What is Hockey Stick Flex?

Flex is a number that measures how many pounds of force it takes to bend your stick one inch. An 85 flex stick requires 85 lbs of force to deflect one inch. The lower the number, the more the stick bends — and the easier it is to whip a quick shot.

The higher the number, the stiffer the stick, and the more power it generates on hard slapshots.

That’s it.

Everything else — position, weight, playing style — just helps you find the right number for you.

Expert Guide to Flex by Position

Choosing the right hockey stick flex is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a player. The flex rating determines how much force is required to bend your stick, directly impacting your shot power, accuracy, and puck handling. Too stiff, and you’ll struggle to load the stick properly. Too whippy, and you’ll lose control and accuracy.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about hockey stick flex, including position-specific recommendations, weight-based calculations, and how pro stock sticks differ from retail models.

The flex affects three critical aspects of your game:

• Shot Power: A properly flexed stick stores and releases energy like a catapult, generating more velocity on your shots
• Shot Accuracy: The right flex gives you better control over puck release and trajectory
• Puck Feel: Flex influences how well you can feel the puck on your blade during stickhandling and receiving passes

The Standard Flex Formula: Half Your Body Weight

The most commonly cited guideline is to choose a flex rating equal to half your body weight. For example, a 180-pound player would typically use a 90 flex stick. However, this is just a starting point—your position, playing style, and personal preference should also influence your decision.

General Flex Chart by Weight

Player Weight	Recommended Flex	Flex Range
60-80 lbs	30-40	Youth flex
80-100 lbs	40-50	40-52
100-130 lbs	50-65	50-67
130-150 lbs	65-75	60-77
150-170 lbs	75-85	70-87
170-190 lbs	85-95	80-95
190-210 lbs	95-100	87-102
210+ lbs	100-110+	95-110+

What each flex number actually means for your game

55–65 flex (youth and junior)

Built for players under 120 lbs — typically kids aged 8–13 in junior sizes. At this flex, even younger players can visibly load and release the stick on wrist shots. If an adult tries a 65 flex, they’ll likely snap it on their first hard slapshot.

70 flex

The sweet spot for lighter forwards and players 130–150 lbs. Also the go-to for players who cut their stick down significantly — buying a 65 flex and removing 2 inches brings you into 70 territory. Very popular with skilled, quick-release forwards who prioritize snap shots from tight areas. Plenty of NHL players in the 170–175 lb range use 70 flex pro stocks.

75–77 flex

Probably the most underrated flex range in hockey. This is what many elite skill forwards — Patrick Kane types — actually use in games. Whippy enough for effortless wrist shots, stiff enough to not feel floppy on passes. If you’ve ever tried a stick and thought “that felt really natural,” it was probably a 75–77.

82–85 flex

The most common flex in recreational adult hockey. Works well for forwards in the 160–180 lb range and all-around players who take a mix of wrist shots and snappers. The 85 flex is the default “senior regular” that most brands ship at retail. If you’ve never experimented with flex, this is where you started.

87–90 flex

Crosses into defenseman and power forward territory. Stiff enough to load properly on a slapshot from the blue line, but not so stiff that quick-release forwards can’t use it. Cale Makar plays a 95 flex despite only being 187 lbs — his strength and technique let him load a stiffer stick effectively. For most players at this size, 87–90 hits the right balance.

95–102 flex

For bigger, stronger players and dedicated defensemen. You need genuine core strength and proper shot mechanics to actually flex these sticks — if you can’t bend them, you won’t get the energy transfer and your shots will feel dead. Victor Hedman (241 lbs) uses 110+. Auston Matthews (220 lbs) uses a 95. Alex Ovechkin uses 100+ for his legendary one-timer.

105–115 flex (extra stiff)

Pro stock territory for very large, physically dominant players. Rare in recreational hockey. If you’re shopping at Reference Hockey and see a 115 flex, it was almost certainly made for a 220+ lb defenseman who takes hard slapshots for a living.

Interactive Hockey Stick Flex Calculator

75 flex vs 85 flex (the most common flexes) - Which should you choose?

This is the most common flex decision adult players face. Here's the honest breakdown:

Choose 75 flex if:

• You're a forward under 175 lbs
• You take mostly wrist shots and snap shots
• You've cut your 80 flex stick down an inch or more
• You've tried 85 and felt like you were muscling the stick rather than loading it
• Quick release matters more to you than one-timer power

Choose 85 flex if:

• You're between 165–190 lbs and play any position
• You take a mix of shot types
• You haven't cut your stick down at all
• You want a middle-ground stick that works for everything

The real-world difference between a 75 and an 85 is smaller than you'd think on wrist shots, but noticeable on slapshots — the 85 will noticeably load and kick harder when you put full weight into it. For most forwards who aren't ripping one-timers from the point regularly, the 75 will feel more natural and effortless.

One important note: if you buy an 85 flex and cut 2 inches off the shaft, it will play like a 91–95 flex. Many players who "feel like 85 is too stiff" are actually using a cut-down 85 that's playing like a 95. Buy the 75, cut it to your natural length, and it'll play as a true 81–85.

Position-Specific Flex Recommendations

While body weight is important, your position and playing style should heavily influence your flex choice. Here's what you need to know for each position:

Forwards (Centers & Wingers)

Recommended Flex Range: Typically 5-10 flex points LOWER than the standard half-body-weight formula

Forwards benefit from lower flex sticks because they take more wrist shots, snap shots, and quick release shots. A whippier stick allows for:

• Faster shot release from in tight
• Better ability to load the stick on wrist shots and snap shots
• Improved puck feel during stickhandling and dangles
• Easier one-timers with less wind-up required

Pro Player Examples:

• Connor McDavid (6'1", 193 lbs): Uses an 85 flex—notably lower than his weight would suggest
• Patrick Kane (5'10", 177 lbs): Uses a 75-80 flex for maximum quick-release capability
• Auston Matthews (6'3", 220 lbs): Uses a 95 flex, which is still below his body weight

Ideal for forwards who: Prioritize quick releases, take many wrist/snap shots, play in tight spaces, and focus on stickhandling.

Defensemen

Recommended Flex Range: Equal to or 5-10 flex points HIGHER than the standard formula

Defensemen typically prefer stiffer sticks because they:

• Take more slapshots from the point (requiring maximum energy transfer)
• Need stability during board battles and defensive plays
• Benefit from better puck-stopping ability on the blue line
• Require more durability for blocked shots and physical play

Pro Player Examples:

• Cale Makar (5'11", 187 lbs): Uses a 95 flex for powerful point shots
• Victor Hedman (6'6", 241 lbs): Uses a 110+ flex for devastating slapshots
• Quinn Hughes (5'10", 180 lbs): Uses an 85-87 flex (more offensive-minded D-man style)

Exception for offensive defensemen: If you play a more forward-like style with lots of zone entries and skating, you might prefer a slightly lower flex similar to forwards.

Power Forwards & Physical Players

Recommended Flex Range: Equal to half your body weight or slightly higher

If your game involves heavy board battles, net-front presence, and physical play, you'll want a stiffer stick that won't break or lose effectiveness during contact. Power forwards often split the difference between skill forwards and defensemen.

Pro Player Examples:

• Alex Ovechkin (6'3", 239 lbs): Uses a 100+ flex for his legendary slapshot
• Tom Wilson (6'4", 218 lbs): Uses a 95-100 flex for durability in physical play

What flex do NHL pros actually use?

Pro players don't always follow the half-bodyweight rule — many go considerably lower for quick release, or higher for raw power. Here's what the data shows:

Connor McDavid — Forward, 193 lbs — 85 flex Below bodyweight. Prioritizes release speed over raw power.

Patrick Kane — Forward, 177 lbs — 75–80 flex Well below bodyweight. Maximum snap shot release, elite puck feel.

Quinn Hughes — Defence, 180 lbs — 85–87 flex Offensive D-man who plays more like a forward — lower flex reflects that.

Auston Matthews — Forward, 220 lbs — 95 flex Slightly below bodyweight. Balance of power and feel for a big forward.

Leon Draisaitl — Forward, 215 lbs — 92–95 flex Slightly below bodyweight. Power forward style with a heavy shot.

Cale Makar — Defence, 187 lbs — 95 flex At/above bodyweight. Strong enough to load a stiff stick for powerful point shots.

Tom Wilson — Forward, 218 lbs — 95–100 flex Physical play and durability over quick release.

Alex Ovechkin — Forward, 239 lbs — 100+ flex Built entirely around his one-timer from the left circle.

Victor Hedman — Defence, 241 lbs — 110+ flex One of the stiffest sticks in the NHL. Big body, devastating slapshot.

The pattern: Forwards almost always go 5–15 flex points below their bodyweight calculation. Defensemen and power forwards tend to match or exceed it. Use this as a reality check against the half-bodyweight formula — your position and shot type matter more than the formula alone.

Many of these players use pro stock sticks with exact flex numbers (like 87 or 92) that aren't available at retail. That's one reason pro stock sticks from Reference Hockey are worth considering — you can get the exact flex a pro uses, not just the nearest round number.

Goalies

Recommended Flex Range: Goalie sticks use different flex measurements and typically range from very stiff (regular/stiff) to medium (mid) flex

Goalie stick flex works differently than player sticks and focuses on puck-handling ability versus shot power. Most goalies prefer stiffer paddles for better puck control and clearing ability.

How Playing Style Affects Flex Choice

Beyond position, your individual playing style should inform your flex decision:

Choose a LOWER flex if you:

• Take mostly wrist shots and snap shots
• Prioritize quick release over maximum power
• Play with a short stick (less leverage to flex)
• Focus heavily on stickhandling and dangling

Choose a HIGHER flex if you:

• Take frequent slapshots
• Play a more physical, grinding style
• Use a longer stick (more leverage)
• Have excellent core strength and shooting mechanics

Important note on stick cutting: According to Bauer's official flex guide, the length of a stick is directly related to its flex — and cutting it down increases stiffness. As a general rule, expect to add roughly 3–5 flex points for every inch you remove from the shaft. For example, if you buy an 85 flex stick and cut it down by 2 inches, it will play closer to a 91-95 flex.

If you're playing in an organized league in Canada, stick dimensions are regulated. Hockey Canada Rule 3.3 specifies that a player's stick cannot exceed 163 cm (63 in.) from heel to end of shaft — a key consideration when deciding how much to cut.

Pro Stock Flex: What Makes It Different?

Pro stock hockey sticks often have more specific flex options than retail sticks. While retail sticks typically come in standard increments (75, 85, 95), pro stock inventory may include flex ratings like 77, 87, 92, or 102—allowing for much more precise customization.

Key differences:

• More flex options: Pro stock sticks come in odd flexes like 77, 87, 92 that aren't available retail
• Custom kick points: Some pro stocks have modified flex profiles tailored to specific players
• Higher quality materials: Pro stock sticks often use premium carbon fiber layups
• Better value: At Reference Hockey, pro stock sticks are up to 70% off retail MSRP, giving you pro-level performance at a fraction of the cost

Testing Your Flex: Signs You've Got It Right (or Wrong)

Signs your flex is TOO LOW (too whippy):

• Shots feel inaccurate or unpredictable
• Stick feels "floppy" during stickhandling
• Puck flutters or knuckles in the air
• Receiving passes feels mushy

Signs your flex is TOO HIGH (too stiff):

• Difficulty loading the stick on wrist shots
• Shots lack power despite good technique
• Stick feels "dead" or unresponsive
• Difficulty with quick-release shots

Signs your flex is JUST RIGHT:

• You can visibly see the stick flex when taking wrist shots
• Shots feel powerful and accurate
• Good puck feel during stickhandling
• Confident receiving and making passes

Common Flex Myths Debunked

Myth #1: "Stiffer sticks always shoot harder"

Reality: If you can't properly flex a stiff stick, you'll actually lose power. The key is finding a flex you can load effectively with your current strength and technique.

Myth #2: "Lower flex is only for kids and beginners"

Reality: Many elite NHL players use lower flex sticks (75-85) because it gives them better quick-release capability and puck feel.

Myth #3: "You should increase flex as you get stronger"

Reality: Not necessarily. Many players find their optimal flex and stick with it for years, even as they gain strength. It's about what works for your game, not just raw power.

How to Choose Your Next Pro Stock Stick at Reference Hockey

At Reference Hockey, we carry pro stock sticks in a wide range of flex options from all major brands:

• Bauer: Vapor, Nexus, and Supreme lines in flexes from 70-110+
• CCM: Jetspeed, Tacks, and Trigger models with 65-105 flex options
• True: HZRDUS line with unique flex profiles
• Warrior & Sherwood: Various flex options across their pro stock lines

Shopping tips:

• Filter by your preferred flex range (we organize inventory by flex: 60-69, 70-79, 80-89, 90-99, 100+)
• Consider your curve preference alongside flex (P28, P92, P88 are popular)
• Check back often—our pro stock inventory is updated daily with new arrivals
• Remember to account for stick cutting when selecting your flex

Final Recommendations by Position

Position	Weight	Recommended Flex	Notes
Forward	150-170 lbs	70-80	Prioritize quick release
Forward	170-190 lbs	77-87	Balance of power & feel
Forward	190-210 lbs	85-95	Still below body weight
Defenseman	170-190 lbs	87-95	Point shot power
Defenseman	190-210 lbs	95-102	Maximum slapshot velocity
Defenseman	210+ lbs	100-110+	Big bodies, big flex
Power Forward	180-200 lbs	87-95	Durability + power
Power Forward	200-220 lbs	95-102	Physical play style

Choosing the right hockey stick flex is a personal decision that depends on your body weight, position, playing style, and individual preferences. While the "half your body weight" rule is a good starting point, don't be afraid to experiment within a range to find what feels best for your game.

The beauty of pro stock sticks is that they offer more flex variety than retail options, allowing you to fine-tune your equipment to match your exact specifications. Whether you're a sniper forward looking for a quick release with an 80 flex, or a stay-at-home defenseman needing a 102 flex for booming point shots, there's a pro stock option that's perfect for you.

Ready to find your perfect flex? Browse our complete selection of pro stock hockey sticks for sale, organized by flex range, brand, and curve. With new inventory added daily and prices up to 70% off retail, you can afford to try different flex options and find your ideal stick. Shop now at Reference Hockey and elevate your game with pro-level equipment.