Hockey Stick Flex Explained: Find Your Perfect Match

Choosing the right hockey stick flex can make or break your game. Whether you're ripping slap shots or threading saucer passes, the flex rating of your stick directly affects your power, accuracy, and puck control. But what does “flex” actually mean — and how do you find the one that fits your style?

What Is Stick Flex?

Stick flex refers to how much force (in pounds) it takes to bend the shaft of a hockey stick one inch. For example, an 85 flex stick requires 85 pounds of pressure to bend one inch. Lower flex = more whip. Higher flex = stiffer feel.

Why Flex Matters?

• Power: A properly matched flex helps load energy into your shot.
• Accuracy: Too soft? You’ll lose control. Too stiff? You’ll lose velocity.
• Feel: Flex impacts how the puck responds on passes and stickhandling.

Flex Ratings by Player Type:

Youth and junior players typically use sticks with a flex rating between 30 and 50, offering maximum whip for lighter builds. Intermediate players usually fall in the 55 to 70 range, balancing control and power. Senior players — including most adult skaters — tend to use flex ratings from 75 to 120, depending on their weight, position, and shooting style.

A good rule of thumb: choose a flex that’s roughly half your body weight. So if you weigh 160 lbs, start with an 80 flex stick.

Position-Based Recommendations:

• Forwards: Often prefer lower flex (75–85) for quick release and wrist shots.
• Defensemen: Tend to use higher flex (85–100+) for slap shots and poke checks.
• Hybrid Players: Mid-range flex (80–90) offers balance between control and power.

Customising Your Flex:

• Cutting your stick stiffens the flex — every inch removed adds ~5 flex points.
• Shooting style matters: wrist shooters benefit from more whip, while slap shooters need stiffness.

Find Your Perfect Match:

At Willies.co.uk, we stock a wide range of senior, intermediate, and junior sticks from Bauer, CCM, Warrior, and more — all with detailed flex specs to help you choose confidently. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skater, our team is here to help you dial in the perfect setup.

👉 Browse our full stick collection and filter by flex rating to find your match

👉 Also check out our Youtube Video explaining Hockey Stick Flex