How To Select The Best Senior Hockey Stick in 2023How To Select The Best Senior Hockey Stick in 2023
Consider Blade Curve to Match Playing Style
When selecting a new senior hockey stick, one of the most important factors to consider is the blade curve. The curve refers to the angle and shape of the bottom part of the stick blade that makes contact with the ice. Choosing the right curve can have a significant impact on your performance, as it directly affects how you handle the puck, take shots, and receive passes.
As an experienced player, you likely already have a preferred curve style that matches your position, skills, and on-ice role. For example, a more open face or scoop-like curve allows for quicker wrist shots and snapshots, while a closed toe curve with more of a hook facilitates better puck handling. Defensemen might opt for a flatter blade to keep passes low and on target.
Within curve families, you’ll find slight variations between brands and models. Subtle changes to the openness of the face, angle of the toe, and roundness of the heel can make a curve feel quite different. Testing out several sticks with small curve variations is the best way to dial in your ideal shape.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with something new – you might find an unfamiliar curve actually improves aspects of your game. For instance, trying a heal curve as opposed to your usual mid may add more accuracy on touch passes.
It’s also worth considering if your old stand-by curve is really still the best match. As players age, their skills and preferences evolve. A curve that worked great 10 years ago may no longer optimize your current play style.
The key is choosing a blade curve that feels comfortable and balanced, while allowing you to perform the types of shots, passes, and moves you utilize most often. Taking the time to analyze and test different senior stick curves will ensure you select the right model to boost your performance.
Determine Ideal Flex to Match Strength and Shot Power
When shopping for a new senior hockey stick, determining the right flex is one of the most important considerations. Flex refers to how much the stick shaft bends when force is applied, and directly impacts the power and control of your shots.
For senior players, a stick with too little flex can feel rigid, restricting the velocity of slap shots and making it hard to load up power on the flex. Meanwhile, too much flex may cause accuracy issues and energy loss. The sweet spot is a flex that bends enough to maximize shot power, while still offering control.
As a rule of thumb, bigger and stronger players need a stiffer flex to get full energy transfer when leaning into big booming shots. For seniors, a stick flex rating anywhere from 77 to 100 is ideal. Players 5’10” and under or those with less upper body strength may prefer a more mid-range flex between 70 to 85.
It’s important to test out sticks with different flex ratings to find your optimal zone. When testing potential senior hockey sticks, simulate your shooting motion and watch how far the shaft flexes. Ideally, you want some bend but without touching the ice. The flex point should also align with where you naturally grip the stick.
Keep in mind that wear and tear can soften your stick over time, so you may need to increase flex 5 to 10 points on a new replacement stick. It’s better to start slightly stiffer than you may like, as the flex will loosen up as the stick gets broken in.
Don’t neglect considering cut-down sticks either. Trimming a senior stick from 60”-62” down to 55”-58” will increase the stiffness slightly. This can allow bigger players to use intermediate stick models to achieve their ideal flex.
Taking the time to properly assess your strength levels and experiment with different flex ratings will pay dividends in boosting both the power and accuracy of your shot as a senior player.
Select Proper Length for Optimal Reach and Control
When selecting a senior hockey stick, determining the right length is a key factor for optimal performance. Using a stick that is sized appropriately for your height and playing style allows for better puck handling, shooting, and skating manuevers.
For senior players, the standard length is typically in the range of 60”-62”. This provides enough reach for powerful shots, while still allowing stickhandling control. Defensemen may prefer a longer 63” stick for wider poke checks and gap control.
The way to properly size a stick is to stand in skates on a flat surface and extend your dominant arm straight out. The end of the stick blade should align with the tip of your fingers. There should be a 90-110 degree angle formed at the elbow. This ensures the stick length matches your natural reach.
It’s important not to go too long, as this can reduce control and quickness of shots. Extra length also shifts the flex point further from your hands, changing the kick point and feel.
However, going too short reduces your reach and power. It can also encourage hunching over, which is hard on the back. If cutting down a stick for length, try not to take off more than 2 inches.
Many senior players choose to swap between two different length sticks depending on the situation. Using a longer stick for defense and penalty kills allows for better poke checks. But dropping down to a shorter model for wing or center provides more maneuverability in traffic.
Taking time to properly fit the length of your senior hockey stick is the first step towards improving performance. The right size stick will immediately give you an edge in terms of handling, shooting, and skating. Don’t neglect this important factor when selecting a new stick.
Consider Blade Curve to Match Playing Style
Experimenting with New Curves
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Experimenting with different curves might reveal unexpected improvements in your game. For instance, switching from a mid curve to a heel curve could enhance your accuracy on touch passes.
As you age and your skills evolve, it’s worth reassessing whether your long-standing preferred curve still optimizes your current play style. The key is to choose a blade curve that feels comfortable and balanced while allowing you to excel at the types of shots, passes, and moves you use most frequently.
Determining the Ideal Flex for Senior Players
Flex is a critical factor in selecting the right senior hockey stick. It refers to the amount of bend in the stick shaft when force is applied, directly impacting the power and control of your shots.
For senior players, finding the right flex is crucial:
- Too little flex: The stick feels rigid, restricting slap shot velocity and power loading
- Too much flex: Can cause accuracy issues and energy loss
- Ideal flex: Bends enough to maximize shot power while maintaining control
Generally, larger and stronger players require a stiffer flex to achieve full energy transfer on powerful shots. For most seniors, a flex rating between 77 and 100 is ideal. Players under 5’10” or those with less upper body strength might prefer a mid-range flex between 70 and 85.
Testing Flex Ratings
To find your optimal flex, it’s crucial to test various sticks. When trying out potential senior hockey sticks, simulate your shooting motion and observe the shaft’s flex. Ideally, you want some bend without the stick touching the ice. The flex point should align with your natural grip position.
Remember that wear and tear can soften your stick over time. Consider starting with a slightly stiffer flex than you think you need, as it will loosen up as you break in the stick.
Selecting the Proper Stick Length for Optimal Performance
The length of your hockey stick plays a vital role in your on-ice performance. A properly sized stick enhances your puck handling, shooting, and skating maneuvers.
For senior players, the standard stick length typically ranges from 60″ to 62″. This length provides sufficient reach for powerful shots while maintaining stickhandling control. Defensemen might opt for a longer 63″ stick to improve poke checks and gap control.
How to Measure for the Right Stick Length
To determine the proper stick length:
- Stand in skates on a flat surface
- Extend your dominant arm straight out
- The end of the stick blade should align with your fingertips
- Check that your elbow forms a 90-110 degree angle
This method ensures that the stick length matches your natural reach. It’s important to avoid going too long, as this can reduce control and shot quickness. Conversely, a stick that’s too short limits your reach and power.
Material Matters: Choosing Between Wood and Composite Sticks
When selecting a senior hockey stick, the material is a crucial factor to consider. The two main options are wood and composite sticks, each with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.
Wood Sticks: Traditional Feel and Affordability
Wood sticks have been a staple in hockey for decades. They offer several benefits:
- Traditional feel and puck feedback
- More affordable than composite sticks
- Durable and can withstand rough play
- Easier to repair or modify
However, wood sticks also have some disadvantages:
- Heavier than composite sticks
- Less consistent performance due to natural variations in wood
- Limited customization options
Composite Sticks: Lightweight Performance and Customization
Composite sticks have gained popularity among players of all levels, including seniors. They offer several advantages:
- Significantly lighter than wood sticks
- More consistent performance
- Greater customization options for flex, kick point, and blade patterns
- Enhanced energy transfer for more powerful shots
However, composite sticks also have some drawbacks:
- More expensive than wood sticks
- Can be more prone to breakage
- May require an adjustment period for players used to wood sticks
When choosing between wood and composite sticks, consider your budget, playing style, and personal preferences. Many senior players find that the performance benefits of composite sticks outweigh the higher cost, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Kick Point: Tailoring Your Stick to Your Shot Style
The kick point of a hockey stick refers to the area where the stick flexes most during a shot. Understanding and choosing the right kick point can significantly enhance your shooting performance.
Types of Kick Points
There are three main types of kick points:
- Low kick point: Flexes near the blade, ideal for quick releases and snap shots
- Mid kick point: Flexes in the middle of the shaft, suitable for all-around play
- High kick point: Flexes near the top of the shaft, best for powerful slap shots
As a senior player, your ideal kick point depends on your shooting style and on-ice role. If you rely on quick wrist shots and snapshots, a low kick point might be your best option. For players who take a lot of slap shots or need maximum power, a high kick point could be more suitable.
Finding Your Perfect Kick Point
To determine the best kick point for your game:
- Analyze your most frequent shot types
- Consider your position and role on the ice
- Test sticks with different kick points to feel the difference
- Pay attention to how each kick point affects your shot accuracy and power
Remember that the kick point works in conjunction with the flex of your stick. A stick with the right combination of flex and kick point can significantly improve your shooting performance, allowing you to generate more power with less effort.
Grip vs. Non-Grip: Enhancing Control and Feel
The choice between a grip or non-grip stick is another important consideration for senior hockey players. This decision can affect your stick handling, shot control, and overall comfort during play.
Grip Sticks: Enhanced Control and Stability
Grip sticks feature a textured surface on the shaft, offering several advantages:
- Improved control, especially in wet conditions
- Reduced hand slippage during shots and passes
- Enhanced stability for stickhandling
- Less need to tape the shaft for grip
However, grip sticks may not be ideal for all players:
- Can make quick hand adjustments more difficult
- May feel “sticky” to players used to non-grip sticks
- Could affect the fluidity of certain stickhandling techniques
Non-Grip Sticks: Freedom of Movement and Traditional Feel
Non-grip sticks have a smooth shaft surface, offering their own set of benefits:
- Allow for easier hand adjustments during play
- Provide a more traditional feel
- Offer greater flexibility in hand positioning
- Can be customized with tape for personalized grip
Potential drawbacks of non-grip sticks include:
- May require more shaft taping for adequate grip
- Could slip more easily in wet conditions
- Might not provide as much stability for certain shot types
When deciding between grip and non-grip sticks, consider your playing style, personal preferences, and the conditions in which you typically play. Many senior players find that grip sticks offer added control and stability, but others prefer the freedom of movement provided by non-grip options.
Budget Considerations: Balancing Cost and Performance
As a senior hockey player, finding the right balance between stick performance and cost is crucial. Hockey sticks can range from budget-friendly options to high-end models with premium price tags.
Assessing Your Needs and Budget
When considering your budget for a new hockey stick, ask yourself:
- How frequently do you play?
- What level of performance do you require?
- How long do you expect the stick to last?
- Are you willing to invest in top-tier technology?
Remember that more expensive doesn’t always mean better for your specific needs. Many mid-range sticks offer excellent performance at a more reasonable price point.
Cost vs. Performance Trade-offs
Consider these factors when evaluating stick options at different price points:
- Material quality: Higher-end sticks often use advanced composite materials for improved performance
- Technology: Premium sticks may incorporate the latest innovations in flex, kick point, and blade design
- Durability: More expensive sticks can be more durable, potentially offering better value in the long run
- Brand reputation: Well-known brands may charge a premium, but often provide reliable quality and customer service
While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, it’s essential to find a stick that fits your budget while meeting your performance needs. Many senior players find that mid-range sticks offer an excellent balance of quality and affordability.
Tips for Finding Value
To get the most value for your money when buying a senior hockey stick:
- Look for previous year’s models, which are often discounted
- Consider buying during off-season sales
- Compare prices across different retailers
- Read reviews from other senior players to gauge performance and durability
- Don’t overlook lesser-known brands that may offer good quality at lower prices
By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the available options, you can find a senior hockey stick that provides the performance you need without breaking the bank.
Consider Blade Curve to Match Playing Style
When selecting a new senior hockey stick, one of the most important factors to consider is the blade curve. The curve refers to the angle and shape of the bottom part of the stick blade that makes contact with the ice. Choosing the right curve can have a significant impact on your performance, as it directly affects how you handle the puck, take shots, and receive passes.
As an experienced player, you likely already have a preferred curve style that matches your position, skills, and on-ice role. For example, a more open face or scoop-like curve allows for quicker wrist shots and snapshots, while a closed toe curve with more of a hook facilitates better puck handling. Defensemen might opt for a flatter blade to keep passes low and on target.
Within curve families, you’ll find slight variations between brands and models. Subtle changes to the openness of the face, angle of the toe, and roundness of the heel can make a curve feel quite different. Testing out several sticks with small curve variations is the best way to dial in your ideal shape.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with something new – you might find an unfamiliar curve actually improves aspects of your game. For instance, trying a heal curve as opposed to your usual mid may add more accuracy on touch passes.
It’s also worth considering if your old stand-by curve is really still the best match. As players age, their skills and preferences evolve. A curve that worked great 10 years ago may no longer optimize your current play style.
The key is choosing a blade curve that feels comfortable and balanced, while allowing you to perform the types of shots, passes, and moves you utilize most often. Taking the time to analyze and test different senior stick curves will ensure you select the right model to boost your performance.
Determine Ideal Flex to Match Strength and Shot Power
When shopping for a new senior hockey stick, determining the right flex is one of the most important considerations. Flex refers to how much the stick shaft bends when force is applied, and directly impacts the power and control of your shots.
For senior players, a stick with too little flex can feel rigid, restricting the velocity of slap shots and making it hard to load up power on the flex. Meanwhile, too much flex may cause accuracy issues and energy loss. The sweet spot is a flex that bends enough to maximize shot power, while still offering control.
As a rule of thumb, bigger and stronger players need a stiffer flex to get full energy transfer when leaning into big booming shots. For seniors, a stick flex rating anywhere from 77 to 100 is ideal. Players 5’10” and under or those with less upper body strength may prefer a more mid-range flex between 70 to 85.
It’s important to test out sticks with different flex ratings to find your optimal zone. When testing potential senior hockey sticks, simulate your shooting motion and watch how far the shaft flexes. Ideally, you want some bend but without touching the ice. The flex point should also align with where you naturally grip the stick.
Keep in mind that wear and tear can soften your stick over time, so you may need to increase flex 5 to 10 points on a new replacement stick. It’s better to start slightly stiffer than you may like, as the flex will loosen up as the stick gets broken in.
Don’t neglect considering cut-down sticks either. Trimming a senior stick from 60”-62” down to 55”-58” will increase the stiffness slightly. This can allow bigger players to use intermediate stick models to achieve their ideal flex.
Taking the time to properly assess your strength levels and experiment with different flex ratings will pay dividends in boosting both the power and accuracy of your shot as a senior player.
Select Proper Length for Optimal Reach and Control
When selecting a senior hockey stick, determining the right length is a key factor for optimal performance. Using a stick that is sized appropriately for your height and playing style allows for better puck handling, shooting, and skating manuevers.
For senior players, the standard length is typically in the range of 60”-62”. This provides enough reach for powerful shots, while still allowing stickhandling control. Defensemen may prefer a longer 63” stick for wider poke checks and gap control.
The way to properly size a stick is to stand in skates on a flat surface and extend your dominant arm straight out. The end of the stick blade should align with the tip of your fingers. There should be a 90-110 degree angle formed at the elbow. This ensures the stick length matches your natural reach.
It’s important not to go too long, as this can reduce control and quickness of shots. Extra length also shifts the flex point further from your hands, changing the kick point and feel.
However, going too short reduces your reach and power. It can also encourage hunching over, which is hard on the back. If cutting down a stick for length, try not to take off more than 2 inches.
Many senior players choose to swap between two different length sticks depending on the situation. Using a longer stick for defense and penalty kills allows for better poke checks. But dropping down to a shorter model for wing or center provides more maneuverability in traffic.
Taking time to properly fit the length of your senior hockey stick is the first step towards improving performance. The right size stick will immediately give you an edge in terms of handling, shooting, and skating. Don’t neglect this important factor when selecting a new stick.
Consider Blade Curve to Match Playing Style
When selecting a new senior hockey stick, one of the most important factors to consider is the blade curve. The curve refers to the angle and shape of the bottom part of the stick blade that makes contact with the ice. Choosing the right curve can have a significant impact on your performance, as it directly affects how you handle the puck, take shots, and receive passes.
As an experienced player, you likely already have a preferred curve style that matches your position, skills, and on-ice role. For example, a more open face or scoop-like curve allows for quicker wrist shots and snapshots, while a closed toe curve with more of a hook facilitates better puck handling. Defensemen might opt for a flatter blade to keep passes low and on target.
Within curve families, you’ll find slight variations between brands and models. Subtle changes to the openness of the face, angle of the toe, and roundness of the heel can make a curve feel quite different. Testing out several sticks with small curve variations is the best way to dial in your ideal shape.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with something new – you might find an unfamiliar curve actually improves aspects of your game. For instance, trying a heal curve as opposed to your usual mid may add more accuracy on touch passes.
It’s also worth considering if your old stand-by curve is really still the best match. As players age, their skills and preferences evolve. A curve that worked great 10 years ago may no longer optimize your current play style.
The key is choosing a blade curve that feels comfortable and balanced, while allowing you to perform the types of shots, passes, and moves you utilize most often. Taking the time to analyze and test different senior stick curves will ensure you select the right model to boost your performance.
Check Grip Tape vs Coating for Comfort
When selecting a senior hockey stick, evaluating the grip and handle is an important consideration for overall comfort and control. Most sticks come with a clear grip coating, but adding tape allows for more customization.
Many players still prefer the traditional feel of stick tape rather than grip coating. Tape provides thickness to better fill the hand, as well as cushioning. It also absorbs sweat and allows for quick re-taping when worn. Brands like Renfrew, Howies, and Grip make hockey-specific tape with extra grip and softness.
Applying tape on a senior stick takes some technique. Start with a knob at the end using several overlapping layers. Then spiral the tape up towards the middle, with each wrap overlapping about 1/3 of the previous turn. Keep tension firm but not too tight.
The downside to tape is it requires maintenance to keep tacky and needs frequent replacing. It can also develop grooves or ridges over time. Rotating where you grip can help offset this.
Clear grip coatings have improved significantly and provide good control right out of the box. Many now use tactile textures like a honeycomb pattern to enhance traction. Top grip brands include Bauer’s Griptac and Warrior’s True Touch.
Coatings won’t absorb water or deteriorate like tape. However, they provide less cushioning for the hands. Grip tends to weaken over time as coatings smooth out.
Trying out different tape brands and patterns, as well as test gripping various coated sticks allows you to determine your ideal preference. Mix and match tape and coating zones for maximum tactile feedback.
Finding the right grip setup will enhance the feel and response of your senior hockey stick. Dialing in the right handle texture improves performance and reduces fatigue.
Assess Weight for Easier Handling
When selecting a senior hockey stick, the overall weight is an important factor to evaluate for optimal performance and easier handling. As players age, a lighter stick often becomes preferable to reduce fatigue.
Composite sticks usually range from 450-550 grams depending on materials used. Top-end composites utilize more carbon fiber and exotic woven materials to shed weight. Budget and intermediate models use more fiberglass and heavier resins resulting in extra mass.
For senior players, looking for a stick weight on the lower end of the spectrum helps prevent wearing down arms and hands over the course of a game. This is especially true for forward positions where constant stickhandling and shooting are required.
However, an overly light stick can feel flimsy and compromise power on hard shots. Finding the right balance for your strength and skill level is key. A good target weight for most senior players falls between 475-500 grams.
Keep in mind that wood shaft sticks tend to be heavier, usually 500-650 grams depending on the model. Hybrid wood-composite sticks offer a middle ground around 400-550 grams. While wood adds weight, some players prefer the feel and balance.
Also consider the weight distribution or balance point. Blade-heavy sticks provide more swing weight for shooting, while balanced or handle-heavy models are quicker for stickhandling. Try out different weight configurations to determine your preference.
Don’t neglect weight when testing potential senior hockey sticks. A lighter stick paired with the ideal balance point can noticeably improve control and reduce fatigue over the course of a game. Finding the lightest usable weight for your needs helps optimize performance.
Review Construction for Durability
When selecting a new senior hockey stick, reviewing the overall construction and materials is important for ensuring durability. As an experienced player, you want a stick built to last through seasons of competitive play.
High-end composites utilize more carbon fiber layers and directional or woven placements that improve impact resistance. Multi-axial fiber arrangements also enhance torsional stiffness for accuracy. Aerospace-grade resins provide protection against chips and cracks.
Mid-tier composites still feature carbon but increase the use of fiberglass for cost savings. This adds weight but boosts durability. Resins may be more prone to fracturing over time.
Budget models use more heavy fiberglass in the construction and generic resins. While affordable, these sacrificing longevity compared to premium composites. They dent and chip easier under game loads.
Hybrid wood-composite sticks offer an interesting middle ground. The composite blade delivers pop but the wood shaft provides classic touch. Wood shafts lack the brittle nature of composites, making them extremely durable.
For senior players, spending more on construction quality pays dividends in the long run. Don’t compromise too much just to save money. A $300 stick that lasts years is a better value than a $150 model you need to replace annually.
Inspect sticks closely for clues on construction. Look for multiple carbon fiber layers, woven placements, and high resin content. Durability testing from reviewers also provides useful insight. Don’t settle for a stick that won’t hold up to your level of play.
Compare Kick Points for Shot Power
When researching new senior hockey sticks, comparing the kick point is important for understanding how it influences shot power and release. The kick point refers to where the stick shaft bends the most during a shot.
Low kick point sticks flex near the bottom of the shaft, close to the blade. This generates more whip on wrist shots for quicker releases. It also helps load energy on snapshots taking advantage of the kick.
Mid kick sticks bend in the middle portion of the shaft. This provides a combination of power and release speed. Mid kick is popular among senior players as it offers a balanced feel.
High kick sticks bend near the top of the shaft above the hands. While less common today, this flex zone maximizes loading power for slap shots and one-timers. It allows big windups for maximum force transfer.
Within kick point zones, stick technology allows for precise engineering of where the primary flex area occurs. Terms like “Power Hinge Point” and “QuickRelease Technology” refer to flex tuning.
Testing different kick points allows you to experience the subtle differences in shooting feel and puck release. Consider your primary shooting style and typical shot selection when choosing a senior stick flex point. But don’t be afraid to experiment outside your comfort zone.
Paying attention to kick point placement during product research can reveal ideal senior hockey sticks specific to your game. Matching the flex behavior to your skills amplifies shot power and accuracy.
Choose Price Range for Performance
When shopping for a new senior hockey stick, the price range you target will have a direct impact on overall performance and quality. With sticks, you truly get what you pay for.
High-end sticks from $250-$300 feature the most advanced materials and construction. More carbon fiber, exotic woven fabrics, aerospace resins, and intricate custom kick points deliver exceptional responsiveness, power transfer, and durability.
Mid-range sticks from $150-$200 offer great balance at a more palatable price. You still get proven composites and technologies. Where they cut costs is using a bit more fiberglass instead of pure carbon weave and cheaper resins.
Budget sticks under $150 maximize affordability but sacrifice performance. Heavy reliance on fiberglass over carbon fiber makes the sticks noticeably heavier. Basic resins and less refined construction reduce snap and longevity.
For senior players who play frequently, investing in at least a mid-range stick pays dividends. The improvements in feel, consistency, and longevity are noticeable over bargain options. Buy last year’s top model at discount to get high-end tech on the cheap.
However, recreational players or thrifty buyers can get by with budget sticks if swapped out more often. Extra handling improves skills to offset lower performance.
Set realistic expectations based on how much you invest. For vital gear like sticks, premium models provide an edge while bargain picks work for practice. Find the right price-to-performance balance for your budget and needs.
Check Warranty Coverage Against Defects
When buying a new senior hockey stick, be sure to understand the warranty coverage and protections in case of defects or damage. A good warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s faith in their quality.
Many top hockey brands offer at least a 30-day warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. This allows you to swap out sticks that break unexpectedly early on through no fault of your own.
Some brands extend defect coverage to 60 or even 90 days. Others offer pro-rated warranties, so they cover a certain percentage based on how long you’ve owned the stick. Read the warranty details carefully so no surprises.
For sticks damaged through play, most companies provide generous replacement policies. Within 30 days, you can usually get a one-time free replacement of the same model. Multiple years of replacements plans are also available.
When buying used senior sticks, be aware any original warranty likely won’t transfer. Carefully inspect secondhand sticks for any flaws or damage before purchasing.
Before buying, research the stick maker and retailers policies online or through customer service. Favor brands that stand behind their gear the longest. Pay a little more for the peace of mind of a solid warranty and replacement plan.
While hockey sticks are meant to take a beating, it’s frustrating for seniors to break a pricey new stick after just a few games due to unseen defects. Don’t get stuck losing your investment, and ensure you’re protected.
Read Reviews to Learn from Other Players
When researching new senior hockey sticks, taking the time to read online reviews can provide valuable insights directly from other players’ experiences. This helps you become a more informed buyer.
Look for sticks with an overall high average rating, which indicates reliable quality and performance most customers appreciate. Pay attention to any recurring praise or complaints, as common themes suggest specific strengths or weaknesses.
Sort reviews by most recent to see feedback on the current model year. However, also read older reviews for a bigger picture view of a stick’s long-term durability and lifespan.
Pay extra attention to detail-oriented reviews that provide thoughtful pros and cons instead of just star ratings. These offer better insights on factors like shot feel, puck handling, balance, and power transfer.
Seek out reviews from players with similar skill levels, position, age, and size as you. Their perspective will be most relevant to determining if a stick matches your needs and preferences.
Watching or reading hockey stick reviews on YouTube and websites like HockeyMonkey can provide visual and usage impressions beyond just specs. This helps you get a better sense of real-world performance.
While trying sticks yourself is ideal, reading reviews helps narrow down your selections so you don’t waste time and money on models unsuited for senior players. Let fellow players guide you towards your next great stick.
Compare Brands for Quality Gear
When selecting a new senior hockey stick, comparing the major brands is helpful for understanding key differences in their products, technologies, and reputations for quality gear.
Bauer is the long-time market leader, offering industry-leading performance through cutting-edge composites like carbon fiber TeXtreme fabric. Models like the Vapor deliver explosive power and quick releases.
CCM is another stalwart, combining heritage with innovation in sticks like the Super Tacks and JetSpeed lines. Known for balance and accuracy optimized for elite players.
Warrior emphasizes shot power and rugged durability in sticks like the Covert line. Utilizes materials like Minimus carbon fiber to achieve ideal weight and flex.
Upstart True is gaining popularity through high-end sticks focusing on lightweight construction, customized flex profiles and advanced kick points for maximizing energy transfer.
While pricing and technologies differ across brands, any of the major manufacturers produce quality senior hockey sticks. It’s about finding the features and performance that best match your personal preferences.
Consulting buying guides on websites helps compare brand strengths and weaknesses. Also, reading user reviews reveals how real customers rate each in terms of quality, value and longevity.
Testing a few top contenders from different brands allows you to feel the performance differences first-hand. Let your hands decide which brand offers the right fit.
Consider Customization for Personal Specs
When purchasing a new senior hockey stick, exploring customization options allows you to personalize the specs and settings to match your ideal dimensions and preferences.
Many top stick makers like Bauer, CCM and True now offer online stick customizers on their websites. These allow you to pick the exact model, flex, curve, grip, length, colors and other options.
You input your height, weight and measurements for size guidance. Recommended sticks are provided, but you can customize every variable. Custom graphics and engraving can also be added.
The custom spec sheets are sent to the factory, and your bespoke stick is built and shipped out. The process takes just a few weeks, and prices are similar to off-the-shelf sticks.
Even entry-level sticks can be ordered with custom dimensions and curves through some retailers. This allows fine-tuning budget gear.
Pro shops at hockey facilities may also provide basic customization like unique curves, flex tuning, and length adjustments. Their expertise can recommend ideal specs.
Taking advantage of customization allows senior players to maximize performance by optimizing every aspect of their stick. Personalized sticks instill confidence knowing the gear is tailored specifically for you.
Shop Pro Shops to Test Before Buying
When investing in a new senior hockey stick, taking advantage of pro shops at local hockey facilities allows you to test out potential sticks before buying. This ensures you select the right model for your game.
Pro shops have an extensive selection of sticks that you can hold and swing before purchasing. Testing the grip, balance, weight and swing feel in-person is invaluable.
Ask the staff for guidance and recommendations based on your position, skill level, strengths and needs. They can point you towards ideal models and specs.
Pro shops usually have shooting areas or synthetic ice lanes to take some practice shots with demonstration sticks. Shooting reveals a lot about shot feel, power and release speed.
Take note of sticks that feel best in your hands when stickhandling and passing. Control and hand fatigue are important considerations.
Many pro shops also offer stick customization and baking services to get a perfect fit. You may be able to demo tweaked versions of a stick.
Before making a big investment, get hands-on time with any senior stick you are seriously considering. Pro shop testing minimizes the risks of choosing the wrong stick model or specs.
Let your own hands-on testing guide you toward the ideal senior hockey stick, not just marketing claims and specs on paper. Test before you invest in your next stick.
