In hockey, the slapshot is one of the most powerful and thrilling weapons in a player’s offensive arsenal. Whether you’re aiming for the top corner from the point or sending a rocket toward the net from the faceoff circle, your stick’s flex can dramatically impact the power, speed, and accuracy of your shot. Understanding how stick flex works and how to choose the right one for your style and build can be the difference between a mediocre slapshot and a game-changing one. 

This article will break down how different flex ratings affect your slapshot and provide insight into how to choose the right stick flex based on your height, weight, and shooting style.

What Is Stick Flex?

Stick flex refers to the amount of bend or give a stick has when force is applied. It’s measured in a numerical rating, typically ranging from 40 to 110 (though pro players sometimes use higher or lower custom flex ratings). A stick with a flex rating of 85, for example, requires 85 pounds of force to bend one inch.

The flex rating impacts how much energy is stored in the stick when shooting. A lower flex (softer stick) bends more easily, allowing players to generate power even with less force. Conversely, a higher flex (stiffer stick) requires more force to bend but can offer more stability and precision for players with strong shots.

The Relationship Between Stick Flex and Slapshot Power

When it comes to slapshots, your stick’s flex plays a critical role in how much energy you can transfer into the shot. Here’s how it works: when you wind up for a slapshot and make contact with the ice, your stick flexes as it presses against the surface. This flex creates stored energy in the shaft of the stick, which is then released into the puck as the stick snaps back to its original shape. This transfer of energy can give the puck incredible speed and velocity.

Low Flex: Maximizing Whip and Snap

A lower flex stick (such as 65 or 75 flex) bends more easily, providing a “whippier” feel. This is especially beneficial for players who are lighter or don’t put as much weight into their shots. The easier flex helps generate more whip, meaning you don’t have to apply as much force to achieve a powerful shot.

Advantages of a lower flex for slapshots:

– Quicker release: The puck leaves your stick faster due to the increased bend, which allows for a snappier shot.

– More energy transfer: For players who don’t have the weight or strength to flex a stiffer stick, a softer flex can still generate good power.

– Better for finesse shooters: If your slapshot relies more on accuracy and quickness than brute force, a lower flex can help you dial in a fast, accurate release without needing maximum strength.

However, a stick with too low a flex can result in loss of control for bigger players or those with powerful slapshots. The extra flex can make the stick feel “too soft,” leading to less precision when aiming.

High Flex: Maximum Stability and Power

A higher flex stick (like 100 or 110 flex) requires significantly more force to bend, making it a great option for stronger players or those who generate a lot of force with their slapshots. Players with a harder shot benefit from this stiffness because it provides more stability and control when transferring energy to the puck.

Advantages of a higher flex for slapshots:

– Increased stability: The stiffer stick provides more control, especially when you’re shooting with maximum power. This can improve shot accuracy.

– More power potential: For players who can handle the stiffer flex, the additional stored energy during the shot can generate more velocity and power.

– Better for bigger players: Heavier or more physically powerful players benefit from a stiffer flex because it allows them to fully harness their strength, ensuring the stick remains solid and doesn’t feel “too soft” during hard shots or passes. This added stiffness helps them transfer maximum energy into their shots without sacrificing control.

However, a stick that’s too stiff can be difficult to load, meaning players who aren’t strong enough to fully flex the stick won’t be able to store and transfer as much energy into their shots.

Finding the Right Flex for You

Now that we’ve explored the benefits and drawbacks of different flex ratings, how do you choose the right one for your game? Several factors come into play, including your height, weight, and shooting style.

Height and Stick Flex

Taller players often need stiffer sticks because longer sticks naturally flex more when shooting. For example, if you’re 6’3″ and using a 65 flex stick, it may feel too soft and whippy. Conversely, a shorter player may struggle to flex a stiffer stick because they can’t generate the same leverage.

A good rule of thumb: The taller you are, the stiffer your stick should be to accommodate the additional length of your stick and your reach.

Weight and Stick Flex

Your body weight plays a significant role in how much force you can apply to your stick. Heavier players typically generate more force, making a higher flex more appropriate, while lighter players might find lower flexes easier to manage.

For example, a player who weighs 200 pounds will naturally be able to apply more pressure to their stick than someone who weighs 150 pounds, allowing them to load up a stiffer stick more effectively.

Shooting Style and Stick Flex

How you shoot also affects which flex is best for you. 

– Power shooters: If you rely on pure power to blast pucks through goalies, a stiffer stick is often the way to go. The higher flex allows you to transfer more energy into the shot, resulting in harder, faster slapshots. Players like Shea Weber or Zdeno Chara are known for using higher flex sticks because their shots demand maximum power and stability.

– Quick release shooters: If your slapshot depends more on quickness and deception, a lower flex will allow for a faster release. Players who take more snap shots or wrist shots often prefer a softer flex because it helps them get the puck off their stick quickly.

Flex Recommendations by Height and Weight

While personal preference always plays a role, here’s a general guide to selecting the right flex based on your weight:

– Below 100 lbs: 40–50 flex

– 100–140 lbs: 50–60 flex

– 140–160 lbs: 65–75 flex

– 160–180 lbs: 75–85 flex

– 180–200 lbs: 85–95 flex

– 200 lbs and above: 100+ flex

Remember, these are guidelines, and experimenting with different flexes will help you find the right balance of power and control for your slapshot.

Adjusting for Stick Length

One critical aspect to keep in mind: Cutting your stick short increases its stiffness. For every inch you cut from the shaft, the stick’s flex will increase by about 3 to 5 units. For instance, an 85 flex stick that’s cut down by two inches will feel more like a 95 flex. Make sure to account for this when choosing your flex, especially if you frequently shorten your sticks.

Maximizing Your Slapshot with the Right Flex

In the end, the right stick flex can help you unlock the full potential of your slapshot. Whether you’re looking for maximum power or a quick, snappy release, selecting the right flex based on your height, weight, and shooting style is crucial. Remember, there’s no “one size fits all” approach, and experimenting with different flexes is part of the process of improving your shot. Once you dial in the right flex, you’ll notice a significant boost in shot power, speed, and accuracy—putting you in the best position to light the lamp from anywhere on the ice.