Hockey Stick Flex Calculator (Flex by Weight, Position & Cut Length)

How it works

Base flex = body weight (lb) ÷ 2 · target flex = base − 5 (forward) or + 5 (defense) − 5 (wrist shots) or + 5 (slap shots) · flex to buy = target − 4 × inches cut · rounded to the nearest retail flex (… 65, 70, 75, 77, 80, 85, 87, 95, 100, 102, 110).

Stick flex is the force in pounds needed to bend the shaft one inch, so the classic starting point is a flex of about half your body weight in pounds. Forwards who rely on quick wrist and snap shots usually go 5–10 points softer to load the stick faster, while defensemen and slap-shot specialists go stiffer. Cutting the stick shortens the lever and adds roughly 3–5 flex per inch, so if you plan to cut, buy a softer flex. Many pros use flexes well below the half-weight rule — treat the result as a starting point and test sticks.

Worked example

A 75 kg (165.3 lb) forward with a balanced shot who will not cut the stick: base flex = 165.3 ÷ 2 = 82.7, minus 5 for a forward = 77.7, so the nearest retail flex is 77 — a Senior stick.

Sources: Reference Hockey — Hockey stick flex chart and calculator · Ice Box Hockey — How to choose a hockey stick flex

Frequently asked questions