Flex in floorball sticks – How to choose the right flex for your playing style and strength
Choosing the right flex for your floorball stick is crucial for optimizing both your playing experience and performance. Flex refers to the stiffness of the shaft and affects how much the stick bends, for example during a slap shot. The flex you choose should be based on your physical strength, technique, and personal playing style. Here, we explain what flex means, how it is measured, and which flex is best suited for men, women, and children.
What is flex on a floorball stick?
Flex indicates how much a floorball shaft bends under a certain load and is measured in millimeters. If a stick bends 26 mm during testing, it has a flex of 26. Flex values range from the stiffest flex of 23 to the softest at 36, where a lower flex indicates a stiffer shaft that bends less, while a higher flex gives a softer shaft that bends more.
Flex for different player types
Power-based players (for example those who prefer powerful shots and passes) usually prefer a stiffer stick with a lower flex.
Technical players (those who focus on speed and control) benefit from a slightly softer stick with a higher flex.
Recommended flex for different players
Men
For male players, a flex between 23–27 is recommended depending on individual strength and playing style. Strong players with powerful shots can often handle a stiffer stick with lower flex, while players with a more technical style may benefit from a slightly higher flex that provides more control and precision.
Women
Women usually prefer a flex between 28–30. Female players who want more power in their game, for example for longer shots, may consider a lower flex around 28, while players who prioritize precision and technique may choose a higher flex. Here, it is also important to consider the player’s physical strength and technique.
Juniors and children
For juniors and children, it is especially important to have the right flex to avoid injuries and support development.
Juniors: A flex between 27–32 is recommended. Juniors with solid technique can choose a lower flex to develop their shooting, but overall a flex between 28–31 works well to provide the right balance between power and control.
Children: For younger children, a higher flex between 32–36 is recommended. A softer stick helps children gain better control and develop proper technique without needing to use too much force in their shots.
How is flex measured?
Flex is measured in millimeters and is determined by applying pressure to the middle of the shaft. A standard load of 30 kg (30 Newton meters) is used, and then the amount the shaft bends from its original position is measured. The flex number indicates how many millimeters the shaft bends under pressure – for example, flex 26 means the stick bends 26 mm. A stiffer stick with a lower flex value bends less, while a softer stick with a higher flex value bends more under the same pressure.
Common questions about flex
What flex should I choose for my floorball stick?
The choice of flex depends on the player’s physical strength, playing style, and experience. Power-based players can often handle a lower flex, while technical players may prefer a higher flex for better control. For beginners, it is usually best to start with a slightly higher flex that is easier to control.
How do you measure flex on a floorball stick?
Flex is measured by placing the stick in a testing machine where a specific pressure is applied to the middle of the shaft. The flex value is given in millimeters and corresponds to how much the stick bends under this load.
What flex should children use?
For children, a flex between 31–36 is recommended, where a higher flex makes the stick softer and easier to control. This is important so the child can develop technique and strength without using too much force, which also reduces the risk of injury.
Floorball sticks sorted by flex
Flex 23
Flex 25
Flex 26
Flex 27
Flex 28
Flex 29
Flex 30
Flex 31
Flex 32
Flex 33
Flex 34
Flex 35
Flex 36
