Deciding on a hockey blade may be one of the most important decisions a hockey player can make. A blade -- the bottom portion of a hockey stick that may be curved or straight -- can help determine the way a player is able to control a hockey puck. Blades come in a variety of different materials. The most common form of blade is the wooden blade. Manufactures also make blades composed of materials, such as fiberglass. Ultimately, the best type of hockey blade is the personal preference of the player.
Wood Blades
Wooden blades were the initial form of material used in hockey sticks as well as blades. Wood has been used in blades since the creation of the National Hockey League in 1917. Wooden blades are still used in the NHL today. Thin strips of wood are glued together and covered with a laminate to keep the strong. Wood blades today are frequently covered with a composite material, such as Kevlar. Kevlar is a strong, fiber substance that is designed to be used in high stress situations.
Fiberglass Blades
The fiberglass blade was first introduced to the NHL in 1976, according to the NHL. Fiberglass is an inexpensive material and can be easily replicated if a hockey stick were to break. Blades are generally not made of just fiber glass alone. Fiberglass is normally used as a shell or casing for a wooden blade. Fiberglass increases the strength of a blade and allows the player to better handle the puck.
Plastic Blades
Plastic blades are very inexpensive and can be easily replaced. This types of blade is generally recommended for street hockey and physical education class use, according to ProHockeyStuff.com. Plastic blades have limited flexibility and make passing as well as shooting more difficult. Professional hockey players are not likely to use this type of blade. Deck hockey players may benefit from a plastic blade because they are resistant to friction.
Composite Blades
Composite materials are lightweight and stronger than wood, according to the NHL. Composite materials used in hockey blades are carbon fiber, graphite and fiberglass. Lightweight blades allow players to shoot quicker and with ease. Composite blades are waterproof and can be curved to suit the needs of left-handed and right-handed hockey players. These types of blades can be removed from a hockey stick and replaced.
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