What are the best lacrosse sticks for women and girls. Which features should you look for in a women’s lacrosse stick. How do women’s lacrosse sticks differ from men’s. What are the top brands for women’s lacrosse equipment.
The Evolution of Women’s Lacrosse Sticks
Women’s lacrosse has come a long way since its inception in the late 19th century. The sport has evolved significantly, and so have the tools used to play it. Women’s lacrosse sticks, in particular, have undergone substantial changes to accommodate the unique style and rules of the women’s game.
Initially, women used the same sticks as men, but as the sport developed its own identity, specialized equipment emerged. Modern women’s lacrosse sticks are designed to complement the finesse and precision required in the female version of the sport.
Key Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse Sticks
- Pocket depth: Women’s sticks have shallower pockets to encourage more skillful ball control
- Head shape: Women’s stick heads are typically narrower and more rounded
- Shaft length: Women’s sticks are generally shorter than men’s
- Weight: Women’s sticks are often lighter for easier maneuverability
How do these differences impact gameplay? The shallower pocket and narrower head in women’s sticks promote a style of play that emphasizes passing and ball control over power shots. This design encourages players to develop precise stick skills and strategic teamwork.
Top Brands in Women’s Lacrosse Equipment
Several manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in producing high-quality women’s lacrosse sticks. These brands consistently deliver innovative designs and reliable performance.
Leading Lacrosse Stick Manufacturers
- STX
- Brine
- Under Armour
- Warrior
- Maverik
What sets these brands apart? Each of these manufacturers invests heavily in research and development, collaborating with top players to create sticks that meet the evolving needs of the sport. They use advanced materials and cutting-edge technologies to enhance stick performance and durability.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Women’s Lacrosse Stick
Selecting the right lacrosse stick is crucial for optimal performance on the field. Several factors should be taken into account when making your choice.
Essential Stick Components
- Head: The plastic frame at the top of the stick that holds the pocket
- Pocket: The netted area within the head that cradles the ball
- Shaft: The handle of the stick, typically made of lightweight metal or composite materials
How do these components affect play? The head’s shape and flexibility influence ball control and shooting accuracy. The pocket’s depth and string tension impact ball retention and release. The shaft’s material and length affect overall stick weight and maneuverability.
Factors to Consider
- Player position: Different positions may require specific stick features
- Skill level: Beginners may benefit from more forgiving stick designs
- League regulations: Ensure the stick meets official specifications for your league
- Personal preference: Comfort and feel are important for confident play
Why is choosing the right stick so important? A well-suited lacrosse stick can enhance a player’s natural abilities, improve their game performance, and boost their confidence on the field.
13 Best Women’s Lacrosse Sticks for 2024
After extensive research and consideration of player feedback, we’ve compiled a list of the top 13 women’s lacrosse sticks available in 2024. These sticks offer a range of features to suit various playing styles and skill levels.
1. STX Exult 600
The STX Exult 600 is a popular choice among intermediate to advanced players. It features a lightweight design and a mid-pocket for versatile play.
2. Brine Dynasty Elite II
Known for its durability and excellent ball control, the Brine Dynasty Elite II is favored by many collegiate players.
3. Under Armour Strategy
The Under Armour Strategy offers a great balance of power and finesse, making it suitable for various playing positions.
4. Warrior Noz 2
With its innovative head design, the Warrior Noz 2 provides exceptional ball retention and quick release.
5. Maverik Ascent
The Maverik Ascent is praised for its lightweight feel and superior scoop design, aiding in ground ball pickups.
6. STX Crux 600
Designed for attackers, the STX Crux 600 offers a stiff head for powerful shots and precise passing.
7. Brine Mantra 2
The Brine Mantra 2 is an excellent all-around stick, suitable for players in various positions.
8. Under Armour Futures
Ideal for younger players, the Under Armour Futures stick provides a forgiving pocket and lightweight design.
9. Warrior Burn FO
Specialized for draw control specialists, the Warrior Burn FO offers a unique head shape for improved performance at the draw.
10. Maverik Axiom
The Maverik Axiom is known for its durability and consistent performance across various weather conditions.
11. STX Fortress 600
Designed for defensive players, the STX Fortress 600 provides a stiff head for effective checking and interceptions.
12. Brine Clutch Elite
The Brine Clutch Elite offers a versatile design suitable for midfielders who need to excel in both offense and defense.
13. True Temper Ignition Runner
A rising star in the lacrosse world, the True Temper Ignition Runner is gaining popularity for its innovative pocket design and excellent ball control.
How do these sticks compare in terms of performance? While each stick has its unique strengths, they all offer high-quality construction and features tailored to enhance women’s lacrosse play. The best choice will depend on individual player preferences and playing style.
Caring for Your Lacrosse Stick
Proper maintenance of your lacrosse stick is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Regular care can significantly extend the life of your equipment and maintain its playing characteristics.
Essential Maintenance Tips
- Clean your stick regularly to remove dirt and debris
- Store your stick in a cool, dry place to prevent warping
- Periodically check and tighten pocket strings
- Rotate your stick during wall ball practice to prevent uneven wear
- Use stick wax to protect the shaft and improve grip
Why is stick maintenance so important? A well-maintained stick will perform more consistently, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues during crucial game moments. Regular care also helps players become more familiar with their equipment, leading to improved performance on the field.
The Impact of Stick Choice on Playing Style
The lacrosse stick you choose can significantly influence your playing style and effectiveness on the field. Different stick designs cater to various aspects of the game, from ball control to shooting power.
Stick Characteristics and Their Effects
- Head stiffness: Affects shot power and accuracy
- Pocket depth: Influences ball retention and release speed
- Shaft material: Impacts overall weight and feel
- Head shape: Affects scooping and ball control
How can players optimize their stick choice? It’s essential to experiment with different stick types and consult with coaches to find the best fit for your playing style and position. Many players find that their stick preferences evolve as they gain experience and refine their skills.
The Future of Women’s Lacrosse Equipment
As women’s lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, equipment manufacturers are investing in new technologies and designs to enhance player performance. The future of women’s lacrosse sticks looks promising, with several exciting trends on the horizon.
Emerging Trends in Lacrosse Stick Design
- Advanced composite materials for lighter, stronger shafts
- Customizable pockets for personalized ball control
- Ergonomic grip designs for improved handling
- Smart technology integration for performance tracking
How will these innovations impact the game? As equipment technology advances, players may find they can perform at higher levels, potentially leading to faster-paced games and more precise skill execution. However, it’s important to note that while equipment can enhance performance, fundamental skills and strategy will always remain at the core of the sport.
In conclusion, the world of women’s lacrosse sticks is diverse and ever-evolving. From traditional designs to cutting-edge innovations, players have a wide array of options to choose from. By understanding the key features, maintaining their equipment properly, and staying informed about new developments, players can select the stick that best complements their skills and helps them excel on the field.
best womens lacrosse sticks 2023｜TikTok Search
TikTok
Upload
that1lacrossecoach
Coach Em 🏳️🌈🥍
These are my top sticks I recommend. Let me know what stick you play w in the comments! Sorry warp lovers 😬#lacrossecoach
6.2K Likes, 293 Comments. TikTok video from Coach Em 🏳️🌈🥍 (@that1lacrossecoach): “These are my top sticks I recommend. Let me know what stick you play w in the comments! Sorry warp lovers 😬#lacrossecoach”. i like you have a cupcake_fish hooks – ___.
69.6K views|
i like you have a cupcake_fish hooks – ___
yourdailyoutfitz
outfit inspo!
comment for other sports!🥎🥍🤍#greenscreen #foryoupage #fyp #SearchForWonderMom #mothersday #foryou #lacrosse #lacrossegirls #fypシ #preppy #viral #stx #gait
358 Likes, TikTok video from outfit inspo! (@yourdailyoutfitz): “comment for other sports!🥎🥍🤍#greenscreen #foryoupage #fyp #SearchForWonderMom #mothersday #foryou #lacrosse #lacrossegirls #fypシ #preppy #viral #stx #gait”.
original sound – layla.
16.8K views|
original sound – layla
fosslacrossellc
Foss
@UMass Lowell womens lax sticks for the 2022-23 season! #womenslacrosse #ReTokforNature #menslacrosse #lacrossehighlights #lacrossecheck #lacrosse #lax #womenslax #menslax
217 Likes, TikTok video from Foss (@fosslacrossellc): “@UMass Lowell womens lax sticks for the 2022-23 season! #womenslacrosse #ReTokforNature #menslacrosse #lacrossehighlights #lacrossecheck #lacrosse #lax #womenslax #menslax”.
Mambo No 5 – Lou Bega.
4748 views|
Mambo No 5 – Lou Bega
truetemperlacrosse
True Temper Lacrosse
Ignition runner is the best pocket in the game #lacrosse #sports #LevelUp #training #grind
212 Likes, TikTok video from True Temper Lacrosse (@truetemperlacrosse): “Ignition runner is the best pocket in the game #lacrosse #sports #LevelUp #training #grind”. I Think I Like When It Rains – WILLIS.
6509 views|
I Think I Like When It Rains – WILLIS
julialacrosse
Juji
try these stick tricks today🤌 #lax #lacrosse #womenslacrosse #sticktricks #lacrosseplayer #laxbro #ferda #girlslacrosse #wallball
105 Likes, TikTok video from Juji (@julialacrosse): “try these stick tricks today🤌 #lax #lacrosse #womenslacrosse #sticktricks #lacrosseplayer #laxbro #ferda #girlslacrosse #wallball”.
original sound – Juji.
3389 views|
original sound – Juji
jacksnod
Jack Snodgrass
@gghuet2.0 thanks for letting me use your stick #lacrosse #lax #fyp #womenslacrosse #michigan
557 Likes, TikTok video from Jack Snodgrass (@jacksnod): “@gghuet2.0 thanks for letting me use your stick #lacrosse #lax #fyp #womenslacrosse #michigan”. womens sticks are better than mens sticks Money Forever – Lil Baby.
8930 views|
Money Forever – Lil Baby
lax..girlyy
🥍
sorry for the bad quality 😅 filmed this in my basement! #greenscreen #lacrosse #lacrossegirl #lacrossegirls #preppy #lax #springlacrosse #schoollax #clublacrosse #girlslacrosse #attacklacrosse #midfeildlacrosse #defencelacrosse #lacrossemidfielder #goalielacrosse #stx #stxexult #exultpro #stxlacrosse #stxlax #laxtok #lacrossetiktok #lacrossetok #viral #haul
5.
7K Likes, 183 Comments. TikTok video from 🥍 (@lax..girlyy): “sorry for the bad quality 😅 filmed this in my basement! #greenscreen #lacrosse #lacrossegirl #lacrossegirls #preppy #lax #springlacrosse #schoollax #clublacrosse #girlslacrosse #attacklacrosse #midfeildlacrosse #defencelacrosse #lacrossemidfielder #goalielacrosse #stx #stxexult #exultpro #stxlacrosse #stxlax #laxtok #lacrossetiktok #lacrossetok #viral #haul”. KEFE – MØNI 🇹🇴.
102.4K views|
KEFE – MØNI 🇹🇴
stick_grip
StickGrip.com
Replying to @Zaiden New sleek looking grip on her #lax stick🥍#lacrosse
445.1K Likes, 1.9K Comments. TikTok video from StickGrip.com (@stick_grip): “Replying to @Zaiden New sleek looking grip on her #lax stick🥍#lacrosse”. We need a
new grip | Wow | This grip is
so nice Bridget made this – Tik Toker.
5.5M views|
Bridget made this – Tik Toker
thedripkingg
Drip King
Thing was low-key nice, which stick should I do next? 👀👀 #s#sports l#lacrosse l#lax v#viral f#fyp
49.8K Likes, 195 Comments. TikTok video from Drip King (@thedripkingg): “Thing was low-key nice, which stick should I do next? 👀👀 #s#sportsl#lacrossel#laxv#viralf#fyp”. Crystals – Isolate.exe.
664.9K views|
Crystals – Isolate.exe
Best Women’s Lacrosse Sticks 2023 Review
In this free world every living organism having equal rights to every resource available in the world, but unfortunately we humans feel that we are the dominant creatures.
Likewise, some men think they are dominant over women, but the truth woman is way more powerful than men thinks.
That’s how the game of Lacrosse which was played only by men for some years only until women’s started to play the game from 1890.
But legally the first women’s lacrosse game was started to play from the year 1941, so until the 1930s both men and women play the game of lacrosse under the same rules but after the formation of Women’s Lacrosse Association they have set out certain new rules for Women’s Lacrosse.
Yes after that lots of changes have been made in the women’s Lacrosse Game, the Game of Men’s Lacrosse and Women’s Lacrosse have lots of differences from sticks to the way of playing games.
Table of Contents
Difference of Women’s Lacrosse Sticks from Mens Sticks
Usually, when taking into the consideration of safety gears of women’s lacrosse, they need less protective equipment compared to mens.
Unlike in men’s game like the size of stick varies based on the fielder position, here the shaft size is the same for all fielders except goalie who have some longer shaft.
Plus the head of women’s shaft are a bit has shallower sidewall and less diameter compared to the men’s sticks.
And the strings of the shaft are netted tightly in comparison to men’s stick.
Selecting your Sticks based on the Position
Usually, every fielder in the game is important to the game irrespective of their position it doesn’t matter you are important to the game only if you play the attacking position.
The most basic thing in selecting out the stick is picking up your shaft based on your position in the game because every fielder has a different role to do in the game so selecting the stick based on your position is one of the key factors for improving out your performance in the game.
Usually, there are only four positions being available in the game namely
- Attackers
- Midfielders
- Defenders
- And Goalie
Attackers
Attacking fielders are the one who needs to run faster and outsmart the opponent defenders and put a goal, so in order to do that effectively, you need a best lightweight stick for it.
Because lightweight sticks give you more control with the ball and allow you to score more efficiently.
Plus also select your stick with a maximum offset from shaft to scoop which will provide you with more control with the ball.
Midfielders
The job of midfielders is more or less similar to the attackmen, they are the one who creates out goal scoring opportunities for the attackers.
So look out for a stick with V-shaped Head which provides you more speed, passing and flex.
Defenders
We all know the job of defenders in the game, so defenders should have a stick with slightly heavier than attacking and midfield players.
In order to have more control while carrying the ball choose the head having low flex points and also choose the stick having high stiffness.
Things to remember while stick selection
We want you to understand it simple and make the stick selection much easier while selecting your stick just remember to look out for these three things
- The angle of Scoop.
- Material.
- Flexibility
Angle of Scoop
First thing you need to look for is a rounded scoop on the head so that is both consistent on grass and surface.
The next thing you need to consider is pocket and little offset, your pocket needs to be a little bit higher on the stick in order to have a quick release and also a little bit wider.
Material
When it comes to the material, it is highly of your choice, so if you are kind of beginner we suggest you for aluminium which is slightly heavier than metal shafts.
But when you move on for the next level you might consider metal shafts which gives you better shafts at less weight.
Flexibility
You can consider the flexibility of the stick based on your position, so its only two options a stiff stick or a rigid stick. If you are kind of defender you need a stiff stick for making better checks.
So if you are an attacker or midfielder go for a Flexible rigid Stick.
Best Women’s Lacrosse Sticks 2023
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Selling | Best Selling | STX Crux 600 Stick |
| Check On Amazon |
Top Rated | Top Rated | STX Crux 500 Girls Attack Stick |
| Check On Amazon |
Coach’s Choice (Lifetime Warranty) | Coach’s Choice (Lifetime Warranty) | Epoch Purpose Composite lacrosse Sticks |
| Check On Amazon |
Best for Midfielders | STX Exult 300 Girls Lacrosse Stick |
| Check On Amazon | |
Best one for defenders | Best Defender stick | STX Fortress 600 Sticks |
| Check On Amazon |
Top-selling defender stick | STX Lacrosse Women’s Fortress 500 Stick |
| Check On Amazon | |
For Beginners | For Beginners | STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 A/M Complete Stick |
| Check On Amazon |
5/5So in order to make this selection process simple for you, we have divided the sticks based on the position which will allow you to select your sticks with much comfort.
Best Women’s Lacrosse Attack Sticks
When it comes to the attack sticks STX is way ahead than other manufacturers in this particular segment and that’s why we have chosen STX Crux 600 Stick and STX Crux 500.
STX Crux 600 Stick ( New launch and Coach’s Choice )
You might know that when years go on, the technology also makes it way up, and this one STX Crux 600 is a fine example of technology advancement and this is the upgraded version of STX Crux 500.
If you are ready to spend some money on the product, trust me you are not going to change your stick for a long time.
STX have itself said that they have made this stick better of their best sticks.
Technology used
The technological advancements that have been used in these sticks to improve your game which no other sticks provide are
Drop Rail – In order to drive the ball to the sweet spot for maximum control STX have used out Minimized Sidewall Design and hold which will give you a wider range of motion when you throw.
With this lowest legal sidewall, you can able to drive the ball even higher to your sweet spot for more control and also you can get a quicker and faster release from any angle.
Speed Scoop – The Sting Protection has been maximized out in this stick and the ground ball has also been improved to provide you a faster scoop with less drag.
Using of this speed scoop your stick will hide the top string to reduce drag when going for a ground ball, but also reduces drag for faster pick up so that you’ll get overall better performance on ground balls.
Launch II Pocket – So in order to make you hold the stick for a long time without much ball movement on your head, they have enhanced durability and targeted flex points at the sweet spot for maximum hold.
The Launch II Pocket features strategically targeted flex points for better ball hold and a redesigned tie-off system for easy pocket adjustability during games which will give you even better control, accuracy and durability.
10-degree technology – To provide out a quicker release on passing and shooting Precision-crafted 10° heads and lightweight 10° handles are used which creates a perfectly balanced stick.
So that The 10-degree offset drives the ball to the sweet spot for a faster release when passing and shooting.
Better Flare Design – Redesigned 10° flare creates a seamless head-to-handle connection without the need for an additional insert.
Precision Flex – In order to maintain precision on feeds a snap has been added which allows for maximum velocity on shots so that you’ll get an improved control and better ball feel.
- Also, the product comes with a butt end.
- And various colour optimization options are also available too.
Price – It comes at a price range of above 200$, the price may seem a bit high, but believe us and buy it, you’ll definitely feel how good the stick once you get it on your hands.
Check Now on Amazon
Pros
Best selling complete Stick.
Excellent Built-in Design.
Suitable for any level Players.
Cons
High Price.
STX Crux 500 Girls Attack Stick
We have selected out this stick especially for attackers because it satisfies all the factors that an advanced attacking stick should have, even lots of league level players are using this shaft makes it a special choice to buy.
10 Degree Technology – So buy using this technology the strength of the stick is increased by distributing the stress evenly across the bottom rail.
Patented Elastmer Overmold – By using this the battle rattle has been completely reduced so that you’ll be getting better ball control while carrying out the ball.
Minimal Sidewall height– The sidewall of the stick has been minimized for the deep pocket which provides you better ball holding and the better Flexible Scoop gives you better control with the ground balls.
Plus in order to give a closer grip on the ball the chevron on the head is also flexed out too.
Check Now on Amazon
Do check out our review on Lacrosse helmets
Best Women’s lacrosse Sticks for Midfielders
Epoch Purpose Composite Lacrosse Stick is the first choice that comes to our mind in the section for middies and STX Exult 300 is for those who want the stick at a low price, If you are looking for easier way then try Complete lacrosse sticks
Epoch Purpose Composite lacrosse Sticks (Our Choice)
If there is one stick which can compete with STX in this segment and it is none other than Epoch’s all-new Purpose Series Sticks which were designed especially for middies.
This is a stick which has been engineered for the new generation of Elite Athletes.
Weight – 4.3 ounces
Shaft Material – Carbon Fiber
Sizes available – 1” concave diameter and 7/8” diameter.
Warranty – 1 Year.
15 Degree Bottom Rail Technology – The tilt of the head is coming from the throat down into the sweet spot which allows for a super deep pocket so that it allows you to have more creativity with better ball control and faster shot
Better Stiffness – As far the stiffness is considered it doesn’t have too much flex but it’s not too sturdy and as far as the scooping the 15-degree tilt will definitely help you with better ground balls since it has a pretty rounded shape so the ball will actually funnel clean into the pocket.
Factory Tied Up Pocket – So all the sticks available with a factory tied-up pocket for elite level control and feel, engineered and strung in the USA.
Price – So this stick also in the same price range as STX Crux 600 but it is also a product worth spending.
Check Now on Amazon
Find out an best rebounder to increase your skill
STX Exult 300 Girls Lacrosse Stick
So if you feel that Epoch Purpose is a costly one for you then our other option is STX Exult 300 Girls Lacrosse Stick
This is one of the sticks recommended by pro players among the lots of sticks they have used because it has
Extreme Scoop Angle – Accuracy is one of the key factor for midfielders, so this stick has been made out with extreme scoop angle while will improve the players passing accuracy also provides you with more power while passing the ball.
Stiff Sidewalls – The sidewalls of the stick are very much stiff so there will be no issues of stiffness and control with the stick.
Overlapping String System – So this stick consists of unique Runway pocket which consists of overlapping String System which will provide you with better ball handling while carrying the ball.
Check Now on Amazon
Women’s Defense lacrosse Sticks
Selecting Best Sticks for Defenders is not an easy task to do, we have tested around 10 best defence sticks in the market personally and finally picked out STX Lacrosse Women’s Fortress 600 Stick, this one turns out to be the best among all the sticks we have tested because of the rare specification you could not able to find out in other sticks.
STX Fortress 600 Sticks
The Fortress 600 is designed in such a way which provides unparalleled power and tenacity to the elite defender.
Top to Bottom Technology – This technology provides the defenders with the power to protect their area and dominate the game.
C Channel technology – The C channel Technology makes the stick stronger enough to do kind of hard checks.
Launch Pocket II – This is the same pocket used in STX Crux 600 too which provides targeted flux points for a better ball hold and will give you even better control, accuracy and durability.
It also comes with a redesigned Tie-off system, so you can easily adjust your pockets now.
Unique Grip Technology – This technology is used at the bottom of the handles for better positioning and stability.
10 Degree Technology – The 10° head and 10° stick will drive the ball to the sweet spot for a faster release on passing and shooting.
Price – It comes at a price range of above 150$ and the price varies on the colours you choose.
Check Now on Amazon
STX Lacrosse Women’s Fortress 500 Stick
This Stick is a previous version of Exult 600 and with a low affordable price, this stick is also a better option to go for if you are beginner or intermediate.
C-Channel Technology – So by using this technology the strength of the stick is increased by distributing the stress evenly across the bottom rail.
Better Stiff Design – Keeping the defensive players in Mind the stick is built with better stiffness so that you’ll be having a stick that faces any kind of hard checks.
Rubberish Finish – In order to provide better grip in any kind of weather conditions they have used rubber grip to the stick.
Flexible Scoop and Raised Ball Stop – Raised ball stop will make you sure that you can carry the ball without much droppage on the field, and the flexible scoop gives your better ground ball passes.
Check Now on Amazon
Beginners Women Lacrosse Sticks
Picking out sticks for the beginners is the easiest task in this section because for beginners we usually advise them to look out for a complete stick with some best features available at a cheap price.
So our personal choice for Beginners is
STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 A/M Complete Stick
Proper Basic Stick – This stick is made and designed in a way to help the player learn basic fundamentals in the best way.
Made up of 6000 Series Alloy – The stick is made lightweight with the usage of 6000 Series Alloy Shafts along with handle featuring “Memory Marker” Graphics.
Soft Mesh Stringing – In order to provide better catching and throwing for all entry-level players they have used Soft Mesh Stringing.
Comes in attractive colours- The stick is being available in four different colours and variations too.
Check Now on Amazon
Conclusion
So finally after long research of testing more than 30 products manually, we have given you the best products and now it’s time for you to choose the one which will be the best one for you.
User Review
0
(0 votes)
Sending
Hockey stick, children’s stick, types of sticks, stick length, stick size – November 19, 2021
Sport24 Edition
When a child is just starting to discover the world of hockey, parents have a question: what equipment does a future champion need?
If adults:
- want to help a young player fall in love with sports;
- strive to make his training as safe and fun as possible, so that the child STRIVES to training;
- dream of future success and victories;
it is still worth buying professional equipment for your child.
Hockey uniforms are also important for training, and, of course, skates are important. But the main combat weapon of any hockey player is the “correct” hockey stick. It is she who becomes the main assistant to the player on the ice field. Therefore, it is worth paying special attention to the choice of a children’s club. There are probably many parents of young hockey players among our readers. And the information provided in the article will help you evaluate the quality of a hockey stick for a future champion and choose the best one.
The opinion “while small, you can get by with something simpler and cheaper” is very common in Russia. But it is not only wrong, but also dangerous. Dangerous from several points of view. A child with NON-professional equipment from the first lessons is in a deliberately losing position compared to teammates for whom parents have not stinted on professional hockey sticks appropriate for their age.
Only the best hockey stick
- will help a young hockey player master complex game techniques – this is about the functionality and enthusiasm of the child;
- will not harm a fragile body during strenuous training – and this is about safety and maintaining health.
Lightweight ice hockey stick, adapted to the height and weight of the child, will not put extra stress on the muscles, bones and tendons. The young athlete will not suffer from body aches after training, and most importantly, will avoid more serious health problems in the future.
Carbon Ice Hockey Stick – what’s so special about it?
It’s not worth it for the father of a little hockey player to remember with nostalgia what his old stick made of wood was like – no one plays like that anymore. For 15 years already – since the mid-2000s – almost all professional athletes have switched to models made of light and durable carbon fiber.
Why is modern hockey unimaginable without carbon sticks? There are at least three reasons.
Reason #1 Made from pure carbon, the model is stretchy for a bow effect.
For a powerful and accurate strike, the little athlete does not have to make extra efforts. With such a stick, even the youngest players will be able to master complex hockey techniques for children in just a few lessons.
Even the “click”, which in the days of the USSR was not allowed to be performed by children under 14 years old because of the possibility of injuring the joints of the hands and elbows.
Among the characteristics of a carbon stick, such an important parameter as Flex is an indicator of the degree of flexibility of the model. The optimal value is equal to or slightly less than the player’s weight in kilograms. The term low-flex is applied to children’s clubs. Here, the Flex value is 40 or less. It is these pro-sticks that allow a young athlete with weak muscles to quickly master the professional skills of handling the puck. And most importantly – they do not create an excessive load on the joints and bones, which means – and this is the most important thing – they are trauma-safe.
Reason #2 When hit with a 100% carbon stick, the puck flies 40-80% faster on the ice and hits the target more accurately than when hit with a model made of rigid fiberglass or a combined composition (carbon + fiberglass).
Reason #3 Carbon sticks are 30-50% lighter than other materials. And a light hockey stick is a great maneuverability of an athlete, his ability to perform complex tricks and an advantage in puck control. With such a tool, the child learns faster and in just a few lessons will leave far behind their peers with “oak” heavy fiberglass clubs.
Why is the “right” carbon stick so important?
Training with non-professional equipment is often a waste of time. A child is much more likely to learn how to play hockey professionally if he uses a 100% carbon stick from the very beginning.
Starting with a hockey stick made of another material, the child will have to get used to carbon later in life. This means, in fact, re-mastering the technique of the game, adapting to the new projectile. Unless, of course, painful training with a heavy non-carbon stick does not discourage him from playing hockey at all.
And the desire can easily disappear: composite, fiberglass or wooden ice hockey sticks are for the most part traumatic tools, especially for fragile bones, joints and muscles.
Strong recoil from blows will cause pain, and in the future can lead to serious injuries.
And most importantly: for a player with non-professional equipment, the world of big hockey can close forever. From the first steps, having become an outsider, the child will lose the main thing for an athlete: motivation, that is, an ardent desire to continuously improve. Such a weakly motivated player will not appreciate all the charm of the game, stop enjoying the process and eventually leave classes.
What manufacturers offer
Not all hockey stick manufacturers offer models for young athletes. And the very concept of a “carbon children’s low-flex club” appeared relatively recently – in 2015.
The pioneer in the production of this type of equipment was the American company Raven. Before that, when playing hockey for children, adult models were intended, but a little smaller. True, in terms of rigidity, they were rather “youthful”, designed for players weighing 50-60 kg.
But after all, children begin to take their first steps in hockey at the age of 5-6 years with a weight of 20-25 kg, that is, two to three times less!
Now the Raven company continues to produce children’s types of three FLEX clubs, but they are practically not represented on the Russian and European markets.
In Russia and the countries of the former USSR, you can buy modern professional carbon clubs for children and teenagers from three manufacturers.
Bauer (USA)
One of the world’s largest manufacturers of professional ice hockey equipment. But the main consumers of its products are adult teams. It is the pro clubs for this category that are the key source of income for Bauer.
Indeed, it is unprofitable to produce children’s models of a large corporation. A child uses one stick for an average of six months, but how many sticks will a professional hockey team order for a season? At least 1000 pieces – 2-3 for each game for each player! Therefore, all the innovations and developments of such masters of professional equipment as Bauer are designed for an adult audience.
And inventory for children is produced in so far as, according to the residual principle. Anthropometric parameters of young players in the production of Bauer “children’s” hockey sticks are practically not taken into account.
CCM (Canada)
The manufacturer thoughtfully develops new types of sticks for professional hockey players. Aimed primarily at adult athletes who change up to 60 clubs during the season.
CCM manufactures equipment for young players without going too far into the specifics of hockey for children. The product line includes hockey sticks for kids and juniors, but the parameters of the models are indicated without taking into account the characteristics of height and weight.
VIKKELA (Finland)
The company specializes exclusively in children’s hockey sticks. That is, he takes seriously the development of hockey equipment specifically for a young audience. Among the brand’s products are low-flex carbon children’s sticks designed for players of different heights and weights.
All parameters of the models correspond exactly to the anthropometric data of the athletes. In the course of experimental tests, the excellent playability and comfort of sticks produced by VIKKELA were confirmed.
Children’s hockey and low-flex goalie sticks made of carbon are the company’s key specialization. Maximum efforts are directed specifically to the manufacture of models for the younger generation.
What is remarkable about a professional children’s ice hockey stick
When choosing a stick for a child, parents should focus on a number of parameters that distinguish a professional model from an NON-professional one. The “correct” model will help make your child’s training fun, productive, and most importantly, safe.
1.Composition – 100% carbon
A composite or alloy of carbon with other materials is most often not suitable for a child to quickly learn how to play hockey professionally. Only a one-piece carbon stick will be safe for the joints and the emerging skeleton, ensure safety during training, and help you quickly master the tricks of the game.
2. Flex exactly according to the child’s height and weight
If the Flex is not appropriate for the child’s weight, the stick will be too stiff for the child, which will affect the power and accuracy of the throw. Conversely, too low a Flex value will cause the handle to flex too much when thrown. This means that the player will have to restrain the force of the blow with the club, which also does not contribute to the formation of the correct playing skills.
3. Proper size
Matching the size of a club to a child’s height is extremely important. Unfortunately, some manufacturers, in particular, CCM or Bauer, do not always correctly indicate the size of the club. As a result, equipment is bought, focusing solely on Flex, and after that they find out that the club is too long for the child.
It would seem that a stick can be shortened by simply sawing off the excess. But in the case of such a “shortening at the knee”, the Flex indicator will increase, which means that more effort will be required to strike.
So, if the stick is 119 longcm with a Flex indicator of 10 cut down by 10 cm, then Flex will increase to 30. However, not all manufacturers take this into account.
Bauer fully admits such an option of “upgrading on the knee” as a sip. He even puts special marks on the shaft (handle), according to which it is supposed to adjust the stick for the child to his height.
CCM traditionally indicates the size without taking into account the height of the hook, that is, only the height of the shaft is taken into account (such is the specificity of the American system for measuring the length of the stick), so the actual length of the stick will be 10 centimeters more!
VIKKELA takes into account the height of the hook, and determines the size as the distance from the highest point of the shaft to the floor (if the stick is vertically attached with the handle to the wall). And the step between sizes is only 5 cm – all this allows you to choose the length of the club in exact accordance with the parameters of the athlete.
So, the formula for choosing the right stick for a child is simple:
professional children’s hockey stick = 100% carbon molded body + adequate size + Flex appropriate for the child’s weight.
Additional parameters worth paying attention to.
4. Convenient width of the club handle (shaft)
The width of the club handle is the diameter of its section.
Manufacturers offer children’s models with the following shaft parameters:
- 78 mm – the so-called YTH or “child standard”, which in reality is extremely uncomfortable for the child. A shaft that is too thin does not allow for a tight grip on the stick – the handle scrolls. It is no coincidence that children’s trainers in Canada and Finland forbid its use.
- 82mm – better, but the handle can still turn when thrown. This standard is used by the majority of junior club manufacturers.
- 85 mm – the most comfortable shaft diameter for a child. Width where the stick does not rotate and allows full use of the flexibility of carbon models. This girth is used in VIKKELA models
Width where the stick does not rotate and allows full use of the flexibility of carbon models. This girth is used in VIKKELA models5. Hook bend
- 092 is the optimal stick bend for beginner hockey players. 028 is a more open curve, suitable for young athletes who have been practicing for more than a year and have already mastered the playing technique quite well. It makes it easier to control the puck during shooting and dribbling
- 002 – for defenders. You can confidently “scoop” pucks from the boards and block shots.
6. Shaft coating
The quality of the coating determines how securely the hockey stick will be fixed in the hand, as well as provide the ability to easily slide on the handle. Manufacturers use 4 types of coatings.
- Grip for a secure grip keeps the shaft well in hand but makes it difficult to slip. Many coaches force the sanding of this coating from children’s clubs.
- Clear provides an easy glide of the shooting hand, which is good for learning to dribble, however, when hitting, the handle with this coating can rotate, which reduces the accuracy of the throw.
- MatteGrip combines the advantages of Grip and Clear, the best choice when choosing a club for a child.
- GlossGrip provides the most rigid grip on the shaft in the hand, which is ideal for practicing throws
7. Design
The design may not seem significant to adults, but children are children. Believe me, up to a certain age (up to 14-15 years old) it is much more interesting and pleasant for a child to play with a bright, unusual club. It uplifts the mood, arouses constant interest of peers and singles out, individualizes the child against the background of the rest – “here it is, MY club.”
In terms of design, only the Finns somehow “bother”. The design of VIKKELA children’s clubs is surprisingly bright and cheerful. Each Flex has its own character: 8 for game sticks and 3 for goalkeepers.
Upgrading his hockey skills, the child, as if in a game, moves to a new level and gets a new hero as an assistant – why not a great motivation? Modern children are willingly involved in such additional gamification, receiving an extra incentive to “pump” their skills.
To sum it up
Now, having examined each parameter of the correct children’s club, we can compare the key characteristics of clubs from the three leading manufacturers of modern professional carbon clubs for children:
carbon models offer models at approximately the same price, however, in terms of compliance with the parameters important for professional children’s hockey, the championship clearly belongs to VIKKELA. At the same time, the warranty period for the products of the Finnish company is 50% longer than that of competitors + there are favorable conditions when buying a new club.
What conclusion can be drawn? Precise flex, comfortable grip, correct blade angle, optimal shaft coverage are all important components of the right hockey stick for the future professional hockey player. The more detailed the size is, as, for example, done by VIKKELA, the more precisely Flex can be determined. This will allow you to choose a stick for your child that is neither too hard nor too soft.
So, playing with such a professional instrument will be as comfortable and productive as possible.
Even models made by established American and Canadian giant companies do not fully meet all the requirements that apply to a good professional children’s club. What can we say about products manufactured by numerous no-name companies, domestic or Chinese? Even if an unknown manufacturer has indicated some model parameters, you probably won’t be able to check how they correspond to reality (almost certainly they don’t).
So is it worth it to buy a product of low quality with obviously dubious characteristics just because it is cheap? As we found out above, in this way you doom your child to spend futile efforts in training and really endanger the health of a young player.
It is extremely important to take into account the young athlete’s physical characteristics, his experience in the game and select clubs in exact accordance with these factors. This will help make training as effective, safe, and most importantly – exciting and desirable for the future champion.
