Racket guide
How to choose the right stick?
Choose a stick that will take your game to the next level.
Choosing the right ice hockey stick is not just about looks. Explore Mailapiste's expert guide and learn how stiffness, kick point, blade pattern, weight, and materials affect play. With these tips, you'll find a stick that feels right from the very first shift.
How to choose the right ice hockey stick
Choosing the right ice hockey stick affects everything in your game – shooting, passing, puck handling, and overall feel. The right stick isn't necessarily the most expensive one, but rather one that matches your playing style and characteristics.
In this guide, we'll go through the most important factors influencing stick selection: stiffness (flex), kick point, blade pattern, length, and materials. As examples, we'll use the KYC Hockey and Pro Blackout sticks available in Mailapiste's selection.
1. Stick stiffness (Flex)
Flex indicates how much the stick shaft bends during a shot. The correct stiffness helps utilize the stick's features in the best possible way.
A softer stick bends more easily, which helps load a shot and is especially suitable for quick wrist shots. A stiffer stick, on the other hand, requires more force but offers efficient energy transfer for players who shoot hard.
Recommended flex
Player weight Recommended flex
20-40 kg 20-40 Flex
40- 50 kg 40–50 Flex
50–70 kg 55–70 Flex
70–85 kg 75–85 Flex
85–100+ kg 90–110 Flex
Mailapiste's tips
Shortening the stick increases stiffness by approximately 3–5 flex for every inch (2.5cm) cut.
Junior and Intermediate sticks are designed for young and growing players.
Many top players also use a slightly softer flex for a quicker release.
2. Kick Point – where does the shot get its power?
The kick point refers to the spot where the stick bends the most during a shot. It affects how quickly energy is transferred to the puck.
Low Kick
Bends closer to the blade.
Suitable for you if:
you take a lot of wrist shots
you play as a forward
you value a quick release
Example: KYC Skyline Pro 2
Mid Kick
Bends more from the middle of the shaft.
Suitable for you if:
you take a lot of slapshots
you shoot from the point
you want maximum power
Example: KYC Phantom X Pro 2
Hybrid Kick
Combines the characteristics of Low and Mid Kick.
Suitable for almost all players who want a versatile stick.
Example: Custom sticks
3. Blade patterns
The blade pattern significantly affects shooting, passing, and puck handling.
Mailapiste's selection uses KYC's own nomenclature.
K28
Corresponds to the well-known P28 blade pattern.
Fast wrist shots
Easy to lift the puck
Popular with goal scorers
K29
Corresponds to the P92/P29 blade pattern.
Extremely versatile
Excellent for passing
Suitable for almost all players
K90TM
Corresponds to the popular P90TM blade pattern.
Combines the P28 toe and P92 heel
Excellent combination of shooting and control
Has rapidly gained popularity among professionals as well
If you don't know what to choose, K29 is a safe option for almost every player.
4. Stick shaft and grip
The shape of the shaft affects how the stick feels in your hand.
A rounder shaft feels softer.
A squarer shaft provides a greater sense of control.
Ergonomic design improves grip and shooting.
Surface options include:
Matte = Hands move easily.
Grip = Better hold for powerful shots.
Ultimately, what feels most natural in your hand is the most important.
5. Materials and weight
Modern top-tier sticks are made from high-quality carbon fiber, which makes the stick light and stiff.
Generally, they can be divided into three categories:
Basic models – durable and slightly heavier.
Mid-range – lighter construction and better feel.
High-end sticks – very light and efficient.
For example, KYC Skyline Pro 2 and Phantom X Pro 2 utilize a high-end carbon fiber construction, while Pro Blackout offers excellent performance at a very competitive price.
Remember that the lightest stick is not always the best option. Durability and your playing style are more important.
6. Correct stick length
As a general guideline, with skates on, the stick should reach between your chin and nose.
Chin height → better puck handling
Between chin and nose → most versatile option
Nose level → more reach and power
Also remember that shortening the stick increases flex.
7. Price ranges
Hobbyist sticks
Approximately 90–150 €
A good choice for occasional playing.
Mid-range
160–220 €
Lighter construction and better feel.
High-end sticks
220 €+
Very light construction, top-tier materials, and maximum performance.
At Mailapiste, you'll find options for all price ranges without paying extra just for a brand name.
8. Do you need help with your choice?
If you're unsure which stick is right for you, we're happy to help.
Tell us, for example:
age
height
weight
playing position
your current stick
your favorite blade
We will recommend the most suitable KYC Hockey or Pro Blackout stick for you.
9. Summary
Choose flex according to your strength.
Choose kick point according to your shooting style.
Choose blade pattern based on your playing style.
Don't just look at the price – suitability is the most important thing.