks for seniors having the highest:
Note! For seniors, approximately 95% of the sticks have a flex between 70 and 85, and several brands have completely stopped manufacturing sticks with a flex over 85. If you are looking for a stick with such a high level of stiffness, you can order a custom made stick.
Kickpoint - The Point on the Shaft Where the Stick Bends the Most
Besides choosing the flex, you can also choose a stick based on where on the shaft the stick bends the most. This point is called the kickpoint and it affects the shot's performance, specifically how fast or slow the puck leaves the blade. You can choose between low, medium, or hybrid kickpoint, where the latter distributes the flex along the shaft or bends where you place your bottom hand on the stick.
The stiffness of the blade varies depending on the kickpoint
The stiffness of the blade typically varies based on the kickpoint of the stick. A low kickpoint often has a stiff blade core or toe (the front of the blade), which means the puck will leave the stick faster. On the other hand, a medium or high kickpoint often has a somewhat softer blade core, giving a longer contact time before the puck leaves the blade when shooting. This allows the shaft to reach its full flex.
Fewer slap shots and more focus on shooting technique
Previously, people talked about flex and kickpoint being adjusted based on whether the player took a lot of slap shots or not. However, the sticks have been adapted to the evolution of hockey, and today people talk more about the club's properties matching the player's shooting technique. This is because the increased pace of the game has made it so that fewer and fewer players even have time to take slap shots. A stick with a low kickpoint is usually best suited for quick, pressing shots in front of the body, while a hybrid or mid kickpoint is typically better for players who shoot sweeping shots that are loaded from behind or from the side.
Also read: Blade Guide for Hockey Sticks: How to Choose the Right Angle
Also read: Buying Skates - A Matter of Size, Fit and Stiffness