Pro Edge Stick Blade Guide

What’s the Difference Between Heel, Mid, and Toe Curve Patterns on a Hockey Stick Blade?

The curve of your hockey stick blade plays a big role in how you shoot and handle the puck. Imagine the puck always lands on the most curved part of the blade when you shoot. So, the closer the curve is to the heel of the stick, the longer it takes for the puck to travel to the end, which affects the release time and power of your shot.  Check out our blade curve charts by manufacture

Heel Curve Blade Pattern:

• Most of the curve is in the first third of the blade from the shaft.
• Great for powerful, high-velocity shots.
• Often a favorite among defensemen.

Mid Curve Blade Pattern:

• The curve is centered in the middle of the blade.
• Offers balanced performance for various types of shots.

Toe Curve Blade Pattern:

• Most of the curve is towards the end third of the blade.
• Ideal for quick-release shots and helps with puck control.
• Popular with forwards who like to shoot in stride.

Open Face vs. Closed Face Blade Patterns

Think of an open face like a golf club. It helps the puck lift off the blade quicker, making it easier to score top-shelf goals. This is perfect for players who need to get the puck over a goalie in tight spots or make saucer passes.

Open Face Blade Patterns:

• Get the puck higher, faster.
• Great for quick shots and puck handling.
• Ideal for players who frequently shoot from close range or need to get the puck up quickly.

Closed Face Blade Patterns:

• Offers more accurate shooting as the puck stays square to the blade.
• Requires a fuller follow-through but is great for puck control and precision.

Round Toe vs. Square Toe Blade Patterns

A round toe blade is quite popular these days. It can make it easier to control the puck with toe drags due to the larger blade surface.

Round Toe Blades:

• Better for toe drags and puck control.
• Often preferred for its modern look and handling benefits.

Square Toe Blades:

• Easier to pick pucks off the boards and block shots.
• Preferred by defensemen for its practical benefits.

Short vs. Long Blade Patterns

There’s no strict standard for blade length, but NHL rules set a maximum of 12.5 inches from heel to end. Blade length impacts your shot power and puck control.

Shorter Blades:

• Provide better puck control and quicker release.
• Less power due to shorter contact time.

Medium Blades:

• Offer a good balance of shot power and puck control.

Longer Blades:

• Maximize shot power with more contact time.
• Slightly slower release but easier for pass reception.

Youth, Junior, Intermediate & Senior Blades

Different stick sizes have different blade sizes. Junior sticks have smaller blades than Senior sticks. Some brands scale down the exact same curve for younger players, while others tweak the pattern slightly.

Finding the Right Blade Lie

The blade lie describes the angle of the stick when the blade is flat on the ice. It ranges from about 3 to 8. The ideal lie lets the most of the blade contact the ice.

Lower Lie:

• Suits players who skate in a more crouched position or handle the puck further from their body.

Higher Lie:

• Better for players who skate more upright or like to handle the puck closer to their body.

Why Blade Lie Matters

Using the wrong blade lie can affect your game. Look for uneven wear on the blade to see if it’s not fitting properly. The right lie ensures you have the best contact with the ice for handling the puck and catching passes, keeping you comfortable and effective on the ice.