Ever see a young player on the ice, zipping around with incredible speed and a powerful shot? That awesome energy often starts with the right equipment, and for a budding hockey star, nothing is more important than their hockey stick. But picking out that perfect stick for your young athlete can feel like a real puzzle, can’t it?
There are so many sticks out there, and it’s tough to know which one will help your child play their best. You want a stick that feels good in their hands, helps them control the puck, and gives them a strong shot, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. Plus, you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a stick that isn’t right for them.
This guide is here to make that decision much easier! We’ll break down exactly what to look for in a youth hockey stick, from the best materials to how to get the right length and flex. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a stick that will boost your child’s game and get them excited to hit the ice.
Our Top 5 Hockey Sticks For Youth Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hockey Sticks For Youth Detailed Reviews
1. Franklin Sports NHL Youth Street Hockey Starter Set
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready for some backyard fun with the Franklin Sports NHL Youth Street Hockey Starter Set! This set is designed to introduce young hockey fans to the excitement of the game in a safe and accessible way. It’s a fantastic way to encourage active play and develop basic hockey skills.
What We Like:
- This set is perfect for beginners. It helps kids learn the basics of hockey for the first time.
- The sticks are built tough! They use flexible and durable ABS plastic. This means they can handle playing on pavement without breaking easily.
- It encourages kids to get outside and play. The set comes with two sticks for one-on-one games, promoting active fun.
- Both right and left-handed players can use the sticks. The straight blade design makes it easy for everyone to learn.
- The set includes two 37-inch junior hockey sticks and one official size 65mm low density street hockey ball. Everything you need to start playing right away!
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable for street play, the plastic sticks might not hold up to more intense play or being used on rougher surfaces.
- For very young children, the 37-inch sticks might be a bit long. Shorter options could be a nice addition.
This starter set is a fantastic way to get your kids active and introduce them to a popular sport. It offers a great balance of fun and skill development for aspiring young hockey players.
2. Franklin Sports Street Hockey Sticks – Youth Street Hockey Stick – Wood and Fiberglass Shaft – ABS Blade – 40″ Right Handed
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to hit the pavement and dominate the street hockey game with the Franklin Sports Youth Street Hockey Stick! This stick is built for young players looking to improve their skills. It combines a strong wood and fiberglass shaft with a tough ABS blade, making it a reliable choice for hours of fun and practice. The 40-inch size and right-handed design are perfect for many young athletes.
What We Like:
- The multi-ply wood shaft is made from high-density poplar and birch. It’s durable and flexible, giving players a comfortable feel. This helps them get better at the game.
- The fused construction between the blade and shaft feels sleek. This improved playability helps players train with confidence.
- The rigid ABS blade provides a firm feel. This gives players optimized control and agility, which is a real training edge.
- The lightweight design and balanced weight distribution help players release shots and passes faster. They are not held back by a heavy stick.
- This stick is officially licensed by the NHL for street hockey play. It’s designed to work with 2 5/8″ street hockey balls.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ABS blade offers great control, some younger players might find it a bit stiff for very advanced stickhandling.
- The 40-inch length is great for many, but players at the very top or bottom of the recommended age range might want slightly different sizing options.
This Franklin Sports street hockey stick offers a fantastic blend of durability and performance for young players. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to improve their street hockey game.
3. Franklin Sports NHL 1090 Phantom Street Hockey Stick – Kids Street Hockey Stick – 40″ – Right Handed
Rating: 8.8/10
The Franklin Sports NHL 1090 Phantom Street Hockey Stick is built for young players ready to hit the pavement and play some street hockey. This 40-inch stick is designed for right-handed shooters and is officially licensed by the NHL, meaning it’s ready for official street hockey games with standard street hockey balls. It’s a great tool for kids to develop their hockey skills and have fun outdoors.
What We Like:
- The multi-ply wood shaft is lightweight. This helps young players move faster and be more agile on the street.
- The pre-curved ABS blade is rigid. It helps players shoot the puck more accurately.
- It’s designed with training mode in mind. This helps kids practice and get better at the basic moves of hockey.
- It’s an officially licensed NHL street hockey stick. This means it’s made for street hockey and works with 2 5/8″ street hockey balls.
- The stick is the perfect size at 40 inches for many young players.
What Could Be Improved:
- The wood shaft, while lightweight, might not be as durable as composite sticks for very rough play.
- The curve is specifically for right-handed shots. Left-handed players will need a different stick.
- While great for practice, advanced players might eventually want a stick with more advanced features.
Overall, the Franklin Sports NHL 1090 Phantom Street Hockey Stick offers a solid introduction to street hockey for young players. It’s a well-made stick that helps kids learn and enjoy the game.
4. Franklin Sports NHL Youth Street Hockey Stick – Power 1040 Kids Outdoor Street Hockey Sticks – 48″ Inch Youth Junior Hockey Stick for Kids – Right Handed Hockey Stick – Wood/Fiberglass Shaft – Righty
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to hit the pavement with the Franklin Sports NHL Power 1040 Youth Street Hockey Stick! This stick is built tough for outdoor fun. It’s perfect for young players looking to improve their game on any street hockey surface. The official NHL license means you’re playing with quality gear. This 48-inch right-handed stick is designed for kids ready to play.
What We Like:
- It’s built tough for outdoor street hockey.
- The fused blade gives you a firm feel and total control.
- It’s lightweight, helping you move faster and be more agile.
- The wood and ABS construction makes it durable for rough play.
- It’s great for practicing skills or playing in games.
- It’s officially licensed by the NHL for street hockey.
What Could Be Improved:
- Currently only available for right-handed players.
- The 48-inch size might be too short for some older or taller youth players.
This stick offers a fantastic way for kids to enjoy street hockey. It’s a solid choice for developing skills and having a blast outdoors.
5. Franklin Sports Power X Street Hockey Stick
Rating: 9.3/10
The Franklin Sports Power X Street Hockey Stick brings pro-level performance to your street hockey games. It’s built tough and designed for speed, helping you dominate the game.
What We Like:
- The multi-ply wood shaft feels strong. It helps you shoot hard wrist and slap shots. You get a great feel for the ball or puck.
- The durable blade reacts quickly. Its high-impact stiff fiber laminate gives you a competitive edge.
- It’s a one-piece construction. This makes it super strong and lasts a long time.
- The stick is lightweight and balanced. This gives you better hand control. You can play your best in any game.
- It’s officially licensed by the NHL for street hockey. It works great with 2 5/8″ street hockey balls.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for street hockey, it might not be ideal for intense ice hockey.
- The one-piece construction, while durable, means you can’t replace parts if they break.
This stick helps you command the game, whether you’re on the street or imagining yourself on the ice. It’s a fantastic choice for any serious street hockey player.
Choosing the Right Hockey Stick for Young Players
Picking the perfect hockey stick for your young star is a big deal. The right stick helps them learn, improve, and have more fun on the ice. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
Key Features to Consider
When you’re shopping for a youth hockey stick, keep these important features in mind.
Length
A stick’s length is super important. It should reach your child’s chin when they’re wearing skates. If it’s too long, they’ll have trouble controlling the puck. If it’s too short, they’ll have to bend too much. You can always cut a stick shorter, but you can’t make it longer. So, err on the side of slightly long.
Flex
Flex is how much the stick bends when you shoot. Younger players need a softer flex. This means the stick bends more easily, helping them get more power behind their shots. The flex rating is usually printed on the stick. Look for lower numbers for younger players.
Curve and Lie
The curve is the bend in the blade. Different curves help with different types of shots. For beginners, a mild curve is usually best. It helps with both shooting and stickhandling. The lie is the angle of the blade when the stick is flat on the ice. A mid-lie angle is good for most young players.
Weight
Lighter sticks are easier for young players to control. They can swing them faster and handle the puck with more ease. As kids get stronger, they can use slightly heavier sticks.
Important Materials
Hockey sticks come in different materials. Each has its own pros and cons.
Wood Sticks
Wood sticks are the most affordable. They are durable and forgiving, which is great for beginners. However, they are heavier and don’t offer as much “feel” for the puck as composite sticks.
Composite Sticks
Composite sticks are made from materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. They are much lighter and stronger than wood. This makes them easier to swing and shoot with. They also offer better puck feel, meaning players can sense the puck better on their blade. These sticks are more expensive.
Hybrid Sticks
Some sticks are a mix of wood and composite. These can offer a good balance of price and performance. They are often lighter than pure wood sticks but not as expensive as full composite ones.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a stick better or worse for a young player.
Durability
A good youth stick should be able to withstand some bumps and scrapes. Cheaper sticks might break more easily. Look for sticks that are built to last, especially if your child plays often.
Weight-to-Strength Ratio
The best sticks are light but still strong. This allows for quick movements and powerful shots without the stick breaking. High-quality composite sticks usually excel here.
Brand Reputation
Well-known hockey brands often make reliable equipment. They invest in research and development to create sticks that perform well for different skill levels.
User Experience and Use Cases
How a stick feels and performs is what really matters.
Beginners
For a first-time player, a wood or entry-level composite stick is ideal. These are forgiving and help build fundamental skills. They allow kids to focus on learning the game without fighting a heavy or stiff stick.
Developing Players
As a player gets better, they might want a lighter composite stick. This helps them shoot harder and handle the puck more quickly. The improved feel of composite sticks can also help them develop more advanced stickhandling skills.
Practice vs. Game Sticks
Some parents buy a less expensive stick for practice and a higher-quality one for games. This protects the more expensive stick from unnecessary wear and tear during practice drills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Youth Hockey Sticks
Q: How do I know if a hockey stick is the right length for my child?
A: When your child is wearing their skates, the top of the stick should reach their chin. If the stick is too long, it can be hard to control. If it’s too short, they will have to bend down too much.
Q: What does “flex” mean on a hockey stick?
A: Flex is how much the stick bends when a player shoots. Younger players need a lower flex number, which means the stick bends more easily. This helps them get more power into their shots.
Q: Should I buy a wood or composite stick for my child?
A: Wood sticks are cheaper and good for beginners. Composite sticks are lighter and offer better control, but they cost more. Many younger players start with wood and move to composite as they improve.
Q: How important is the curve of the blade?
A: The curve helps with shooting and stickhandling. For beginners, a mild curve is usually best because it helps with both. More advanced players might choose specific curves for different shots.
Q: Can I cut a hockey stick to make it shorter?
A: Yes, you can cut a hockey stick to make it shorter. It’s usually best to cut it from the bottom end. Remember, you can always cut more off, but you can’t add it back.
Q: What is a good flex number for a 7-year-old?
A: For a 7-year-old, a flex between 20 and 30 is usually a good starting point. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for weight and height.
Q: How much should a youth hockey stick cost?
A: Youth hockey sticks can range from $20 for a basic wood stick to over $100 for a high-quality composite stick. For beginners, a stick in the $30-$60 range is often a good investment.
Q: My child is getting stronger. Should I get them a stiffer stick?
A: Yes, as your child gets stronger and can put more force into their shots, you can consider a stick with a higher flex number (stiffer). This will allow them to get more power from their shot.
Q: What is “puck feel”?
A: Puck feel is how well a player can sense the puck on their stick blade. Composite sticks generally offer better puck feel, which helps players with stickhandling and control.
Q: Where can I buy youth hockey sticks?
A: You can buy youth hockey sticks at sporting goods stores, specialty hockey shops, and online retailers. Trying sticks on in person can be helpful for finding the right fit.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.