The 10 Best Hockey Sticks In 2023: Reviews And Buyer’s Guide

Did you know that as of 2020, hockey is the fourth most popular sport in America after American Football, Baseball, and Basketball? It is more prevalent in the northern part of the United States. It is also known as Ice Hockey in countries where “hockey” refers to field hockey. America, having recently won the Olympic Hockey Gold Medal for the first time in 20 years, this sport’s popularity has only soared.

If you are an avid hockey player or someone who enjoys the sport as part of one’s fitness routine, it is essential to know the right stick. Your click will not be wasted as you are on the right page to get started with your purchase decision.

Quick Answer: The Top Hockey Sticks

How to Choose A Hockey Stick: A Buyer’s Guide

We have collated some of the key pointers for you to note while going for THE ONE. Well, it is better to have more than one. No worries, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s get started.

Parts of a Stick

There are three main components of a stick. Let’s have a look at each of them.

Butt End

As the word suggests, it is the rear end of the hockey stick. It is one of the main components, also known as the knob or handle. It is the part where you mostly place your non-dominant hand while playing. It provides grip and stability while you are out there chasing the puck. Having that control is necessary for you to focus on your kick point.

To have the best hockey stick, you also need to ensure the best material to choose from. We talk about the stick materials in the next section. For now, let us move on to the next component.

Shaft

It is the stick’s middle segment, responsible for most of the control provided while shooting the puck towards the goal. It is slightly elastic and flexible but rigid at the same time. It is a straight beam with a sloping rectangular cross-section to accentuate the power applied during each shot.

The shaft is mainly responsible for the nature of the shot release. It controls nearly all your movements while shooting, handling, and passing/ receiving the puck to/ from other players. The length of the shaft varies depending on the height of the player. However, the entire length of a hockey stick is governed and regulated. We will discuss hockey stick length in the upcoming sections.

Blade

It is the part that actually makes contact with the puck and ice. The blade can be further sub-divided into two parts: heel and toe. Each of these sub-parts has a different nature of controlling the puck and releasing the shots.

The blade is curved in shape, and the angle varied between 131 to 137 degrees. Usually, a player wraps a cloth tape around the shaft to better control the puck and ensure a better grip while tackling it. We will get to know more about hockey stick blade patterns in one of the segments of the article. 

Stick Material

Let us delve into the different kind of hockey stick materials.

Composite Sticks

When Hockey was first formulated into a sport, the first sticks used to play were made of wood. With passing time and multiple evolutions to the mark, players started stressing more on the stick’s weight and longevity. A lighter stick provides better control and improves game performance. 

The composite sticks are made from various materials, with the most popular ones being carbon, glass, and Kevlar. These materials are placed in multiple layers of fiber to provide extra strength and durability.  This process makes it a better shock-absorbent while hitting the puck. Even though these sticks are a bit on the spectrum’s pricier side, it is still a better investment for you, especially if the objective is to have it long-term.

Composite sticks are expensive, but they provide more durability.

Wood Sticks

With the introduction of new, improved shaft technology, the hockey sticks available now stress more on stick weight. The materials used during manufacturing the product are incredibly light-weight and durable. However, some players still prefer the traditional wooden stick over others.

Another factor that compels a player to buy a wooden stick is its pricing. Its price is low compared to a composite stick, but the performance delivery is commendable. It is a wise investment for beginners who are cost-conscious. The wood sticks deliver just as well. However, its weight is a little overwhelming. A lot of high-level players still prefer the traditional wooden hockey sticks for its feel and shot delivery.

Wooden sticks are less expensive compared to composite sticks, but they do not give much longevity.

One vs. Two-Piece Sticks

Many people have this genuine concern whether a one-piece stick is better than a two-piece stick. From a technical point of view, one-piece sticks are better because they are light-weight compared to their counterparts. There is consistency throughout the shaft and blade. A lighter stick also enables the player to shoot with maximum strength while applying minimal energy. The shot release is quick and powerful.

However, a two-piece stick has its advantage. The detachable blade and shaft combo provide a player the freedom to replace the blade in wear and tear. The shaft is retained while the blade is replaced. This saves the cost of buying an entirely new Hockey stick. Also, you have the liberty to mix and match the blade and shaft and use different combinations. It is not possible in the case of a one-piece stick. 

Stick Lengths

The size of the stick depends a lot on the preference of the player and their game style. It is always essential to have the right stick length for your matches. The size of the stick may vary from 150cm to 200cm. National Hockey League sticks are 160 cm long. When you stand straight up with your chin parallel to the ground, the butt end should touch the upper end of your hip bone.

The lengths of the sticks are pre-determined. The length can be adjusted either by cutting it down to shorten it or by attaching an end plug to extend it. But many times, a shorter stick does not generate a powerful shot. You would not play well if the length of the stick does not match your tempo.

Your age, height, and weight are also essential factors in determining the optimum length required by you. Hockey sticks for youth are generally short-length and thin, whereas it is typically long and thick for senior players. The size is also a deciding factor in tackling the puck and passing to the fellow player.

An offensive player might prefer a shorter stick than the mid-fielder and defensive player who generally prefer a longer shaft. It is for proper puck control. There are three lengths available: 

Short

A short stick should not reach past your chin when you are standing upright while wearing your hockey skates. The flex of the shaft changes when you shorten the stick by a few inches. This stick is apt for players who have swift and quick movements while stickhandling.

Regular

It is the standard length that is delivered straight from the manufacturer. You have the liberty to either cut it according to your preference or extend the butt end if you wish for a long stick. This stick length is perfect for all positions on the ice rink.

Long

A longer stick is generally preferred if you play in a defense position since it increases the reach. It makes tackling easy. For players stationed at other positions, they can either go for a long stick if they prefer or add an extension to their regular stick.  

Stick Blade Patterns

Have you ever had the eureka moment while choosing the right hockey stick for you? How to choose the right blade pattern matching your performance and style? Selecting the right blade pattern is a crucial decision, and people often feel lost at this stage. It is a tad bit complex decision.

As mentioned above, the hockey stick’s blade is divided into two parts: toe and heel. The level of the curve of the stick determines the player’s strike of the ball. It is also essential to keep in mind the position you play and the nature of the shots you take.

Curve

The hockey stick blade has two components: heel and toe. 

A blade with a curvy heel has a more rounded shape at the base of the blade. Heel curves are ideal for defensive players and aid in high-velocity shots. It improves their shot accuracy and slap shot power. A blade with a curvy toe is perfect for a forward player. It makes the lift of the puck easier and quicker. 

The blade curve affects the control of the puck. The curve generates a spin while you make passes and aim shots. The curve plays a vital role when puck handling is quick and in limited space. 

To balance both heel and toe curves, a mid-curve available to provide better shot accuracy to the players. The majority of the curve is present in the middle portion of the blade. Some of the famous curves used by NHL Players are:

Ovechkin Curve: This is a versatile curve found on the hockey sticks for good wrist shots and a quicker release.

Stamkos Curve: This is an excellent choice for forehand and backhand shots. It is suitable for stick-handling.

Crosby Curve: it has an open face and provides a significant lift on the shots. The passing accuracy and backhand tackling are affected due to this curve, but the stick-handling and puck control are excellent.

McDavid Curve: this creates the maximum amount of lifts, making it difficult to grasp the control. However, this kind of hockey stick blade is one of the fastest-growing in the market.

Depth

The hockey blade curve depth refers to the center of the actual curve with the blade makes. It classifies into four broad categories.

• Shallow
• Moderate
• Medium
• Deep

The curve range usually varies from three-eighth of an inch to half an inch. A flat blade will have a zero-depth. Deeper the curve better the lift and puck control. It will also help to attack efficiently in tight corners. 

Furthermore, we do not recommend stick with a more significant curve and depth to beginners, as backhand shots are tougher to handle. After a certain amount of practice, one can transition to curvier blades. A little depth in the curve will provide better accuracy in shots. 

Lie

When the bottom portion of the blade lies flat on the ice, the angle that your stick makes at this position is called the Lie of Hockey Stick. The blade should lie flat in an ideal situation when you stand upright on your skates with the stick next to you. If the blade is either on your toe or heel, it means that the stick is not ideal for you to play your game. 

The Lie of the hockey stick helps in controlling the puck during its handle and tackle. The range of a hockey Lie lies between 3 to 8. The most widely used stick Lies are 4,5, and 6. 

When you channel the puck closer to your body and skate upright, it is favorable to navigate with a hockey stick having four Lie. When the puck is a little further from your body and skating with a lesser center of balance, it is suitable to have a six Lie. Five is a balance between both four and six Lie.

Toe Shape

Toe Shape depends on the kind of Hockey stick and the player position on the ice rink. You should choose the one leveraging your strengths. There are mainly two kinds of toe shapes:

Square Toes

These are ideal for carrying “toe-drags,” which is nothing but the moves of stickhandling. The square shape provides a larger surface area and makes the toe dragging smooth. However, once you are consistent in your hand movements with constant practice, then the square toes will not be of much value. 

Round Toes

These are suitable for dragging and flipping the puck on ice. Round toes make navigation of puck through traffic very manageable over the square ones. If the stick blade is angled with ice at a particular angle post the flip, then the round toes are preferable to deliver your shot. 

Length

Hockey Stick blade length ranges between 25 cm to 40 cm. We see that the smaller the toe of blade, the better the shot. But smaller toes also limit the power applied during the strike and pose difficulty in tackling the puck.

• Shorter blades provide better puck control and deliver low-velocity shots.
• Medium blades are a perfect combination of puck control and power of the shot.
• Longer blades make the passing action more convenient. The larger surface area adds to the advantage of shot power applied.

Stick Flex

As the name suggests, stick flex is nothing but a measure of the hockey stick’s flexibility. It is the force required to bend a stick by an inch and is measured in pounds (lbs). If a force of 80 lbs is applied, it means that the flex score is 80.

A hockey stick’s flex is a crucial part of shortlisting the perfect stick to match your rhythm. The ideal flex can help improve your accuracy and power in every shot that you deliver. Experts say that if you trim a stick short by 2 inches, it increases the flex score by ten units. A stick of 85 flex points will have 95 flex when cut down by 2 inches.

The right flex also depends on the weight of your body. If your body weight is around 200 pounds, it is ideal to have a stick with a Flex score of 100. More robust and more massive players should have a more significant flex stick.

There are three broad classifications:

Low Flex (70-85)

It does not require a lot of shaft loading to generate a good shot. More power shots can be achieved. It is optimal for light-weight players.

Medium Flex (85-100)

It is ideal for all players to perform. It will neither perform more powerful shots nor less powerful ones. However, you can still expect great results.

Heavy Flex (85-100)

Heavy flex sticks are for players who are heavier in weight and are also very tall. You achieve hard and powerful shots with high flex, and it usually takes a bit of practice to get used to these kinds of sticks.

Cutting a Stick

As mentioned in the previous section, cutting a stick is ideal for providing a better flex. You can customize a Hockey stick according to your needs and expectations. While the length choice is a subjective matter depending on the individual’s preference, make sure to measure the shaft of the stick, reaching right below your chin tip.

For a wooden stick, a saw with splayed teeth is used by the stick maker to cut the wood into the required shape and level out all corners of the shaft.  In olden times, the stick’s head was handcrafted and required extremely skilled labor to conclude the job. There are two natures of sticks:

Soft Sticks

These hockey sticks are the ones with a lesser flex. It increases the shot velocity. It reduces the accuracy of the shot since these sticks are a little bendy in nature.

Pros

• It is ideal for short-height players.
• It is ideal for a player with lesser bodyweight.
• Puck lifting is maximum.
• These sticks are overall light-weight in nature and more durable.

Cons

• Puck control is slightly tricky. It may require more significant practice to be hands-on.
• The lift of the puck is maximum with soft sticks. It requires a great amount of practice and handling control to tame the puck.
• You need to apply more strength to deliver a better shot.

Stiffer Sticks

These hockey sticks are the ones with a greater flex. They enhance the accuracy while making a shot as the stress on the blade is less.

Pros

• It is ideal for players taller than 5 feet 10 inches.
• Players who weigh on the heavier side find this stick easier to handle.
• Tackling during defense is more comfortable compared to a soft stick.
• Passing activity is very convenient with this stick.

Cons

• It is not ideal for people playing on offense.
• Puck lifts can be slightly challenging.
• These are slightly less durable compared to a soft stick.

Weights

Another key factor that you should consider while investing in a hockey stick is the stick’s weight. The traditional “old-school” wooden sticks are on the heavier side. They are still a popular choice among most NHL senior players and some entry-level players. The composite sticks are comparatively lighter in weight and last longer.

The major drawback of the composite stick is, however, its price point. One key component is the graphite fiber that the manufacturer uses in making this particular hockey stick. 

Composite stick materials are way lighter and durable. The Kevlar used in the making process is an expensive component, but this provides sturdiness to the complete product. It achieves a perfect combination of stiffness plus light-weight.

Almost every hockey player owns a stick weighing in the range of 16 ounces to 22 ounces. Your ideal hockey stick weight should be the one that has a feel-good factor. When you hold the stick in hand, the matter should feel evenly distributed. If you are just starting to play this sport, we suggest you go for lighter weight and a medium flex stick. Once you get a grip on the sport, you can go ahead with the more massive sticks. 

Your Skill and Style of Play

Skating is the crucial skill required while playing Hockey. You need to have a great deal of balance to transition into various quick moves smoothly. You need to know both forward as well as backward skating. Make sure that you coordinate well with your fellow players. It makes passing the puck an easy task. Along with the movement, you also need to know how to stop without losing balance.

Some of the other key required skills are listed below:

• You need to be efficient in lengthening your stride. Your striding technique needs to be on point.
• Controlling your speed is also very crucial. While handling the puck, you need to increase your skating speed, but at the same time, you also need to balance your navigation throughout the ice rink.
• Holding onto the puck while skating is another essential skill you need to master.
• You need to know a few deceptive moves to confuse your opponent. For this, you need to practice your stickhandling skill.
• You also need to transition from one speed to another during puck control. The aim is not to lose the puck to the opponent. Having the right blade helps.
• While shooting the puck into the goal, you need to master weight transfer for achieving accurate shots.
• Practice your feet moving as well. Most times, the opponent reads your next move based on your feet placement concerning your upper body.
• Aim for less predictable shots. For this, you will need to practice movement shots.
• Swift upper body movements and the knowledge of when to change directions is just an added advantage.

If you are on the defense side, then one critical skill for you is to be aware of your surroundings. Checking around is necessary because for you snatching the puck from the opponent is your primary focus.

If you are someone whose aim is to be a goalie, then for you, the primary skill should be the art of saving the puck from scoring a goal. There are six significant saves that a goalie practice: 

• V-saves
• Blocker saves
• Glove saves
• Deck saves
• Stick saves
• Cover up

FAQs

Q. Should you use a left-handed stick or a right-handed one?

If you are predominantly right-handed in day-to-day life, you will most likely find your comfort holding and playing with a left-handed stick. Similarly, if you are left-handed, you will most likely go for a right-handed hockey stick. 

Q. Why do NHL players do not pick up the stick immediately when they drop it mid-play?

Often when a player drops a stick while playing, they do not instantly pick it up. Instead, they focus on maintaining a defensive position and trying to do whatever they can until a teammate clears the defense zone or shoots the puck in the goal.

Q. How long should your stick be?

Depending on your long or short stick’s preference, it should either be an inch or two above or below your chin when placed upright from the ground level. Shorter sticks are advantageous for better puck handling, whereas longer sticks give you a better reach with the least effort applied. The trend these days is to incline towards a shorter hockey stick. 

Q. Should you use a Grip or Clear Finish?

The functionality of the Grip is to have a better hold on your stick. Almost all players prefer having a Grip on their stick instead of a Clear Finish material. The clear Finish makes it a bit slippery while aiming for a shot because it is essential to keep your hand movements minimal while shooting. However, there are still a few players who prefer a Clear Finish. We would suggest you use Grip, especially if you are a beginner and are still polishing your hand movements.

Q. How long does a hockey stick last?

The life of a hockey stick depends on three broad factors:

• The position in which you play. Multiple slap shots damage the shaft and blade eventually.
• The frequency of you playing Hockey, as in the number of times you play in a week, month, or year. 
• The construction of hockey sticks. The ones made from carbon fiber are the most expensive and comparatively most durable. 

Q. Which players should use a stick with a lower Lie?

Players who carry the puck directly in front of them while navigating on the rink while skating slow are apt to stick with lower Lie. It is also advisable for players with short height.

The Best Rated Hockey Stick Reviews

There are varieties of factors involved in the purchase decision of THE ONE perfect stick. Now that we have all the essential details regarding the Hockey stick, let us look at our top choices that are available to explore.

#1. Bauer Vapor Flylite Composite Hockey Stick

The Bauer Vapor Flylite is one of the premium sticks available for you to choose from. It is one of the best models for you to enhance your playing style. This particular stick provides low kick points to suit your game style. 

XE Taper is a new feature that Bauer has incorporated in this stick. This technology provides better stability due to its rounded edges. 

Advanced Carbon Layering technology is present in both blade and shaft to contribute to the entire stick’s durability.

Additionally, the Asymmetrical TeXtreme shaft technology is a contributor to its enhanced performance delivery. The construction of the Flylite stick blade includes AERO-SENSE 2 in its blade core. The blade is slightly on the thicker side to fuel the shot performance. It is also a bit rectangular to help with better tackling strategies. 

This hockey stick is available in 102 Flex, 87 Flex, 77 Flex, and 70 Flex.

Pros

• Light-weight and low kick point to provide quicker release.
• Better stability during puck handling.
• Thicker blade for the longevity of the stick.
• Ease in taking quick wrist movement shots.
• The length of 60 inches is suitable for puck handling.

Cons

• Nothing that we could think of, maybe the warranty period should increase, but we see that 30 days is the market standard.

#2. CCM JetSpeed FT3 Pro Composite Hockey Stick

This stick is ideal for pro-level players to amplify their performance further. CCM calls the JetSpeed line of the hockey stick a hybrid kick model. It is justified for a mid-kick point position so that the maximum stored energy can be released and channeled correctly. Nanocarbon Layering technology is introduced by CCM to blend performance with speed.

The shaft has a better ergonomically designed feature to accentuate the coordination with fellow teammates during puck passing.

The FT3 Pro is engineered for your benefit so that it gives you a feel-good factor when you hold it in your hands.

Sygmatex Spread Tow is the new unique carbon weaving technique specially created to add on to the life of stick.

The concave rounded corners of the shaft and reinforced toe and heel construction make this CCM product stand out when it comes to tactical strategies. This stick is the first choice of many NHL pro players. 

This hockey stick is available in 95 Flex, 85 Flex, 75 Flex, and 70 Flex.

Pros

• Apt for navigating during speedy moves.
• JS4 blade for improved puck control.
• Light-weight shaft for better handling.
• The construction material used makes it extremely durable
• It is engineered by the manufacturer to enable the player to score from anywhere on the rink.

Cons

• Nothing that we could think of, maybe the warranty period should increase, but we see that 30 days is the market standard.

#3. CCM Ribcor Trigger 4 Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick

Another great option provided by CCM to add to your shopping cart is the CCM Ribcor Trigger 4 Pro. It is also designed for elite and pro players to accentuate their performance. They are at a lower price compared to the first two sticks we reviewed above.

CCM uses a different design in each of the sections of the shaft. The rounded concave shape at the top-shaft, a round convex shape at the mid-shaft, and a squared corner in the low-shaft provide maximum comfort while lifting and tackling the puck.

The all-new Agility Blade incorporated in the stick has improved accuracy at aiming the shot and passing on to the teammates.

To avoid excessive resin and void, CCM has included the X-Flow technology for better shaft quality. This hockey stick is available in 95 Flex, 85 Flex, 75 Flex, and 70 Flex. 

Pros

• Enhanced comfort and puck control.
• Consistent performance while stickhandling, passing or aiming for a shoot.
• Ensures the utmost accuracy blended with quick releases.
• The construction material used adds to the durability of the stick.
• Designed uniquely to make quick motion shots.

Cons

• Slightly more massive than the JetSpeed series but still light-weight compared to a wooden stick.

#4. Warrior Alpha DX Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick

If you are someone who is looking at a Hockey Stick, which delivers excellent performance and is budget-friendly at the same time, then Warrior Alpha DX Pro is an optimum solution for you.

Its remarkable feature lies in the flex, which is closer to the blade. It results in faster shots and quicker shooting. 

The Warrior’s Saber Taper technology enhances the mid-kick points. This stick is apt for a player in an offensive zone.

The stick also comes with Apex Grip to improve the stability and balance while swift hand movements.

The Fuelcore technology boosts the blade construction. These particular hockey sticks are available in 100 Flex, 85 Flex, 75 Flex, and 65 Flex.

Pros

• Light-weight and robust Grip.
• Excellent control during play.
• Better performance at a lower price.
• Faster recoil is achievable.
• Overall control while stick handling is superb.

Cons

• Slightly heavier compared to the counterparts above but still weighs less than a pound.
• Does not deliver much of power shots.

#5. Bauer Nexus 2N Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick

It is one of Bauer’s sticks from the Nexus collection, designed for pro players. It is a one-piece composite hockey stick that provides better consistency and balance. It removes the inconvenience of replacing the blade.

The DuraFlex resin system increases its flex strength by 20 percent compared to its predecessor, ElasTech technology.

The shaft has slightly concave sides and rounded corners to enable better puck handling and control.  Towards the blade, the width of the shaft gets thinner. It also enhances better synchronization amongst the teammates during the pass.

This hockey stick is available in 102 Flex, 87 Flex, 77 Flex, and 70 Flex.

Pros

• Impressive shaft construction to deliver better.
• Highly durable and consistent in performance.
• In comparison with other sticks, Nexus 2N Pro has a lower risk of breakage.
• Gives quick shot releases.
• Light-weight and easy in stickhandling.

Cons

• Not suitable for players with shorter height.
• In case of wear and tear, you will have to replace the entire stick as this is one-piece.

#6. True XCORE XC9 ACF Grip Composite Hockey Stick

This composite hockey stick is designed by True to enhance puck control, especially. 

The advanced Xcore technology increases the puck spin by 30 percent. The pinpoint precision is excellent when passing and shooting. 

Axenic Technology promotes a one-piece compression molding of the shaft to improve the balance while handling the stick. It also provides a better Grip during hand movements. The blade’s life, especially the heel portion, is also enhanced by its Braided Rib Technology.

It also has 25 layers of carbon fibers, all synced in the same direction. It enhances the consistency of the game. 

The shaft has double concave walls and squared corners. It helps in better puck handling. 

True has combined its design technology with its Xcore blade technology to distribute the stiffness throughout the blade uniformly to deliver more accurate shote. 

This stick is very affordable and suitable for beginners who are budget conscious and are not sure where to invest. 

This hockey stick is available in 105 Flex.

Pros

• Light-weight as well as duly balanced.
• Enhanced consistency and better performance during game.
• Delivers more accurate shots.
• Drives hard passes very easily because of its shaft design.
• Excellent puck handling achieved with its enhanced shaft design.

Cons

• Limited flex options available.
• Suitable majorly for just left-handed players.
• The durability of the stick is lesser compared to its counterparts.

#7. CCM Super Tacks AS2 Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick

This one-of-a-kind stick is optimal for players playing in the offensive zone. The ACU4 XX-Stiff blade is ideal for taking a variety of shots from different positions. It is a preferred choice amongst the pro players who seek more accurate shots from different positions.

The X Flow Technology eliminates excess resin and void during the molding process, making it light-weight and long-lasting. This results in better puck feel and control during passing and shooting.

Their Max Loading Technology intensifies the mid-kick design, providing optimal position in soft flex zones.

The AS2 Pro includes top-notch Sygmatex material in its construction and design. The fabrics are weaved in an innovative way to make it more resilient.

This stick is available in 95 Flex, 85 Flex, and 75 Flex.

Pros

• Very light-weight and highly durable.
• Improved puck-feel and control while shooting and passing.
• Improved taper design for better control and stability.
• More resilient and reduced twist
• Maximum shot power achievable.

Cons

• Not the best stick for defense.

#8. Warrior Covert QRE Pro Grip Composite Stick

It is 63 inches in length, making it the best choice for players in a defensive position. The longer stick provides better tackling with the opponents for puck possession.

Consistency in the shaft wall thickness redistributes the weight for better accuracy shots.

The Covert line by Warrior specializes in low kick point positions. The shaft has straight sides and rounded corners to assist in puck handling.

Minimus Carbon 1000 fibers used in the product material increases the overall strength of the stick.

The Pro Cortex Grip provides an excellent grip for locking a player’s hand while performing problematic wrist and hand movements. The Grip is textured and soft at the same time to produce a better feel while holding the stick.

This stick is available in 100 Flex, 85 flex, and 75 Flex.

Pros

• Better taper design for improved power.
• Improvised carbon weave blade for high level of durability.
• Best choice for defensive players.
• Textured Grip for better hand control during shots specially.
• Optimal control and increased power for elite playability.

Cons

• Not suitable for players with shorter height.

#9. Bauer Vapor X900 Lite Grip Composite Hockey Stick

If you are a beginner who is just starting in the field of Hockey, this stick could be an ideal choice for you. It is very budget-friendly and an excellent stick to practice and improve your hand movements.

This stick is a combination of superior features and upgrades. Despite upgrading, it is still cheaper than the previous X900 model. 

The Micro Feel II shaft includes double concaved sidewalls and rounded corners for better stability during the game.

The Aero Foam I blade core makes the stick feel lighter in hand. The entire stick weighs around 15 ounces, which is lesser than the previous model. The competitors would achieve similar weights for their stick, but they are priced higher than X900 Lite sticks.

This stick is a two-piece design with a fusion of carbon and resin system. It improves the durability and comfort of handling at the same time. 

The Bima X3 3K fiber used in the weaving process makes the stick more tensile and livelier.

This stick is available in 102 Flex.

Pros

• Much cheaper compared to competitors.
• Best puck-feel achieved.
• Heightened stability and shot accuracy.
• QRT technology for low kick point aggressiveness and thinner taper.
• Quick response and enhanced control are achieved.

Cons

• Limited flex options are available.
• Suitable majorly for just left-handed players.
• The durability of the stick is lesser compared to its counterparts.

#10. Warrior Alpha QX Grip Composite Hockey Stick

Another outstanding product created by Warrior is its Alpha QX Grip Composite stick. The critical focus is primarily on shaft technology. The ergonomic contour introduced in the design makes the puck handling extremely convenient. It gives greater comfort and a better feel while holding the stick. 

It is a one-piece stick ideal for beginners to amp up their performance by practicing their game-play. It makes their transition to pro-level pretty quickly and smoothly.

The taper provided in this stick is a patent of Warrior, making it exclusive and one-of-a-kind.

Warrior’s True 1 Fantom Feel gives a well-balanced feel to players, especially when they are skating at high speed with the puck intact in their stick.

The slapshots and snapshots are in sync with the balance delivered by the stick. Lifting and handling the puck is comparatively easy, and it also provides a good bounce when the puck is in contact with the blade. 

This stick is available in 100 Flex. 

Pros

• Very light-weight and easy to handle.
• Extremely durable for the price point provided.
• Best puck-feel and improved strength.
• Enhanced performance due to ergonomic shaft design.
• Improved response and balance.

Cons

• The shaft dimensions are smaller compared to other sticks in the same category.
• Limited flex options are available.
• Suitable majorly for just left-handed players.

Conclusion: Which one Should you Buy?

For any hockey player, the goal is to be the best in their game. We understand that for beginners who are just getting started, price is a crucial factor for deciding on their purchase. 

Our suggestion is that while in the beginning, it is good to be cost-conscious, but under no circumstances you should compromise on your performance quality.

If you are a pro player, then we recommend Bauer Vapor Flylite composite sticks. Since they are available in all flex ranges, it ideal for pro players of every stature and position to explore this fantastic product. 

If you are just starting their Hockey journey and are confused on the stick choices, we recommend Warrior Covert QRE Pro to begin your journey. The shaft design is apt for you to enhance your puck handling and hand movement skills. The availability in all flex ranges also makes it ideal for people with different stature and styles. The best part is that this stick is very budget-friendly.