Unlike other pieces of gear, sticks are sized mostly to the goaltender’s preference and playing style rather than their height. The most important measurement, when purchasing a new goal stick, is the paddle height (the wide portion of the stick), which is usually taken from the heel of the stick to the shaft/paddle interface.
The reason for the paddle height’s significance is because it sets up the goaltender’s depth in the ready stance and (if properly sized) positions the blocker in an optimal position.
To start, put on at least your goal skates and if you’re looking to be more accurate strap on your pads and blocker as well. Once that is done get into your natural stance (the one you’d be in during a majority of gameplay) and look for the following:
- The entire blade of the stick is flush with the ground while being 1’ - 2’ in front of the goaltender’s feet.
- While satisfying the above, the inside edge of the blocker hand (while holding just above the paddle) sits on the outside edge of the goal pad. This ensures that there is no double coverage with the goal pad (stick is too small) and keeps the seven-hole sealed (stick is too large).
The reason stick sizing can be so subjective compared to other pieces of equipment is the ambiguity of ‘natural stance’, especially with young goaltenders. It is rather common for children to use taller sticks in comparison to their height, as their stance depth isn’t usually as aggressive as a seasoned goalie.
The shaft length, on the other hand, is usually best left at its stock length as it serves to counteract the weight of the blade and (ideally) place the center of gravity at the top of the paddle. The one exception to this rule is for advanced puck handlers: cutting the shaft will allow more power transfer when shooting as a result of being able to keep the blade flush to the ice while near the goaltender’s feet.
