Getting the perfect stick is no easy task. It can take years of playing with different ones to finally figure out the one for you, and your preference may change as your game evolves . In this guide, I will point out some things to consider when choosing a stick.
All brands have their own copyrighted technology put into the sticks, and usually have at least two lines offering different benefits. I’ve used a few different brands of sticks, and they all felt different on the ice. This is due to so many factors such as: where the stick is designed to “kick”, weight, core and material of the stick (to name a few). I’ve grown accustomed to the way Bauer sticks work, and was getting a pretty decent slapshot from them. When I tried to switch it up with Reebok, the puck never hit the net from slappers, but my wristers were fairly accurate. Some of my teammates only like Easton sticks, and can’t use other brands. Not saying one is better than the other, but you can really feel the difference when you get used to the way one brand works over another.
Bauer has two lines: Vapor and Supreme. Vapor is designed towards puck handling, control and accuracy, while the Supreme is for powerful shots. Best way to think of it is that Bauer makes the Vapor products for forwards (agility, speed & precision). The Supreme line is more for defencemen (power & stability).
Reebok has the “K” series (ie. 11K), and the O-Tech sticks. The “O-Tech” is a unique technology where there are actual holes in the lower shaft of the stick. This is to allow airflow and reduce drag by 31%, giving faster stick movement. It definitely looks pretty cool.
Easton has a bigger pool to choose from. The Stealth sticks have the “S” series (ie. S19) and recently released the “RS”. Synergy has the SE which is being replaced by EQ models, and the ST. They seem to offer the most variety of options and technologies. One of the more noticeable is the TORX technology, where the lower end of the shaft towards the blade is rounded. It’s purpose is “to help transfer torque from your hands to the blade for unsurpassed velocity.”
CCM is more straight forward. Their main line of sticks are the “U+”. The top end sticks they offer are the “Crazy Light” and “Crazy Strong”. I think the names speak for themselves. They seem to put a lot of focus into the durability of their blades.
Other big brands are Combat, Sher-Wood, TPS & Warrior.
As you can see, there are a lot of different things to consider when choosing your weapon. What technology works the best for you, and which ones are all hype. We haven’t even touched on the specs yet either. You may have to go through a few before you find the right one. Because of the abuse we put them through, sticks break quite often, but it’s a blessing in disguise. Sucks that you have to shell out some more money on a replacement, but it’s exciting because you get a chance switch it up and try something new. When I break a stick, it’s usually “awww sh*t!”, immediately followed by “sweet, now I can try that new Easton RS”. A good idea is to do is check out the product websites and read up on their technology. There are new sticks that come out every year, so that one you just broke may no longer be available.
Other players can be a huge resource to point you in the right direction too. For example, if you watch an NHL game and notice that half the guys on the ice are using Bauer, it’s probably a good brand. Also have a look to see what your team mates are using. Ask them how they like it If you’re nice, they might even let you try it out for a few shifts.
You can see our entire selection of sticks by clicking here.
Next week, I’ll touch on different specs to consider. In the end, you decide what stick to get, but making an educated decision will bring you the best results, and hopefully the most points!
[...] Stick Guide – Part 1: Brands [...]