Masskrugstemmen Rules


Official Rules:

  1. A 1L glass stein with handle must be used. The stein itself should weigh approximately 3.5lbs and will be provided by The Basement to ensure consistency.

  2. Stein must be filled to 1L lip.

  3. Stein must be gripped by the handle.

  4. Thumb may not go on top of the stein handle, it must rest on the other fingers.

  5. Pinkie finger may be held outside of the handle.

  6. Arching of the back is allowable, however excessive leaning is unacceptable.

  7. The stein must be gripped such that the front of the stein faces away from the competitor (the stein can't be gripped sideways)

  8. Stein must be held out in front of the competitor, not out to the side.

  9. The arm holding the stein must remain close to parallel with the floor and should be extended straight with very little bending at the elbow.

  10. The off-hand should remain at the competitor's side and should not be used to support the body.

  11. An infraction of any rule will result in a strike. After two strikes, the third infraction leads to elimination of the competitor.

  12. If any amount of beer spills or drips off of the stein, the competitor is eliminated, regardless of the number of previously assigned strikes. During outdoor competitions or humid conditions, The Judge will be sure to differentiate between dripping resulting from condensation and dripping resulting from beer spillage.
    Competitors should not contact any structures, objects or people during the competition.
    Competitors must stand within their personal area and should not move more than is necessary to make adjustments ensuring proper form during the competition.

  13. Any dispute will be settled by The Judge in accordance with these laws and the laws of The Basement.


US Steinholding Association Competition Apparel


  1. No brace, support or strap of any kind may be worn during competition.

  2. Athletic compression clothing is acceptable, however stiff or supportive clothing (such as a bench press shirt) may not be worn.

  3. Use of grip powders, pine tar or any similar substance is prohibited.


US Steinholding Association Judging Guidelines


  1. Within the first 60 seconds of a competition, The Judge may provide corrections to competitors (hold higher, hold lower, unbend elbow) without assigning an official strike.

  2. The Judge will be conservative but fair when assessing competitors.

  3. Failing to adhere to all of the rules or being too lenient with judging will hurt the reputation of the establishment and improperly prepare competitors for higher level competitions.


Source:  US Steinholding Association  http://www.ussteinholding.com/info/official-steinholding-rules