What hockey stick flex should I get?

Question

I play defense and im 16 6'0 and 155 pounds. Thinking about getting Lidstrom stick with 100 flex or 85. I always bought cheap sticks now I want a nice composition stick. I do some slapshots and wristshops... trying to really dial my slapshot in. Doesnt always work out. Also any suggestions on sticks. I play roller hockey and want a stick for our concrete rink and sport court. Thanks a lot guys.

Answer 1

The 85 flex would be a more practical choice for you. The key to achieving velocity on your shot is determined by your ability to create flex in the shaft, so a softer flex would be far more optimal for your needs.



The lower flex becomes even more critical when it comes to roller hockey. You play with a lighter puck, so getting the bend in the shaft becomes even harder with a stiffer stick since your projectile counterweight is lighter than the 6 oz one in ice hockey.



Don't let the stigma of shaft flex get to you. Brett Hull used an 80 flex shaft all the way to 700 + goals, so stiffer's not always better.



As for models, I'd look for the best closeout deals available. Durability concerns are not as high in roller hockey, so you have a broader option base.



You know your preferred pattern, you should now know your preferred flex, so it's now just a matter of finding the lightest and/or cheapest option providing you those specs.

Answer 2

Go with a 100 flex, it is a middle of the road flex. I am not sure of your choice of curves, though. The Lidstrom curve is an aggressive heel curve that opens drastically on the toe. You will probably shoot high on a lot of your shots. I would reccommend a Forsberg curve, it is more forgiving for mis-hit shots.

That having been said, I suggest you get a stick that is comfortable for you. No one else can tell you what feels good to you, but you. I'd see if a buddy or two had some different types of cyrves, and see if you can try them out. There is nothing worse that having spent $150 ON A STICK YOU DON'T LIKE!

You also said you are playing roller on concrete, and sport court. The composite blade will work well on the sport court, but you will waste it on concrete. I suggest you get two sticks, one for the sport court, and one for concrete. I have played on both, so can speak from experience. You have two choices. You can get a wooden shaft with an ABS plastic blade, or get a composite shaft, and get the ABS plastic blade insert to go in the end of the shaft. I am not 100% sure if the wood shaft ABS blades are still available, but I have used them in the past. The ABS plastic blade will last a LOT longer outside, than any composite blade will, trust me.

If your budget won't allow for two sticks, you can get the composite shaft, and then buy an ABS blade for concrete, and a composite blade for the sport court. You will just have to swap them out depending on where you are playing that game.



Another thing you will have to do is change your wheels all the time. You can't use the same wheels and be very effective. The concrete wheels will slip and slide on the sport court, and the sport court wheels will wear out in no time on the concrete. Get two sets of wheels, or two pairs of skates.



Good luck,



Steve.

Answer 3

Definitely the lower flex. 99% of amateurs don't need anything higher than a 90 flex, and being tall and skinny (I used to be the same), you'll want a still with some flex.