Intermediate hockey sticks are shorter and more flexible than senior sticks, great for players still perfecting their game. We collaborate with players and gear experts to review each stick based on weight (fast handling vs. power), response (how quickly the stick flexes and releases energy), and feel (how comfortable the stick feels in the hands). Rankings are updated weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.
The Bauer PULSE is a composite stick with two separate energy zones in the shaft. The zones give it a mid-kick feel and a low-kick release. The shaft is built from TeXtreme, a flat-weave carbon fabric. Boron fiber, a stiff aerospace material, appears on 40 flex and above. A raised-ink grip texture runs along the shaft.
The Bauer Twitch is a one-piece composite hockey stick weighing 345 grams in senior. Boron fiber, a stiff aerospace material, is layered into the shaft. It adds strength without adding weight. A low kick point loads the shot close to the bottom hand. The blade core uses light foam with carbon bridges for a firm feel.
The Bauer Proto2 is a mid-kick composite stick with a square shaft profile. The corners are rounded, so the shaft sits square without sharp edges. A mid kick point loads through the middle of the shaft. It weighs 345 grams in a senior stick. Boron fiber, a stiff aerospace material, appears on 40 flex and above.
The All Black is a composite hockey stick developed exclusively by HockeyOnSale. The shaft and blade are 100% carbon, molded as one piece with no joint. A low kick point loads the shot close to the bottom hand. That favours quick wrist and snap shots over long slap shots. The shaft is rounded rather than squared at the corners.
The CCM Ribcor Trigger 10 Pro is a composite stick with an ultra-low kick point. The flex sits low in the shaft, so the puck leaves quickly. It weighs about 360 grams in an 85 flex. The shaft rounds off near the bottom hand for a more comfortable grip. Some curves come in a taller +1/4 version for tips and faceoffs.
The Bauer Vapor Hyperlite 2 is a composite stick molded as a single piece. There is no joint where the shaft meets the blade. It weighs 360 grams and has a low kick point. The XE taper is elliptical, thinner and rounder than a standard taper. ACL 2.0 layers thinner, stronger carbon through the shaft and blade.
The Bauer Nexus Tracer is a mid-kick composite stick weighing 360 grams. A mid kick point loads through the middle of the shaft. That suits long wrist shots and slap shots more than quick snaps. The five-sided ER Spine shaft is shaped to sit naturally in the hands. Connectech, a rubber scrim layer in the shaft and blade, dampens vibration.
The Bauer Vapor FlyLite is a low-kick composite stick sold in more than one version. Every version keeps the Vapor low kick point, which loads near the bottom hand. The current stick weighs 360 grams and uses a Twitch taper. Earlier sticks use an XE taper and weigh more. Shaft graphics are the fastest way to tell them apart on a listing.
The CCM JetSpeed FT8 Pro is a composite stick with a hybrid kick point. It handles quick releases and heavy drives from the point. Thin aluminum layers sit between carbon fiber in the shaft for impact resistance. The R-geometry shaft has rounded corners and concave sidewalls. The EVO blade pairs a soft heel with a stiff toe. It weighs 375 grams and comes with +1/4 blade pattern options.
The CCM XF Ghost is a mid-kick composite stick with a stiff blade. The stiff blade resists twisting on hard shots, which helps keep them accurate. It weighs about 380 grams in an 85 flex. NanoLite Shield carbon layering runs through the shaft and blade. A raised grip texture sits under the finish for a tackier hold.
The CCM JetSpeed FT7 Pro is a hybrid-kick composite stick with a soft blade. CCM calls it the X-Soft blade, the softest they make. A softer blade favours puck feel on passes over stiffness on hard shots. The R geometry shaft has rounded corners and concave sides. Nanolite Shield carbon layering varies layer thickness through the shaft.
The Bauer Nexus Sync is a senior composite hockey stick built on a five-sided shaft. Bauer calls it ER Spine, and it strips carbon layers from the loading zone. That makes the shaft easier to flex and contours it to the bottom hand. The Sync keeps the Nexus mid kick point, so energy loads along the shaft. Players who want the fastest release usually prefer a low kick stick.
The CCM Ribcor Trigger 9 Pro is a low-kick composite stick with a three-zone shaft. The shaft changes shape along its length, which CCM calls E geometry. The hosel and upper shaft are softer, so shots load with less effort. The blade carries a dampening foam insert for a softer feel. A curved, raised grip runs along the shaft.
The Bauer Proto-R is a senior composite hockey stick wrapped in TeXtreme carbon fiber. The wrap adds impact protection across the shaft while keeping the build light. A senior Proto-R weighs 345 grams, with a variance of 10 grams either way. The mid kick point loads energy along the shaft on longer shots. Players who want the quickest release usually go to a low kick stick instead.
The Bauer Nexus 2N Pro is a senior composite stick with an Easy Load Taper. The taper is the narrow section above the blade, tuned here to load quickly. The 2N Pro pairs it with a mid kick flex profile and Sweet-Spot Technology. DuraFlex resin helps the shaft hold its flex, on 55 flex and above. It suits players who shoot from range rather than off quick toe drags.
The CCM RibCor Trigger 9 is a low kick stick with an Agility blade. Peel-ply finishing keeps that blade thinner than a standard composite blade. The senior stick weighs 416 grams in 85 flex, with a Sigmatex carbon blade. A softer hosel and upper shaft make the stick load closer to the blade. It gives up some loading distance compared with a mid kick stick.
The Bauer Vapor Hyperlite is a senior low kick stick with a HyperCore blade. HyperCore sets two carbon bridges into stiff foam for stability behind the puck. That core is fitted on 55 flex and above, so lower flexes differ. The senior stick weighs 385 grams and uses an XE Taper above the blade. Low kick suits quick releases in tight, less so long slap shots from the point.
The CCM Vizion is a composite hockey stick with aluminum plies layered into the shaft. CCM calls this ALUPLI, and it is there to resist cracks from slashes. Two Vizion sticks share the name, so check the kick point before buying. The first Vizion is ultra low kick, and the Vizion 26 is mid kick. Ultra low kick favours snap shots, mid kick favours loading from farther out.
The Bauer Nexus Geo hockey stick enhances the Nexus line's versatility for all-around players. It features ER Spine technology, a unique five-sided shaft that reduces weight while maintaining durability, resulting in a well-balanced stick. The Nexus Geo also incorporates Advanced Carbon Layering technology for improved pop and feel during shooting and passing.
The Nexus Geo is super light. I can snap off a shot harder and faster. I like the 5-wall grip. This stick was longer than I usually use, but I'm tall and it feels comfortable. Makes me think I should have been using a longer stick all along. I would highly recommend the Geo.
@MNwild15, Player Review
Bauer's AG5NT hockey stick represents a major shift in their lineup, focusing on lightweight construction and quick release. Utilizing Boron, an ultra-stiff and lightweight material throughout the shaft, the AG5NT is the lightest Bauer stick ever and delivers the fastest release for powerful, accurate shots. Its Monocomp one-piece construction ensures a consistent flex profile, while the low kick point maximizes energy transfer during shots.
The Ag5nt is a high-end, lightweight stick with a quick release. It's made with a new material called BORON, which is said to be lighter and stronger than carbon fiber. If you're a player who relies on a lot of slap shots, you should choose a stick with a higher flex rating. The lower flex rating of the Ag5nt is better for players focusing on quick releases and dekes.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The CCM RibCor Trigger 8 Pro hockey stick is designed for fast, agile shots with its low-kick flex profile, perfect for snap shots and one-timers. It features Dual-Feel blade technology for enhanced puck control and Nanolite Shield Technology that reduces weight without sacrificing durability. Built for durability, this stick continues the series' legacy of high performance.
The Trigger 8 Pro is a great fit for my son. It looks nice, and he loves the Flex on this stick. He was proud to bring it to the rink and show it off to his hockey buddies. When using this stick his level of play seemed to go up a level from his confidence and the comfortability of the stick.
@BethP, Parent Review
The Bauer Vapor Team stick features a low-kick point and XE Taper technology, enhancing shot speed and blade stability while reducing weight. Its high-performance mold offers a one-piece feel for efficient energy transfer, improving shooting and stickhandling. The MaxBalance blade, combined with 3K Carbon Fiber and Aero Foam I core, ensures durability, control, and balance. This stick provides high-end features at a great value, perfect for those who prioritize speed and precision near the net.
The CCM Ribcor Team hockey stick is built with a low kick point and CCM’s signature asymmetrical taper. It’s ideal for fast snapshots and deceptive shooting. The ergonomic shaft shape improves grip and energy transfer, while the Carbon Matrix C6 weave on both the blade and shaft provides a lightweight feel with added durability. The Reinforced Ascent Blade 2, featuring a peel ply texture, offers enhanced puck feel and control, making the Ribcor Team a reliable, high-performance stick for competitive players.
The Sherwood Rekker Legend Pro Hockey Stick is engineered for elite players seeking rapid shot releases and enhanced puck control. Its innovative DuoFire kick point combines a low kick point with a secondary flex zone, enabling swift loading and powerful shots. The Ergo Taper shaft shape ensures a comfortable grip, providing superior control during play.
The CCM Jetspeed FT6 Pro hockey stick is a lightweight and responsive option for forwards focused on speed and puck handling. It features the innovative Nanolite Shield shaft technology, which combines thick carbon fiber layers with a lightweight core for durability. The stick includes the RR-100 stiff blade for exceptional control and balanced feel, while the Skeleton+ taper technology improves reliability during high-pressure moments.
The FT6 Pro is a perfect stick for defensemen. It has a balance of power, and the quick release is great for quick wrist shots, powerful slap and snap shots, and one-timers. The durability of the stick has lasted me a whole year so far and counting. The blade feels amazing for stick handling and passing.
@Colin43, Player Review
The Warrior Covert QR6 Pro is a high-performance hockey stick that features Innovative Edge Taper technology that drives flex energy through the hosel, resulting in explosive power and rapid release. The Minimus Carbon 25 construction, featuring a flat spread-tow material, delivers exceptional strength and lightweight performance.
The Nexus E50 Pro features a mid-kick point design built for versatility, using UD Carbon Fiber throughout the shaft and Hexcel Carbon in the blade for a lightweight yet durable build. ER Spine technology creates a 5-sided spine along the back of the shaft to remove excess carbon in the loading zone, while Dual Cell Bridgecore uses dual-density foams to maximize feel and reduce weight.
The CCM Jetspeed FT5 Pro hockey stick is an advanced model designed for elite players focused on speed and shot power. It features a hybrid kick point for a balance of power and quick release, along with a Sigma STP Carbon weave for improved durability without adding weight. The FT5 Pro is designed to have great lightness and responsiveness.
The FT5 Pro is my favorite stick. While other brands use a mid or low-kick point technology, Jetspeed focuses on the hybrid kick. There is no other stick that stands alone in the hybrid category. The FT5 has the best balance of lightweight materials while still providing both the feel of the mid-kick point and a smooth transition into that low-kick point technology. The FT5 Pro was one of the first sticks that balanced out and allowed the ability to feel the difference entirely between the two kick points. It feels like you have two different sticks in one.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The CCM JetSpeed Team is a high-performance hockey stick designed for elite-level players. The hybrid kick-point offers a perfect balance of speed and response, delivering powerful shots and quick releases. The JF-90 blade with peel-ply technology provides exceptional feel and shot speed, while the Pure Carbon construction ensures a lightweight and durable stick.
The Blacked Styled Hockey Stick is exclusively crafted by NorthProStock and is designed with the same high-quality materials, kick points, flexes, and curves as premium sticks. These unbranded models offer responsiveness and durability in a sleek, minimalist black finish. While not associated with big brands, each stick is built to the exact specifications of its counterpart (Bauer, CCM, etc.), making it a perfect choice for players seeking top-tier performance at a fraction of the cost.
The Hzrdus 9x4 hockey stick is engineered for explosive power and precision, that features a low-kick profile that unleashes lightning-fast shots and explosive releases. The square corner with double concave shaft shape provides superior puck control and handling, allowing player's to dominate on the ice. The gloss grip with textured blade finish offers enhanced feel and grip, ensuring the player stays in control every time you touch the puck.
The Warrior Alpha LX2 Pro hockey stick features the exclusive Sabre Taper for quick releases and powerful shots. This stick combines exceptional performance with durability. The RLC 188 Lightweight Construction, utilizing Minimus Carbon 25 weave, delivers an incredibly light and tough shaft. The redesigned FuelCore Ultra blade enhances puck feel and pop, while the ergonomic shaft shape provides comfort and control.
The Warrior Alpha LX2 Pro is very user-dependent; it has a hybrid kickpoint and is very much a specialist shooter stick. The pro has great shot power and quickness. I got a custom curve with the 85 flex, right hand. Overall great stick.
@PDangle19, Player Review
The Bauer Supreme Ultrasonic hockey stick is a significant advancement in Bauer's Supreme line. Weighing just 390 grams, it uses Monocomp technology for a consistent flex, maximizing energy transfer for powerful shots. Its Sonic Taper features a seven-sided shaft design that reduces weight and torque while ensuring stability for strong slapshots.
The Supreme UltraSonic is perfect for forwards or anyone who prioritizes quick shots and agility. At 390 grams, the UltraSonic is one of the lightest sticks on the market. It features a specific flex profile and blade construction that helps generate power for quick, explosive shots. It also features a high kick point and has a larger shaft geometry. The bottom third of the stick feels thicker than the top third. So, when you really lean into your shot, this design helps amplify your power.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The CCM RibCor Trigger 7 Pro hockey stick enhances the legacy of the RibCor line, focusing on quick-release shots. It features an optimized low kick point for fast loading and release on wrist shots. Made with high-performance Sigma STP carbon weave, the stick is both lightweight and strong, enhancing maneuverability.
The Trigger 7 Pro features the new, high-quality carbon fiber construction with Nanolite Carbon Layering technology. This helps keep the weight of the stick down. It features a low kick point design for effortless loading of energy in the shaft and a quicker release on shots. This is a good stick for offensive forwards who deliver powerful shots and also want a stick with great puck handling.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The CCM Tacks XF Pro is a high-performance hockey stick designed with a modern mid-kick point, which allows for a longer loading period, storing more energy for explosive shots. The Nanolite Shield Carbon Layering technology provides a lightweight yet durable shaft, while the Sigma STP spread tow fabric enhances strength and resilience.
The CCM Super Tacks AS-V PRO hockey stick is designed for players seeking power and accuracy. It features a mid-kick flex point for effective slapshots and quick wrist shots. The new V-shaped shaft geometry enhances grip and shot control. Notable technologies include the ACUFEEL 2 blade for improved puck feel and Skeleton+ Taper for added durability.
The AS-V Pro stands out for its modern mid-kick point, which has been tweaked for easier loading and powerful release, especially on wrist shots. The AS-V Pro comes in a variety of flexes (stiffness levels). If you're a powerful player who shoots hard, you'll want a stiffer flex (around 85 flex). If you have a weaker shot or prefer more flexibility for dekes and dangles, then a lower flex (around 55 flex) would be a better choice.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The Warrior Alpha LX Pro hockey stick is designed for powerful, accurate shots, featuring the Sabre Taper II design for a low kick point and stable shaft. This enables effective slap shots and quick wrist shots. It's made with a lightweight, durable construction using high-grade carbon composites, and the FuelCore Ultra blade provides a good balance of durability and puck control.
The Alpha LX Pro uses the saber taper, a fixture of Warrior's low kickpoint sticks. Saber taper is a longer, more aggressive taper from the hosel down to the blade versus your traditional stick, which starts to taper pretty low. The Warrior taper starts a bit higher to give more movement into that low kickpoint stick. Also, Warrior has used minimus carbon construction for a very long time and their sticks are super light and strong.
Jon Leung, Expert Review
The True Project X is a high-performance hockey stick designed for serious players. The Precision Laminate Design (PLD) layering process creates a lightweight yet incredibly strong stick, while the Axenic Tech ensures a seamless one-piece construction. This cutting-edge stick is perfect for players seeking a powerful, responsive, and long-lasting hockey stick.
True’s Catalyst 9X hockey stick represents a significant advancement in their lineup, emphasizing lightweight construction without sacrificing performance. This stick builds upon the success of the previous XC series by incorporating innovations like the Precision Laminate Design. This new layering process utilizes spread tow fabric to significantly reduce weight while maintaining durability. The Catalyst 9X is one of True’s lightest sticks ever, making it ideal for players who prioritize maneuverability and quick releases. The stick also features a mid kick point that offers a good balance between power for shooting and responsiveness for puck handling, making it a versatile option for offensive players.
True is known for its incredibly lightweight sticks. True Temper technology has been making carbon materials for sporting goods for decades. Catalyst is one of the newest sticks and True's flagship model for a mid-kick point stick. It really balances both powerful shots and good control for accurate passing and shooting.
Jon Leung, Expert Review