TOP-RATED COMPOSITE HOCKEY STICKS AND REVIEWS FOR 2018
Any hockey player would agree, your stick is an extremely personal piece of equipment. But with so many different options, finding the best hockey stick for your game may seem overwhelming. Yet, it’s key to your success on the ice. Whether you’re a sniper, playmaker or like to impress with ankle-breaking dekes, using the best hockey sticks makes a world of difference in your game.
BEST COMPOSITE HOCKEY STICKS FOR 2018
Professionals and experts exclusively use composite sticks rather than wood, so we’ve compiled the best composite hockey stick reviews to give you the edge when it comes time to purchase your new stick. Read on for composite stick reviews of our top ten best hockey sticks 2018 has available.
1) Warrior Covert QRL 
The Warrior Covert QRL tops our list due to its versatility and durability. Available with six different blade patterns, this stick fits works for nearly every style of play. Defensemen will love the slightly open mid-heel curve of the Karlsson blade face option. And Warrior obviously also had a skilled forward’s needs in mind when designing the Covert QRL, as there are several blade face options that will appeal to danglers and shooters alike.
While both defensemen and forwards will love this stick, the Covert QRL’s low-kick point appeals to an offensive player’s game. This low-kick point arguably makes the Covert QRL the best hockey stick for wrist shots and saucer passes. The shaft is composed of durable carbon, and the blade wrap contains a 12K weave of high-modulus carbon that results in durability.
Known For:
- Lightweight and durable
- Great for puck-handlers
- Available with multiple blade face options
- Great stick for scorers and skill players
2) Bauer Nexus 1N 
Bauer has been a renowned hockey equipment manufacturer for nearly a century. Their Nexus 1N is a top of the line hockey stick. The mid-kick point of the Nexus 1N puts this stick in the running for best hockey stick for slapshots, while it’s still lightweight enough to provide a snappy wrist shot. With eight unique blade faces available, this stick can be tailored to virtually any style of play.
Bauer has been a renowned hockey equipment manufacturer for nearly a century. Their Nexus 1N is a top of the line hockey stick. The mid-kick point of the Nexus 1N puts this stick in the running for best hockey stick for slapshots, while it’s still lightweight enough to provide a snappy wrist shot. With eight unique blade faces available, this stick can be tailored to virtually any style of play.
Known For:
- One-piece construction
- Above-par durability ratings
- Eight blade faces to choose from
3) CCM RibCor Trigger2 PMT Grip 
The CCM RibCor was one of the best hockey sticks 2016 saw released. And true to the name, the Trigger2 PMT Grip is like nothing else available on the market today. This stick has an enhanced flex zone and optimized ribcor low kick, which means skaters can easily store energy in both upper and lower areas of the shaft. The end result? An unparalleled crossbow effect when players shoot.
The CCM RibCor Trigger2 PMT’s lightweight and ultra responsive design is perfect for elite players looking for accuracy and control.
Known For:
- Fused single piece construction with Sigmatex carbon fiber
- Optimized low kick point
- Optimized low kick point
- New Ascent Blade 3 construction
4) Bauer Vapor 1X Lite Griptac 
Any product in the Bauer Vapor line is highly regarded as some of the best hockey gear on the market, no matter what year they were manufactured. The Bauer Vapor 1X ’15 model was largely considered one of the best hockey sticks 2015 had to offer.
And true to form, the Bauer Vapor 1X Lite Griptac is still one of the top 10 best composite hockey sticks available today. With the 1X Lite, Bauer stays true to and improves on their QRT technology, and introduces Advanced Carbon Layering (ACL) blade technology. Designed and perfect for elite puck-handlers.
Known For:
- Super lightweight – 15 grams lighter than the 2016 model, making it the lightest Vapor stick to date
- Eight blade face options
- Constructed with Monocomp technology, resulting in a true 1-piece stick that works to maximize energy transfer and improve balance
5) CCM Super Tacks 2.0 
CCM produces a number of lines of quality hockey sticks, and has done so for decades. The CCM Tacks was rated “Best Hockey Stick 2014” on several industry lists. And their Super Tacks 2.0 is the second of CCM’s high-end sticks to make our list. The Super Tacks is crafted from Sigmatex composite fiber, giving it good durability while remaining lightweight. The shaft has been reinforced to reduce the likelihood of breakage from slashes and other forms of contact.
The Super Tacks 2.0 has a mid-kick point with two loading zones that will appeal to players who take both wrist shots and slapshots. The stiff ACU2 blade is available with 10 different face options to customize perfectly for any style game.
Known For:
- Versatile stick appeals to the all-around skilled player
- Light-weight construction
- Good entry-level stick
- May have performance issues for players looking to specialize in specific aspects of the game
6) True A6.0 HT Matte Grip 
A low kick point and new BRT+ blade technology make the A6.0 a great choice for players seeking a responsive, quick release wrist and snapshot stick. Designed with Swing Weight technology, the A6.0 has carefully calculated weight distribution that’s optimized for an end result of a lighter, more balanced feel, durability and optimal performance.
Ultimate power results from the ease in energy loading, which delivers explosive power from nearly any shooting position. Arguably one of the, if not the, best hockey stick for slapshots on the market today.
Known For:
- Ultimate power results from the ease in energy loading, which delivers explosive power from nearly any shooting position. Arguably one of the, if not the, best hockey stick for slapshots on the market today.
- Swing Weight technology that distributes balanced weight
- Axenic Technology that gives a premium playing experienced
7) Bauer Supreme 1S Grip 
Continued improvement over the last model, Bauer’s Supreme 1S Grip is more versatile and produces maximum energy transfer and power on shots. With the cutting edge RenewCore blade, a pressurized gel core stays in a constant liquid state, which absorbs energy when the puck makes contact.
Great stick for elite power players – versatile, durable and powerful that results in effective precision with any type of shot taken.
Known For:
- TeXtreme carbon fiber, MonoComp construction
- Extended Transfer Zone for versatility
- eLASTTech resin that prevents any cracks from spreading
8) Easton Synergy GX 
While Easton doesn’t have as many lines as the big-name hockey equipment manufacturers, they do produce quality hockey equipment. The Synergy GX is Easton’s top of the line composite stick. Its ShotBoost technology produces quicker, more reflexive shots. The toe region of the blade has been stiffened for responsiveness when transitioning from toe drags to wrist shots and when stickhandling in traffic.
The Synergy GX is manufactured as a one-piece stick producing a seamless transition from shaft to blade, allowing for a responsive taper that produces power and quick release. Easton has made eight different blade face options available for this stick, appealing to players of nearly any skill level.
Known For:
- Versatile enough for any style of play
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to use, with excellent feel
- May not be as durable as some of the top of the line models from major brands
9) Sher-Wood Rekker EK365 
The Sher-Wood Rekker EK365 is a lightweight composite hockey stick that’s crafted from 18K carbon fiber. Sher-Wood takes the durability of this stick to the next level by using the 18K carbon fiber weave on both the exterior and interior layers of the components of this stick. This produces an ultra-lightweight result that can improve responsiveness, especially during those critical one-handed playing moments. The lightweight design is also advantageous when releasing wrist shots and dekeing defensemen and goalies.
The Sher-Wood Rekker EK365 is available with an impressive 11 different blade face options, ensuring players will find a face that’s perfect for any style, whether they’re a forward or a defensive player with years of experience.
Known For:
- Lightweight construction
- Durability
- Ultralight stick may feel a bit awkward for beginners
10) Warrior Alpha QX Pro
With a moderate price point, the Warrior Alpha QX Pro may just be the best hockey stick for the money for players on a budget. This stick features Warrior’s MINIMUS Carbon 800 for increased durability and flexibility. It’s a true one-piece stick that’s lightweight and well-balanced. There are several blade faces available, as well as multiple levels of flexibility for precise optimization of a game.
The shaft of the Alpha QX Pro has a tacky soft grip to lock hands in place for improved control during stickhandling, and the taper of the lower third allows for a quick wrist shot release without sacrificing too much power or accuracy.
Known For:
- Ultimate control
- Ergonomic shaft for increased comfort
- Multiple flex options
- Lightweight construction
- May not be quite as durable as more expensive Warrior models
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING YOUR HOCKEY STICK
Not all hockey sticks are created equal. Some sticks will appeal to experienced players who want to enhance certain elements of their game, while a beginner or intermediate player may be searching for overall performance and value. Understanding the parts of a stick and their construction can help you better understand hockey stick reviews and choose the perfect stick for your game. Remember, just because we rank a stick #1, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the ideal stick for every hockey player.
COMPOSITE STICKS VS. WOOD STICKS
Composite sticks are the standard for professionals and experienced players alike. You won’t see an NHL player or highly skilled expert use a wood stick out on the ice. Wood sticks are great for street hockey or pickup games on the pond, but players valuing performance will always use a composite stick.
TWO-PIECE STICKS VS. ONE-PIECE STICKS
There are two construction methods for ice hockey sticks: the one-piece method and the two-piece method.
What is a Two-Piece Stick?
A two-piece stick is almost exactly what it sounds like. The shaft and the blade are molded separately and fitted together during the final stages of production. Some experienced players are skilled enough to change blade faces on their own.
What is a One-Piece Stick?
A one-piece stick is produced using a single mold, making a stick that’s all one part.
Should I Get a Two-Piece or One-Piece Stick?
One-piece sticks are the most commonly manufactured composite hockey sticks. If you find a manufacturer you like, a one-piece stick may be right for you.
However, if you feel that using one manufacturer’s shaft with a different company’s blade could enhance your game, the only way to achieve this kind of custom stick would be to use a two-piece stick featuring one brand of shaft with a competitor’s brand of blade attached.
CHOOSING THE FLEX OF YOUR SHAFT
What is Shaft Flex?
Shaft flex is the ability of the shaft of your stick to bend when pressure is applied while shooting.
How to Choose Shaft Flex
The greater the flex of your stick, the more spring your shot will have, but increasing flex can also lower your power output. For example, a stick with a high flex rating will produce snappy wrist shots, but slapshots will not be as strong. A stick with a low flex may have the potential to produce harder shots, but the stiffness of the stick may reduce effectiveness. Flex should be tailored to your playing style.
HOCKEY STICK LENGTH
The length of your stick is an important factor when it comes to effectiveness during gameplay.
SIZING YOURSELF FOR A HOCKEY STICK
Before buying a hockey stick, you want to make sure you’re purchasing the correct length.
HOCKEY STICK SIZING CHART
| Height | Weight | Flex | Stick Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5’5″ to 5’10” | 125lbs to 175lbs | 75/80 | 57″ to 61″ |
| 5’7″ to 6’1″ | 150lbs to 200lbs | 85/90 | 58″ to 62″ |
| 5’10” to 6’4″ | 180lbs to 235lbs | 100/105 | 60″ to 63″ |
| 6’1″ and up | 210lbs and up | 110/115 | 60″ to 63″ |
HOCKEY BLADE PATTERNS
Hockey blade patterns affect shot angles, passing and stickhandling skills. This pattern should be tailored to your abilities.
Curve Direction
Curve direction basically translates to a right- or left-handed stick. If you naturally hold your right hand on the top of the stick, you want a left-curved blade and vice-versa.
Curve Type
Curve type designates where the curve of a blade begins: at the heel, middle or toe of the blade.
Curve Depth
Curve depth is how much your blade curves. A deeper curve will provide greater lift on shots, while a shallow curve provides better stickhandling.
Face Angle
A closed face angle will cup over the puck, ensuring added puck protection, while an open face allows for greater lift.
Blade Length
Blade lengths can range from short to medium to long.
Lie
Lie is the angle of the blade in relation to the shaft. If you hold your stick out in front of you while skating, you probably want a lower angle. Skaters who hold the stick close to their bodies generally go for a steeper lie.
HOCKEY EXPERIENCE
Newer players should try to find a stick that’s comfortable and doesn’t overspecialize in any one area of the game. Pros and experienced hockey players will know exactly what type of game they play and should choose a stick that highlights their abilities.
PRICE POINT
Hockey sticks can range from very affordable to incredibly expensive. Cheaper sticks usually require a great sacrifice in performance, yet the most expensive composite hockey sticks may not be worth the investment for every hockey player. Understanding the different styles and components of sticks will help you choose the right one for your game.
For more information and everything you need to know about how to choose the right hockey stick, check out our Hockey Stick Buying Guide.