In hockey, shooting left or right describes which side of your body the stick blade is on, not which hand you write with. A left-shot player holds the stick with the right hand on top and the left hand lower down, so the blade sits on the left side. A right-shot player does the opposite. Many right-handed people shoot left, because their dominant hand controls the top of the stick, where much of the fine control happens. The easiest way to decide is to try both: pick up a broom or stick and see which way feels natural, then test stickhandling and shooting on each side. Choose the side that gives you the most control and comfort.
Left shot vs right shot
| Shot | Top hand | Bottom hand | Blade side |
|---|---|---|---|
| Left shot | Right hand | Left hand | Left side of the body |
| Right shot | Left hand | Right hand | Right side of the body |
The top hand controls the stick’s angle and movement, especially during stickhandling, while the bottom hand provides power and support for passing and shooting. Because both hands matter, there is no strict rule that right-handed people must shoot right. In hockey overall, left shots are more common than right shots, and the balance varies between countries and leagues.
Quick tests to find your side
| Test | How to do it |
|---|---|
| Broom test | Pick up a broom and sweep; the hand you naturally put on top often becomes your top hand on a hockey stick |
| Stick pick-up | Pick up a hockey stick without thinking and see which side you hold it on |
| Stickhandling test | Try both sides with a stick and ball; choose the side with better control |
| Shooting test | Take shots on both sides and compare accuracy and power |
| Other sports | Batting stance in baseball or a golf swing can hint at your natural side |
How to choose your shot side step by step
- Try the broom test and note which hand goes on top.
- Hold a hockey stick both ways and see which feels more natural.
- Practice stickhandling with a ball or puck on each side.
- Take shots and passes from both sides.
- Ask a coach to watch and give feedback on control and comfort.
- Choose the side that feels best and stick with it for several weeks before judging.
- Buy a stick with the correct curve for that side.
Why your dominant hand is often on top
Many players find their dominant hand works best at the top of the stick because it controls the fine movements needed for stickhandling, deking and receiving passes. This is why many right-handed players shoot left and many left-handed players shoot right. However, some players prefer their dominant hand lower down for more power in their shot. Both approaches can work, and many successful players have followed each pattern. Comfort and control are more important than following a rule.
Choosing the right stick
Hockey sticks are made specifically for left or right shots, with the blade curved to suit one side. When buying a stick, choose the side that matches your shot. Other factors include stick length, which typically reaches somewhere between the chin and nose when standing in skates, flex, which describes how much the shaft bends, and curve pattern, which affects puck handling and shot lift. Beginners often benefit from a moderate curve and a flex that suits their weight and strength. A coach or knowledgeable store employee can help with sizing.
Playing your off wing
Some coaches like forwards to play on their off wing, meaning a left-shot player on the right wing or a right-shot player on the left wing. Playing the off wing can open up the blade toward the middle of the ice, giving a better shooting angle when cutting in and making one-timers easier from certain spots. However, it can make receiving passes along the boards and protecting the puck more challenging. Other coaches prefer players on their natural side for easier puck handling along the wall. Teams often mix both depending on the players’ strengths.
Defensemen and shot side
Coaches often like to pair a left-shot defenseman with a right-shot defenseman, with each playing their natural side. This makes it easier to receive passes along the boards, make quick outlet passes and keep pucks in at the blue line. Right-shot defensemen are often valued because they are less common. Still, many defensemen successfully play their off side, and pairings depend on overall skills and chemistry.
Goalies
Goalies do not shoot, but they still choose which hand holds the stick. Most goalies catch with their left hand and hold the stick in their right, often called a regular catch, while some catch with the right hand, called full right. Goalie equipment is sold in both configurations, so choose based on comfort and which hand feels more natural for catching.
Advice for parents of young players
Young children often pick up a stick however it feels natural, and that instinct is usually a good starting point. Watch which way your child holds a stick when playing casually, sweeping or picking up a broom, and try both sides at a learn-to-play session. Avoid forcing a side based only on which hand they write with. Coaches in beginner programs often help determine the best side during early practices. Because young players are still developing coordination, a small adjustment later is possible, but it becomes harder once habits form, so it is worth paying attention early.
Developing both sides of your game
Once you have chosen a shot side, you will still need skills on both sides of your body. Backhand passes and shots use the opposite side of the blade, and strong players can handle the puck, receive passes and shoot effectively on both forehand and backhand. Practice backhand saucer passes, backhand shots and receiving pucks on your backhand regularly. Working on your weaker side makes you less predictable and more effective in games.
How shot side affects shooting angles
Shot side influences where on the ice you have the best angles. A player shooting from their off wing has the blade facing the middle of the ice, which can make it easier to shoot quickly from the circles and to take one-timers from cross-ice passes. A player on their strong side has the puck on the outside, which helps protect it along the boards and makes it easier to cut toward the net. Understanding these angles helps players and coaches decide positions and set plays.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming handedness decides your shot. Many right-handed players shoot left.
- Switching sides too often. Give yourself time to adapt.
- Buying the wrong stick. Match the curve to your shot side.
- Choosing only for shooting power. Stickhandling control matters too.
- Ignoring comfort. A natural feel is the best guide.
- Using a stick that is too long or too short. Size affects control.
Frequently asked questions
Should a right-handed player shoot left?
Many do, but test both sides before deciding.
What does left shot mean in hockey?
The blade is on the left side of the body, with the right hand on top of the stick.
Can you switch shot sides later?
It is possible, but it usually takes a lot of practice to feel comfortable.
