Understanding Blade Curves

January 1, 2021 4:52 pm Published by

When looking for a new stick one of the most important features of the stick to be considered is the curve of the blade. The curve of the blade is what helps a player control the puck while stickhandling, and shooting according to their playing style. There are many varieties of curves, but the three most common curve types are the heal curve, toe curve, and the mid-heal curve. Each type of curve helps a player within different aspects of puck handling and shooting. If a player’s curve does not align with their playing style, it can be more difficult for them to handle the puck where they need to and when they need to. Let’s talk through some of the most popular stick curves and understand how they work:

A blade with a heal curve is a blade in which the curve begins near the base of the blade on the heal. With the curve starting at the base of the heal of the blade, the curve will begin to flatten out towards the middle of the blade and be completely flat at the toe. This curve mainly helps out defensive players who need to have more powerful and accurate snapshots and slap shots, as well as control bouncing pucks.

A blade with a toe curve is a blade which the curve is very prominent at the toe of the blade. This type of curve is completely flat at the heal, with the curve beginning towards the middle of the blade, and being very prominent towards the toe of the blade. This curve is mainly for forwards who need to shot the puck quickly, and control the puck in very tight spaces. 

A blade with a mid-heal curve is the most general and popular curve type. This curve type is the most balanced of the three main curve types, as the largest depth of the curve is right in the middle of the blade. This type of curve is used by players who tend to stickhandle and pass the puck more. This curve is also great for backhand shots as well!

Now when you go and buy a stick, make sure you check out what kind of curve the blade has and which type of curve is best for YOUR game!

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This post was written by Joe Young