Javelin Selection

Understanding Javelin Flexibility & Performance

All javelins are inherently flexible—but the degree of flexibility plays a major role in how the implement flies, how forgiving it is to technical errors, and who it's best suited for.

800g Javelin Recommendations

Under 50m (164’) Stiffness Level = Low 

• Nemeth 60m
• Nordic Viking
• Thrower X Flex X

Over 50m (164’) up to 61m (200’) Stiffness Level = Low to Medium

• Nemeth 70m
• Nordic All-Around
• Nordic Super Elite
• Thrower X Flex X

Over 55m (180’) up to 65m (215’) Stiffness Level = Medium to High

• Nemeth 70m
• Nemeth Club 80m
• Nordic Super Elite
• Nordic Valkyrie

Over 61m (200’) up to 75m (245’) Stiffness Level = High

• Nemeth Club 80m
• Nemeth Club 85m
• Nordic Valhalla Medium Hybrid NXS/NXS
• Nordic Valkyrie

Over 67m (220’) Stiffness Level = Very High

• Nemeth 90m Classic
• Nordic Valhalla Hard Carbon NXS/NXB

800g Rubber Tip Javelins

Under 55m (180’) and Training

• Thrower X Flex
• Apex OTE 60m
  

Over 55m (180’) and Training

• Thrower X Flex
• Polanik Sky Challenger
• Apex OTE 70m

600g Javelin Recommendations

Under 35m (115’) Stiffness Level = Low

• Nemeth 50m
• Nordic Viking
• Thrower X Flex X

Over 40m (131’) up to 55m (180’) Stiffness Level = Low to Medium

• Nemeth 60m
• Nemeth 70m
• Nordic Diana
• Thrower X Flex X

Over 45m (150’) up to 61m (215’) Stiffness Level = Medium to High

• Nemeth Club 70m
• Nemeth Club 75m
• Nordic Diana
• Nordic Valkyrie

Over 50m (164’) Stiffness Level = High

• Nemeth Club 75
• Nemeth Classic 80m
• Nordic Valkyrie
• Nordic Valhalla Medium Hybrid NXS/NXS

Over 58m (190’) Stiffness Level = Very High

• Nemeth Classic 80m
• Nordic Valhalla Medium Hybrid NXS/NXS
• Nordic Valhalla Hard Carbon NXS/NXB

600g Rubber Tip Javelins

Under 42m (140’) and Training

• Thrower X Flex
• Nordic Comet
  
• Apex OTE 50m

Over 42m (140’) and Training

• Thrower X Flex
• Polanik Sky Challenger
• Nordic Viking
• Apex OTE 60

Javelin Selection

Flex Ratings vs. Distance Ratings

• Flex Rating: Measures how much a javelin bends.

  • Higher Flex = More Flexible

  • Lower Flex = Stiffer

• Distance Rating: Indicates the thrower level the javelin is designed for.

  • Higher Distance Rating = Designed for Elite Throwers

  • Lower Distance Rating = Designed for Beginners/Intermediate

Softer, More Flexible Javelins

• Constructed from softer alloys or hybrid composites

• Bend and oscillate more during the throw

• Easier to throw for beginners and developing athletes

• More forgiving to technical inconsistencies

• Typically have a higher flex rating and a lower distance rating

Best for throwers learning proper technique or those with less power

Stiffer, Less Flexible Javelins

• Made from carbon fiber or stiffer aluminum blends

• Bend less and return more energy—potential for longer flight

• Requires precise technique and high release speed

• Less forgiving and can put stress on the arm if released incorrectly

• Typically have a lower flex rating and a higher distance rating

Best for advanced throwers with clean mechanics and higher power output

Matching the Javelin to the Athlete

Throws Pro offers javelin recommendations based on distance, helping athletes and coaches choose an appropriate implement. However, it’s important to note:

Every thrower is unique.
The best javelin for one athlete may not suit another with a different technique, speed, or release angle.

Choosing the right javelin involves balancing:

• Thrower’s current distance

• Technical consistency

• Strength and arm speed

• Material preference (forgiveness vs. stiffness)

Key Considerations

• Nemeth Javelins tend to be more forgiving with a stable flight, often favored by technically sound throwers.
• Nordic Javelins feature a variety of stiffness/flex options — better for matching the javelin to specific thrower strength and technique.
• Thrower X Javelins  are ideal for emerging elite throwers and training
• Hybrid and carbon models offer higher performance but demand more technical precision.
• For youth or developing throwers, softer flex javelins are ideal
• Hard carbon or stiff flex javelins suit stronger, more experienced throwers.