Introduction:
Table of Contents
Hockey fans and players understand the importance of defence. It’s one of the most critical positions on the team. While talent is essential, the right equipment can help you shine to your full potential in high-stakes games. While the game continues to evolve so does the technology in creating sticks that are versatile and effective in the delivery of performance in the hands of skilled players.
Whether you’re just getting started in the game or you’re a seasoned player, don’t settle for less than the best. This leads us to our guide to help you identify and acquire the best hockey sticks for defensemen that money can buy. We follow up with the best hockey sticks for forwards and give you a few tips on what the pro players look for when choosing their sticks.
The Top Seven Best Hockey Sticks for Defensemen
1. Warrior Alpha DX Hockey Stick
Key Features
-Low Kick Point
-Saber Taper accuracy
-Lightweight
-Durable Minimus Carbon 1400 Construction
-Ergo Shaft Shape
-Apex Grip Texture
-One-piece design
Reviews
The Warrior Alpha DX is a high-performance hockey stick for defensemen. The Sabre Taper enhances shot accuracy with the great feeling of the added pop thanks to the Fuelcore technology. The shaft of the stick is ergonomically shaped to give defenders better control. Combined with the Apex Grip texture, a firm grip is possible for greater stick control for precision responses. The low kick point adds a quick release that players value so highly.
Pros
- Firm control of the stick during intense play
- Stick delivers fast and powerful shots
- Well-balanced stick for enhanced puck control when in possession
- Great responsive when handling, passing, or shooting
- Provides a good feel for the puck
- Strong carbon design for durability
- Lightweight materials for less arm fatigue
Cons
- No identified disadvantages
2. Bauer Supreme 2S Team Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Senior
Key Features
-Two-piece design
-Aero foam I blade core
-Unidirectional carbon construction
-Traditional straight sidewalls and square corners
-MPK technology energy transfer
-Max Balance Blade Technology
-BimaX 2K carbon fiber twill
-Lightweight materials at 450 grams total weight
Reviews
The Supreme is a more traditional stick that presents the same feel as older sticks, preferred by many seasoned players. The kick point is lower than most other brands/models. The stick delivers above-average performance and is highly recommended by players occupying the defender position. The lightness of the stick and smooth release are a few of its most valued performance features.
Pros
- A good value for the cost
- Good feel in the hands
- Responsive stick with a quick release
- Traditional design preferred by senior players
Cons
- A few players remarked that durability could be improved.
- The mid-shaft is the most common breakpoint when the sticks do fail, but in general, these sticks received excellent marks.
3. CCM RIBCOR PRO 3 PMT Grip Composite Hockey Stick Intermediate
Key Features
-Pop Matrix technology enhances shot release and energy transfer
-Low kick-point
-C6 Carbon fiber for lightweight with good stiffness and durability
-Ascent Blade 2 optimizes puck feel
-X-flow shaft technology with improved fiber compaction
-INT geometry for enhanced comfort and stick control
Reviews
The Pro 3 PMT gets high marks from players into wrist shots because of its exceptional flexibility. For the low cost of $150 it has a top of the line feel with ultra-lightweight, delivers a good feel for the puck. It is comfortable to hold with top-notch responsiveness for precision shots. The blade is softer at the bottom with great stiffness to deliver a quick release. Great snappers and consistent accuracy make this one of the best hockey sticks for defensemen.
Pros
- Rounded corners and concave sidewalls provide elite-level quality for enhanced comfort and stick control
- Upgraded shaft with new Pop Matrix technology gives the stick better energy transfer for excellent flexibility and faster release
- The blade heel is fairly soft with increasing stiffness at the toe for the ultimate in flex for fast shot response and accuracy
- Enhanced feeling for the puck
- Good value for the quality with an affordable price
Cons
- The stick tends to chip.
4. Bauer Nexus N2700 Grip Composite Hockey Stick Senior
Key Features
-Upgraded features for performance-level play
-Unidirectional carbon fiber construction
-R2 resin system for responsiveness and added durability
-Fused 2-piece construction
-Mid-kick flex profile for versatility
-Mex Blanace technology is lightweight and strong
-BimaX 2K carbon fiber weave for improved strength
-Lightweight at 415 grams
Reviews
Players were pleased with the contoured feel of this stick and were surprised at the value of the performance for the affordable cost. Some gave it perfect marks as the best stick they own because of its high responsiveness and the great feel you get for the puck.
This model has been improved with the latest technology for faster-releasing slap shots and faster releases for wrist shots. It’s valued for the lightweight, great feel in the hands and control it provides players. The overall ratings are high with very few reviewers disappointed with durability. Most found it to be strong and dependable with high-performance features and strongly recommend this stick for other players.
Pros
- Affordable yet high-performing
- Innovative technology features improve the strength and durability of this affordable stick
- The mid-kick profile enhances performance for solid shots
- Lightweight stick with a comfortable feeling in the hands
- Increased speed for releasing slap shots with a faster wrist shot upgrades
- Raised balance point for a lighter feeling in the hands and excellent responsiveness
Cons
- Some players reported durability issues, but a low percentage had this issue
5. CCM Super Tacks AS2 Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Senior
Key Features
-Versatile with Mid-kick point
-X-Flow shaft technology
-Optimized taper design
-ACU4 XX stiff blade
-Sigmatex construction
-Elite-level classification
Reviews
The AS2
The CCM Super Tacks AS2 Pro hockey stick includes cutting-edge technology and an optimized design, upgrading the Tacks line and offering players an elite-level option.
- Mid-kick point for ultimate shot versatility
- X-Flow shaft technology for improved consistency
- Optimized taper design for high-end response
- ACU4 XX-Stiff blade for enhanced control
- Sigmatex material for increased structural strength
You either love this stick or hate it. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive with the majority of players giving it a perfect five, and just 3 taking it to the bottom with a 1 out of 5. This stick is highly valued for its power and accuracy. The blade is the stiffest offered by CCM. Great power off of close-range shots with a high balance point that makes it feel light in the hands and comfortable to hold. It’s a versatile stick delivering stability and excellent responsiveness. Most give it high recommendations except for a small percentage disappointed because of breakage.
Pros
- Lightweight and strong, sturdy construction
- Precision-engineered for power delivery
- Quality materials and construction
- High accuracy and consistency
Cons
- One report of stick breakage
6. CCM JetSpeed 440 Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Intermediate
Key Features
-Hybrid flex profile for better speed and response
-JS3 blade with a good puck feel
-Jetspeed shaft for excellent performance
-Entry-level stick for beginners through intermediate
-Mid kick point for versatility
-Optimized loading zone
-R-geometry with rounded corners, concave sides, and streamlined shape
Reviews
The Jetspeed 440 gets surprisingly high review scores for an entry-level stick for defensemen. It delivers more boom with a higher level of flex for improving shot time. It’s a solid stick with a lot of pop for quick shots. The blade impressively handles the puck and delivers a good feel for the puck. The release is great for all types of shots and the grip is comfortable and extremely tacky for full control.
Pros
- Affordable quality hockey stick
- Excellent entry-level option
- Excellent release
- High flex level
- Ideal practice stick
Cons
- This stick is heavy
- The blades tend to snap on some models
7. Bauer Vapor 2X Pro Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Senior
Key Features
-Low kick point
-XE Taper technology
-Lightweight TeXtreme construction
-High-Performance Mold for one-piece feel
-MaxBalance Blade
Reviews
The Vapor 2X Pro receives a perfect rating of 5 out of 5 so far. This moves it into the number one position as the best hockey stick for defensemen in our review of the top 7. This high-performance model delivers the ultimate in quick-release action.
It’s comfortable to hold and lightweight, yet strong and durable to hold up under intense play and hard shots. The puck control is exceptional. This is the best hockey stick for defensemen who require excellence in balance and overall high performance.
Pros
- Elite-level hockey stick for defensemen
- Excellent balance
- Exceptional puck control
- Lightweight yet durable
Cons
- No disadvantages reported
Top 3 Best Hockey Sticks for Forwards
1. Bauer Vapor Flylite Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Senior
Key Features
-XE Taper technology
-Low kick point with quick release
-Asymmetrical TeXtreme high-performance shaft
-Aero-Sense 2 blade core
-Advanced Carbon layering construction for lightweight
-DuraFlex resin system strength construction
Reviews
The best hockey stick for forwards because of its consistent accuracy for precision shots. A good feel for the puck with exceptional puck handling, snapshots, and precision handling. Fast shots and durable even when making hundreds of slap shots. The stick is versatile and ideal for forwards or defensemen positions. The intense blade stiffness enhances precision and accuracy with a high-end lightweight feel. Highly recommended stick for forwards.
Pros
- High recommendations from players
- Top-quality construction, strength, and durability
- High performance with great balance, lightweight, and accuracy
- Good stick for upgrading to improved playing
Cons
- Reports of vibration in the stick from a few players, indicating possible micro fractures
2. CCM Ribcor Trigger 3D PMT Grip Composite Hockey Stick Senior
Key Features
-Low kick point
-X-Flow technology for shaft consistency
-New geometry for energy transfer power enhancement
-Pop Matrix technology for fast shot release
-Sigmatex carbon fiber, lightweight and strong
-Ascent Blade 3 technology
Reviews
The Trigger 3D PMT Grip stick gets high scores from players for its lightweight which makes it comfortable in the hands. It delivers a good feel for the puck with excellent handling. Ideal for making quick snapshots with consistent accuracy for precision shots.
The durability of the product has been improved. It’s highly recommended for handling and precision dangle with quick release and great energy transfer. Recommended by players for elite-level play.
Pros
- Exceptional release speed
- Elite level stick for seasoned forwards
- Lightweight for comfort and control but strong and sturdy
- Excellent energy transfer for powerful shots
Cons
- Some issues with shaft and blade strength were reported by a minority of reviewers
3. Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic Grip Composite Hockey Stick-Senior
Key Features
-Monocomp Technology for puck control and stick balance
Asymmetrical TeXtreme for energy flow
-Sonic Taper for fast energy transfer to the blade
-Advanced carbon layering construction
-Exceptionally lightweight at 390 grams
Duraflex resin durability
-FastCore lightweight blade core with a dual foam fusion system
Reviews
Players give Ultrasonic high recommendations as to the best stick for forwards. They appreciate the taper contouring for an amazing grip and a good feeling in the hands. The unique blade with its fused foam construction gives you exceptional puck perception for precision handling and a more accurate shot. They love the quick release and powerful energy transfer as well as the durability of the stick.
Pros
- Resistant to chipping
- Fast and powerful shots
- Among the lightest sticks without sacrificing strength
- Recommended by players as a high-quality hockey stick
Cons
- It’s on the expensive side but delivers high performance.
What are the things Defenseman Should Look For in a Stick?
Defensemen hold a critical position in the game and although skill is important, having the right equipment gives you the tools you need to perform at your full potential. Choosing the right stick can mean the difference between playing at your best or suffering from distractions because of a low-performing stick.
Defensemen in hockey usually prefer a stick that is longer with a little more weight. The length gives extra reach for gaining control of the puck, and the additional weight provides extra power behind the passes and shots. It’s amazing how extra stick length can help you poke-check opponents and intercept passes better.
How Long Should Your Hockey Stick Be?
Every defenseman will have their personal preferences for stick length, but in general, they have the longest sticks in the game. They need the longer reach to poke the puck away from the offense. It also gives them better leverage from making hard and powerful slapshot. The general rule of thumb for determining the right stick length is to stand up straight and place the hockey stick in line with your nose with the blade on the ground.
The best length for defensemen will be somewhere between your nose and above your eyebrows. The top of the stick should be this length. This will vary from one player to another depending on your height. If you have your skates on when you measure, the end of the stick should be between your chin and your nose.
The best stick curve for defenseman
There are different curves that work best for defensemen and although this is a matter of comfort and preference for each player, in general, most defensemen benefit the most from a heel or mid-heel curve. This gives you a larger flat surface for stopping pucks while enabling you to make longer passes with greater accuracy. The heel curve is useful for lifting pucks out of the zone with ease. Some defensemen prefer a mid curve however because their playing style involves heavy use of the stick handle.
The curve area is a significant detail to consider because it impacts the release time along with the shooting power. When you consider the physics of the game, the puck has to travel to the end of the blade, or else it’s going to sit in the pocket. The heel curve places the majority of the curve in the first third of the shaft.
The reason the heel curve is so popular for defensemen is for the sheer velocity it delivers when making shots. The Toe Curve, on the other hand, places the bigger part of the curve in the end third of the blade. It’s more useful for forwards that must shoot in stride and maintain handling and control.
While these are all hard and fast facts that hold, sometimes a player has a unique style that calls for a different curve. What works for one defenseman might not be the best choice for another. Although there is no hard and fast rule about curves, it’s useful to experiment with a few different curves to find out what works best to complement your playing style.
What is flex and why is it important?
Stick flex is indicated on each hockey stick in most cases. It tells you how much the stick will bend when you make a shot. Flex is a short term for flexibility. The higher the number, the less flexible the stick will be. For example, a 75 is far more flexible than a 102 indication.
This is an important detail in a hockey stick because it will affect the way that the stick performs under certain situations in the game. A stick with a lot of flex will perform high for making quick wrist shots if your skills are up to par because it will give you a quicker release for making hard shots.
The next question is what is the ideal amount of flex in a hockey stick? Most hockey players use a formula to determine the ideal flex. You start by taking your actual weight in pounds and dividing it by half. If you weigh 200 pounds then you need to look for a stick that is roughly around 100, give or take. The position that you play is also a factor in determining the ideal amount of flex in the stick.
Defenders generally go with a stiffer stick because they’re looking for a greater transfer of energy for making harder slapshots. These are just a few observations about generalities though. As you progress in your skill level and develop your unique playing style, you will gain a sense of what works best for you, so don’t hesitate to experiment with the amount of flex in your stick to find out what best complements your playing style.
What flex do NHL defensemen use?
It’s almost a fact that most NHL defenders use hockey sticks with higher flex. If you’re looking at the statistics for individual players as a guide, Dustin Byfuglien and Shea Weber are both prone to 122 flex sticks to work their magic, but it’s noteworthy that Weber will also use a 130 flex for making hard shots. Zdeno Chara is 6 ft 9, weighs 256 pounds, and regularly uses a 150-160 flex stick.
At 230 pounds, Alexander Ovechkin uses a 79 flex, but if you compare the stats, it hasn’t taken his numbers up when compared to the other players we reference here. If you compare the overall success of these individual hockey players and use their preferences as a starting point for yourself, remember that they’ve put in the time and effort through trial and error to discover what works best for their playing styles. It’s good to research to learn more about how flex affects the kind of shots you routinely make so you can figure out how this feature will affect your performance as a player.
FAQs
Q: What hockey stick is the best for a defenseman?
A: It depends on playing style and player preferences. In general, the position calls for a durable stick that can take a lot of abuse with a kick point that has a wide range of versatility. When the sweet spot is wherever the puck is, you have the ideal stick, according to some players.
Every hockey player will have their own requirements in a stick and this is why there are so many different brands and models out there. Consider your playing style and break it down by each feature that is the most useful for improving your game and complimenting your playing style and you’ll know what you need to do to find or customize the ideal stick for the game.
Q: What sticks do NHL defensemen use?
A: The most popular choice for NHL defensemen is the Warrior Alpha QX. An estimated 20 percent of all players make this their choice.
Q: What is a good flex for hockey sticks?
A: The rule of thumb is that the flex should be half your body weight. For example, if you weigh 140 pounds, look for a stick with a flex of 70.
Q: Is a lighter hockey stick better?
A: A lighter stick is better for some players who prefer lightness. It improves handling and the sticks are easier to move around on the ice. It’s not necessarily better for every player. Some prefer heavier sticks for strength building and more powerful shots.
Q: What are the best hockey sticks made of?
A: Common materials are fibreglass, wood, and carbon fibers. The best materials are fiberglass and carbon. Carbon is valued for its lightweight and its exceptional durability.
Q: What is the difference between a Senior and Intermediate hockey stick?
A: The difference is in the length. Sticks come in four lengths including senior, intermediate, junior, and youth. Senior sticks are made for older players age 14 through adult with intermediate still usually for ages 10 to 15.
Q: Which is better, one-piece construction or a two?
A: One-piece sticks have the blade and shaft fused and assembly isn’t required. 2-piece sticks give you the benefit of mixing and matching the blades and the shafts for greater versatility. It’s also more economical for replacing a broken component with the 2-piece sticks. Neither is superior and it’s a matter of personal preference.
Q: What is a kick point?
A: A kick point is the flex zone where the stick is made to flex the most when it comes into contact with the puck.
Q: When do you need to upgrade to a new hockey stick?
A: A new stick won’t necessarily make you a better player, but it can help you to increase your current skill set. You’ll know it’s time to upgrade to a new higher level stick when you’ve regularly played for a while and you’ve plateaued in your skill development.
Q: Where is the best blade curve for defensemen?
A: Most seasoned defensemen prefer to curve the blade at the mid-heel or the heel. This makes it easier to stop pucks or fire saucer passes from your zone.
Final Verdict
The best hockey sticks for defensemen depend upon the style and preferences of the player, however, certain features suit the needs of the position including extra length, a low kick or sweet spot that feels right to the player, and a stick with a heel to mid-heel curve for a wider blade area for gaining control of the puck.
Most pro players prefer a decent amount of flex, but what works best for you may be different. The favoured brands are Bauer and CCM, but also worth considering. We’ve included the most highly rated hockey sticks for defensemen along with a section of picks for forwards to give you a range of choices when nothing but the best will do. other brands are