Are you ready to take your hockey game to the next level? Look no further than understanding hockey blade lie. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this guide will help you understand what blade lie is, why it matters, and how to choose the right blade lie for your game.
First, let’s cover the basics. Hockey blade lie refers to the angle between the blade of your stick and the shaft. This angle can affect the way you handle the puck, shoot, and pass. It’s important to find the right blade lie for your playing style to optimize your performance on the ice.
There are a variety of blade lie numbers available, each with their own unique benefits. From measuring your blade lie to adjusting it to your specific needs, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to up your hockey game. So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and discover how to improve your game today!
Table of Contents
The Basics of Hockey Blade Lie
Before we dive into the specifics of hockey blade lie, let’s cover the basics. As mentioned earlier, blade lie refers to the angle between the blade of your stick and the shaft. The most common blade lie numbers range from 4 to 7, with 5 and 6 being the most popular.
When choosing a blade lie, it’s important to consider your position and playing style. Forwards may benefit from a lower blade lie, which allows for better stickhandling and shooting. Defensemen, on the other hand, may prefer a higher blade lie for better reach and control on the ice.
Blade Lie Numbers
- 4 Lie: A low blade lie that’s best for players who like to keep the puck close to their body while stickhandling or shooting.
- 5 Lie: The most common blade lie number, suitable for players who have a balanced playing style and don’t lean too heavily towards offense or defense.
- 6 Lie: Another common blade lie number, best for players who spend more time shooting and less time stickhandling.
Measuring Your Blade Lie
To find the right blade lie for your game, you’ll need to measure the angle between the blade and the shaft. This can be done using a lie-specific measuring tool, which can be purchased at your local hockey store.
Alternatively, you can measure your blade lie at home using a protractor and a flat surface. Simply place the blade of your stick on the surface, align the shaft with the protractor, and measure the angle between the two.
Adjusting Your Blade Lie
- Lowering the Blade Lie: If you find that your blade lie is too high, you can lower it by heating up the blade with a heat gun and bending it downwards until you reach your desired angle. Be careful not to overheat the blade or bend it too far.
- Raising the Blade Lie: To raise your blade lie, you’ll need to sand down the heel of the blade until you reach your desired angle. This process can be time-consuming, so it’s important to take your time and be patient.
By understanding the basics of hockey blade lie, you’ll be able to choose the right blade for your game and improve your performance on the ice. Keep reading to learn more about the specifics of each blade lie number.
Why Hockey Blade Lie is Important for Your Game
Understanding the blade lie of your hockey stick is crucial for improving your game. Blade lie refers to the angle between the blade of your stick and the shaft. It can affect the way you handle the puck, shoot, and pass.
If you’re a beginner or new to the sport, choosing the right blade lie may not be as important, but as you progress and play at higher levels, it becomes increasingly important. Using a blade lie that doesn’t suit your style of play can hinder your performance on the ice.
Improved Control
One of the main reasons why blade lie is important is because it affects your control over the puck. If you have a blade lie that’s too upright, it can make it more challenging to stickhandle and receive passes. Conversely, a blade lie that’s too flat can make it harder to lift the puck and take accurate shots.
By finding the right blade lie for your style of play, you can achieve better control over the puck, which can lead to improved performance on the ice.
More Accurate Shots
Choosing the right blade lie can also help you take more accurate shots. A blade lie that’s too upright can cause the puck to slide off the blade, resulting in inaccurate shots. On the other hand, a blade lie that’s too flat can make it difficult to lift the puck off the ice, leading to low shots that are easy for the goalie to save.
When you have the right blade lie for your style of play, you’ll be able to take more accurate shots, giving you a better chance of scoring and helping your team win.
Improved Passing
Finally, blade lie can also affect your passing accuracy. A blade lie that’s too upright can make it difficult to pass accurately because it can cause the puck to bounce off the blade. In contrast, a blade lie that’s too flat can cause passes to be too low, making them difficult to receive.
By using a blade lie that suits your style of play, you can achieve better passing accuracy, which can lead to more successful plays on the ice.
Overall, understanding and choosing the right blade lie for your game is crucial for improving your performance on the ice. It can help you achieve better control, more accurate shots, and improved passing accuracy. Take the time to experiment with different blade lies and find the one that suits your style of play best.
The Different Hockey Blade Lie Numbers and What They Mean
Choosing the right hockey stick is essential to your game, and one of the most important factors is the blade lie number. The blade lie is the angle between the blade of the stick and the shaft, and it can have a significant impact on your performance on the ice. Here are some of the different blade lie numbers and what they mean for your game.
5 Lie: A 5 lie stick has a flatter blade that sits closer to the ice. This is ideal for players who skate more upright and tend to take shorter strides. It can also be beneficial for players who like to stickhandle close to their body and rely on wrist shots and snapshots.
6 Lie: A 6 lie stick has a slightly more curved blade, which can help players who skate in a more crouched position and take longer strides. It’s also beneficial for players who take a lot of slapshots and need more lift on the puck.
Blade Lie Numbers Continued:
- 4 Lie: A 4 lie stick has an even flatter blade than a 5 lie stick and is suitable for players who take a lot of backhand shots and stickhandle with the blade of the stick.
- 7 Lie: A 7 lie stick has a more curved blade than a 6 lie stick, which can help with backhand shots and give players more control over the puck.
How to Choose the Right Blade Lie:
Choosing the right blade lie can be a bit of trial and error, but there are a few factors to consider. Your skating style, stride length, and the types of shots you take can all impact which blade lie is right for you. If you’re not sure where to start, consider trying a 5 or 6 lie stick and adjusting from there based on how it feels on the ice.
How to Measure Hockey Blade Lie
Knowing the blade lie of your hockey stick is important to improve your game. Measuring it is easy, and you can do it at home with just a few simple steps.
Here are the steps to measure the blade lie of your hockey stick:
Step 1: Place the stick on a flat surface
Place the stick blade down on a flat surface, such as a table or bench.
Step 2: Measure the distance from the heel to the surface
Using a ruler or tape measure, measure the distance from the heel of the blade to the surface. This will give you the first measurement.
Step 3: Measure the distance from the toe to the surface
Next, measure the distance from the toe of the blade to the surface. This will give you the second measurement.
You can then use these measurements to calculate the blade lie of your hockey stick. The difference between the two measurements divided by two is the blade lie number. For example, if the distance from the heel to the surface is 3 inches, and the distance from the toe to the surface is 2 inches, the difference is 1 inch. Dividing this by two gives you a blade lie of 0.5.
Considerations When Measuring Blade Lie
- It’s important to ensure that the surface you use for measurement is completely flat, as an uneven surface can affect the accuracy of your measurements.
- Make sure that the stick is placed evenly on the surface, and that the blade is not twisted or warped in any way.
How to Choose the Right Hockey Blade Lie for Your Style of Play
If you want to be successful in hockey, you need to choose the right equipment. One of the most important parts of your equipment is your hockey stick, and the blade lie is a critical factor in your performance. Here are some tips to help you choose the right blade lie for your style of play.
Tip #1: Know Your Style of Play
Before you choose a blade lie, you need to understand your style of play. If you’re a forward who skates with a low stance and likes to handle the puck in tight spaces, you might want a lower blade lie to keep the blade closer to the ice. If you’re a defenseman who takes long strides and relies on a longer reach to poke check, you might prefer a higher blade lie to keep the blade elevated off the ice.
Tip #2: Consider Your Position
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Forward: If you play forward, you might want a blade lie between 4 and 6 to give you the versatility to handle the puck in a variety of situations.
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Defenseman: If you play defense, you might want a blade lie between 5 and 7 to give you a longer reach for poke checks and to help elevate the puck when shooting from the point.
Tip #3: Experiment and Adjust
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Experiment: There’s no perfect blade lie for every player. It’s important to experiment with different lies to find the one that feels the most natural to you.
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Adjust: Once you find a blade lie that feels comfortable, don’t be afraid to make adjustments. Small changes can have a big impact on your performance.
Remember, choosing the right blade lie is important for your performance on the ice. By considering your style of play, position, and experimenting with different lies, you can find the perfect blade lie to help you perform at your best.
Common Misconceptions About Hockey Blade Lie
Hockey players have a lot of gear to consider, and the blade of their stick is no exception. However, there are some common misconceptions about hockey blade lie that can lead players astray. In this article, we’ll address some of those misconceptions and clear up any confusion.
Myth #1: A Higher Blade Lie is Always Better
Reality:
- While a higher blade lie can help some players, it is not always better. It depends on the player’s style of play and body positioning. Players who skate more upright may benefit from a higher blade lie, but those who skate with a lower stance may find it hinders their performance.
- Tip: Experiment with different blade lies to find the one that suits your style of play and body positioning best.
Myth #2: Blade Lie is Just a Matter of Preference
Reality:
- While preference does play a role in choosing a blade lie, it is not the only factor to consider. Your body positioning, stickhandling style, and skating stride should all be taken into account when selecting a blade lie.
- Tip: Consult with a coach or equipment expert to determine the best blade lie for your individual needs.
Myth #3: Changing Blade Lie Will Instantly Improve Your Game
Reality:
- Changing your blade lie can certainly help improve your game, but it is not a magic fix for all performance issues. Other factors, such as technique, strength, and conditioning, also play important roles in a player’s performance.
- Tip: Consider all aspects of your game when looking to improve your performance, and consult with a coach or trainer for guidance.
Tips and Tricks for Adjusting Your Hockey Blade Lie
Adjusting your hockey blade lie is a great way to improve your performance on the ice. Here are some tips and tricks to help you adjust your blade lie:
Know Your Playing Style
Before you adjust your blade lie, it’s important to understand your playing style. If you are a forward who likes to skate quickly and take shots from the slot, you might want a lower blade lie. If you are a defenseman who likes to block shots and play physically, you might want a higher blade lie. Understanding your playing style can help you determine the right blade lie for you.
Experiment with Different Angles
When adjusting your blade lie, try different angles to find the perfect fit. Start with small adjustments and test them out on the ice. If you find that the angle isn’t working, try a different one. Keep experimenting until you find the right angle for you.
Seek Professional Help
If you’re having trouble adjusting your blade lie or don’t feel confident doing it on your own, seek the help of a professional. A coach or equipment specialist can help you find the right blade lie and make any necessary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hockey Blade Lie?
Hockey Blade Lie is the angle between the blade and the shaft of the hockey stick. It plays a vital role in the stick’s performance as it determines the blade’s contact with the ice surface. A higher blade lie means a more upright stick, while a lower lie means a flatter stick. The right blade lie can affect your stick handling, shooting accuracy, and even skating stride.
How do I know if I’m using the right Blade Lie?
The blade lie you use depends on various factors, including your height, skating stance, and the position you play. A general rule of thumb is that the blade’s center should be in contact with the ice surface when you stand in your natural skating stance. It’s also essential to experiment with different blade lies to find the one that works best for you.
Can I adjust the Blade Lie of my Hockey Stick?
Yes, you can adjust the blade lie of your hockey stick. You can either buy a stick with a different lie or make adjustments yourself. To adjust the lie yourself, you’ll need to heat the blade and bend it to the desired angle. However, it’s crucial to be careful when doing this, as too much bending can damage the stick.
Does the Blade Lie affect my shot?
Yes, the blade lie can affect your shot. If you’re using the wrong lie, it can cause the blade to open or close during your shot, resulting in inaccurate shots. A lower lie can lead to shots going higher than intended, while a higher lie can cause shots to go low.
What is the difference between a Standard Lie and a Mid Lie?
A standard lie is usually between 5 and 6, while a mid lie is between 4 and A mid lie has a flatter angle than a standard lie, making it suitable for players who skate with a flatter stance. However, it’s essential to note that the right lie depends on the player’s preference and position.
What if I’m still not sure about my Blade Lie?
If you’re still unsure about your Blade Lie, you can consult with a professional. Many hockey stores offer blade fitting services that can help you find the right lie. A professional can also help you determine if other factors, such as stick length, curve, and flex, are affecting your performance.