As a beginner, the choice of hockey equipment can feel overwhelming.
Below is a guide with my selection of the 10 best hockey sticks for beginners to help learn the game:
- 2 for youth players
- 3 for junior players
- 5 for adult players / teen players
This should help simplify your decision. And if you need more, you can find explanation about the criteria, reviews and answer to your frequently asked questions.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (more info here).
Best hockey sticks for beginners
If you don't want to read the whole article, below is a summary of the best hockey sticks for beginners based on age category: youth, junior and senior (adults).
However, if you want to learn more, you can find further down:
- The answers to your FAQs
- The essential criteria to look for buying a beginner hockey stick
- Reviews of those selected sticks
- Tips to take care of them.
Best Youth beginner hockey sticks
1 - Warrior Covert QRE 10 youth hockey stick
Good quality affordable stick for absolute beginners
2 - Bauer Vapor Prodigy youth stick
Also good quality affordable stick for absolute beginners
And, if you are looking at the next level - check out my article about the best youth hockey sticks
Best Junior beginner hockey
And, if you are looking at the next level - check out my article about the best junior hockey sticks
Best adults beginner hockey sticks
CCM Super Tacks
Can be kept as you progress, versatile - but more expensive
And if you have master the absolute basics and are looking to progress, have a look at the next level:
Best Ice Hockey Stick - Frequently Asked Questions
What price should I put into my stick as a beginner? Are expensive sticks worth it?
Expensive sticks assist experienced, and elite-level players in delivering better performance as the sticks are specifically engineered to suit their style of play.
However, as beginners still learning basic shot making, balance, and posture spending an exuberant amount on an expensive stick will not yield any benefits. It is best to settle for a budget to mid-range stick.
Can I buy a hockey stick on Amazon?
Hockey sticks available on Amazon are mostly made for playing street hockey and not ice hockey. Using a stick hockey stick to play ice hockey will be damaging as the stick will not have the right curve or quality required for playing on ice.
What stick do most NHL players use?
Most NHL players used top-end ice hockey sticks made by Bauer and CCM. Some players also use sticks made by Warrior and True.
The technical specifications of each ice hockey stick are specifically chosen to meet the style of play of every individual player.
Is there a better brand of sticks for beginners? Bauer vs. CCM - which is better?
All the leading brands like Bauer, CCM, Warrior, etc., make excellent beginner-level hockey sticks. It is difficult to determine whether Bauer is better than CCM or any of the other brands in respect of their beginner ice hockey sticks.
This is because the decision to buy a particular hockey stick must depend on how the stick feels in your hands and how well it complements your playing style. The decision must not solely depend on which brand manufactures the stick.
What are the essential specifications to look at when buying a beginner hockey stick?
As a beginner, you need a stick that promotes all-round development of your hockey playing skills. You do not need a stick that is crafted for the specific playing style of elite-level players. Thus the only factors that you must consider when buying a beginner ice hockey stick are:
Size & Length
When buying a hockey stick, it is essential to consider the following two factors -
- Size &
- Length
Hockey sticks are categorized into the following four sizes based on age-
- Youth: 4-8 yrs
- Junior: 7-12 yrs.
- Intermediate: 10-14 yrs.
- Senior: 14 yrs and above
The above age-based classification is to be used as a primary guideline when choosing a hockey stick.
Next, you should determine the length of the hockey stick that you should buy. Hockey sticks come in three lengths:
- Short: This hockey stick stays a few inches under your chin when wearing ice skates and holding the stick upright from the floor.
- Regular: This hockey stick stays just under your chin when wearing ice skates and holding the stick upright from the floor.
- Long: This hockey stick stays over the chin when wearing ice skates and holding the stick upright from the floor.
As a beginner, you should ideally buy a regular-sized ice hockey stick. Regular-sized ice hockey sticks can be further adjusted by a few centimeters later.
However, if you are taller than average people in your age group, you may have to buy a long stick.
Weight
Many buying guides on the internet recommend using a lightweight hockey stick. Unfortunately, these hockey stick guides are only applicable to more experienced players.
For absolute beginners, though, it is better to opt for a slightly heavier hockey stick as:
- It allows more control over shots.
- It can be used for practice sessions on non-ice surfaces
- It develops better stickhandling technique
Once you identify your style of play, you can opt for a lightweight stick that allows
- Quicker play &
- Lesser energy consumption
Material
Hockey sticks are made using wood or composite materials using a blend of carbon, fiber, aluminum, etc.
A wooden hockey stick enjoys the following benefits:
- It provides an excellent stick feel
- Its heavier weight promotes great control and stickhandling skills
- It is highly affordable
A composite hockey stick, on the other hand, enjoys the following benefits:
- It is more durable
- It promotes quicker release and allows high-speed shots
- It comes in many variations to support competitive play.
As an absolute beginner trying to get the first-hand experience of the stick, you can opt for either a wooden stick or a composite stick. However, once you decide to pursue the sport regularly, it is best to move to a composite stick.
Price
The price of a hockey stick is often directly proportionate to its construction quality. Nevertheless, when you are an absolute beginner, buying a stick that falls in the budget range or the mid-range is best.
The tentative price range of beginner level hockey sticks is -
- Wooden: USD 20-40
- Composite (Budget): USD 40- 80
- Composite (Mid-range): up to USD 160
The pricing will also vary depending on the age group to which you belong. Thus, expect to spend a bit higher if you are a senior.
Flex of the shaft + Curve/blade pattern
The flex-rating of the shaft determines how much weight needs to be exerted on a stick for it to bend to its full capacity. Flex-rating determines the power and speed of shot-making.
Similarly, the blade also comes in varying patterns and curve specifications.
You will find the meaning and purpose of all these technical aspects specified in several hockey stick articles.
However, as a beginner, you should not worry too much about these aspects. You should buy a standard budget/mid-range hockey stick that
- is capable of giving you a preliminary feel of the stick as well as the game
- has a standard flex and a mid-kick point
- is not too expensive
You should upgrade your stick only after you play regularly for a while and discover your style of play and preferred position.
Reviews - Best ice hockey sticks for beginners - youth
Option 1 - Warrior Covert QRE 10 stick review
Weight: 305 grams
Material: Carbon Fiber
Why should you buy it? Affordable stick for absolute beginners
Pros:
- Perfect stick for young beginners
- Grip & smaller diameter fits small hands
- Lower flex promotes good stickhandling technique
- Affordable
- Attractive design
- Advanced variants of the same model available for upgrading.
Cons:
- Only suitable for absolute beginners
Comments:
This is the best ‘first stick’ for youth players. The design of this stick features an attractive color that stands out on ice. The design also appeals to young tots holding the stick for the first time.
The construction of this stick has been made specifically, keeping youth beginners in mind. Thus, it uses a soft, tacky grip on the shaft. The shaft, in itself, is also small in diameter. These features make holding the stick very easy for young players with small hands. In addition, the shaft uses a low flex that effortlessly loads shots with power.
For the blade, the Warrior Cover QRE 10 employs a W03 blade pattern. The W03 is a mid-curve, mid-depth, open angled blade that helps with lifting the puck. This blade and shaft combination also aids the development of stickhandling technique among players.
Overall, this affordably priced hockey stick delivers great value. It is the ideal stick to boost the skills and confidence of young players beginning their ice hockey journey.
Option 2 - Bauer Vapor Prodigy youth stick review
Weight: 382 grams
Material: Carbon Fiber
Why should you buy it? Great stick for learning hockey basics / recreational play
Pros:
- Excellent fused two-piece construction
- Flex and blade suitable for learning basics
- Good stick feel for better control
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons:
- Length variants may not suit everyone
Comments:
The Bauer Vapor Prodigy is a composite stick made using carbon fiber. The unidirectional carbon fiber construction allows an even flow of energy from the shaft to the blade and then on to the puck. The flex on this stick is low to quickly infuse the right amount of power in shots.
The blade used in this stick has a larger surface area and an open-angle. This allows a slightly heightened puck feel, making lifting, passing, and blocking easier.
Now, these features are important because they boost the confidence of young players learning new skills. From better puck control to better stickhandling, this stick has what it takes to keep young minds interested.
The only downside of this stick is its sizing. While it can be a great hockey stick for 5-year-old average sized-players, it may not work for younger and shorter kids.
However, overall, it's a durable stick that works well for young hockey players.
Reviews - Best ice hockey sticks for beginners - junior
Bauer Vapor X2.7
Weight: 412 grams
Material: UD Carbon Fiber
Pros:
- Lightweight for this price range
- Ideal stick for quick-paced game and snapshots
- Excellent puck feel
- Durable
Cons:
- Not suitable for shots requiring higher load time
- Experienced players will have to upgrade to the higher variant
This stick is an excellent budget-range choice for players that like to play competitive matches. In particular, the Bauer Vapor X2.7 is geared towards faster shot-making.
To allow this, Bauer uses its quick-release technology at a lower kick point that works efficiently at releasing the puck quickly. For the shaft, it uses carbon fiber material. The carbon fiber used in hockey sticks ensures a seamless energy transfer between the handle and the blade. The carbon fiber blade further transfers that energy onto the puck quickly.
Moreover, the carbon fiber weave also makes this stick durable than other lightweight models. The feel of the stick is also great for taking on confident shot-making and controlled stickhandling.
Thus, as a new hockey player, who mostly stays close to the net and likes a balance of powerful and quick shot-making, this stick is an excellent choice for this budget.
Bauer Nexus N37
Weight: 460 grams
Material: UD Carbon Fiber
Pros:
- Ideal weight for quick release and powerful shot
- Budget-friendly stick for competitive play
- Supports all-round shotmaking
- Durable
Cons:
- Advanced players will need to upgrade
The Bauer Nexus N37 is a classic Nexus design by Bauer which supports all-round playing. Thanks to its mid-kick point, it delivers fast snapshots as well as shots requiring a longer load time. The extra weight on this stick also helps with added power.
However, this does not mean that the stick falls short in its ability to hit impactful snapshots. The blade profile that comes in Bauer sticks is lightweight. It is capable of releasing the puck quickly off the stick.
Thus, overall, this stick is a fantastic stick for junior players who want an all-round value for money stick to grow along with their growth in play.
However, do note that once you develop a specific playing style, you may have to look for a stick that complements it instead of relying on this stick.
CCM Jetspeed 460
Weight: 368 grams
Material: Carbon Fiber
Pros:
- Most value-for-money hockey stick
- Shaft offers excellent grip and control
- Durable construction
- Lightweight
- Mid-kick-point for versatile shot-making
Cons:
- Not suitable for absolute beginners
The CCM Jetspeed 460 is an excellent stick made using impressive features all throughout to assist you no matter your playing style.
To begin with, the CCM Jetspeed uses the same shaft as its elite models. Thus, the shaft offers an excellent stick feel and a reliable grip. You don’t have to worry about your hands shifting during play when using this stick.
Furthermore, the hybrid flex is designed to offer quickness for your snapshots and extra loading for your full-motion shots. This versatility also extends to its carbon fiber weave blade. The blade’s stiffness improves power while its low weight allows a quick energy transfer to the puck.
The use of this JS3 blade also improves the puck-feel. Your accuracy is guaranteed to increase when using this carbon fiber stick.
Overall, the Jetspeed CCM is an excellent choice for junior-level players serious about taking their game to the next level.
Reviews - Best ice hockey sticks for beginners - teens / adults
Sher-wood T20 Abs Wood
Material: Multi-layer birch
Weight: 715 grams
Pros:
- Cheap
- Ideal for absolute beginners
- Good stick-feel
- Sufficient stiffness
Cons:
- Not at all suitable for intense use
So let me clarify at the very beginning that this is a wooden stick that is not specifically designed for playing on ice.
Nevertheless, if you are an absolute beginner looking for a stick to lay your hands on for that first feel of hockey, this stick can offer you a good starting point.
The wooden construction of this stick provides an excellent stick feel enough to keep you interested in the sport. The stiffness of this stick can assist you with learning basic shots, passing, and blocking. The low price of the stick means that you need not worry too much about damaging the stick, even when used on non-ice surfaces.
However, this stick will not support you for a long time, especially if you intend on playing on the ice. Once you see an improvement in your playing and stickhandling skills, you must switch to a composite ice hockey stick for beginners.
CCM Jetspeed 440
Material: Composite
Weight: 550 grams
Pros:
- Great value for money
- Hybrid flex for versatile shot-making
- Excellent puck feel
- Ideal stick for beginners
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- None (especially for an absolute beginner)
As an absolute beginner, you want a stick that can assist you with learning various types of shots. The CCM Jetspeed 440 meets this requirement perfectly.
First of all, the CCM Jetspeed 440 uses a hybrid flex that creates a hinge effect. This effect suits shots that require a quick release as well as those that require a longer load time. Thus, you can put it to use when you stay close to the net as well as when your skills improve a bit to take on longer shots.
The weight of this hockey stick is also not too light and further complements an all-round game.
The shaft is constructed using durable material that can withstand a few slips and falls. The shape of the shaft with its concave sides provides a secure hand-grip.
The blade also aligns well with the overall structure thanks to its mid-profile suitable for all playing styles.
Thus, if you want a budget-friendly stick to practice shots, this is a great option for you
CCM Super Tacks
Material: C6 Carbon fiber
Weight: 445 grams
Pros:
- Ideal stick for beginners
- Provides a balance of speed and power
- Excellent puck feel for lifting
- Durable
Cons:
- A bit expensive for beginners
The CCM Super Tacks is a high-quality stick that perfectly supports the requirements of a beginner.
To begin with, it uses a mid-kick profile that is engineered for extra energy and greater speed. Like most other sticks, it achieves this balance by using tapered stick construction.
However, combining a tapered stick and a mid-kick profile makes the stick useful for playing all types of shots.
The shaft comes in a neat square-shaped design that works particularly well for adult hands. The shaft also doesn’t feel as sticky as the CCM Jetspeed and hence delivers better comfort.
The blade on this stick uses a stiff toe that instantly results in an improved puck-feel. You will be able to take on shots at the net more confidently, especially when using an open-angled blade.
Overall, this stick is durable and made using high-end technology that will continue to assist even as you make substantial progress.
And if you have master the absolute basics and are looking to progress, have a look at the next level:
Warrior Covert QRE Pro Grip
Material: Minimus Carbon 1000
Weight: 447 grams
Pros:
- Excellent grip for controlled stickhandling
- Lightweight
- Great stick feel for control and accuracy
- High-quality construction
- Provides good value for money
Cons:
- Not suitable for absolute beginners
As you start making progress with your hockey playing skills, your basic stick often needs an upgrade. The Warrior Covert QRE Grip is a stick that is great for those introduced to the game but who need to take their skills to the next level.
The QRE employs a low kick-point. To help speed up the release while extracting maximum power, the stick uses a tapered design. This allows energy to load at the bottom of the stick for a quick transfer to the puck.
The one-piece construction also assists with the energy transfer and improves the overall feel of the stick.
The shaft used on this stick comes with a tacky soft grip that keeps the stick secure and avoids accidental slips.
Finally, the full carbon weave blade is durable and feels reliable when put to use. It also offers an excellent puck feel. For someone who has used a beginner-level stick, the release delivered by this blade will impress with its noticeably faster speed.
Thus, the Warrior Covert QRE Pro is a stick that will help you evolve into a better player, take on shots more confidently, and will definitely support you for a long time.
True XC black
Material: UD Carbon fiber
Weight: 501 grams
Pros:
- Advanced technology that enhances control and accuracy
- Lightweight construction with balanced stick feel
- Affordable
- Durable
- Suitable for all styles of play
Cons:
- Not suitable for absolute beginners
True has used remarkable thought and technology behind the construction of the True XC Black, making it a fantastic stick for beginners willing to do what it takes to grow into pro-level players.
The highlight of this stick is its puck feel. Almost no other stick in the market creates such a well-defined sweet spot on the blade that instantly improves the accuracy of shots. Moreover, the blade uses the BRT+ technology that makes it one of the most durable blades in the market.
The shaft also uses a unique SmartPly technology that makes the carbon fiber in the shaft sturdier without adding extra pounds on the stick. The weight distribution of the stick also furnishes an excellent stick finish for more control and accuracy.
When you put it to use, you will notice how balanced the stick feels in your hands. The mid-kick profile of this stick will let you lean into your shots for some added power.
Overall, this thoughtfully constructed ice hockey stick is excellent for beginners who want a stick that enhances their strengths as they continue to make progress.
Tips to take care of your hockey stick to make it last longer
As a beginner hockey player, the chances of you damaging your stick frequently are very high. Therefore, to increase the lifespan of your stick, you must take good care of your hockey stick.
Here are some ways in which you can do that:
Tips to prevent damage to your stick when in use:
Tape your stick
Taping your stick is a non-negotiable care technique that can protect your stick from damage and moisture build-up when playing on ice.
The proper technique of taping your hockey stick is as follows-
- Start by taping the bottom of the blade.
- Follow that up by wrapping the tape around the blade either from heel to toe or toe to heel in an evenly overlapping manner.
- Next, make a grip by creating a rope from the hockey tape. Wrap this rope around the top end of the shaft, leaving even gaps.
- Wrap hockey tape over this grip in an even overlapping manner.
- Finally, create a knob on the butt using multiple wraps of the hockey tape.
Retape the hockey stick frequently to keep the stick secure at all times.
Use a blade protector (For off-ice use)
If you wish to use the stick on non-ice surfaces, you must cover the blade with a protector to prevent the blade from suffering any damage.
Tips to prevent damage to your stick when not in use:
Dry your stick
A wet stick starts deteriorating rapidly on account of moisture build-up. Thus after every use, you must -
- Take out the stick from the bag.
- Let it dry on a rack in a room at normal temperature.
Store your stick in a bag:
You should always carry your hockey stick in a hockey stick bag as it protects it from possible damage and breaking. In any case, refrain from carrying it around without a proper cover.
Personalize your stick:
Storing the sticks in lockers can often result in a mix-up of sticks. Ending up with someone else’s stick that is not compatible with your height and weight will force you to buy a new stick.
To avoid this, you must write your initials on your stick.
Inspect your stick
Inspect your stick frequently. If you notice any development of chips or cracks, clean them out and fill them up with resin glue. Once the glue is dry, retape your stick properly for complete protection.
In case you are using a wooden stick, check the head of the stick for splinters. If you notice any splinters, remove them immediately and apply some hockey stick tape over that area to prevent further damage.
Complete your kid's hockey equipment set!
- Best hockey gloves for players - read article
- Best hockey helmets - read article
- Best hockey laces - read article
- Best hockey mouthguard - read article
