Different curves can significantly impact your game, and it's essential to find the right one for your playing style. In this blog post, we'll explore the three primary types of curves: heel curves, mid curves, and toe curves. We'll also discuss which players can benefit most from each type, considering factors such as position, age, and skill level. Finally, we'll look at the specifics of each curve type and what they are best used for.
The Basics of Hockey Stick Curves
Each curve offered by different companies can be classified into three groups:
- Heel Curves
- Mid Curves
- Toe Curves
These curves offer unique benefits and cater to different playing styles. To help you understand these better, we will refer to both the codes and the HockeyStickMan blade chart, which classifies these curves across various brands.
The Blade Chart Explained
Each curve has a different name depending on the stick manufacturer. For example, the classic P92 curve is called just that on a Bauer stick but is known as a P29 on a CCM stick. To simplify your shopping experience, we've classified these duplicate curves into our blade chart.
Here’s a snapshot of our blade chart:
We have 17 different blade patterns to choose from within our store. Let's break down each curve type.
Heel Curves
Heel curves, often referred to as old school curves, are less common among younger players but still have their place in the game.
Key characteristics:
- Large sweet spot starting at the heel and twisting open towards the toe
- Longer blades, aiding in puck control and defensive plays
- Ideal for slapshots, one-timers, and strong backhand plays
Popular Heel Curves:
- Blade 4: P91A, P15, W05
- Blade 7: P02, P20, W02, P5
- Blade 8: P106, P50
These curves are typically used by defensemen or grinder forwards who focus on defensive play and puck battles. If you play a gritty, assist-heavy game, a heel curve might be your best bet.
Mid Curves
Mid curves focus the curve in the middle of the blade, offering a balanced approach with minimal twist.
Key characteristics:
- Deep pocket in the middle for excellent stick handling
- Great for wrist shots and snapshots with enhanced accuracy
- Relatively flat backhand for precise passing
Popular Mid Curves:
- Blade 2: P88, W88, PP88
- Blade 3: PM9, P14, W01, PP96
- Blade 11: P46
These curves are perfect for playmakers. The P88 curve, in particular, offers a great mix of accuracy and stick handling ability. If you're transitioning from traditional curves, mid curves provide a familiar yet enhanced experience.
Toe Curves
Toe curves are the most popular among modern players, especially those who love taking quick, accurate shots.
Key characteristics:
- Flat heel with a twist and open face at the toe
- Excellent for toe drag releases and quick snapshots
- Enhances puck control during fast-paced play
Popular Toe Curves:
- Blade 1: P92, P29, W03, PP92
- Blade 6: P28, W28, PP28
- Blade 9: P14, P49, W14, PP14
- Blade 14: P08 (Crazy Ovi)
Toe curves are favored by fast forwards who take a lot of shots, particularly snap shots. The P92 curve remains the most popular due to its versatility, combining properties of both mid and toe curves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right curve can significantly impact your game. Whether you prefer the classic heel curves, balanced mid curves, or dynamic toe curves, there's a perfect blade for your style at HockeyStickMan.
At HockeyStickMan, we sell pro stock hockey sticks with a wide range of curves, including those not available at the retail level. Our Pro Blackout sticks offer 30+ curves, some modeled after your favorite pro players' exact specifications.
Check us out today to find the perfect curve for your game. Ready to shop for your next stick? Try a new curve and see how it enhances your play.
Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more educational content and visit our blog to learn more about the various curves we have in stock.