If you're a right-handed shooter, you need a stick with a "right" curve, while a "left" curve is designed for left-handed shooters. But there’s more that distinguishes the blades. Here, we explain the blade’s characteristics in more detail.

How the blade’s characteristics differ
Our hockey sticks are available for both left- and right-handed shooters, but if you look more closely at the blade angle (such as the blade guide on the product pages), you’ll notice that it differs between models and brands. Experienced players often know exactly which blade they want, while newer players may need to experiment to find the right one. The blade's geometry and technology are generally described in the product details. Just like the shaft, the blade often has a certain flex and kickpoint to optimize power and feel in shooting and puck handling. To explain the different blade angles further, we can break them down into three key aspects: how much the blade is curved, where it curves, and how “open” the blade is.

1. How much is the blade curved?
Simply put, the more the blade curves, the easier it is to control the puck when it's on the forehand side. This is because the curve helps the blade cradle the puck, making it less likely for the puck to slide off. The straighter the blade, the more puck control is required to keep it in the blade. On the other hand, the more the blade curves, the harder it becomes to control the puck on the backhand side, as the opposite effect occurs and the puck is more likely to slide off the blade.

2. Where does the blade curve?
The blade can be divided into three sections: the heel, the middle, and the toe. Depending on where it bends the most, it gives the blade unique properties. A blade with a "heel curve" is particularly popular among defensemen and can generate harder slapshots. A "mid curve" is more all-around and is suitable for players who want a neutral stick for both slapshots and wrist shots. A "toe curve" can be advantageous for quicker shots and better puck control, as it makes it easier to pull the puck in towards your body without it sliding off the blade, thanks to the pocket formed at the tip of the blade.

3. How open is the blade?
The face of the blade, or the forehand side, is where you typically shoot and pass from. With an "open face," it’s easier to lift the puck off the ice, which is often an advantage when shooting in tight situations or close to the goal. This is because the blade is angled more, helping to “scoop” the puck and lift it off the ice. On the other hand, if you’re shooting long, hard shots from the blue line, a more "closed" blade can be beneficial, as it allows you to complete your shot and generate more power without the puck being lifted too high.

Left or right?
The most basic difference in blade angles is whether the blade is curved for left- or right-handed shooters, "left" or "right." Most hockey players are left-handed shooters, which means the toe of the blade points to the right when holding the stick in front of you with the heel resting on the ice. This also means the right hand grips the top of the shaft, while the left hand holds further down toward the blade. The opposite is true for right-handed shooters. For those who have never held a stick before, it’s not always obvious which curve angle you should use. As a general guideline, right-handed people are often left-handed shooters, while left-handed people are typically right-handed shooters.