From wooden to composite and high flex to low flex, shopping for kid’s hockey sticks can be a confusing process. With so many options on the market, finding the right stick for your young player can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be! This list of the best youth hockey sticks has what you need to make things easy for you.
Whether you’re looking for the best stick on the market or just a good quality stick that won’t break the bank, this list has you covered. Keep reading to discover some of the best youth hockey sticks and what makes them great.
Our Top Picks
BEST OVERALL
CCM Ribcor Youth Stick
PREMIUM OPTION
Bauer Vapor Hyperlite Grip Composite Hockey Stick
BUDGET OPTION
CCM Ultimate Abs Stick Youth
BEST FOR GOALIES
Bauer GSX Prodigy Composite Goalie Stick Youth
Best Overall
CCM Ribcor Youth Stick
The CCM Ribcor Youth Stick is perfect for young players just getting started with the game. The stick is comfortable and lightweight, making it easy to carry while out on the ice. It’s made from carbon which keeps the stick lightweight while also giving it increased durability.
The shaft has a low kick point which allows for quicker shots and improved accuracy. It’s great for wristers and shots close to the goal. One of the best things about this youth hockey stick is the reasonable price tag. When you consider the high quality of the stick, it’s a great value.
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Quick release when shooting
- Lightweight
Cons
- Shots don’t have as much power
- The blade doesn’t have much curve
Premium Option
Bauer Vapor Hyperlite Grip Composite Hockey Stick
The Bauer Vapor Hyperlite is one of the best youth hockey sticks on the market. It’s similar to the Vapor Youth Grip model but with even more great features.
This stick is lightweight and well-balanced which makes it easy and comfortable to carry. The construction of the stick makes stickhandling the puck a breeze. The curve of the blade holds the stick well and gives your player excellent control.
The flex combined with the low kick point allows your player to release their shots incredibly quickly and with a high level of accuracy. This stick is a great choice for a young player with experience who wants to level up their game.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Excellent for quick-release and close-up shots
- Gives your player good control of the puck
Cons
- Expensive
- Not as durable as other options
- Shots don’t have as much power
Budget Option
CCM Ultimate Abs Stick Youth
If you’re looking for an affordable kid’s hockey stick that still offers incredible value, take a look at the CCM Ultimate Abs youth hockey stick. This stick is made with a durable wooden shaft that can handle all kinds of play. It’s great for a kid who wants to practice at home in the driveway when they can’t get out on the ice.
The stick is heavier than composite sticks but feels lightweight for a wooden stick. The heavier blade makes it harder for opponents to lift up the stick, allowing the player to keep control of the puck. The mid-kick point gives shots a good balance between speed and power.
Pros
- Durable
- Works well on multiple surfaces
- Great price
Cons
- Heavier than composite sticks- but heavy sticks do have some advantages
- The blade is a bit long
- No flex
Best for Goalies
Bauer GSX Prodigy Composite Goalie Stick Youth
Goalies can’t use just any kid’s hockey stick. They need a specialized goalie stick to block all those shots. Goalie sticks are easy to recognize by their wide paddle and blade. This design helps goalies keep more shots out of the net.
When it comes to playing goal, durability is a high priority. The Bauer GSX Prodigy Composite Goalie stick is one of the best youth hockey sticks for goalies because it’s specially made to be both durable and lightweight. It’s easy for young goalies to hold and move around with and it’s durable enough to stand up to pucks flying at it all the time.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Easy to hold
Cons
- When hit with the puck composite sticks vibrate more than wood, which can feel less comfortable
Best Youth Hockey Sticks Buyer’s Guide
- Consider Comfort: Opt for a stick that feels comfortable to hold and is the right size for your player’s hands.
- Finding the Right Length:
- Measure Chin Height: Stick length should be just under the player’s chin when they’re in skates.
- In-Store Check: Have the player stand and hold the stick to check its height.
- Note: Most sticks can be cut to size if needed, but be aware that cutting may void warranties.
- Choosing the Blade Curve:
- Blade Types: Choose from right, left, or straight blades.
- Curve Variation: Amount of curve varies; consider player’s skill level.
- Beginner-Friendly: Straight blade suits beginners or players experimenting with hand preference.
- Performance Enhancement: Moderate curve benefits more experienced players.
- Understanding Flex and Kick Point:
- Flex: Indicates how much the stick bends during a shot; consider a flex rating around 50% of player’s body weight.
- Kick Point: Determines where the stick bends; mid-kick point is versatile, while low kick point offers quick shots and accuracy.
Youth Hockey Sticks Frequently Asked Questions
What age are youth hockey sticks best for?
Typically youth hockey sticks are meant for kids between the ages of 3-8. Some models work for kids slightly older or younger. When picking out the best hockey sticks for kids, height matters more than age.
What’s the difference between youth and junior hockey sticks?
The two main differences are the size and the flex. Youth hockey sticks are meant for younger players so they’re shorter and have a lower flex than Junior hockey sticks.
Should I get a heavy or lightweight hockey stick?
Each has its advantages so it really comes down to preference. Lightweight sticks are easier to carry and shoot with. Heavier sticks give more power to your shot and are harder for an opponent to lift off of the ice.Heavier sticks can also help train young players to keep their sticks down on the ice because they’re harder to lift up.
Time to Get One of the Best Youth Hockey Sticks
Shopping for the best youth hockey sticks doesn’t have to feel like taking a penalty! With this guide, you’re well on your way to finding the right stick for your young player.
For more hockey gear recommendations, check out The Best Hockey Skates for Beginners.
- About the Author
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Born in Madelia, MN, to a now 5-generation Minnesota family, Ryan’s MN roots go deep.
A painter by day, Ryan founded Life in Minnesota in 2013 with his wife Kelly to chronicle their musings on everything Minnesota. Ryan and Kelly are raising their 7 kiddos in Maple Grove, MN.
When he’s not shuttling his kids around to hockey practice, you might find him in the shop working on his leatherwork. Undoubtedly, there will be a family trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area every summer, and of course weekends at Grandpa’s cabin up north in the summer.