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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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
	Open Toe	Open Mid Toe	Mid Toe	Open Mid	Slightly Open Mid	Open Mid Heel	Slightly Open Mid Heel
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.