Your shaft is more than a piece of equipment. It is the foundation of how you move, how you handle pressure, and how you express your game. The right shaft can elevate your confidence and sharpen every rep. The wrong one can hold you back.
At Vanguard, we design our shafts with intention. Each weight class and material profile serves a purpose, and choosing the right one comes down to understanding how you play.
Here is how to find the perfect fit for your style:
Know Your Playing Identity
Every athlete falls into one of a few performance profiles. Start by asking yourself a simple question. What defines your game?
- Speed and Quickness
If you rely on fast hands, crisp feeds, and tight dodging, you need a shaft that moves with you. Lightweight carbon gives you effortless handling and a responsive feel when the ball is in your stick.
- Balance and Versatility
If you do a little of everything, look for a mid weight shaft. These profiles blend speed, stability, and power, giving you confidence in every situation.
- Power and Physical Play
If you attack contact, shoot heavy, or play a more punishing style, you want a heavier or reinforced shaft. This gives you added durability, a more grounded feel, and better energy transfer on high force movements.
Carbon vs Alloy: What Matters Most
Both materials have strengths. Choosing the right one depends on how you want your stick to feel.
Carbon
Lightweight
More flex for energy return
Reduced sting
Quick and smooth release
Alloy
Rigid and strong
Naturally durable
Consistent feel in all conditions
Reliable on physical plays
Match Weight to Position
This is a simple starting point, but it aligns with how most players perform.
Attack and Offensive Midfield
Light or mid weight for fast handling and dynamic movement.
Two Way and Box Midfield
Mid weight for a balanced blend of control and strength.
Defense and LSM
Heavier alloy profiles for checks, reach, and durability.
Goalie
Light weight for quick movement and strong outlets.
Test How the Shaft Feels Under Pressure
A shaft should feel comfortable in your hands when the game gets intense. Consider:
Grip texture
Balance point
Stiffness
Release feel
Feedback on catches and passes
The best shaft does not just feel good in warmups. It feels good after that game winning goal or the take away to ice the game.
Vanguard Recommendation
If you are unsure where to start:
Choose a lightweight carbon if you want speed.
Choose a mid weight carbon if you want balance.
Choose a stronger alloy if you want durability and power.
Each option gives you a clear performance advantage tied to your style of play.