Hockey is a thrilling sport that helps kids develop coordination, teamwork, and physical fitness. Getting your child started with hockey requires proper equipment, and one of the most important pieces is the hockey stick. The right stick can make learning easier and more enjoyable for young players, while the wrong one might frustrate them and slow their progress.
Hockey sticks come in various materials, lengths, and flexes designed for different player sizes and skill levels. For beginners, durability and proper fit are especially important. Child-specific sticks are lighter and more manageable than adult versions, helping kids develop proper technique from the start.
When choosing a hockey stick for your child, pay attention to three key factors: stick length, flex rating, and blade curve. The stick should generally reach between your child’s chin and nose when they’re wearing skates. The flex should match their weight and strength, while the curve should be moderate for beginners to develop good habits. We evaluated dozens of youth hockey sticks to find the best options that combine quality, proper sizing, and value for young players just starting their hockey journey.
Finding the right hockey stick for your child is an important first step in helping them develop a love for the game. You’ll want to consider factors like stick length, flex rating, and material to ensure your young player has the best experience on the ice. These top options blend durability with proper sizing to help your child build confidence and skills from their very first time on the ice.
This affordable hockey stick set provides everything your young child needs to start learning and enjoying street hockey.
Pros
Cons
I recently tried this Franklin Sports NHL Kids Hockey Stick Set with my nephew, and it was perfect for introducing him to hockey basics. The sticks are made from durable ABS plastic that can handle the inevitable slams against pavement and walls. At 34 inches long, they’re ideally sized for children between 3-10 years old.
What’s great about this set is that it includes everything you need to get started right away – two hockey sticks and a 65mm street hockey ball. The straight blade design works for both left and right-handed players, so you don’t need to worry about buying specific sticks. My nephew picked up the basic movements quickly because the lightweight design doesn’t tire little arms.
The durability is decent for casual play, though I noticed the colorful handle wrap started peeling after a few sessions. The ball is adequate for gentle play but might not survive aggressive shots. For under $20, this set offers excellent value for introducing hockey fundamentals. The sticks have withstood several weeks of hallway hockey sessions without breaking, though older or more aggressive players would likely need something sturdier.
This sturdy, youth-sized hockey stick offers great value for kids starting out in street hockey with its durable construction and child-friendly design.
Pros
Cons
I recently got this Franklin Phantom stick for my nephew who’s been begging to try hockey. At 40 inches long, it’s just right for kids around 7-10 years old. The wooden shaft feels solid in your hands, and it’s made from multi-ply poplar and birch which gives it decent strength without being too heavy.
The ABS plastic blade is rigid enough for street hockey play. Your child will appreciate how the stick allows for decent puck control on concrete or asphalt surfaces. The black “Phantom” design looks cool too – my nephew immediately felt like a “real” hockey player when he grabbed it.
What surprised me most was the quality at this price point. While not professional grade, it stands up to regular backyard use. The fused construction between the shaft and blade is generally reliable, though some users report the blade separating after rough play. For casual shooting practice and neighborhood games, you’ll find this stick gives your young player a good introduction to the sport without a major investment.
These wooden hockey sticks from GoSports offer excellent value for families looking to introduce their kids to hockey without the need for ice or skates.
Pros
Cons
I recently tried these GoSports Street Hockey Sticks with my nephew, and they’re perfect for backyard or driveway play. The wooden construction feels substantial in your hands while remaining lightweight enough for smaller kids to handle. Each stick can be set up for right or left-handed players, which is super convenient for families with multiple children.
The set comes with everything you need to start playing right away. Assembly takes just a minute – you simply attach the plastic heads with the included screws. The plastic heads hold up well against concrete and asphalt surfaces, though I’d recommend using tennis balls instead of the included hockey balls which are a bit hard for very young players.
For the price point, these sticks deliver great value. While they won’t stand up to professional-level slapshots, they’re perfect for teaching basic hockey skills. Your younger children will especially enjoy using “real” hockey sticks rather than plastic toys. Just be aware that older or more aggressive players might eventually cause the wood to crack, but with normal use, these sticks should last through plenty of neighborhood hockey games.
The Franklin Sports NHL Kids Hockey Stick & Ball Set is perfect for young children who want to learn hockey with safety in mind.
Pros
Cons
I recently tried the Franklin Sports NHL Kids Hockey Stick with my nephew, and it’s a game-changer for indoor play. The 24.5-inch stick is the perfect size for little hands. Kids can enjoy knee hockey without parents worrying about broken lamps or bruised shins.
The soft vinyl covering makes a huge difference compared to hard plastic sticks. When my nephew accidentally whacked my leg during our play session, I barely felt it. This safety feature gives children freedom to practice their shots without causing tears or damage to furniture.
Franklin’s Soft Sport technology really delivers on its promise. The ball is stuffed with polyester instead of being solid plastic, making it gentle on little feet and ankles. My nephew spent hours practicing his stick handling on our kitchen floor. The official NHL branding adds excitement for kids who see hockey on TV and want to mimic their heroes.
I noticed the seams started showing wear after several weeks of regular use. This stick works best for casual play rather than rough daily battles. For children ages 3-6, this starter set builds confidence and introduces hockey fundamentals in a fun, safe way.
This affordable youth hockey stick offers good durability and performance for kids just starting their hockey journey.
Pros
Cons
I recently got this Franklin youth hockey stick for my nephew who’s been showing interest in hockey. The 40-inch size works well for most kids, though we did need to trim it slightly for my shorter 7-year-old. The wood shaft feels solid in hand without being too heavy for little ones to control.
What impressed me most was the stick’s balance. The weight distribution makes it easy for beginners to handle while learning proper shooting and passing techniques. My nephew quickly got comfortable handling the stick during our backyard sessions. The ABS blade holds up surprisingly well on our driveway, though I noticed some expected wear after several weeks of regular use.
You’ll appreciate the sturdy connection between the blade and shaft. This fusion creates a solid feel that helps kids develop proper technique from the start. For the price point, this stick delivers exceptional value compared to higher-end options that young players will likely outgrow anyway. It’s a practical choice for parents looking to introduce their children to hockey without breaking the bank on equipment they might lose interest in.
Finding the right hockey stick for your child can seem challenging. Don’t worry! This guide will help you make the best choice for your young player.
The right size stick is crucial for proper skill development. A stick that’s too long or short can create bad habits.
| Child’s Height | Stick Length |
|---|---|
| 3’0″ – 3’6″ | 36″ – 38″ |
| 3’7″ – 4’0″ | 38″ – 40″ |
| 4’1″ – 4’6″ | 40″ – 46″ |
| 4’7″ – 5’0″ | 46″ – 52″ |
When your child stands in shoes, the top of the stick should reach between their chin and nose.
Flex measures how much the stick bends when force is applied. For children, this is particularly important.
Kids need a lower flex rating to properly shoot and handle the puck. A good rule: take your child’s weight in pounds and divide by 2.
Start with a straight or slight curve for beginners. This helps develop proper passing and shooting techniques.
Wood sticks are budget-friendly and great for beginners. They provide good feel but are heavier.
Composite sticks are lighter and more durable but cost more. They’re excellent for kids who’ve played for a season or two.
Lighter sticks are easier for small hands to control. Your child should be able to handle the stick comfortably for an entire practice.
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