Top Hockey Sticks for Children (Plus Sizing Tips from the Experts)

Ah, the moment has come when your child has expressed an interest in playing hockey, and now you’re on the hunt for the perfect kids’ hockey sticks. The good news is, we’ve done much of the legwork for you, gathering insights from hockey professionals along the way. Selecting sports gear can be tricky, especially if you’re not well-versed in the sport. While it may seem easy to grab any stick off the shelf, there’s a bit more strategy involved in choosing the right one for your child.

How to Select a Youth Hockey Stick

Hockey specialist Jamie Sinclair, who has a rich history in the sport and currently coaches youth players, likens kids’ hockey sticks to the latest smartphones: there’s always something new on the market. However, she cautions against getting distracted by trendy features. “Don’t focus on finding the hottest new model,” she advises. “Typically, advanced sticks are lighter, which benefits elite players, but young players won’t notice much difference. What truly matters is the length and the flex.”

The length of the stick is straightforward—it’s simply how tall it is. The flex, however, may be a new term for you. Flex refers to how much the stick bends, impacting the power and style of the player’s shot. A higher flex indicates a stiffer stick, which is generally determined by the player’s weight.

“If the flex is too stiff, it can hinder shooting and puck control,” warns Mia Thompson, who represented her country in international competitions and now coaches. “Also, if you cut down the stick, the flex will change, which is another factor to keep in mind.”

Jamie often observes parents mistakenly choosing the wrong flex due to two primary reasons: they assume a stiffer stick will last longer and they misjudge their child’s strength, wanting to go for a higher number.

What Size Hockey Stick Does My Child Need?

As a general guideline, the flex number should be about half your child’s weight. Youth hockey sticks typically range from a 20 flex for small children up to 70 flex for older kids.

For the length, Mia suggests, “When wearing shoes, the stick should reach your nose. When on skates, it should come up to your chin.” While it’s tempting to buy a longer stick for growth, this isn’t advisable. Extensions can be purchased to accommodate growth until your child is ready for a new stick. Jamie emphasizes that stick length is crucial for mastering skating techniques. “You’ll hear this at youth practices and in USA Hockey resources: teaching kids to bend their knees is essential. A stick that’s too long makes it hard for them to maintain proper posture, which can hinder their shooting and puck-handling skills.”

Ultimately, it’s about exploring your options to find the best fit for your child. Hockey equipment can be pricey, so Mia recommends keeping your budget in mind during your search. “At a young age, don’t worry about getting the top brand.” If your child is joining a league, reach out to their coach for advice on selecting the appropriate stick.

Recommended Hockey Sticks for Kids

Bauer Youth Vapor Prodigy Ice Hockey Stick
Lightweight and durable, this stick comes in three flex options. The Micro Feel II shaft ensures better control, while the AERO FOAM I blade enhances shot accuracy.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
CCM JetSpeed Grip Youth Hockey Stick
Designed for younger players, this stick features a 20 flex and is available for both left and right-handed players. It’s lightweight and helps develop shooting skills.
Price: $79.98 at Hockey Monkey.
Warrior Youth Alpha DX 1 Pink Ice Hockey Stick
This eye-catching stick has a 30 flex and a lightweight blade for quick puck handling. The balanced shaft provides excellent control.
Price: $59.99 at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Twigz ABS Youth Wood Hockey Stick
A versatile stick available in different hand orientations, it’s made from all wood and is great for street hockey. Not ideal for competitive play, but perfect for casual use.
Price: $19.98 at Hockey Monkey.
CCM Tacks AS3 Grip Youth Hockey Stick
Newer on the market, it helps young players improve their control and shooting. The stiff yet lightweight blade enhances gameplay.
Price: $54.99 at Hockey Monkey.
Sher-Wood Youth Rekker M90 Grip Ice Hockey Stick
Extremely lightweight, allowing your child to maneuver quickly. The DropKick Taper aids in delivering sharp shots, while FLYLYTE technology ensures durability.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Warrior Junior Swagger SR2 Hockey Goalie Stick
Specifically designed for young goalies, this stick is 19” long and features a foam core paddle for lightweight handling.
Price: $69.98 at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

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Summary

Finding the right hockey stick for your child involves understanding the importance of stick length and flex. With guidance from experts and a range of options available, you can select the stick that will best support your child’s development in the sport.