Goalie Sticks

Goalie sticks are a specialized piece of equipment for ice hockey. The shape, for one thing, is very different. The shaft is thicker and the blade becomes a wide “paddle” part way down the shaft. In this way, the hockey stick and the hockey goalie stick differ. They vary even in materials. A goalie hockey stick, at any level, is more likely to be made of wood. Although professional players more and more beginning to use composite, youth goalie sticks are more frequently wooden.

What also differentiates a goalie stick is its weight and size, although these4 may vary according to the ruling body. Hockey goalie stick specifications on weight provide a heavier and more durable stick. A goalie paddle, to conform to NHL requirements, must be 26” (67cm) in length, with the blade 3.5” (90cm) in width and 15” (39cm) in height. Furthermore, a goalie must cover the shaft with a knob of adhesive tape. This must be a minimum of a half-inch thick. If you want to play in the leagues, make sure you know the exact equipment requirements for the league and product standards. A specific series of Eagle goalie sticks was banned recently for not meeting the standards.

The same set of rules does not apply to field hockey goalie sticks or to lacrosse goalie sticks. While other aspects of these sports’ goalie equipment are unique, their sticks are similar to those of the rest of their players. Lacrosse goalie sticks even wooden lacrosse goalie sticks vary only in the width of the netting. It is significantly broader than a regular player’s stick.

If you wish, you can customize your goalie hockey stick. Custom goalie sticks are rather common. So are mini wooden goalie sticks. Freedom Manufacturing, for example, has a large selection of mini goalie sticks. Regular and specialized goalie sticks are manufactured by several companies including Nike-Bauer, CCM, and specialized companies such as Itech, Vaughn, McKenney, Don Simmons, Mitchell, Miller, Miklin, Jossa, Rey, Gould, Jackson, Eagle, Eddy, Battram, and Brown.

Goalie sticks are, by nature, larger and more durable than those used by other players. Montreal goalie sticks include the Ramo Nitro and the Brio Nitro. CCM produces the G12 Composite Stick and Bauer is manufacturer of the popular composite XXX.

When you pick a goalie stick select a proper length for you. You can always cut a shaft down to fit your requirements. Remember, however, to wear your skates when you determine to buy ice hockey goalie sticks.