Hockey for beginners
If you’re new to the game -- welcome! We can help you find the gear you need to get started in your first hockey league. On SidelineSwap, you can find youth hockey sticks in a range of top brands; from Bauer, to CCM, or even Warrior and Easton, we have new and used hockey sticks that will fit any player’s budget. First things first: what gear do you need before you hop on the ice?
Tips for buying a hockey stick
There are a few specific things you need to take into consideration when you buy a hockey stick. Important sticks specs include flex, curve, lie and stick length.
- Flex: a stick’s “flex” refers to how flexible or stiff a hockey stick is when you apply force. Specifically, flex is a measure of how many pounds of force are required to flex a hockey stick one inch.
- Curve: also called “blade pattern,” curve refers to how much bend there is in a stick’s blade. Each manufacturer has a set list of stock curves. Different types of curve help with different aspects of your game. Curves usually fall into one of three main categories: heel curve, toe curve or mid curve. A toe curve, for example, is typically pretty straight throughout the heel and midsection of the blade, and has most of its bend concentrated at the tip -- or toe -- of the blade. Toe curves are great for adding speed behind your shot, and providing some additional lift.
- Lie: indicated by a number usually ranging from 4-7, stick lie refers to the angle of your shaft in relation to your blade when you have your blade laying flat against the ice. For beginners, we recommend just staying around the middle -- usually a lie 5. As a general rule of thumb, usually shorter sticks require a higher lie, whereas longer sticks tend to have lower lies.
- Length: if you’re wondering what size hockey stick to buy, start by determining your height while you’re wearing hockey skates. For beginners, we recommend a hockey stick that rests just under your chin when you’re wearing skates. More advanced players may opt for shorter or longer shafts, depending on their playing style.
What are the most popular hockey sticks?
Some of the top hockey stick brands include Bauer, CCM, and Warrior. Here are a few specific models -- particularly for advanced players -- that we recommend checking out.
- Bauer Supreme 2S Pro: designed on the principles of power and durability, the 2S is great for heavy hitters who really lean into their shots.
- Bauer Nexus 2N Pro: a favorite of NHL stars, the 2N optimizes control and feel, and offers power behind your shot while being super lightweight.
- Bauer 1X Lite: a lightweight option that provides a quick release.
- CCM Jetspeed: the Jetspeed has a new hybrid kick point, which allows for increased power and control and a quick release on your shots.
- CCM SuperTacks AS1: the newest twig from the SuperTacks line prioritizes power; its redesign will allow you to generate maximum power behind your shot
- CCM Ribcor Trigger 3D PMT: if your goal is to get your shot off as quick as possible, look no further.
- Warrior Alpha QX: this stick is manufactured to maintain torsional stiffness during loading and releasing, which helps improve the accuracy of your shots.
- Warrior Covert QRL: easy to load up and snap forward with a quick release, making for optimal energy transfer.
How to size hockey skates
Next up on the shopping list: hockey skates. Be sure to consult the sizing chart from the manufacturer of skates you’re looking to buy. Hockey skates should have a snug fit, but shouldn’t be too tight. If your skates are too big, you run the risk of getting blisters; in addition, you’ll sacrifice stability and wind up skating with incorrect form. As a general rule of thumb, your hockey skate size should be around 1-1.5 sizes smaller than your street shoes. We’ve got hockey skates ranging in size, from youth hockey skates to senior hockey skates.
Hockey helmet sizing
Today, all hockey players -- from the youth level to the collegiate and professional levels -- are required to wear helmets. We carry youth hockey helmets as well as helmets for elite level players. Popular hockey helmet brands include Bauer and CCM. Specifically, we’d recommend checking out the Bauer Re-Akt or the CCM FitLite helmet. The correct way to size a hockey helmet is to measure the circumference of your head. Once you determine this measurement, consult the sizing chart of the manufacturer you’re interested in. Your helmet should feel snug, but not too tight. If it rattles when you shake your head, it’s too loose -- adjust it so that it’s tighter, or try a smaller size.
How to size hockey gloves
Hockey glove sizes are based on single inch measurements, such as 13”, 14” and 15”. To find your size, measure the distance from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger and multiply the measurement (in inches) by two. Your wrist should be fully covered by the cuff of the glove and your fingertips shouldn't protrude past the end of the glove’s fingertips. Gloves that are too small won't offer you adequate protection, while gloves that are too large will inhibit mobility. Youth hockey gloves are sized in a similar way - a 10" glove, for example, is suitable for children between the ages of 8 and 11. Check out hockey gloves from CCM, Bauer and Reebok on SidelineSwap.
The importance of protective gear
Especially for beginners, it’s crucial to be fully protected when you’re out on the ice. Hockey is a rough sport. Players need properly fitted shoulder pads, elbow pads and shin pads to stay safe during practices and games. For youth players, we strongly recommend wearing a neck guard as well to protect against errant skates and wild sticks. You can find protective hockey gear from Bauer, CCM, Easton and other brands on our site. Popular models of hockey pads include Bauer’s Vapor 1X shoulder pads and elbow pads, or the Supreme 1S shoulder and elbow pads. CCM’s Jetspeed FT1 pads offer a great lightweight option. For comfortable, pro-level protection, consider checking out the CCM SuperTacks line of pads.
