IHM Knowledge Center
What Is VH Technique?
What is the Vertical-Horizontal (VH) technique in hockey goaltending, and why do some elite goalies still use it despite the popularity of RVH?
Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: July 13, 2026
Short Answer
The VH (Vertical-Horizontal) technique is a post-integration method in which the goalie’s near-side pad remains vertical against the post while the opposite leg lies horizontally across the crease.
Although RVH has become the dominant modern technique, VH remains valuable in selected situations where staying higher and more mobile offers tactical advantages.
Full Explanation
Before the widespread adoption of RVH, VH was one of the primary methods for defending attacks near the post.
Many elite goalies still use VH selectively because it allows faster transitions back onto the skates and provides stronger upper-body coverage in certain situations.
Modern goaltending treats VH as another tool rather than an outdated technique.
The best goalies choose between VH and RVH according to the developing play.
Why VH Matters
VH remains effective because it helps goalies:
- Protect the near post
- Maintain higher body position
- React quickly to elevated shots
- Recover onto the skates faster
- Maintain visual tracking around the post
- Stay mobile against developing attacks
It remains useful whenever complete commitment to RVH is unnecessary.
How VH Works
During VH:
- The near-side pad stays vertically against the post.
- The opposite leg extends horizontally across the crease.
- The torso remains upright.
- The stick protects the ice.
- The head stays locked onto the puck.
The position keeps the goalie higher while maintaining strong post coverage.
When Goalies Use VH
Elite goalies may choose VH when:
- The shooter remains above the goal line.
- Upper-net threats are more dangerous.
- Quick recovery onto the skates is expected.
- The puck carrier has not committed below the goal line.
- The attack remains dynamic.
The choice always depends on reading the play correctly.
VH vs RVH
Both techniques protect the post, but they serve different tactical purposes.
Generally:
- RVH seals lower attacks more effectively.
- VH keeps the goalie higher and more mobile.
- RVH is preferred below the goal line.
- VH may be preferable when attacks remain above the goal line.
Elite goalies transition naturally between both techniques.
NHL vs IIHF Use of VH
VH appears less frequently than RVH in today’s NHL, but it has not disappeared.
Professional goalies continue using VH whenever it better matches the offensive situation.
The same tactical principles apply in IIHF competition.
Why VH Is Often Misunderstood
Some people assume VH has become obsolete.
In reality, modern professional goalies continue using both VH and RVH depending on puck location, shooter position, and expected passing options.
The technique remains part of the complete elite goaltending toolkit.
Edge Case: Choosing VH Instead of RVH
Selecting VH when the puck has already moved below the goal line may:
- Create small gaps near the post
- Reduce lower-net coverage
- Increase vulnerability to wraparounds
- Make jam plays more dangerous
- Delay post sealing
Successful post play depends more on choosing the correct technique than executing the wrong one perfectly.
IHM Signal System: How to Evaluate VH
When evaluating VH, focus on these signals:
- Post signal: Is the near post completely sealed?
- Timing signal: Is VH selected at the correct moment?
- Mobility signal: Can the goalie recover quickly?
- Vision signal: Is puck tracking maintained?
- Balance signal: Does the body remain stable throughout?
Trigger-level rule:
If VH is maintained after the attack shifts below the goal line, the goalie should normally transition toward RVH to improve lower-net protection.
IHM Insight: Elite Goalies Master Both Techniques
Professional goaltending is not about choosing one post technique forever.
Elite goalies understand when VH provides better mobility and when RVH offers stronger post coverage.
Modern post integration is built on decision-making rather than rigid technical rules.
Mini Q&A
What does VH stand for?
Vertical-Horizontal.
Is VH still used today?
Yes. Elite goalies continue using it in selected tactical situations.
How is VH different from RVH?
VH keeps the goalie higher, while RVH provides stronger lower-post sealing.
Should goalies always use RVH?
No. The correct technique depends on puck location and the developing play.
What defines elite post integration?
Choosing the correct technique at the correct moment.
Why This Concept Exists
Modern offensive hockey creates constantly changing attacks around the goal line.
VH remains an important option because it provides mobility, visual control, and efficient recovery in situations where full RVH commitment is unnecessary.
Key Takeaways
- VH remains part of modern elite goaltending.
- It keeps the goalie higher around the post.
- RVH and VH complement one another.
- Technique selection depends on puck location.
- Mobility is one of VH’s greatest strengths.
- Elite goalies transition naturally between both techniques.
- Decision-making matters more than favouring one system.