Slapshot "Stick Flex" Optimizer

A slapshot is an elastic slingshot. See how pressing into the ice stores potential energy to rocket the puck away.

(Lbs required to bend the stick 1 inch)
Stored Energy
0 Joules
Final Slapshot Velocity
0 MPH

Elastic Potential Energy

A proper hockey slapshot doesn't just hit the puck. The player strikes the ice a few inches behind the puck. By leaning their body weight onto the shaft, they bend the composite stick.

  • The Spring: The stick acts exactly like a loaded spring. The formula for Elastic Potential Energy is $U = \frac{1}{2} k x^2$, where $k$ is the stiffness (Flex Rating) and $x$ is how far it bends.
  • The Snap: As the blade slides across the ice and contacts the puck, the stick "snaps" back to its straight position. It violently transfers that stored energy directly into the puck's kinetic energy.

If your stick is too stiff (high flex rating), you won't be heavy/strong enough to bend it, resulting in a weak shot. If it's too flexible, it acts like a wet noodle and loses energy transfer efficiency!