With seemingly endless stick curves to choose from, it can be a confusing and overwhelming process to find the perfect pattern that suits your style of play. One way to simplify your selection process is by looking at the 3 most popular stick patterns on the market. Each hockey manufacturer makes their own version of these 3 curves:
- Bauer P88 (Kane), CCM P40 (Hossa/MacKinnon), Easton E3 (Hall), Warrior W88 (Zetterberg)
This “mid” curve has become the most popular pattern on the market today. It has a perfect blend of attributes, and is not drastically catered to any specific style of play. Whether you are a puck moving defensemen, or a goal scorer, this has proven to be increasingly popular among players as a true “hybrid” pattern.
- Bauer P92 (Ovechkin), CCM P29 (Crosby), Easton E36, Warrior W03 (Backstrom)
This “mid-toe” curve is a perfect stickhandlers pattern. The slightly exaggerated curve allows for better puck control in tight spaces. The open face is beneficial for snap shots, or when the player needs to elevate the puck quickly.
- Bauer P28 (Giroux), CCM P28 (McDavid), Easton E28, Warrior W28 (Yakupov)
This “toe” curve is a true shooters pattern and is probably the fastest growing pattern on the market today, especially among forwards. The major hook at the toe allows for accurate shooting and the aggressive lie is ideal for stickhandling in tight spaces.
(Left: Mid Curve, Middle: Mid-Toe Curve, Right: Toe Curve)
