ICE HOCKEY STICKS

A hockey stick is the player's most critical piece of equipment, as it's responsible for puck handling, passing, and shooting. With countless options available, selecting the right stick can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we'll explore different hockey stick brands such as Bauer, CCM, Warrior, and True, discuss how to choose the right stick, and mention other essential factors to consider.

1. Hockey Stick Brands

a. Bauer

Bauer is a well-established brand in the hockey industry, known for its high-quality sticks used by many professional players. They offer various stick lines, including Vapor, Supreme, and Nexus, catering to different styles and skill levels. Bauer sticks are known for their lightweight construction, excellent durability, and innovative technology, such as their Advanced Carbon Layering system and TeXtreme material for enhanced performance.

b. CCM

Another prominent brand in the hockey world, CCM offers a variety of high-performance sticks suitable for players of all levels. With stick lines like Ribcor, Jetspeed, and Tacks, CCM caters to various playing styles and preferences. CCM sticks often incorporate advanced technologies like Sigmatex carbon fiber and X-Flow molding, providing lightweight, durable, and responsive options for players.

c. Warrior

Warrior is a popular brand among hockey players for its innovative and high-quality sticks. With stick lines such as Covert, Alpha, and Fantom, Warrior offers options for various playing styles, skill levels, and budgets. Their sticks are known for their low-kick point, responsive feel, and innovative features like the Minimus Carbon and Sabre Taper technology, which enhances accuracy and control.

d. True

True has gained a strong reputation in recent years for its high-performance hockey sticks. With stick lines like A-Series, X-Series, and Project X, True provides options for players of all levels and playing styles. Their sticks are made using advanced manufacturing techniques, such as Axenic Technology and BRT+ blade technology, for lightweight, durable, and responsive performance.

2. Choosing the Right Hockey Stick

a. Length

Selecting the appropriate stick length is crucial for optimal performance on the ice. A general rule is to choose a stick that reaches between your chin and nose when standing upright without skates. Shorter sticks provide better control and maneuverability, while longer sticks offer extended reach and more powerful shots. Ultimately, the ideal length depends on the player's position, preferences, and style of play.

b. Flex

The flex of a hockey stick refers to its stiffness, which impacts how much energy is transferred during shots. A lower flex number indicates a more flexible stick, while a higher number signifies a stiffer stick. The ideal flex depends on factors like the player's weight, strength, and shooting technique. A general rule is to select a stick with a flex rating around half the player's body weight.

c. Curve

The curve of the stick blade affects puck handling, shooting, and passing abilities. Blade curves vary in depth, face angle, and shape, catering to different playing styles and preferences. For beginners, a moderate curve with a closed face angle is generally recommended, as it offers a good balance between control and shot power. As players become more experienced, they can experiment with different curve types to find what suits them best.

d. Materials

Hockey sticks are typically made from composite materials like carbon fiber, which provide a lightweight, durable, and responsive option. Wood sticks, while less common, can still be found and offer a more traditional feel and lower price point. However, they tend to be heavier and less durable compared to composite sticks.