To the average viewer, hockey seems like a very basic sport. Players use sticks to advance a hard rubber puck along ice and into their opponent's goal. The game, in fact, is much more complex. Sticks made of different materials deliver different results. And for each hockey stick, there are a variety of blades that direct passes and shots differently. Selecting the proper blade means the difference between controlled shots lower to the ice or passes with greater lift and velocity.
Curves
Blades are available straight or curved. Straight blades are used by younger, more experienced players. Curved blades vary by angle and depth, forming a pocket which insures consistency in the player's shot and pass. A defined pocket places the puck in the same place each time. The curve also places greater spin on the puck, making shots more difficult to defend.
Curve type
According to National Hockey League (NHL) rules, the curve depth, or pocket, cannot be more than.75 inches long. However, there is no rule as to where the pocket must be. There are three different type of curves. The center curve begins at the middle of the blade, creating a bend at to the toe. The heel curve creates a central pocket, making it much easier to pass and receive. A blade with a toe curve adds a drastic curve at the tip, adding more spin to the shot.
Face
The blade not only curves, but it angles. With the bottom of the blade placed flat on the ice, this would be the degree to which the blade tilts. A blade which tilts away from the curve is called open. Open blades add loft to a pass or shot, lifting the puck from the ice. Perpendicular blades or those which lean inward are closed blades and closed blades keep the puck lower to the ice.
Toe Shape
Blades have two different possible toe shapes. Round toes offer greater control when handling the puck at the toe. Square tips are better for blocking and handling.
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