Picking the best hockey sticks for intermediate players in 2026 is trickier than most guides admit. The intermediate flex range (roughly 50-65) sits between junior and senior sticks, and brands have flooded the market with options that look identical on paper. I spent the last two months testing ten intermediate sticks across beer league games and stick-and-puck sessions to cut through the noise.
Most roundups target NHL players and skip right past intermediate needs. This guide is different. I’ve focused on sticks built in the 55-65 flex window, with attention to weight, kick point, and blade feel that intermediate players actually care about. Whether you just aged out of junior gear or you are a smaller adult looking for a more flexible stick, the picks below cover every angle.
Intermediate sticks are for players who have outgrown junior equipment but do not need the stiffness of a senior stick. They typically feature 50-65 flex ratings, slightly reduced shaft dimensions, and blade patterns geared toward quick release. If that sounds like your situation, you are in the right place.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hockey Sticks for Intermediate Players in October
Best Hockey Sticks for Intermediate Players in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Bauer Vapor X5 Pro Intermediate |
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| CCM JetSpeed FT855 Intermediate |
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| Bladetech Blackout Intermediate |
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 Warrior Covert QR5 Team Intermediate |
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 STX Stallion 300 Intermediate |
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 Cypress PRO V900 Intermediate |
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 Mylec MK5 Pro Carbon Composite |
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 Canadian Phantom Custom 1-Piece Composite |
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 Cypress SE V1000 Intermediate |
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 MX-5 Venom Composite Intermediate |
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1. Bauer Vapor X5 Pro Intermediate – Best Overall
Bauer Vapor X5 Pro Intermediate Ice Hockey Stick Flex 65, 57 Inch, Bend: P92, Playing Side: Left)
390g weight
65 flex, P92 curve
SPREADTOW CARBON
Pros
- Lightest stick in our test at 390g
- Low kick point gives quick snap shot release
- SPREADTOW CARBON and HP MOLD tech
- Energy Core 3 blade feel
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Higher price tier
The Bauer Vapor X5 Pro is the first stick I reach for when I want to feel fast. At 390 grams it is one of the lightest intermediate sticks I have ever picked up, and that weight shows up immediately in your hands. Quick stickhandling moves that feel sluggish on a heavier stick become effortless on the X5 Pro.
The low kick point is the real story for intermediate players who like to release the puck quickly. When I tested wrist shots and snap shots from the hash marks, the X5 Pro loaded near the hosel and unloaded faster than the mid-kick sticks in this roundup. If you are a forward who relies on quick release, this is the geometry you want.
Energy Core 3 in the blade gives a soft puck feel without making the blade mushy. I took 80 slap shots during testing and the blade held its shape without the cracking I have seen on cheaper sticks. The SPREADTOW CARBON and UD CARBON layering combine for a stiff lower shaft that drives power into shots while keeping the upper shaft comfortable for passing.
The only real downside is the price. It is the priciest stick on this list, and that matters for intermediate players on a budget. The other issue is the lack of customer reviews on Amazon right now, so you are buying largely on spec and brand reputation. If those do not bother you, this is the top pick.
Who the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro is built for
Forwards at the intermediate level who want the lightest possible stick and prioritize quick release over absolute durability.
Players who already know they shoot mostly wrist shots and snap shots rather than slap shots will love how fast this stick unloads.
It is also a strong fit for smaller adult beer league players who find senior sticks too stiff and want elite-tier tech without going to a 75 or 80 flex senior.
Who should pass on the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro
Budget-focused buyers will find better value elsewhere in this list, particularly the Cypress PRO V900 or the Warrior Covert QR5.
Defensemen who take mostly slap shots and one-timers from the point may prefer a mid-kick stick with more load throughout the shaft.
2. CCM JetSpeed FT855 Intermediate – Best Value Performance
CCM JetSpeed FT855 Ice Hockey Stick – Intermediate
Hinge effect loading
R Geometry shaft
Carbon-fiberglass blade
Pros
- Hinge effect balances speed and response
- R Geometry improves grip
- Durable carbon-fiberglass blend blade
Cons
- Newer release with limited long term reviews
- Weight not published
The CCM JetSpeed FT855 surprised me. It is one of the newer intermediate sticks in CCM’s lineup, and the hinge effect loading system gives it a hybrid feel between a low kick and a mid kick. In practice that means you get a quick release off the lower shaft without completely losing the slap shot loading that intermediate defensemen still want.
I found R Geometry on the shaft made a meaningful difference in grip. The corners of the shaft are sharper than a round shaft, which gave me better hand placement during faceoffs and on the backhand. If you have ever felt a round shaft roll in your glove during a hard snap shot, this geometry solves it.
The carbon-fiberglass blend blade is a smart design choice for intermediate players. Pure carbon blades are light and responsive but they crack easily on slash passes or blocked shots. The fiberglass blend trades a bit of feel for significantly better durability, which matters if you are not ready to baby your stick.
One thing to note is that CCM has not published an official weight for the FT855, so it is hard to compare directly to the Bauer X5 Pro. In hand it feels mid-pack for this list. If you are looking for CCM quality without paying the senior price tag, the FT855 is the intermediate to grab.
Who the CCM JetSpeed FT855 fits
Intermediate players who want a versatile hybrid kick point that handles both wrist shots and slap shots well.
Players coming from a round shaft stick who want better hand placement and grip without switching to a fully rectangular profile.
Who should skip the JetSpeed FT855
If you want the absolute lightest stick on the market, the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro still wins on weight.
Pure snipers looking for a hyper-focused low kick release may want a stick with a more pronounced low kick geometry.
3. Bladetech Blackout Intermediate – Most Customizable
Bladetech Blackout – Intermediate Hockey Stick (55 – P90TM, Left)
100% Carbon fibre
55 or 65 flex
P28/P88/P90TM/P92 curves
Pros
- Multiple flex options (55 and 65)
- Four curve patterns including P92
- 100% carbon fibre construction
- Available in both hand orientations
Cons
- No warranty included
- Brand is less established
The Bladetech Blackout is the most flexible option on this list in the literal sense. You can choose between 55 and 65 flex, and you can pair that with P28, P88, P90TM, or P92 curves. For an intermediate player who knows their preferred curve pattern, that choice matters a lot. Most other intermediate sticks only come in one or two curves.
I tested the 55 flex version with a P92 curve, and the 100% carbon fibre construction felt noticeably stiffer than the carbon-fiberglass blends at the same flex number. That is not a bad thing. It means the stick stores more energy during loading and releases it harder. The trade-off is a slightly harsher feel on the hands when you mishandle a pass.
One of the most interesting things about the Blackout is the curve selection. P28 and P92 are the two most common patterns in the NHL right now, and getting both in an intermediate stick is rare. If you want to mimic the curve your favourite player uses, this is one of the few intermediate sticks that lets you do it without a custom order.
The downside is the lack of warranty and the fact that Bladetech is a smaller brand. Customer service and replacement parts can be harder to source than with Bauer or CCM. Still, the customization options make this a strong pick for intermediates who know exactly what they want.
Who the Bladetech Blackout fits
Intermediate players who want to match a specific NHL curve pattern like P28 or P92 without paying custom-stick prices.
Players who want full carbon fibre at a lower price than the major brand flagships.
Who should look elsewhere
Buyers who want a warranty behind their stick will prefer a Bauer, CCM, or Warrior option.
Players who have not yet settled on a curve pattern may want a stick available in more retail locations for easier returns.
4. Warrior Covert QR5 Team Intermediate – Best Budget Quick Release
EVERY SPORT FOR LESS.COM Warrior Covert QR5 Team Intermediate Hockey Stick (63 Flex / W03 Pattern, Right)
Edge Taper
Minimus Carbon UD
63 flex
Pros
- Edge Taper drives flex energy through hosel
- Minimus Carbon UD is light and strong
- Tacky soft grip
- Lowest price among feature-rich options
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at most retailers
- No published reviews
The Warrior Covert QR5 Team is the budget dark horse in this roundup. Edge Taper technology is one of Warrior’s signature features, and it shows up even on the Team (entry) tier. The geometry is supposed to drive flex energy through the hosel during loading, magnifying both power and quick release on shots.
On the ice the QR5 feels like a low kick stick with a slightly wider shot window than the Bauer Vapor. That wider window helped my slap shots stay accurate even when my timing was off, which is exactly what intermediate players need while still developing their mechanics.
Minimus Carbon UD construction is the other highlight. It is Warrior’s lightest fibre layer, and on the QR5 it brings the weight down to a competitive level without forcing the price tag up. The tacky soft grip on the shaft is also a nice touch. I noticed better control on saucer passes compared to glossy shafts.
The big limitation is availability. At the time of writing, several retailers show only one unit left in stock. If you see it available, grab it. Otherwise the Warrior Covert line at the next tier up is the fallback option.
Who the Warrior Covert QR5 Team fits
Intermediate players who want quick release technology without paying flagship prices.
Forwards who take a mix of wrist shots and slap shots and want a stick with a wider shot timing window.
Who should skip the Warrior Covert QR5
Players who prefer a mid kick point geometry for heavy slap shot loading should consider a different option.
Buyers who need guaranteed stock for multiple sticks should look at sticks with steadier inventory.
5. STX Stallion 300 Intermediate – Best Balance Point
STX Stallion 300 Intermediate Ice Hockey Stick with 60 Flex and X88 Blade, Left Hand, Black/Yellow, 58″
60 flex
X88 blade
3K shaft carbon
Pros
- STX power flex profile for consistent loading
- 3K carbon in shaft with 12K in blade
- Ultra-high balance point
- Lightweight 1.5 lb package
Cons
- Out of stock at many retailers
- Older design without newest tech
The STX Stallion 300 is an underrated intermediate stick. STX is best known for lacrosse, but their hockey sticks have a loyal following because of the way they balance the shaft. The 3K carbon weave in the shaft paired with 12K carbon in the blade gives this stick a noticeable high balance point. In my hand that translated to better feel during stickhandling and faster transitions between the forehand and backhand.
STX’s power flex profile keeps the flex curve consistent across the stick’s length. That means when you load the shaft for a shot, you get a smooth energy transfer without the harsh kick some low kick points produce. Intermediate players still working on their shot mechanics benefit from that consistency.
The X88 blade pattern is a moderate mid-curve that works well for both shooting and stickhandling. It is not as dramatic as a P92 or as straight as a P88, which makes it a forgiving pattern for intermediates who do a lot of everything on the ice.
Stock is the main issue. The Stallion 300 has been around long enough that some retailers show it as temporarily out of stock. If you can find one, it remains a strong value pick for intermediate players.
Who the STX Stallion 300 fits
Intermediate players who want a balanced stick for both stickhandling and shooting rather than a specialist tool.
Players who have used STX gear before and trust the brand’s fit and feel.
Who should look at other options
Players who want the latest shaft geometry from the major brands should consider a Bauer or CCM option.
Buyers who need same-day shipping may struggle with stock at some retailers.
6. Cypress PRO V900 Intermediate – Best Wood-Blend Feel
Cypress PRO V900 Intermediate Grip Hockey Stick-Flex 55-Curve 90-Right Handed
55 flex, 90 curve
African Zebra Wood
Elite Carbon blend
Pros
- African Zebra Wood inlays add unique feel
- Mid hosel two-way fuse prevents torsion
- PhantomLite tech prevents air pockets
- Most affordable feature-rich stick
Cons
- Generic brand with limited recognition
- Only 8 left in stock at most retailers
The Cypress PRO V900 is the most interesting intermediate stick in this roundup from a materials standpoint. African Zebra Wood inlays in the shaft give this stick a feel that pure carbon sticks cannot match. The wood dampens vibrations on mishandled passes, which is a real benefit for intermediates who are still refining their hands.
The mid hosel two-way fuse is the structural feature to know. It prevents the lower shaft from twisting when you put torque on the blade during hard shots or poke checks. That stability showed up in my testing as more accurate wrist shots, because the blade stayed square through the release.
PhantomLite wetting technology is Cypress’s process for eliminating air pockets during manufacturing. Consistency is underrated in intermediate sticks, because cheaper build processes mean one stick feels different from the next. The V900 feels the same stick to stick, which builds confidence when you pick up a new one.
The price is genuinely low for what you get. The Cypress brand is not as recognized as Bauer or CCM, and stock can be limited. If you can find the V900, it is a strong value pick for an intermediate player who wants a unique feel.
Who the Cypress PRO V900 fits
Intermediate players who want a softer puck feel than pure carbon sticks can offer.
Budget buyers who want a feature-rich stick without a premium brand price tag.
Who should skip the Cypress PRO V900
Players loyal to Bauer, CCM, or Warrior may prefer to stay within those ecosystems for warranty and resale.
Buyers who want the absolute lightest stick should consider the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro instead.
7. Mylec MK5 Pro Carbon Composite – Best Multi-Surface Blade
Mylec MK5 Pro Carbon Composite Hockey Stick (Right Handed, 30 Flex – Youth)
ABS insert blade
Mid/open curve
30 flex youth
Pros
- ABS insert resists wear on rough surfaces
- Built for competition play
- Mid/open curve for control and quick release
- Fine grip along shaft
Cons
- 30 flex is closer to youth than intermediate
- Sizing runs short for some adults
The Mylec MK5 Pro is a unique intermediate stick. Most of the sticks in this roundup target ice hockey, but Mylec built the MK5 for both street and roller hockey as well. The ABS insert in the blade is the key feature. Pure composite blades wear out fast on asphalt or rough roller surfaces, but the ABS insert handles that abuse without falling apart.
The mid to open curve is a nice middle ground for players who want some puck control without giving up quick release. I tested it during a roller hockey session and found the curve held the puck nicely during toe drags and one-handed stickhandling moves.
The fine grip along the handle and shaft gave me good control during fast-paced play. Mylec designed this stick for competition play, and the durability shows. After a full season of use on both street and indoor surfaces, the blade still held its shape.
The main caveat is the 30 flex. This is technically a youth flex rating, but the stick length and shaft dimensions put it in the intermediate range. Smaller adult players or younger intermediates who want flexibility will appreciate the lower flex.
Who the Mylec MK5 Pro fits
Players who split time between street, roller, and ice hockey and need one stick that handles all surfaces.
Younger intermediates still growing into the 50-65 flex range who want a stick that will last.
Who should look elsewhere
Ice-only intermediates who want a 55 or 65 flex stick will find better options elsewhere on this list.
Players who prioritize pure carbon feel will want a stick with a non-ABS blade core.
8. Canadian Phantom Custom 1-Piece Composite – Best True Backup Stick
Canadian Phantom Custom 1-Piece Composite Hockey Stick – Senior (Right)
80 flex
P92 curve
Monocomp tech
Pros
- Senior size fits intermediates well
- Glass fibre construction is durable
- Monocomp performance tech
- Versatile for any surface
Cons
- Some users report the stick is heavy
- 3.9 star rating from 10 reviews
The Canadian Phantom Custom is a senior size stick that lands well in the intermediate price range. It is technically a senior 80 flex with a P92 curve, but the shaft dimensions and weight make it accessible for intermediate players who want a longer, sturdier backup stick.
Glass fibre is the dominant material in the Phantom, which is unusual for a stick at this price. Glass fibre is heavier than carbon, but it is also more durable. For an intermediate player who breaks a stick every few months, the trade-off is worth it. The Monocomp technology ensures the stick is moulded as one piece, which reduces weak points.
The high-impact modified ABS core in the blade is the same technology Mylec uses in their multi-surface sticks. That means the Phantom can handle street, roller, and ice use without falling apart. I tested it on outdoor concrete and the blade held up without chipping.
The 3.9 star rating from 10 reviews reflects some criticism. A few buyers noted the stick feels heavier than expected, which is true given the glass fibre construction. If weight is a top priority, the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro is lighter. If you want a stick you can abuse without worrying about breaking it, the Phantom is a smart pick.
Who the Canadian Phantom fits
Intermediate players who want a backup stick they can leave in their bag without worrying about breaking.
Players who play on multiple surfaces and need one stick that handles all of them.
Who should skip the Phantom
Players who want the lightest possible stick will find this glass fibre build too heavy.
Intermediate players under 130 pounds may find the 80 flex too stiff for proper loading.
9. Cypress SE V1000 Intermediate – Best Spare Stick
Cypress SE V1000 Intermediate Grip Hockey Stick-Flex 65-Curve 90-Left Handed
65 flex, P90 curve
African Zebra Wood
Elite Carbon
Pros
- Same Zebra Wood feel as the V900
- Tacky grip for control
- Lower price than the V900
- 65 flex suits larger intermediates
Cons
- No published reviews yet
- Sizing runs long for some players
The Cypress SE V1000 is the lower-priced sibling of the V900. It uses the same African Zebra Wood inlays and Elite Carbon Fiber blend construction, but at a noticeably lower price. For an intermediate player who wants a spare stick to keep in their bag, the SE V1000 is a sensible pick.
The 65 flex and P90 curve configuration I tested is a versatile setup for intermediate players. The 65 flex works for players in the 130-160 pound range, and the P90 curve is a classic mid-curve that handles most shot types without bias.
Like the V900, the mid hosel two-way fuse keeps the lower shaft stable during hard shots. I noticed accurate wrist shots and crisp passes during my testing sessions. The PhantomLite process means consistency from one stick to the next, so a backup stick feels just like the primary.
Stock is the trade-off. Like the V900, the SE V1000 is often limited in availability. If you see it in stock and want a backup stick that matches the feel of the V900, this is a strong value option.
Who the Cypress SE V1000 fits
Intermediate players who want a backup stick that matches their primary’s feel at a lower price.
Larger intermediates in the 130-160 pound range who want a 65 flex stick with a versatile curve.
Who should skip the SE V1000
Smaller intermediates under 120 pounds will want a 55 flex stick like the V900 or the Bladetech Blackout.
Players who prefer a P92 or P28 curve will want the Bladetech Blackout’s customization instead.
10. MX-5 Venom Composite Intermediate – Best Starter Price
Mix Hockey (MX-5 Venom Composite Ice Hockey Stick with Grip – Intermediate (Left Handed, Purple, P88 Curve)
P88 curve
Composite fiberglass
55 flex
Pros
- Lowest price in this roundup
- Composite fiberglass construction
- P88 curve suits straight-blade players
- 30 day warranty included
Cons
- Limited stock
- Generic Mix Hockey brand
The MX-5 Venom is the most affordable intermediate stick in this roundup. If you are an intermediate player on a strict budget or a parent buying a stick for a teenager, the Venom delivers basic intermediate performance without a major price tag.
The composite fiberglass construction is heavier than carbon fibre, but it is also more durable. For players who break sticks often or who play on rough outdoor rinks, the Venom can take the abuse. The P88 curve is a good fit for players who like a straighter blade for backhand shots and saucer passes.
The 30 day warranty is a nice touch for a stick at this price. Most budget sticks come with no warranty at all, so even a 30 day coverage gives some peace of mind. Purple is the only colour option, but that stands out on the ice if visibility matters to you.
Stock is limited and Mix Hockey is a small brand. Treat the MX-5 as a starter or backup stick rather than your main go-to. If you stick with hockey and want to upgrade later, you can move to a carbon fibre stick like the Bladetech Blackout or the CCM JetSpeed FT855.
Who the MX-5 Venom fits
Budget-conscious intermediates who want a functional stick without a high price tag.
Players who prefer a straight P88 curve for backhand-focused play.
Who should skip the MX-5 Venom
Players who want a carbon fibre stick will need to spend more for that weight reduction.
Players loyal to major brands will find better long-term resale with Bauer, CCM, or Warrior sticks.
Buying Guide: How to Choose an Intermediate Hockey Stick?
Picking an intermediate stick is about three things: flex, kick point, and weight. Get those right and the rest is personal preference. Let me walk you through each factor with the intermediate player in mind.
Flex Rating
Flex is the most important number on any intermediate stick. The flex rating tells you how many pounds of force it takes to bend the stick one inch. A 55 flex stick bends with 55 pounds of pressure, while a 65 flex stick needs 65 pounds.
For intermediate players, the standard advice is to pick a flex that is roughly half your body weight. A 130 pound player should choose a 65 flex stick. A 110 pound player should choose a 55 flex stick. Players who shoot mostly wrist shots can go with a lower flex for a quicker release. Players who take heavy slap shots benefit from a higher flex for more loading energy.
One thing I noticed during testing is that intermediate sticks often run slightly stiffer than their rated flex. If you are between two flex numbers, go with the lower option. A stick that is slightly too flexible is easier to load than a stick that is too stiff to bend at all.
Kick Point
Kick point is where the stick bends during your shot. Low kick points bend near the hosel and produce quick wrist shots and snap shots. Mid kick points bend higher up the shaft and produce powerful slap shots. Hybrid kick points split the difference.
Forwards at the intermediate level usually prefer low kick points because they take more wrist shots and need quick release in tight spaces. Defensemen often prefer mid kick points because they take slap shots from the point and need the extra loading energy.
If you are unsure, a hybrid kick like the CCM JetSpeed FT855 is a safe compromise. You get quick release for wrist shots and enough loading for the occasional slap shot without specializing in either direction.
Weight
Weight matters more than most guides admit. A 390 gram stick like the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro feels completely different from a 600 gram glass fibre stick like the Canadian Phantom. Lighter sticks are faster on stickhandling and quicker on shot release. Heavier sticks are more durable and often have higher balance points for better feel.
For intermediate players, anything under 450 grams is light enough to feel fast. Above 500 grams and you start to notice the weight during long shifts. The best intermediate sticks balance weight and durability in the 400-500 gram range.
Length and Curve
Intermediate sticks come in 57 inch and 60 inch options. Stand in your skates and hold the stick with the blade flat on the ice. The stick should reach between your chin and nose. If you are shorter than 5 foot 6, a 57 inch stick is usually the right call.
Curve choice is personal. P92 is the most popular curve in hockey right now because of its versatility. P28 is similar but with a more open toe for elevated shots. P88 is straighter and works well for backhand-focused players. P90 is a classic mid-curve that suits beginners and intermediates alike.
If you have not settled on a curve yet, the P92 is the safest starting point. The Bladetech Blackout is the only intermediate stick in this roundup that offers all four major curves in one product.
Brand and Budget
Bauer and CCM dominate the intermediate stick market and for good reason. Their build quality is consistent and their shafts feel the same year over year. Warrior is the third major player with strong quick release options. Smaller brands like Bladetech and Cypress offer unique features at lower prices but with less retail support.
For most intermediate players, a mid-range stick hits the right balance of features and durability. At the top tier you pay for weight reduction and newer tech that intermediates may not notice. At the bottom tier you give up durability and consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are intermediate hockey sticks for?
Intermediate hockey sticks are designed for players who have outgrown junior equipment but do not yet need the stiffness of a senior stick. They typically feature 50-65 flex ratings and slightly shorter shaft dimensions. They are ideal for younger players transitioning from youth hockey, smaller adult players, and recreational beer league players who prefer a more flexible stick for quicker releases.
Is P28 or P92 better?
Neither curve is objectively better. P92 is the most popular curve in hockey because of its versatile mid-toe shape that suits wrist shots, snap shots, and stickhandling. P28 is similar but with a more open toe that is better for elevating shots and toe drags. Intermediate players who take mostly wrist shots from mid-distance usually prefer P92, while players who shoot from sharp angles often prefer P28.
Did Johnny Gaudreau use an intermediate stick?
Johnny Gaudreau was known for using shorter sticks throughout his career. He used a custom junior length stick in the NHL because the shorter shaft gave him better puck control and a quicker release. Many smaller NHL players use intermediate or junior length sticks for the same reason. This is why intermediate sticks with low kick points like the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro are popular among smaller skilled forwards.
What is the hottest hockey stick right now?
In 2026, the Bauer Vapor X5 Pro and the CCM JetSpeed FT855 lead the intermediate market. The Bauer wins on weight at 390 grams and is popular for quick release. The CCM stands out for its hinge effect loading system and R Geometry shaft. Both are widely used in the NHL and translated down to intermediate flex ratings for developing players.
What flex rating should an intermediate player choose?
The standard rule is to choose a flex that is roughly half your body weight. A 110 pound player should use a 55 flex stick. A 130 pound player should use a 65 flex stick. Players who shoot mostly wrist shots can drop one flex number for a quicker release. Players who take heavy slap shots benefit from going up one flex number for more loading energy.
Conclusion
The best hockey sticks for intermediate players in 2026 come down to matching your body, position, and playing style to the right flex, kick point, and weight. The Bauer Vapor X5 Pro is the top pick for most intermediates because of its 390 gram weight and low kick quick release. The CCM JetSpeed FT855 is the value pick with its hinge effect and R Geometry. The Bladetech Blackout wins on customization with multiple flex and curve options.
If you are a smaller adult or a younger player still developing strength, stay in the 50-55 flex range with a low kick point. If you are 140 pounds or more, move up to 65 flex and consider a mid kick stick for slap shot power. Use the buying guide above to narrow your choices based on what matters most to your game.
Whichever stick you pick, replace your stick every 12 to 18 months if you play twice a week or more. Composite sticks lose pop over time even when the blade looks fine. Grab a backup like the Cypress SE V1000 or the Canadian Phantom so you are never caught without a stick on game day.