Modern hockey sticks are generally made of composite materials and can be both shortened and extended as needed. Here's an explanation of how long your stick should be, how to cut it to the desired length, and how to tape a new knob to achieve optimal grip on your hockey stick.

How long should your hockey stick be?
A hockey stick should typically reach up to your nose when standing without skates or up to your chin when wearing skates. Alternatively, you can estimate the ideal length by taking 80% of your total body height. However, the length of the stick is somewhat a matter of personal preference. Some players, such as defensemen, prefer a longer stick for increased reach, which is advantageous for pushing opponents' pucks away or shooting powerful shots from the blue line, thanks to the increased leverage a longer stick provides. Players who want to be able to handle the puck and shoot in tight spaces – especially forwards – tend to prefer a slightly shorter stick.

How to cut your hockey stick to the right length
If the stick you buy is too long, you will need to cut it. Place the stick perpendicular to the floor in front of your nose, with or without skates. Mark exactly where you want to cut the stick, which is usually around your nose without skates and your chin with skates on. A good tip is to start by cutting a few centimeters longer and then test if the length feels right. If the stick feels too long, you can easily cut a few more centimeters. Use a hacksaw or similar fine-toothed saw and then tape a new knob to the end with hockey tape.

How to tape a new knob
Once you're happy with the length of the stick, it’s time to fix a new knob for maximum feel and performance. How you tape it can vary, and there are many different methods, but for an optimal grip, it’s best to use hockey tape. A popular method is not just to wrap the tape around the shaft but also to twist it into slightly thicker threads that you wind around the stick with a few centimeters of space between each loop. This creates a structure that prevents the glove from slipping when you hold the stick. Finish by taping a few more rounds with grip tape for the best conditions to hold onto your stick in any situation.