What’s the Right Flex for Your Hockey Stick?

A complete guide to understanding stick flex, how to measure it, and how to choose the right one for your game.

What Is Stick Flex?

Flex refers to how much a hockey stick will bend when pressure is applied. Technically, it’s the amount of force (in pounds) needed to flex the shaft one inch. For example:

• A stick with an 85 flex rating requires 85 pounds of pressure to bend one inch.
• A 40 flex stick is much easier to bend, making it more suitable for younger players or those with a lighter build.

The lower the number, the more flexible the stick. The higher the number, the stiffer the stick.

How Is Flex Measured?

Stick flex is factory-tested under controlled conditions, but in practice, there’s a useful rule of thumb:

Your stick’s flex should be about half your body weight.

So, if a player weighs 150 pounds, they might start with a 75 flex stick. This is a guideline, not a rule — factors like position, shooting style, and strength all influence the ideal choice.

It’s also important to note that cutting a stick shorter increases its stiffness. Each inch removed adds about 3 to 4 flex points.

Recommended Flex by Player Weight

Player Weight	Recommended Flex
Under 80 lbs	30–40 Flex
80–120 lbs	45–55 Flex
120–160 lbs	60–75 Flex
160–200 lbs	75–90 Flex
200+ lbs	95–110+ Flex

This chart is a starting point — individual feel, shooting mechanics, and player role all matter too.

Why Choosing the Right Flex Matters

Using a stick that’s too stiff or too soft can affect every part of your game.

If your flex is too soft:

• Shots may feel unpredictable or “whippy”
• You might lose accuracy on slapshots
• The blade can twist on strong passes or shots

If your flex is too stiff:

• The stick won’t load properly on shots
• You lose power and quick release
• It may feel heavy or sluggish when handling the puck

Flex by Player Type and Position

Youth Players (Ages 5–12)
Most young players should use sticks in the 30–50 flex range. Focus is on learning good habits and building puck feel, not overpowering shots.

Recreational Teens and Adults
Start at half your body weight, then adjust based on what feels best. Many players prefer going slightly lower for better wrist shot performance.

Competitive Players
Your position and style should guide you:

• Forwards often prefer lower flex (65–77) for faster release
• Defensemen may choose higher flex (85–100+) for slapshots and poke checks
• Players who cut their stick shorter should consider starting with a lower flex to compensate

How Stick Length Affects Flex

If you cut your stick, it becomes stiffer. Every inch removed adds about 3–4 flex points.

For example:
A 77 flex stick trimmed by 2 inches will feel like an 85 flex stick.

If you’re planning to trim the shaft, start with a slightly lower flex rating to maintain the feel you want.

Final Tips for Finding the Right Flex

• Try different flexes in-store by leaning into a few shots
• Choose based on feel, not just numbers
• Younger players and new players should err on the side of softer
• More experienced or powerful players may benefit from stiffer options
• Always test with gloves on and in your typical stance

Looking for the Right Stick?

True North Sports carries a wide selection of Bauer and CCM sticks in all flexes — youth to pro-level. Our team can help you pick the perfect match based on your position, age, and playing style.

Visit our stick shop or message us with your height, weight, and position — we’ll send you personalized recommendations.