Best Hockey Sticks

Whether you are a seasoned veteran player or if you are brand new to the game, we are here to help you find the best stick for your skill level! For each category, we pick one stick for 'Overall Performance' based purely on tech and spec and another winner for 'Overall Value' that more heavily considers price, continue reading below to see why we chose each one!

Picking the overall best-performing stick for 2023 was a struggle
If you're looking for the very best technology and performance but numbers don't lie with the True Catalyst 9X3 Stick. At an astonishingly light 357 grams (85 flex), the 9X3 takes the crown for all mid-kick sticks but emphasized no compromising on power, precision or control.. unlike other super light sticks in its class.

The biggest upgrade in the Catalyst 9X3 is the Quad Rib System (QRS) and the Innovative Foam Core in the blade. QRS strategically places four ribs throughout its core for even better stability especially by aligning with key puck impact points, resulting in unmatched precision and power. The Innovative Foam Core introduces a cutting-edge material that doesn't just reduce weight but also provides exception strength and a dampened puck feel, making every pass and dangle more responsive and connected.

For the versatile shooter looking for top-tier performance, especially with a hybrid kick point, the CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro Stick is an excellent choice. The featherlight scoring machine will fire shots from anywhere and everywhere on the rink with its incredible balance of a quick shot release and hard shot power.

Weighing an impressive 363 grams (85 flex), the FT6 Pro Stick boasts the all-new NanoLite Shield Technology which has been a game-changer for CCM Hockey. Then layers of carbon fiber are strategically protected by thicker layers, all further shielded by external unidirectional carbon fiber. This not only removes 15 grams of weight while maintaining strength and durability, but it even made the FT6 Pro even more responsive too.

The True Catalyst 7X3 Stick combines exceptional shot power, durability and top-notch technology at an approachable price. Weighing just 383 grams (85 flex), this stick is a true contender as one of the best-valued sticks for all of 2023.

Rebuilt from the ground up, the Catalyst 7X3 gets the elite treatment the 9X3 leads off with. With a very similar Innovative Foam Core that is incredibly lightweight without sacrificing strength or longevity, while the new Quad Rib System (QRS) further enhances energy transfer and accuracy. The result is a long-lasting feel, deadly accuracy and blistering shot speed.

The Warrior Novium Stick redefines performance-level hockey sticks. Just like the top-of-the-line Novium Pro, this Novium gets the brand-new Bevel Taper and pushes this family to the very top of the mid-kick stick food chain. The unique v-shaped sidewalls not only improve torsional stability for accuracy, it also greatly reduces weight too.

The Warrior Alpha LX2 Comp Stick is a stellar choice for the casual or new hockey player looking for maximum performance for the price. From the true one-piece construction to the exclusive Sabre Taper, the LX2 Comp offers a masterful combination of lightweight agility, explosive shot speed and an excellent feel in the hands. Plus at just 443 grams, this would've been considered top-tier just a few years ago which speaks to how Warrior has continued to evolve and grow at all price points.

The Sherwood Code TMP 3 Stick delivers exceptional value at this recreational price point. Weighing just 457 grams and under $100 in senior, Sherwood knocked this out of the park.

With their BlackLine 6 carbon fiber and the FeatherLite X construction technology, the Code TMP 3 also feels incredibly balanced at this price point. To top it off, the versatile hybrid kick point provides players with hard, accurate and quick release no matter what type of shot they're taking.

Selecting the right hockey stick size and flex profile is crucial for your performance. When choosing a stick size, consider your height and playing style. A longer stick can provide extended reach for defensive-minded players while stickhandling playmakers might prefer a shorter stick for better control. Your stick's flex rating is just as important as it determines how much the stick bends while shooting. The lower the number, the easier it is to flex while the higher the number, the harder it is to flex. For a deeper dive into hockey stick sizing, flex profile, flex charts and curve charts, explore our in-depth articles below!