Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-10-12 Origin: Site
Flex is the most misunderstood number on a hockey stick, and it changes how your shot feels more than any other spec. Here is how flex actually works, how to find yours, and what kick point means. Updated October 2026.
The flex rating (for example 75, 87, or 95) is the force in pounds required to bend the shaft one inch. A 75-flex stick bends more easily than an 87. Lower flex means more whip and a quicker, easier release; higher flex means more stiffness and more power if you can load it properly.
Start with half your body weight in pounds. Then adjust by style: playmaking forwards and quick-release shooters often drop 5-10 below the formula; heavy slappers and point defensemen often go above it. Teenagers and lighter players should always err on the softer side, because a stick that is too stiff ruins technique.
The kick point is where the shaft bends most.
Low kick: bends low, near the blade; quick wrist and snap shots, fast release from your toes. Typical of Bauer Vapor / Hyperlite lines and CCM Ribcor or Vizion lines.
Mid kick: bends around the middle; a balanced, all-around feel that suits playmaking and a mix of shots. Typical of Bauer Proto2 and Supreme lines and CCM Jetspeed.
High kick: bends high and loads deep; big, heavy slap shots from the point. More common on older or specialty models.
Cutting the shaft shorter raises the effective flex: each inch removed adds roughly 3-5 flex. If you buy a 70 and cut two inches, expect it to play closer to a 75-80. Extensions do the opposite and soften the stick.
表格
| Style | Suggested flex | Kick point |
|---|---|---|
| Quick release, wrist shots | Half weight or less | Low |
| All-around forward | Half weight | Mid |
| Slap-shot heavy / point | Half weight + 5-10 | Mid or high |
Flex ratings are not standardized across brands: a Bauer 77 and a True 77 can feel different. The number is a starting point, not a verdict. Try sticks a couple of flexes apart in warm-up and pick whichever lets you release the puck naturally.
Half your weight is the baseline. Kick point matches shot type: low for quick release, mid for all-around, high for power. Cutting stiffens; extensions soften.