How to Size a Hockey Goalie Stick

The goaltender is the last line of defense on a hockey team. Goaltender sticks are longer and wider than regular hockey sticks. Using proper stick handling skills and being able to move freely with your equipment are vital parts of playing goalie--without these skills, you are more susceptible to allow opponents scoring opportunities. By choosing the right size goalie stick, you can make the most of your goaltending abilities as you defend your team's goal.

Things You'll Need

  • Hockey skates
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear your hockey skates in the store when you look for new sticks. When you try out new goalie sticks, you want to be as tall as you would be in a game situation. If you can't bring your skates, stand on a small platform to mimic the height of your skate blades.

    • 2

      Choose a stick with the correct blade curvature for your playing style--either straight, left-handed or right-handed. Young goaltenders may want to use a straight blade, which makes puck handling easier.

    • 3

      Place the toe of the stick on the ground between your feet. The end of the stick should reach the lower part of your face, between your chin and your nose. This is the appropriate length for a goalie stick.

    • 4

      Grip the stick at the top of the paddle and stand in your goalie stance. The stick blade should be flat on the ground and the stick position should complement your stance.

    • 5

      Move around with your stick as if you were playing goal. Make sure you are able to handle the weight, length, blade size and paddle size of the stick you choose.

    • 6

      Try different sticks. Choose the one that feels most natural in your hand.