Hockey Stick Blade Curve Chart
The correct curve on an ice hockey stick is vitally important to a player because it directly influences their ability to control the puck, shoot accurately, pass effectively, and handle the various aspects of the game. Customizing equipment to match a player's unique skills and preferences ultimately enhances their ability to excel on the ice. Here are several reasons why having the right stick curve matters:
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Shooting Accuracy: The curve of the blade impacts the trajectory of the puck when shooting. A properly chosen curve can help a player consistently hit their target. For example, a player who prefers a toe curve may have a better chance of picking corners or going top-shelf, while a heel curve might help with quick snap shots or deflections.
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Puck Control: The curve affects a player's ability to handle the puck. A well-matched curve allows for better stickhandling, allowing players to maneuver through tight spaces, deke opponents, and maintain possession under pressure.
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Passing Precision: A stick curve that complements a player's passing style can lead to crisper and more accurate passes. Players can make better saucer passes, backhand passes, and hard, tape-to-tape feeds with the right curve.
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Stickhandling and Dangling: Different curves cater to various styles of stickhandling. Players who prefer quick, agile movements may opt for a shallow curve that enables them to make quick touches and fakes, while others may prefer a deeper curve for puck protection and control in traffic.
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Faceoffs: For centers, the curve can influence their ability to win faceoffs. Some players prefer flatter curves for better control when taking draws, while others may favor curves that give them an edge in quickly sweeping the puck to their teammates.
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Specialized Play: Certain positions and playing styles benefit from specific curves. Defensemen may prefer straighter blades for clearing the puck and blocking shots, while forwards may opt for more pronounced curves to enhance their scoring abilities.
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Shot Selection: A player's preferred stick curve can influence their choice of shots. For instance, a player with a mid-curve may excel at wrist shots, while someone with a deep curve might favor slap shots.
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Adaptation to Playing Surface: The ice conditions can vary from rink to rink, and the stick curve can be adjusted to better suit the ice surface. A player might change their curve to adapt to soft or hard ice, helping them maintain control and effectiveness.
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Personal Preference and Comfort: Ultimately, the stick curve is a matter of personal preference and comfort. Players often experiment with different curves to find the one that suits their playing style and feels natural in their hands.
Hockey Blade Curve Comparison Chart |
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Open Toe |
Open |
Mid Toe |
Open Mid |
Slightly Open Mid |
Open Mid Heel |
Slightly Open Mid Heel |
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Bauer | P14 | P28 | P92 P92M* |
P88 | P91A P02 |
PM9 | |
CCM | P46 | P28 | P29 | P90TM* | P88 | ||
Sherwood | PP26 PP26M* |
PP28 | PP92 | PP90* | PP88 | PP77 | |
True | TC4 | TC2 | TC6* | MC | HCR | HCS | |
Warrior | W14 | W28 W28M* |
W03 W03M* |
W88 W88M |
W05 W02 |
W01 | |
Alkali | A28 | A33 A92 |
A20 | A19 | |||
Fischer | P28 | P92 | P88 | P05 | P77 | ||
Curves with an asterisk * after them are max blade height. |
Curve Lie: 5
Similar: Fischer P05, Warrior W05
Curve Lie: 5.5
Similar: Bauer PM9, Warrior W01
Curve Lie: 6
Similar: Bauer P14, CCM P30, Warrior W14
Curve Lie: 6
Similar: Bauer P92, CCM P29, Fischer P92, True TC2, Warrior W03
Curve Lie: 6
Similar: Bauer P92MAX, Warrior W03MAX
Curve Lie: 5.5
Similar: Bauer P28, CCM P28, Fischer P28, True TC4, Warrior W28
Curve Lie: 5.5
Similar: Fischer P77, Warrior W71
Curve Lie: 6
Similar: Bauer P88, CCM P88, Fischer P88, True MC, Warrior W88
Curve Lie: 5
Player: None
Similar: CCM PP90TM, True TC6
Curve Lie: 5
Similar: Bauer P92, CCM P29, Fischer P92, Sherwood PP92, True TC2, Warrior W03