Within the fast-paced, unpredictable world of ice hockey, each twist and switch can change the sport—and that features how a goalie holds their stick.
One of many extra distinctive variations within the crease is the total proper goalie setup. Whereas most followers and gamers are aware of the everyday left-hand glove, a full proper configuration flips the script—actually—and opens an enchanting world of alternate angles, reflex changes, and equipment challenges.
So, whether or not you are an up-and-coming netminder, a sharp-eyed coach, or only a informal observer who’s questioning, “Why’s that man sporting the glove then again?”, we’ve bought you lined.
Understanding the Full Proper Goalie Setup
Let’s begin with the fundamentals: what’s a full proper goalie?
A full proper goalie in hockey is somebody who wears the goalie glove on their proper hand and holds the goalie stick of their left hand. That is the reverse of what most goaltenders do—historically, the glove is worn on the left and the stick is in the suitable.
This setup isn’t only for present—it’s usually the extra pure match for left-handed shooters, preferring catching with their dominant hand. It might probably additionally assist with higher management when passing or poke-checking from sure angles. If you happen to’ve ever picked up a stick and thought, “This simply doesn’t really feel proper,” you may be a kind of gamers who ought to attempt going full proper.
Why Is It Much less Widespread?
The reality is that the hockey world has a regular “default setting” relating to goalie coaching and equipment. From youth leagues to the professionals, most goalie drills, trainings, and even tools are designed with left-glove goalies in thoughts. That makes the total proper stance much less seen—and fewer widespread. However don’t let that idiot you into considering it’s much less efficient.
If something, being a proper goalie is like being the wildcard on the poker desk. Shooters would possibly want that additional split-second to regulate, and in hockey, each split-second counts.
How Full Proper Goalie Gear Differs
That is the place issues get technical—however in a great way. A full proper goalie setup means reversing your gear:
Goalie glove goes on the suitable hand
Blocker goes on the left
Stick stays within the left hand
Now, right here’s the kicker: discovering gear on this configuration can grow to be a little bit of a scavenger hunt. Most outlets carry much more stock for normal setups, so full proper gear will be more durable to come back by—and in some circumstances, it might even must be customized ordered.
Nonetheless, you’re not completely by yourself. Trusted manufacturers like Bauer and CCM provide full proper choices throughout their traces. At Professional Inventory Hockey, we inventory high-quality, pro-level hockey goalie tools, together with:
Even when you need to dig a bit of deeper or wait a bit longer for the suitable piece, discovering gear that matches your hand dominance and taking part in fashion is value each minute. It may be the distinction between awkward saves and instinctive reactions that make spotlight reels.
Execs and Cons of the Full Proper Setup
Each setup in hockey comes with its personal perks and quirks, and the total proper stance isn’t any exception. It might not be the commonest path, however it could possibly provide a tactical edge—and a recent means to take a look at the crease.
Right here’s the way it shakes out.
The Execs
1. Shock Issue: Most shooters are educated to go glove aspect—on the left. When a goalie flips the script, it could possibly mess with shot choice and rhythm. For you, which means extra saves and fewer rebounds.
2. Pure Match for Southpaws: If you happen to’re a left-handed particular person, the total proper setup would possibly really offer you higher glove coordination and puck management. That’s a win-win.
3. Angle Manipulation: Consider it or not, flipping your gear alters your stance barely, which might throw off visible focusing on for shooters. Even a number of levels could make a distinction at excessive speeds.
The Cons
1. Gear Searching: As we talked about earlier, discovering goalie tools for full proper setups isn’t all the time straightforward. You may must be a bit extra resourceful—and presumably affected person.
2. Teaching Curve: Not each goalie coach is used to coaching full proper gamers. Meaning some drills might have adapting, and your improvement path would possibly look a bit of completely different.
3. Glove Aspect Concentrating on: As soon as gamers catch on that you just’re a proper goalie, they could begin hammering your glove aspect. Keep prepared!
Regardless of these hurdles, many full proper goalies discover that with the suitable apply, approach, and mindset, they’ll flip these “cons” into simply one other a part of their recreation prep. In truth, what begins as a problem usually turns into a secret weapon when you’re assured and constant.
Determine If Full Proper Is Proper for You
Serious about making an attempt out the total proper stance? Right here’s easy methods to determine it out:
Attempt Each Types in Follow: There’s no substitute for time on the ice. If you happen to’re not sure which hand feels higher for the glove, rotate between types throughout coaching classes and see what sticks (pun meant).
Speak to Your Coach: Coaches can provide goal perception into your posture, glove attain, and response patterns. Don’t be afraid to ask them to tailor drills or give suggestions on each setups.
Give attention to Confidence: In the end, the “greatest” configuration is the one which makes you are feeling able to face each slapshot, breakaway, or one-timer with confidence.
Whether or not you’re new to the sport or simply shaking issues up, the choice to go full proper ought to come all the way down to what feels greatest—not what’s most typical.
Well-known Full Proper Goalies within the NHL
Full proper isn’t just for the rec league; a few of the NHL’s high goaltenders have made waves with the total proper configuration.
Tom Barrasso – Two-time Stanley Cup champ and U.S. Hockey Corridor of Famer, Barrasso made his mark with the Penguins utilizing a full proper stance.
Steve Mason – The 2009 Calder Trophy winner confirmed off how clear, technical play may thrive in a full proper setup.
Cory Schneider – Recognized for his agility and puck-tracking means, Schneider additionally helped normalize the setup.
Eric Comrie – One of many fashionable NHL goalies retaining the total proper custom alive at the moment.
These goalies show that gear setup doesn’t decide your ceiling—your dedication, coaching, and mindset do. Watch a number of of their highlights and also you’ll see simply how seamless and efficient the total proper strategy will be on the highest degree.
Embrace Your Fashion
On the finish of the day, being a hockey goalie is about proudly owning your pure instincts, constructing confidence in your approach, and crafting a recreation fashion that appears like second nature.
The hockey world thrives on range—completely different play types, gear preferences, and ability units are what make the sport so dynamic. If a full proper stance helps you make faster saves, keep poised beneath strain, and management the puck with confidence, then it may be precisely the sting you want.
Need assistance discovering the suitable gear? We’ve bought a deep bench of goalie tools to help your journey—whichever aspect of the crease you guard.
