- When choosing a goalie stick, there are some important features to look for when trying to identify the right stick.
- Paddle Height- One of the most common problems that we see in young goaltenders is incorrect paddle height on their stick. It is important to have a good “balance” when you are crouched in the butterfly position. Too often young goalies have paddles that are too large, which throws off their overall balance, and exposes them to bigger rebounds and more areas for the shooter to score. The below picture of Tukka Rask is exactly how you want to be “balanced” when you’re in net. Tuukka gets very low in his stance, so he uses a much smaller paddle than other goalies. There is no uniform measurement for having the properly sized goalie stick, so it is essential to identify what stick height best fits your style of play.
- Weight- The weight of a goalie stick is another overlooked aspect, especially in younger goaltenders. Many times younger goalies have difficulty handling heavier wood sticks. Composite sticks are much lighter, and we typically recommend them to anyone just starting out. For goalies playing at the high school level or higher, we recommend foam core wood sticks. They are slightly heavier than composite sticks, but goalies typically have a much better “feel” for the puck because of the wood construction.
- Feel- Typically, foam core wood goalie sticks generate the best “feel” for the puck. The wood construction allows for a better handle on the puck, and works to “deaden” shots on net. Conversely, composite sticks generate a strong bounce or deflection because of the materials that make up the stick.
- It is important for every goalie to find the best combination of height, weight and feel to find the perfect stick for your game. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice one aspect to achieve another. Make sure to consult the goalie experts at Sports Etc. before your next purchase!
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