HOW TO DETERMINE YOUR STICK LIE, LENGTH AND SHAFT STIFFNESS

DETERMINING YOUR STICK LIE

The lie is the angle between the blade and the shaft
A lie number is printed on the front of the stick's shaft and ranges from 4 to 8
The higher the number, the narrower the angle between the blade and the shaft. The smaller the number, the wider the angle. For example, a lie 4 stick has a wide handle-to-blade angle, while a lie 8 has a smaller angle.
As a rule, lower lie angle sticks are used for players who skate low to the ice and carry the puck out in front of them
Lies 7 and 8 are for players who skate upright and carry the puck close to their skates
One way to determine if you have the proper lie is to examine your old stick
If the blade is worn on the toe, you should try a higher lie
If your stick is worn on the heel, you should try a lower lie
If the blade wears evenly, you are using the correct lie

DETERMINING THE PROPER SHAFT STIFNESS

The stiffness, or flex, of a stick's shaft is important in determining control and performance
Most stick shafts come in flexes of medium (85 stiffness), stiff measurement, or extra stiff (up to 110 stiff)
Beginning players should look for a light stick with a medium stiffness rating
Bigger, stronger players should choose a stick with a stiffer flex
Defensemen should choose a stiffer, heavier stick, while forwards should choose a lighter, more flexible shaft

DETERMINING THE STICK LENGTH

Since it is very difficult to control an oversized or undersized stick, the length of your hockey stick must be correct for your size
Hockey sticks come in two basic sizes: junior and senior
Junior sticks are generally between 46 - 54 inches long
Senior stick are generally between 56 - 62 inches long
Offensive players usually have a slightly shorter stick for better puck control
Defensive players generally have a longer stick which is good for poking the puck away from an oncoming forward
You will probably not be able to find a stick that is the exact right size. Generally buy your stick a little long so that you can cut it down to the perfect fit
To determine the proper stick length:
Stand in your skates
Put the toe of the stick on the ground
The stick should reach somewhere between your chin and the tip of your nose
Hockey regulations do not permit sticks longer than 63 inches from the heel (where the stick meets the blade) to the end of the shaft

SAVE YOUR MONEY USING THE TOTAL HOCKEY: