One of the most important factors in maximizing your pool skills is using a cue with the proper length. But with cues coming in a range of sizes, how do you determine the ideal length for your specific height?
This guide will explain the methods of fitting a cue length to your height. You’ll learn ideal cue size ranges for players of all heights. We’ll also cover proper cue sizing for kids and youth players just starting out.
Follow these tips to find your perfect custom cue length and improve performance through optimal leverage and control.
How Does Height Impact Ideal Cue Length?
Your height is the primary factor dictating proper pool cue length. Taller players need longer cues, while shorter players require cues of smaller size.
But why does height matter so much for cue length? It comes down to basic biomechanics.
When you shoot, the combination of your arm length, bridge length, and cue length determines the maximum distance your cue tip can travel during a stroke.
A longer stroke, within comfortable limits, imparts more potential force on the cue ball. It also provides finer control over the tip motion.
Therefore, a properly sized cue matched to your height allows maximizing your natural stroke potential.
Conversely, a badly matched cue robs you of reach and control. So take the time to find your ideal size.
What Are the Standard Pool Cue Lengths?
Pool cues are available in a range of standard lengths to suit players of all sizes. Youth and junior cues start at 45 inches, while adult cue sizes range from 52 inches up to 63 inches.
Here is an overview of the common pool cue size range:
- Youth cues: 45 inches
- Short cues: 48-52 inches
- Standard cues: 57-59 inches
- Long cues: 60-63 inches
57 to 59 inches covers most adult players, but arm length and shooting style factor in too. Tall players may require extended cues up to 63 inches for optimized shooting.
Most quality cue brands allow ordering custom lengths in 1-inch increments if you fall between standards sizes.
Now let’s look at how to determine the ideal length based on your specific height.
Finding Your Correct Cue Length
Many sizing formulas have been proposed over the years relating height to ideal cue length. But the simplest and most effective way is the Sterling System popularized by expert Tom Sterling Rossman.
Here is how the Sterling System works:
Step 1: Get Your Arm Span
- Stand with your back against a wall and arms extended fully overhead.
- Have someone measure from the tip of one middle finger to the other in inches.
- Your arm span is key – don’t try to “max out” your wingspan or measurements will be off.
Step 2: Calculate 60% of Your Arm Span
- Take your arm span length and multiply by 0.6.
- This gives the ideal cue length representing 60% of your normal reach.
Step 3: Round to the Nearest Half-Inch
- Take the resulting number and round it to the closest half-inch increment.
- This is your ideal cue length in inches.
The logic is simple – your ideal cue length should represent 60% of your normal arm span for maximum stroke control. This prevents over-extension while allowing a long stroke.
Let’s look at some examples to illustrate.
Cue Length Examples by Height
The advantage of the Sterling System is that it directly relates proper cue size to your physical arm span measurement. But as a general rule of thumb, here are the typical cue lengths associated with various heights:
- 5’0″ to 5’3″ players: 52 to 54-inch cue
- 5’4″ to 5’8″ players: 55 to 57-inch cue
- 5’9″ to 6’0″ players: 58 to 59-inch cue
- 6’1″ to 6’3″ players: 59 to 60-inch cue
- 6’4″ and taller players: 60 to 63-inch cue
These are just general guidelines. Be sure to precisely calculate your proper cue length using the Sterling System for best results.
Let’s work through some examples applying the Sterling System for specific player heights.
Example 1: 5’10” Player
- Arm span: 70 inches
- 60% of span: 70 x 0.6 = 42 inches
- Rounded: 42 inches (no rounding needed)
The proper cue length for a 5’10” player with a 70-inch arm span is 42 inches, or a standard 58-inch cue.
Example 2: 6’2″ Player
- Arm span: 74 inches
- 60% of span: 74 x 0.6 = 44.4 inches
- Rounded: 44.5 inches
For a 6’2″ player with a 74-inch arm span, the Sterling System yields a proper cue length of 44.5 inches, or a 59 to 60-inch cue.
Example 3: 5’5″ Player
- Arm span: 65 inches
- 60% of span: 65 x 0.6 = 39 inches
- Rounded: 39.5 inches
A shorter 5’5″ player with a 65-inch arm span would require a 39.5-inch cue, which rounds up to a standard 55-inch cue.
As you can see, the Sterling System adapts the cue length proportionally for any given player height and arm span.
Determining Proper Youth and Junior Cue Lengths
Children and younger teens getting started in pool require special consideration for proper cue sizing. Their cue length must accommodate their shorter height and arm span.
Here are some best practices for selecting junior pool cues:
- Start kids 6-8 years old with a 45-inch cue.
- Increase length 2 inches every 2 years as they grow.
- Switch to standard 52-inch adult cue around ages 12-14.
- When in doubt, always round down cue size until they grow into it.
The key is gradual sizing – there’s no sense having a young child struggle with an oversized adult 57-inch cue. Let them work up to longer cues over time.
Also consider weight. Youth cues are typically lighter to prevent fatigue. Add weight incrementally as they advance.
No matter the age, ensure cues are properly sized and weighted to avoid developing bad habits. Proper leverage and control starts with the right cue.
Conclusion
Don’t settle for grabbing any old house cue off the rack. Take the time to measure your ideal length and invest in a custom cue tailored specifically for you.
Correctly sized cues transform your skills by allowing smoother, more controlled strokes and better leverage. But improper length impedes any player’s potential.
Use the guidance above to find your optimal pool cue length based on your height and arm span. Taking this simple step will instantly boost your shooting accuracy and consistency.
So grab a measuring tape, do some quick calculations, and unleash your top playing abilities with a cue sized for success. You’ll wonder why you waited so long!
