How to choose my first floorball?

 

There is no rule to determine whether you are a right-handed or a left-handed shot. Commonly, right-handed players shoot left and left-handed players shoot right. Shooting left means that you hold your left-hand lower on the stick than your right hand and the stick is on the left side of your body.

 

 

 

 

The most important factor to consider is the length of the stick. The correct length of stick should reach one to two centimeters above your navel. Stick lengths can vary, with the average length being around 100 cm and the maximum length at 104 cm. For junior players, it is possible to shorten the shaft of the stick by first removing the grip, then sawing the shaft from the top to your desired length and reapplying the grip.

 

 

The shaft stiffness or flex is the second most important factor and is commonly listed in millimeters on the stick. The flex refers to how much the stick will flex under 30 lbs of pressure and is calculated by the International Floorball Federation’s testing institute. The lower the number, the stiffer the shaft of the stick is.

 

Competitive players prefer a stiffer stick shaft for harder and more accurate shots. According to current regulations, the stiffest stick allowed in IFF-sanctioned competitive play is 23. To determine the right flex for you, consider that the more you weigh and the harder your shot is the stiffer the shaft of your stick should be. Lighter players with a lighter shot should use a less stiff stick. While a stiffer flex is great for shots, a softer shaft is better for stickhandling.

 

 

There are numerous different types of floorball blades available varying in shape and stiffness. A stiffer blade will increase shot power while a soft one will help with ball control and “feeling”. Usually blades are designed with a “ball pocket” to help control the ball. Better blades will come pre-curved for either left or right shooting players. Commonly players will curve the blade to fit his or her style of play. Special “zorro” blades exist for zorro or airhooking moves, like the Salming 7XZ or Cypher.

 

 

Round and Hammer/Oval grip shapes are common in floorball. The best shape of grip is usually determined by a player’s personal preference. If you are unsure of the right shape of grip, choose a round grip as that is the most common. Higher-end sticks come with more advanced grips that repel moisture and provide better performance.

 

 

Stick weights vary depending on the materials used to manufacture the shaft, the blade and the grip. Competitive players prefer a lighter stick but personal preference can play a part in your decision.

 

 

 

To curve the blade, use a heat gun or other heat source (toaster, stove top) to heat the blade until it becomes slightly soft and malleable. Be careful not to place the blade too close to the heat source as you may melt the plastic. When the material soft enough to handle, shape the blade to your desired curve and while holding the shape, place it under cold water until the plastic is firm.

 

Some floorball players prefer to include a “hook” or a “claw” at the tip of the blade to help with air hooking and wrist shots. IFF competition rules state that the blade cannot be curved more than 3 cm. This is measured from the highest point of the bottom edge of the blade to the ground, with the blade laying flat on the ground.