This is the ultimate beer league flex rating video to help you understand what flex you should be using and how you should be tweaking it based on some of the information I present.
Great video .. my usual technique was to see what Amanda Kessel's brother used, since he likes hotdogs and I like hotdogs, it seemed like it'd be a good fit.
2nd video i watched in the past 24 hours, and you are the first person that has made me glad i subscribed to their channel. You not only say something, but you explain and demonstrate it (something that others refuse to do for whatever reason). Some things i understand better with visuals while it's being explained. I don’t understand why others can't do the same.
All I could find was reviews on CCM and Bauer saying that every stick was perfect. Your review on the Alpha LX Pro is what I needed to go for it- and has been the best decision! Thank you for the honest reviews and videos like this- keep them coming!
Solid advice and a unique perspective on flex vs. kickpoint vs. performance vs. shot types. As for the synthetic ice, I agree and it's something you really need to remember when transfering your practice off ice to the ice; a player on my team recently mentioned this particular issue and it's keeping him from doing more off ice. Perhaps it's simply a matter of getting a better pad or otherwise coating it with silicone or similar. As for participating in the national championship then .. yeah, we didn't leave the ol' irish pub before 03:30 PM and thus played w. massive hangovers for 3 games straight the day after - managed to beat the rival team to that's something. Fun was had tho' and next year, it's going to be all different .. stay tuned ;)
Awesome vid - I seem to do well with most sticks I use (hand me downs from my brother). I can’t afford new sticks every 6 months, but now I’m excited to tailor it to my style which is passing / wristers. Thank you!!!
Wow this explains so much, i recently got back into hockey and got a low kick point stick with a 75 flex just cuz it was cheap. But after a month or so of just shooting pucks at the ODR i noticed my best shot is just the quick Austin Mathew’s style snapshot.
Great video! I am always trying to maximize my potential shooting power. As I’m aging I’m losing speed, so really trying to take advantage of my hard shot. I recently picked up an Alpha DX 75 W03MAX to try a hybrid, where I was using a Covert Pro QR 85 W88. I’m trying to get more lift on my shots. Problem is, I’m a dynamic skater with a shoot first mentality, but I’m creative out of the back and a good defenseman, so my captain fills me in as a forward or a D depending on need. I have a booming slapper when I’m on D, but also a quick strike on loose pucks when I’m a forward. So I’m trying to maximize a little more flex on the quick releases, while utilizing the hybrid to generate more power on my hands down low when I’m in the back. I don’t know if this will work, just received today. First game Monday. I may end up having to call this an all purpose stick and finding a good low kick with low flex when I’m called to play up top, and a hybrid with a higher flex when I’m a defenseman. I already bring 2 sticks to the game in case, I was just hoping this worked out well.
Excellent video Justin! Totally true that a lot of guys have absolutely no clue about the proper flex and kickpoint for sticks and for their shooting style and this completely covers all of that. Talking about it and providing an on-ice demo also helps a lot, so people can understand it visually as well. P.S. you didn't tell us how your playoffs went after 30 days intense training and preparation for it
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews nice! Good luck on your game! And thanks for the kind words, but it's awesome to see a fellow Canadian who truly is humble, sincere, and genuine, and really doing a service to "average" guys play hockey.
@@owenator I’ll do a short to discuss the playoffs and results of the fitness journey. I’m gonna try and utilize those a bit more when things in the works and updates. Glad you see it that way really trying to just help and carve that beer league niche. Things are happening too. I was shown the new ccm stick line yesterday because of this channel. It’s insane so glad people starting to see what I’m bringing and want my thoughts which is cool. Probably do a short on that too haha
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews awesome! Might have to invest in some GoPros in the future for your games and just ask permission from the league + opposing teams....can't really see their faces anyways, just in case there's some pushback. I've got the GoPro 8 and it's extremely reliable/dependable and without breaking the bank. That's awesome that your hard work is paying off! I knew it was inevitable, but a lot of the manufacturers are really looking to people actually making a difference. The "influencers" don't really do a good job of it anymore and I really need unbiased opinion and feedback on gear to make a better choice on my purchases - you're the only reason why I picked the Warrior LX Pro AND paid full price for it (they should thank you for it)!
@@owenator yah the go pro is a great idea. I could use one at drop in and stuff too. Winter is basically over and I do play some spring but not much as winter. Wife needs a break and holidays! So at drop in I could probably rock it no problem without issue. This spring/summer is kind of my planning season now since so much gear coming and I have a few longer term things that take time ( like skates) Glad I could help, that’s what’s important. This all came from that awhile back where I would watch reviews to decide on sticks etc and just be like I still don’t know if that helps lol I hear you on warrior and ccm they owe me on those sticks!! Just kidding lol. But hopefully they reach out one day. Just hope they get I will be honest!
I'm definitely a more of a power shooter too and I love my Jetspeed. It's one I got one clearance and it's 85 flex with a P88 curve but it's very consistent. I can get quick snap shots and my favorite the slap shot off too.
I’m struggling with the jet speed. I had to switch stick back with Easton went away. I loved my Easton sticks but now it seems I struggle to find one I like.
I’ve always loved the way 100 flex sticks feel. Just the responsiveness and reliability of them. I like having to work hard and lean into my shots. And I never have to worry about a stick flubbing up a one timer.
I accidently found my perfect setup with the Jetspeed FT2 85 flex. I had been using whatever stick was on sale primarily Bauer supreme/vapor and Warrior before this one and they were all just okay. Then I picked up the FT2 and it changed my whole game. Getting that perfect match just makes everything so much smoother and easier. It's starting to get a little beat up now so I just picked up an FT5 Pro and can't wait to get out and give it a shot!
Excellent video Justin! Totally true that a lot of guys have absolutely no clue about the proper flex and kickpoint for sticks and for their shooting style and this completely covers all of that. My question is I prefer bauer sticks and I play right wing and take snapshots mostly with my lower hand I little higher up the shaft, should I go with a bauer vapor stick with a lower flex? Cause im mostly a player who likes to focus on accuracy, feel, and getting the puck off my stick quicker.
Thanks. Yes for sure if you like bauers and that’s how you shoot then Vapor with a slightly lower flex will help with the hands up closer to the top the stick.
Interesting video. I would mention that stiffer sticks are better for passing and give a better feel of the puck. You mentioned choosing a stick based on playing style, but didn't mention how to make that decision. Also, I am fairly sure that cutting a stick does truly change it's flex (rather than just the leverage). Flex is a measure of how many pounds of force is required to deflect the stick by 1". Shorter beams deflect less easily than longer ones, so I'm almost certain that cutting does reduce the flex. Some sticks even have markings that indicate how the flex will change as you cut it down.
Best example of flex can be found in taking a a senior stick at 70 in a certain length and then taking an 55 and cutting it down to “70” although you generally are correct in saying the flex has changed by that definition, it plays completely different despite being both now “70” flex. The materials and stiffness profile are different. This was very noticed when I started going down in flex and cutting my sticks. I would get a 70 cut it to “85” and it played nothing like a stock 85. It was much easier to load still and felt softer despite being now “85” as lifted on the stick. Unsure on your passing comment that’s subjective. Passing is far easier now that I use a 70 not 85. But my shot has been significantly worse for power. Passing requires little effort and the stick does the work. I would argue passing is easier with less flex not more. The final problem with the beam analogy that everyone uses is let’s say you take a long 2x4. It required x amount of force to flex. Cut it and now requires more force correct? The problem is in relation to hockey sticks which have built is stiffness profiles. The 2x4 is same materials and will always be the same hardness, springiness etc. there is no 2x4 that’s 55 flex, then 65, then 70 etc. sticks are far more complicated than that. Throw in kick points, hand placement, and the flex discussion is not so simple anymore and that definition only works when the materials that make up a product in this case a 2x4 do not change properties. The stick construction of a 60 inch 50 flex and a 60 inch 105 flex are far different.
Good tip re synthetic ice/shooting pads: the added friction totally changes the loading pattern! I love low kick stick when I’m shooting in my garage, but I just can’t load it the same way on the ice unfortunately. I still didn’t really get from this vid how to determine what the right flex is, ie with all other things being equal (curve/length/kick point) how to figure out if my current flex is too low or too high?
It’s more moving it into the direction that works better based on the break down. In the end it won’t be perfect as can’t tweak like the pros. Depending on all those factors you can migrate in one direction. 85 ish works best for me based on those scenarios but I can use a 75 flex as well so it’s just finding that sweet spot. I can’t in the end say 85 is what you should use can only give you the ways I determined it was best for me where I settled. If you are settled somewhere just see if anything I mentioned is contradicting your flex. You use wristers, and low kicks and cut your stick down but you are rocking An 85 maybe means you’re to high etc
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews Your explanation was thorough and very confusing. It sounds to me like you're saying the same thing as try as many sticks as you can to figure out which works best for you. You have a ton of sticks. I think 1/2 your weight is a general rule of thumb and it's something concrete to go off of because your method is very confusing. I watched your video 5 times and I still don't know if my 85 flex True 7X or my 5X with 75 flex would be better. Both are mid kick sticks and I play the point in Beer League and I take clappers. When I was playing in college at UMD, I was using a, aluminum stick that was 100flex and I scored tons of goals but they were all wristers. I did not have a good clapper until I changed the flex down to 85 flex. I used to always have a problem lifting the puck up on a clapper but on my 85/75 flex sticks I have no problem lifting the puck up for the corners. I'm going to watch your video a few more times because maybe I missed somethings but I still don't know what flex I should be using. My clappers on the 85flex/75flex are nearly identical at 75mph but i'm also only 160lbs on the best days but I'm always 6'1...lol.
@@iHustleLXXXI all good my man it’s not an easy thing to explain! Here’s a summary. Lower flex=wristers, cutting your stick down, quick shots, low kick, shot style using the stick to flex like dragging shots out and toward your body where you need your stick to do the work “wrong foot” shooting. Higher flex=slap shots, loaded snap shots, “right leg” shooting power. In the end I can’t tell you to use 85 flex but I can tell you if some of those things check off your list more than others gravitate towards the low or high depending on how many boxes you check. Based on what you said your flex should gravitate higher and into the 80s. Also one thing I didn’t touch on and probably should of was stick tier. If you have a “lower end stick” it’s going to be harder to load. High end stick will be easier. I do gotta be honest how the F you use a 100 flex aluminum lol that would be crazy hard to load!
@@iHustleLXXXI also I have problems lifting pucks with low kick 85 flex sticks on slappers. Due to everything I mentioned. I go to 75 on low kick and I can lift it but lose power. Everything changes with flex!
Thanks, I’ve started playing around more with sticks I’m 200lbs /trigger 7 pro 80 flex/ normally shoot wristers and the occasional snap. I’m now wanting to try different flexes between many low to hybrid kick sticks but due to lack of skill it’s hard to find what’s ideal.
Justin great video again ,need your advice on elbow pads 😳my 1s Bauer elbow pads are falling apart , just wanted to know how your ft4 elbows are holding up RUDDSY
Hey Ruddsy! Oh man elbows are so tough. Almost all of em suck lol jk. My ft4 pros are holding up well but if you have 1s I would go 2spro so things don’t change much I enjoyed the supreme series over the years much more than the Vapor. Switching brands if what you had was working risky since such a pain in the butt piece of protective with a tough fit.
Quick question: how long stick do you use, with skates on where does your stick reaches? Chin, mouth? I have been thinking Trigger 7 pro or FT5 Pro, just cant decide. I like doing all kind of shots, slaps, wrist, snaps..
I’m 5,9 I use a non cut Bauer ( 60 inches? And cut 2 inches ccm ) goes to my nose on skates. I prefer a slightly longer stick. Trigger or jetspeed you can’t go wrong both excellent.
I’m 5’10”, nominal weight 190-210lbs, and found after trying low, mid, and hybrid kick sticks my first few years playing that what has suited my game is the ‘17 Nexus 1N in a 95 flex cut down slightly so it’s a little over 100 flex. That was after trying a 75 flex MX3.
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews I still have a few, I stocked up a few years ago before a back injury put my playing time on hold. I still have 3 of them ready to go.
Your synthetic ice advice makes sense. I'm curious how your advice on stick choice would change for roller hockey? Would sport court, along with the lighter puck change your flex and kick points recommendations? thanks, just subbed
For roller I would stick with low kick low flex sticks. It’s a slightly different need. It’s all about quickness and the required power over an ice hockey puck is different. Appreciate the sub
Thanks for the quick reply. I play d but rarely take the big slap shot… more of a passer or bring it into the slot and take a wrister, so maybe the low kick stick would be a good option. I watched your video on the Sher-wood Rekker being a good, durable choice for a low kick stick. Is there any others I should be considering? Thanks again
@@rsmag6 Rekker is a great choice for budget and performance and would be great for roller too. Of course the trigger line up is excellent as well but might not be needed over the Rekker. My next choice would be an Lxpro as it’s best of all worlds for shooting passing and quick relesse
Would the LX Pro still be a good stick for a close hand shooting style? I currently have a Trigger 3D and am considering getting either an LX Pro or a Trigger 6 Pro.
The Lxpro is kind of that perfect blend I found with my shooting style and others that use that close hand wrist shot. The trigger6 pro is a stiff stick I found and requires a lower flex for best performance as a close hand shooter
Here’s my thing, Ive played my whole life. When I started playing hockey, we were using wooden sticks, and then we moved to aluminum shafts and then eventually the Z bubbles and things like that all the way up to the one pieces that we have today. I am 6 foot I weigh roughly 200 pounds and I would say the last 10 years Ive fluctuated between 190 and 205. I have had people Give me sticks that were 110 flex pro stock sticks like an ultra tacks, I’ve used things as low as an 85 ribcore, and I can shoot with any of them, honestly, I think I had the best shot and the most powerful shot with less effort with 110 pound ultra tacks over an 85 or even a 95 flex ribcore that Ive used. It’s all personal preference. But in my experience If you can shoot, you can shoot. Almost all the sticks that are being made today other than maybe the geometry of the shaft itself, are using the same types of materials and technologies. Some sticks are lighter than others obviously, but again it’s all personal preference. I’ve never known a person in my life that if they could shoot, they couldn’t shoot with any stick. But this video has good information, especially for people who may have never played and are starting in their adult years, or maybe played when they were kids and haven’t played in a long time, there is definitely useful information here. Most people, not everybody, but most people I’ve come across, are relying on buying something for the technology to do the work, as opposed to putting in the work, and the reps that it takes to learn how to properly shoot. Once you learn how to shoot, you can shoot anything, flex, curve, kick point, doesn’t matter. Training > Tech
When I first started I used 102 flex Bauer sticks and at the time shooting g styles were not what they were today. All my shots were slap or half loaded slappers. So the flex worked. It also allowed alot of power. But as I changed my game and saw the new style of shooting I tested and messed around with kick points and flexes. In today’s world of sticks kick point to flex ratio makes vastly different results because a low kick “whippy stick” does not have the power and recoils that a hybrid or mid kick low flex does. This goes for a lot of sticks and kick points. But yes if you can shoot you can shoot, the difference is how do you improve it? This video, my kick point video and flex video all are designed to make the best choice
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews Again, man, I’m not disagreeing with what you said, or disagreeing with your video. I’m just saying in my experience, and my experience is not just playing, I started and run my own youth hockey program, I oversee adult hockey programs, I coach adult hockey 101, I started and coach high school varsity hockey. I see and coach players all the way from three years old to 18 years old on the side and players all the way up to their 50s in adult hockey. I’m saying from my experience most people don’t train , they just buy a stick and think the technology is just automatically going to make them a better shooter. In your videos, you are obviously buying and using different sticks, different curves, different kick points, and flexes and training with those sticks to see which one makes you a better shooter based upon your game style or gameplay. In my experience, most people don’t do that, they just buy a stick off the shelf and automatically make it their gamer. And then they can’t figure out why they can’t shoot. You have to train anywhere to be able to shoot, and if you can, shoot, you can shoot anything, yes, certain things obviously can help you get a shot off quicker or if you’re somebody who plays on the blue line and you’re just smashing clappers all day, obviously you don’t want 70 flex stick. That was all I was trying to say.
@@gregorybrowe2 sorry if it came off like that. Not at all. I appreciate all comments and feedback. I also agree with a lot you say as well. And I’m with you most buy a stick and run with that one not having chance to try others, where I have many different kicks and flexes so I try and provide that info in my vids so they can buy a stick better suited
I recently bought a CCM AS4 Pro. It is really tall, and I was wondering if I cut it down will it increase my flex? I thought you were saying in your video that it doesn't matter if you cut your stick, however, than you said cut you stick down to your flex? Keep making the videos man much appreciated :)
Ccm sticks are 62 or 63 inches long standard in senior and Bauer are 60. It’s important to know they are taller when choosing a flex so you know it will play different. I did not say it doesn’t matter I said that leverage changes not flex. Sticks that are 70 flex for example that are cut 2 inches don’t magically become “80” flex they just change leverage and play differently. It will still load and feel like a 70 and basically be an “80 flex” stick that is easier to load like a 70. The strength of the stick and stored energy is not changing. It’s important to understand this because a lot of people want a certain flex stick and try and cut sticks to it not realizing ut will feel different than another stick uncut in the “same flex” it’s also why if you get a 70 Flex in a Bauer at 60 inches and then purchase a 70 in a ccm at 62 inches and cut off 2 inches that those sticks feel pretty similar. The 70 flex is the softness of the materials and load. People make the opposite mistake and would then go get a 60 flex to cut down thinking it will now be “70” and then realize that 60 flex that’s cut is still very soft and whippy feeling. It’s because they flex itself doesn’t change per say just the leverage and because sticks are different lengths it’s difficult sometimes to match how a stick feels and plays in stiffness because 70 flex in one length is not the same as 60 flex cut to the length of the 70.
@Beer League Bum hockey reviews Thamks for the reply man👍The crazy thing is, I bought an LX pro and the AS4 pro, and the pro is 4 inches longer. Never had that happen before.
@@robertbarnett2132 ccm sticks are generally the longest these days stock. 62-63. The bauers and warriors are 60 usually. Bauers new thing is to confuse the crap out of everyone and have a stick labeled “87 flex” but says 79 at the knob and only if you cut it is it “87” the problem is no one knows what flex the actually stick is anymore since if it’s 87 it should be built like that. If it’s actually a 79 and then cut is “87” it’s gonna feel way different than an 85 from another manufacture. Pretty annoying.
I have rheumatoid arthritis that has heavily affected my wrists pain and strength so yes I had to start tweaking my flex to see what was best for loading. It’s been very challenging. I’m actually down to 70 in my low kicks so I can manage. It’s a very shitty disease
Thanks appreciate it. It’s something that I struggle with and a lot of people don’t realize when they see me etc. just one of those hidden things. Definitely can’t shoot and manage sticks like I used too.
Hey Justin, my name is Andrew. I mainly play indoor/sport court roller hockey. I’m 5’8” and roughly around 185 to 190lbs What flex/lie would you recommend on my stick? Currently using a Warrior DX series 85 flex. Thank you in advance 😅
Get Andrew, thanks for the comment and watching. Kinda depends on shot style too. My kick point video and beer league shooting vid can help break that down a bit better. But just quick observation that you’re mostly roller a lower flex would probably benefit that style of game better for faster release on a different surface and puck. I try not to give exact recomendations unless I see someone play etc :) check out those other vids cheers
I currently am in a pickle about what to do with stick flex. I have recently gone to a shorter stick to help with stick handling and better posture while skating. My current stick that I did it with was a ribcor 65 flex and roughly had 6” cut off. At times the stick feels a tad stiff. My shooting style garners low kick points and lower flex. Initially was going to go with a 55 flex CCM stick as the stock length is 55” and then only am cutting off 4” but you have me thinking maybe I should stick with the 65 flex? Let me know your thoughts. The other option is to get 55 flex in Bauer which is still 57” and then remove 6”.
6 inches is a lot to cut from a stick. You are significantly changing your leverage points. Luckily you are using low kick so your kick point isn’t affected much as opposed to mid kick and possibly moving your hand position in relation to the kick point to much. Due to the amount you’re cutting off to me 55 flex seems like the best choice. Shorter stick should always be less flex but that’s still a range so you have to choose the one that needs to work for you and since you experimented with 65 the 55 is the next obvious choice
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews awesome thank you. I know it’s a lot but already playing with the shorter stick has made a vast improvement in my game. Just don’t want the stick feeling like a board. So you think the 55 flex from CCM is best as it’s a 55” stick and will only cut 4” as opposed to the 55 flex Bauer that is 57” and cutting 6”?
Have you ever tested any of the Tron composite sticks? They have some good reviews, allegedly they are on par with high end sticks but a lot cheaper. The lightest ones (350g) are $150.
No I haven’t. Generally no sticks in that style of price range / company are comparable with top sticks. Even pro stock hockey sticks which are the best of them are still a tier below. Price may make it worth it but I always find that they are not in top tier no matter what anyone says unfortunately. Doesn’t mean they aren’t fine for a rec hockey player i just have tested twig, swift, pro stock hockey sticks, and NN and none are that level.
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews yes, generally you do get what you pay for. However we do see exceptions to that with some other products, like tools, if you ever watch the YT channel Project Farm. As far as I can tell all of these sticks are made in China. Do any of yours say otherwise? There are instances in some industries where products come out of the same factory and are or are nearly identical, but one has the big name and one has a less glamorous name, or no name at all. Think Kirkland Signature branded liquor that is actually from a big name source, or Harbor Freight’s “Icon” brand tools appearing to be identical to certain tool truck brands. Just curious if that is happening at all in the sporting goods world as well.
@@kftc1980 generally the reason for the high price of ccm, Bauer etc is r and d and the type of “tech” if you wish to call it that in terms of how kick points and shaft type are developed and provided. For example a ribcore has a very specific taper for a low kick Point that you won’t find one a low kick point stick from swift, all black, prostock, etc. it’s because the factory can make a low kick stick as you mentioned that has a softer point somewhere but not a fancy taper like the big sticks have. So you get a stick that performs just fine but not the next level that the r and d development of those sticks like the ribcore do. A low kick and mid kick stick with just a soft shaft or stiffer shaft at a particular point is much different than engineering new shaft shapes and styles to achieve more of what they want. Weight is also often the one that the smaller companies say is the same or better and removing weight is extremely easy from a stick. The swift low kick stick is a nice 375 grams. However it’s construction is basic and materials you can tell something is “off” it’s shoots meh due to it just having a standard shaft shape. Again doesn’t mean it’s “bad” or doesn’t work for most people it’s just it’s not even close to a ribcore for “half the price” Just some thoughts :)
Hi ! Thanks for the video. If I’m more of a wrist shot low kick guy, is 70 flex too low ? I know weight doesn’t matter much but still I’m 170pounds and 6’07. Thanks !
You’re probably a bit to low based on your height , Are you adding extensions to sticks? Or rocking longer manufactures like ccm? I also find flex is more forgiving on low kick sticks since the kick point is much farther away from the hand positions and you can’t over power the stick has much with mid kick. The best way to tell if your flex is too low is if you are over powering your stick. So for example I’m using 70 flex now with bad wrists and I can’t over power my stick any more as my wrists don’t have the strength to do so. But back in the day before rheumatoid arthritis I could easily rock 85/87/95 and get full power out of the stick. It’s best to have the “highest flex” possible based on technique, strength, kick point to get the most out of your stick. If you’re rocking a 70 but could rock an 80 it’s better to do the 80 in my opinion
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews thanks for the answer ! I just bought a Bauer Vapor 3x with 70 flex (I could probably change it to a 77 if you tell me it’s better, it hasn’t been shipped yet) but have not tested it yet. No extension will be needed I think. I had a CCM trigger 85 flex and I think it was too hard. I don’t shoot really good so I thought a lower flex would help me to « feel » how to use the stick, and then when my technique gets better, maybe go back to a 77 or 85. Anyways that was my logic 😬
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews fyi I played hockey 4 years from age 8 to 12. Then nothing until age 27, and am 32 now. So I’m no complete beginner but surely not elite player. I can skate fast and pass, but my shot really is my weak point as no coach ever really taught me.
I went to try trigger 6 in store and 75 feels like a wet noodle vs 85 is firing rockets! Based on your earlier video you mentioned that trigger in particular feels very stiff (btw off ice ft4 pro felt stiffer to me than trigger so it is all clearly very subjective) so when picking the flex would you say that whatever flex feels good off ice needs to be reduced for on-ice since sticks are easier to load on synthetic ice?
I played agin with trigger recently as it was dressed as an ft4 pro from pro stock and was still stiff to me in the 85. But again in this video the flex is very tailored to shot type and kick Point. A low kick stick will feel more stiff than a mid in same flex. Synthetic ice will always give you a bit of weird load. The drag flexes the stick quite a bit. Perfect tweak would be ccms because they have 5 flex intervals now. Can get 75.80,85 with what you’re saying for trigger I would go 80. Perfect blend but not cofnuse it more both my videos for kick point and flex need to kinda of be considered. It’s kinda like taking the best couple aspects that work for you in those videos to make the decision. Quick shots, low kick, off leg, probably a lower than normal flex. Not much just a bit. Slappers, more classic shooting style, mid kick higher flex. Not much just a bit, so me I always go 75 or 80 flex for low kicks when testing those sticks and 85 or even 90 when I’m really feeling strong for mids. But again in the end if something feels right can’t argue that right I’m just trying to help everyone choose but isn’t always 100% correct,
Final caveat I did mention in the flex video in the end higher flex stores more energy and if it works for you it’s better to use because the stick will generate more power if it’s utilized well. Most can’t though in beer league which is a huge it’s so important to dial everything else in for let’s say not great technical shooters.
Thanks for the rapid response and willingness to share the knowledge! I did watch your video on kickpoints… Off ice I love low kick, it loads easy and shoots more accurately than mid kick. However I don’t seem to have the same carry over on ice, my form must break or something since sticks load differently and mid kick shoots better for me. Wish there was an easy way to determine if a particular stick would work on ice by trying it in store…
@@S0larW1nd yah it harsh sucks so many sticks I have shot in the store on the shooting pad over the years and gone and the ice and been like wow this is nothing like I thought lol I always. Default to mid kick or hybrid most of the time it’s rare I use a low kick as gamer. My last low kick gamer was a fly lite and it didn’t last long once other sticks started coming out. No worries love chatting gear with anyone who likes it as well!
let me help you with that: choose 75-77 unless ur strong *and really know how to lean into it (the ground) on the fly then 87. if you cut a large chuck off then
Regarding higher flex equating to higher speed shots, I think that was debunked by Martin Frk's 108.8mph shot with something like a sub-80 flex stick. However, this was a pretty informative video. Thanks!
The problem with that is taking a professional player and comparing to everyone. An elite player in a professional setting can harder be compared to a standard person. I’m currently using a 70 Flex to try and my shot is noticeably weaker with 70 compared to 85. For anyone other than a trained professional this is valid for sure. How he can shoot that hard with that flex of stick can be a plethora of reasons. Stick build, kick point vs flex and where, materials, weight of the stick, he could straight up be lying or not forth coming since we don’t have physical sticks to check etc. I recently shot my old 85 ft3 vs my new 70 ft6 and my slapper was massively harder with the 85 so technique aside if I want to win a hardest shot competition for fun, I’m not using my 70. Thanks for The comment
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews, 100% agree with you on a trained professional understanding how to properly leverage the stick. Additionally, the composition and construction do come into play. I'm fairly certain a top-of-the-line 70 flex stick is going to produce a more consistent, harder shot than a low-end 70 flex stick. The overall rigidity plays a massive role in being able to build, store, and release the energy. At 6'2" and 195lb, I've broken a pane of glass and split four pucks in half off crossbars using ~80-85 flex, mid kick point sticks. I've used everything from 70 up to 100 and find somewhere in between is ideal. Thank you for the reply, sir! Greatly appreciate your time and energy.
@@MattBowler sticks have also changed in recoil recently ( 2-3 years ) back in the day a 70 flex was a noodle and did not return energy near as well. As we progress we may get to the point a 70 flex recoils as hard as 85 and you don’t need those higher flexes. I also noticed with my 70 my accuracy is garbage lol so stiffer helps me pick spots better!
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews, that's very interesting and something I wasn't aware of (only been skating 3-4yrs). What you've stated about choosing kick point and flex to suit shoot style is huge and something which seems to be greatly overlooked. Ideally players are well-rounded and can execute a variety of different shots, but there's always that one go-to style each player prefers. What are your thoughts on stick length? I've heard so many different arguments about chin/nose height vs chest height. Personally, I started out using super long sticks and have gradually started shaving length to the point of preferring it well below my chin. Seems like arm length and shoulder width comes into play there as well. I imagine those factors also influence the ability to have leverage over the shaft and engage the flex.
@@MattBowler stick length is something that you should tailor to your shooting style as well. I like to get good leverage and bend in my shot at higher flexes so I use a pretty long stick for my height. I’m 5,8 maybe 5,9 on a good day so my stick comes to my eyes in shoes. Mouth on skates. There is no right or wrong though because Crosby has a very under rated shot with a short stick. Big technical shooters mostly use longer sticks. Bedard style. But it’s not a hard fast rule for sure. I’ve used a short stick and because I’m also an upright skater doesn’t work for me at all. That’s why messing around with flex and kick point takes time as well as length to find all three. Now throw in curve choice and it’s little wonder most beer leaguers or rec players are playing with wrong stick specs! Just so many things to dial in.
I agree with the majority of this video however one key point I disagree with is more flex or higher number of flex dosent always translate into more power. Strength, weight and overall ability have large parts to play. I run a 95 flex hyperlite low kick point and I’ve tested it against an 85 flex. Due to my ability and strength the 85 flex because it is whippier gets the shot travelling faster or more powerful specifically to wrist or snap shots. Larger players with more weight need higher flex sticks due to their strength and weight and blue liners typically aren’t taking little wristlets therefore requiring them to have a higher flex stick and or probably a high kick point such as something like the supreme or super tacks would provide. Other than that good point on the synthetic ice versus real ice for stick selection.
Thanks I appreciate the feedback. I tested with radar many times and always generate more on higher flex especially once the stick is whipping out for me over my strength ( 70 vs 85 for example )
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews That’s interesting yeah I tested 85 vs 95 and I will admit it is difficult to quantify something such as effort but identical sticks in length, weight and kick point and I was able to get the 85 flex one going faster just for wristers. Don’t get me wrong I’ve watched most of your videos but thought it id make a small comment haha. You’re right though there is so much that goes into stick selection. Height, weight, kick point, flex etc and as soon as you figure it out you either break your stick or a newer model comes out. Anyway keep up the videos!
@@benstandish8055 usually as a player we top out on flex as well. Zedano chara can flex those 120s so he can generate the extra stored energy. For me my max out is about 95 as well for max power after that I’m not flexing a 100 flex stick as much as I can flex an 85. So I get what you’re saying. For wristers your shot power is coming from technique, strength then stick so depending which is limiting that’s your top out. It’s true so many factors. I used to love 105 flex when all I did was run around taking slappers I was also bigger and didn’t have arthritis back then and I would shoot bombs. Can’t anymore so my sticks all top out at 85. It’s also why I can’t shoot mid 90 mph anymore. I’m topped at about 88 on all my current tests
Depending on how all that I mentioned works for you I would go 100 before 110. I used to use 100, and loved it but mostly look clappers when I started playing. I switched as my game evolved but having a. 100 flex stick fun to bomb sometimes. If you can flex it.
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews I have access to both 100-110 sticks. I was thinking of getting both and going from there. Thank you! If you need some old warriors let me know lol; dolomyte spine, and blue spines, kroniks lol
Cutting a stick down does change the flex. It won't change the number printed on the stick, obviously. It will change the force required to bench the stick 1", which is the definition of what stick flex is. A stiffer stick doesn't "store" more energy. The amount of potential energy is 100% determined by how much is put in by the player. The only thing different between low and high for is the amount of deflection.
Incorrect. A stiffer flex will generate more energy. Low flex sticks are built for release and ease of load. If for example you use a 65 but are strong enough to bend an 85 as much as the 65 the stiffer recoil will of course shoot harder. Bend a peice of paper and hit a marble let me know how hard it goes now do it with a credit card and you will see what I mean.
What do you do if you are short beer leaguer but weigh 180? I'd have to cut down a senior stick and it would be over 100 flex lol. I'm a snapper/quick wrist shot release type guy hardly take slap shots.
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews So to preface I just did my first beer league season ever (last time played varsity a long time ago). I was clueless and needed a fairly cheap stick so I went with an INT Bauer Supreme 3S (high kick, 65 flex, p88). It's got OK power for slappers and sometimes snappers but half the time I flub wrist shots or sail it into the stands (could be a blade or mechanics issue)
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews yeah I don't think the high kick is helping at all...I think I'm just going to have to try a senior cut down to INT length and give mid/hybrid kick a try. Thanks to your videos I'm finally understanding a bit about sticks!
I'm not sure what the issue (or issues) is, but it's been proven you don't need a stiff stick to do 100mph (or slightly over). I think people get butthurt when their beliefs get get broken.
@@TorontoMapleLeafs-yt2xv yes they do get butt hurt. Hence your response. You are talking about the pinnacle of human performance vs average person. Having perfect technique training and access to gear tailored to you is not the same as Joe smo retail old guy. There is a substantial difference. So yes your beliefs are limiting a lot. In thinking a NHL shot has any relevance to the flex and performance of anyone else
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews It’s a warrior and a lie 6 a like the length av tried a shorter stick but a kept loosing the puck the long stick is better but loose the puck when shooting
@@grahamherron6616 I also prefer a longer stick but retail doesn’t have best lie options if it’s really not working. Explaining lie on here is hard but look up the blade angle to see where you need to adjust to get more toward middle and toe if the blade you may be stuck ordering a custom stick if it’s something tough to fix
Finally, someone who tells the truth. It almost feels like the whole half your body weight nonsense is spread in order to keep the masses at bay while those who know the truth can keep it a secret for their own benefit. That said, awesome channel with more practical knowledge than most of these hockey influencer channels. Happy to sub before your channel blows up!
It’s tight all round but I also can’t remember which one this video has lol. I have had 4 helmets and this maybe the tacks x which looks bigger overall
Thx boomer because I’m kind of cursed at 14 years old I’m grateful to be this tall, but I think I’m 6’0 or 6’1 and I’m not the strongest guy so the taller sticks are obviously stiffer and it’s annoying I’m like 200 pounds or something yeah, I know I need to lose weight but if I use 100 flex, I would not be able to flex it at all so the half your body weight thing is garbage in my opinion I just use stiff sticks, because they’re tall I don’t have any whippy sticks, unfortunately
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews i'm the opposite of you, i've tried every type of flex profile, flex and every curve over the last 20 years and was always a dury curve, low kick, 85 flex kinda guy.. even more specificlly i shoot the best with the CCM ribcore line of sticks then i do from any other manufacter. with heel curves becoming unicorns now a days i've taught myself how to use a p90tm and personally think its the best pattern in hockey today. Overall great breakdown and I sure this video helped alot of people improve their shot by learning how to determine the best stick setup for them
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews so I'm moving to North Carolina from New Orleans and I'm super interested in playing hockey as I've always wanted to but we don't have it here in the deep South when I first started looking everybody was saying half your weight and I was like I don't even think they make 150 flex I found out that there's one or two NHL guys that use a 150 flex but they really don't make that I was super happy to find your video and a few others that talk about the whole half your weight thing is a joke.
@@asdfkhieee glad i could help. Yes it is pretty silly considering that the extreme of the population will have a huge swing in flex based on that, which doesnt make any sense, same with if you are under weight. Its best to utilize what I presented to slowly tweak it until you find the best flex for your game. even 5 can change your game completely.
@@asdfkhieee it's only ever meant as a rule of thumb as a general starting point - it's more important as a tool to get lower numbers so little kids overage size and strength will think about getting sticks they can actually flex, instead of when composite sticks first came out and kids had sticks so stiff they could be standing on them like that trick the Shaolin monks do, and just be completely unable to flex them at all "big number = better". At the older end of the market everyone is taken as somewhat figuring it out (which is a huge failing all over the sport - all the basic education is for the little kids developing, and completely ignoring people who are older and coming into the game, never receiving that early knowledge/teaching unless they lucked onto it in a youtube video or something) Hope you had a good move and picked up hockey, if you don't go for ice, consider inline hockey as well
Leverage only change bro the stick still has the same Amount of materials And stiffness. Leverage point changes only. Stick will perform like an original 85 flex in terms of recoil and load power. You can’t take A 70 flex cut off 8 inches and be like 85 flex! You also cannot take a 100 flex add a 5 inch plug and be like 85 flex! Only leverage has changed not the stick flex. Final though is the stick will always perform and load and recoil like it’s original flex. I just got a TMP pro but all that was available is 75, I cut it down two inches and it still is a noodle for me. 75 flex did not just jump to 85. It is a 75 flex stick stiffness and loads like it two inches cut or not. It is not the same.
@@beerleaguebumhockeyreviews I'd argue this a bit of an "eh" argument on both sides. Stick flex is supposed to be the number of pounds required to flex the stick 1 inch. So from your POV, yes, when you go to the shop to buy a stick you'd say "85 flex Stick" and then cut it to 57 inches - but the cut version requires maybe 90 lbs to flex 1 inch. Though if you were being "that guy" you might walk in and ask for 57" long 90 flex. and they'd groan and say "here is an 85, cut to here". Cut that 75 flex noodle down far enough and it'll take the same pressure to flex an inch as the 85 - though with modern sticks and different flex points rather than constant flex it'll all get funky as the ratios of distance above and below the flex point come into play. Somehting I thought might've been confusing in the video was about cutting down to the flex you wanted. Maybe it's just the phrasing, but I'd say you first size the stick to the length, lie, etc of the stick - then find the flex that works for you. The physical dimensions like height, arm length, etc are fixed. Cutting for a stiffer/lower leverage stick just moves you out of your ideal geometries, much like lengthening to get the stick more easily flexed (though it wouldn't surprise me if some kids showed up with 12inch buttends added because their parents said they'd grow into into it but they also need a flexy stick :p ) Ultimately given all the possible constructions, kickpoints, measuring differences between manufacturers they're all somewhat nonsense numbers that only make sense comparing apples with apples and to know whether you need to go up or down in that particular stick (and why the longer you play the more you accumulate expensive mistakes on sticks that have the right stats but don't perform 'right'). (appreciate the reviews that call out products that are dogs, instead of just repeating the marketting twaddle about the latest technofoam flex bot hyper 7000 Pro (TM) )
@@quickdry3 don’t disagree no easy way to put it or explain it. In the end I noticed this the most when I took a ccm at 75 cut it and at same time had a ccm (ft5s) at 85 flex and didn’t cut it. The sticks were so different in how they felt despite the fact the cut down should be now close to “85” The sticks where different lengths by about 2.5 inches but did not load Or recoil the same you could Tell the 75 was originally a lighter flex despite its length
Putting one hand up in the air? Yes completely inappropriate in Playoffs in beer league can’t be having fun with your team out there. Do you just skate silently to your bench or is it just because you don’t score goals so unsure how to celebrate
