In the fast-paced, unpredictable world of ice hockey, every twist and turn can change the game—and that includes how a goalie holds their stick.
One of the more unique variations in the crease is the full right goalie setup. While most fans and players are familiar with the typical left-hand glove, a full right configuration flips the script—literally—and opens a fascinating world of alternate angles, reflex adjustments, and gear challenges.
So, whether you’re an up-and-coming netminder, a sharp-eyed coach, or just a casual observer who’s wondering, “Why’s that guy wearing the glove on the other hand?”, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding the Full Right Goalie Setup
Let’s start with the basics: what is a full right goalie?
A full right goalie in hockey is someone who wears the goalie glove on their right hand and holds the goalie stick in their left hand. This is the reverse of what most goaltenders do—traditionally, the glove is worn on the left and the stick is in the right.
This setup isn’t just for show—it’s often the more natural fit for left-handed shooters, who prefer catching with their dominant hand. It can also help with better control when passing or poke-checking from certain angles. If you’ve ever picked up a stick and thought, “This just doesn’t feel right,” you might be one of those players who should try going full right.
Why Is It Less Common?
The truth is that the hockey world has a standard “default setting” when it comes to goalie training and gear. From youth leagues to the pros, most goalie drills, trainings, and even equipment are designed with left-glove goalies in mind. That makes the full right stance less visible—and less common. But don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s less effective.
If anything, being a right goalie is like being the wildcard at the poker table. Shooters might need that extra split-second to adjust, and in hockey, every split-second counts.
How Full Right Goalie Equipment Differs
This is where things get technical—but in a good way. A full right goalie setup means reversing your gear:
- Goalie glove goes on the right hand
- Blocker goes on the left
- Stick stays in the left hand
Now, here’s the kicker: finding gear in this configuration can become a bit of a scavenger hunt. Most shops carry far more inventory for standard setups, so full right gear can be harder to come by—and in some cases, it may even need to be custom ordered.
Still, you’re not totally on your own. Trusted brands like Bauer and CCM offer full right options across their lines. At Pro Stock Hockey, we stock high-quality, pro-level hockey goalie equipment, including:
Even if you have to dig a little deeper or wait a bit longer for the right piece, finding gear that fits your hand dominance and playing style is worth every minute. It can be the difference between awkward saves and instinctive reactions that make highlight reels.
Pros and Cons of the Full Right Setup
Every setup in hockey comes with its own perks and quirks, and the full right stance is no exception. It may not be the most common path, but it can offer a tactical edge—and a fresh way to look at the crease.
Here’s how it shakes out.
The Pros
1. Surprise Factor: Most shooters are trained to go glove side—on the left. When a goalie flips the script, it can mess with shot selection and rhythm. For you, that means more saves and fewer rebounds.
2. Natural Fit for Southpaws: If you’re a left-handed person, the full right setup might actually give you better glove coordination and puck control. That’s a win-win.
3. Angle Manipulation: Believe it or not, flipping your gear alters your stance slightly, which can throw off visual targeting for shooters. Even a few degrees can make a difference at high speeds.
The Cons
1. Gear Hunting: As we mentioned earlier, finding goalie equipment for full right setups isn’t always easy. You’ll need to be a bit more resourceful—and possibly patient.
2. Coaching Curve: Not every goalie coach is used to training full right players. That means some drills may need adapting, and your development path might look a little different.
3. Glove Side Targeting: Once players catch on that you’re a right goalie, they may start hammering your glove side. Stay ready!
Despite these hurdles, many full right goalies find that with the right practice, technique, and mindset, they can turn those “cons” into just another part of their game prep. In fact, what starts as a challenge often becomes a secret weapon once you’re confident and consistent.
How to Decide If Full Right Is Right for You
Thinking about trying out the full right stance? Here’s how to figure it out:
- Try Both Styles in Practice: There’s no substitute for time on the ice. If you’re unsure which hand feels better for the glove, rotate between styles during training sessions and see what sticks (pun intended).
- Talk to Your Coach: Coaches can offer objective insight into your posture, glove reach, and reaction patterns. Don’t be afraid to ask them to tailor drills or give feedback on both setups.
- Focus on Confidence: Ultimately, the “best” configuration is the one that makes you feel ready to face every slapshot, breakaway, or one-timer with confidence.
Whether you’re new to the game or just shaking things up, the decision to go full right should come down to what feels best—not what’s most common.
Famous Full Right Goalies in the NHL
Full right isn’t only for the rec league; some of the NHL’s top goaltenders have made waves with the full right configuration.
- Tom Barrasso – Two-time Stanley Cup champ and U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer, Barrasso made his mark with the Penguins using a full right stance.
- Steve Mason – The 2009 Calder Trophy winner showed off how clean, technical play could thrive in a full right setup.
- Cory Schneider – Known for his agility and puck-tracking ability, Schneider also helped normalize the setup.
- Eric Comrie – One of the modern NHL goalies keeping the full right tradition alive today.
These goalies prove that gear setup doesn’t determine your ceiling—your dedication, training, and mindset do. Watch a few of their highlights and you’ll see just how seamless and effective the full right approach can be at the highest level.
Embrace Your Style
At the end of the day, being a hockey goalie is about owning your natural instincts, building confidence in your technique, and crafting a game style that feels like second nature.
The hockey world thrives on diversity—different play styles, gear preferences, and skill sets are what make the game so dynamic. If a full right stance helps you make quicker saves, stay poised under pressure, and control the puck with confidence, then it might be exactly the edge you need.
Need help finding the right gear? We’ve got a deep bench of goalie equipment to support your journey—whichever side of the crease you guard.
