When you reach more-competitive levels of play, it’s important that your equipment feels like an extension of yourself. You want to have faith that your stick will handle the puck the way you expect it to if you want to have success on the ice. This is why most players are very particular about the type of stick they use.
One of the most important aspects when choosing a stick is its kick point, also known as the flex point. This is the area of the shaft that bends when shooting or passing the puck. It serves as the fulcrum and helps transfer power from the player into the puck. A stick’s kick point can be low, middle, high or even hybrid. Each type comes with distinct qualities and advantages. Read on for more information about hockey stick kick points explained so you can make the best choice for your game.
Low Kick Point
A low kick point on a hockey stick means the stick flexes closer to the blade, with the upper section remaining mostly stiff. This helps you get a quick release on the puck and is popular among forwards who tend to attack closer to the net. The faster release, however, comes with a trade-off. Because less of the stick is contributing energy, slap shots are typically weaker. This means lower may be the best kick point for wrist shots when you need to get shots off as fast as possible.
High Kick Point
In general, a high kick point on a hockey stick comes with a higher flex number. This means these sticks tend to be tougher to manipulate. Owing to their ability to transfer more power from the player to the puck, these sticks tend to be better for slap shots taken at a distance. In general, this is the best kick point for defensemen because it helps them clear the puck out of their end.
Mid Kick Point
Located in the center, a mid kick point for a hockey stick fits a more-balanced style of play. These are the most common kick points on a hockey stick and for good reason. It’s easy to get the hang of no matter what style of play you prefer, making it suitable for both forwards and defensemen. A semi-quick release and durable construction provide the best of both worlds for any style of play.
What is a Hybrid Kick Point?
A hybrid kick point on a hockey stick is located between where the mid and low kick points would be. Not surprisingly, this offers a combination between the two, with a quicker release akin to the low point but still carrying some of the power typically found in a low kick point. This tends to be chosen by players who really know what they want to fit best with their style of play, so it’s not as common as other types.
Why Shop ProStockHockey.com?
Now that you understand what a kick point on a hockey stick is and what it could mean for your game, it’s time to move on to our
hockey stick flex guide to learn about flex numbers. The experts here at ProStockHockey.com know this equipment inside and out, and we can help you find the gear that makes the most sense for your style of play. We source only the highest-quality gear straight from the professional locker rooms, including all kick point styles and specifications used by the elite players in the game today.
If you know what attributes you want from your next twig, check out our full listing of
hockey sticks for sale.
