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The Best Value Hockey Sticks of 2018
With so many hockey sticks to choose from, and prices topping out at $300+, it is important to find the best value when shopping for a hockey stick. Here is a list of the top 5 sticks for 2018 based on the best bang for your buck:
1. The Warrior Alpha QX Pro Hockey Stick- $199.99
The Warrior Alpha QX Pro may be the best value in a performance level, quick release composite stick that we’ve seen. The QX Pro delivers at about 2/3 the price of most pro sticks– and contains most, if not all the benefits of a high-end hockey stick. The QX Pro is essentially a “team stick” that is used at the collegiate/junior/European professional league level, and is now being offered to consumers that are looking for a high-end stick at an affordable price.
2. The CCM Ribcor Pro PMT Hockey Stick- $149.99
Combined with its low kick point, optimized flex ratio, and PopMatrix technology, the Ribcor Trigger Pro PMT delivers excellent feel and a quick release in all situations of the game. One of the better value sticks on the market with high-end technology at an affordable price point. You will be surprised how light this stick is at a $150 price point. It has the weight and feel of a top-end hockey stick.
3. The True T-Pro Hockey Stick- $149.99
The True T-Pro “pro stock” may be one of the best stick bargains on the market today. This performance stick is used in professional leagues across Europe, and has an excellent overall value. Similar to the Warrior QX Pro, this is a can’t miss deal. A unique opportunity for a consumer to buy an affordable “team stick” used by professional hockey players overseas.
4. The STX Stallion HPR Hockey Stick- $249.99
The STX Stallion HPR has a lighter blade, which allows the ability to redistribute the weight up the shaft, providing you with a higher balance point for a lighter feeling stick, without compromising durability. This stick is extremely light at 420 grams, but is designed to be more durable than your average high-end stick. At around $50 cheaper than your average top of the line stick, this stick is an excellent value.
5. The Bauer Supreme Comp Hockey Stick- $119.99
The Bauer Supreme Comp has the same kick-point and feel of the Bauer Supreme 1S. The kick-point is located higher on the stick, which makes it ideal for powerful slap-shots and snap-shots. At 475 grams, the Comp has a similar weight to high-end Bauer sticks such as the X900, S190 at a more affordable price.
Order Your Custom CCM Premier II Goalie Gear Now!
If you’ve been waiting in anticipation to order your CCM Premier II custom setup, fear not, the wait is over! The CCM Premier II customizer is online now! This will allow you you design your own custom set up. When you’re ready to order, just select Sports Etc as your store and we’ll get the wheels rolling on your new gear!
Tourney Time Checklist 2018
It’s tourney time! End of season tournaments are, without a doubt, the most exciting time of the season. It is also the most critical time as the games mean more and the competition is even greater. For these reasons it’s worth taking the time to take a few precautions with your most important gear!
Helmet– Check to make sure all your screws, snaps and straps are secure and in place. Most skate shops can help get your helmet in working order in no time. Consider buying an extra chin strap as tourney time tends to be the one time refs check on these things. Having an extra mouthpiece is also strongly recommended.
Skates– Make sure your skates are sharpened. No matter when the last time you got them sharpened was, this is the time of year to have them done before each game. Losing an edge can happen at any point so don’t take any chances! Have your blade height checked by an expert. If they are getting low on steel, get them replaced. If you have Bauer skates with the LS2 Edge holders (trigger) investing in a backup set of blades and having them sharpened and ready to go is a very worthwhile purchase. We recommend Tydan Performance Blades.
Sticks- Obviously, the importance of your sticks can’t be stressed enough. Check the condition of your stick. Oh, and the condition of your backup. If you’re in the market for a reliable primary or backup stick, check out some of our Staff Recommendations.
Goalies- Grab an extra set of toe laces just in case you cut or break one during the course of play. Check out all of your clips and buckles to make sure you have them all and they are all functional. Check the condition of the cage on your mask and if it’s badly dented, get it replaced. Having a backup stick is also strongly recommended. The TRUE A4.5 is one of our favorites. Like with players skates, if you have skates with Bauer Edge Vertexx (trigger) holders, we strongly recommend having a second set of runners, pre-sharpened and ready to go. Check Out Tydan Performance Blades. While you’re at it, grabbing an extra dangler would be a great idea!
Miscellaneous– Make sure you have enough hockey tape, clear tape, and hockey laces to get you through the next couple of weeks! The relatively low cost versus peace of mind makes this an essential purchase.