The 10 Best Hockey Sticks of the 2024/2025 Season

When it comes to hockey equipment, the NHL is where the latest innovations are on display. It’s the stage where the newest and best products are put to the test by the best players in the world. NHL athletes demand exceptional performance from their equipment—and manufacturers deliver. These elite athletes help showcase the hockey gear that filters down to players at every level of the game.

 

At GearGeek.com, we’re obsessed with hockey gear. We track every piece of equipment used in the NHL, down to the brand and model. Curious about which stick your favorite player uses or the latest trends across the league? We’ve got you covered. By watching every game and meticulously analyzing official game photos and team social accounts, we stay up to date on every gear change the moment it happens.

 

In this blog, we explore the 10 best hockey sticks in the game, ranked by their popularity among NHL players.

Users this month: 123 (17.04% of league)

 

Notable users: Connor McDavid, Roman Josi, Clayton Keller

 

The FT7 by CCM combines advanced technology with the trusted performance for which the company is known. Released to the public on May 10, 2024, the FT7 Pro made its debut several months earlier, turning heads at Team USA’s World Junior camp in December 2023. There, young talents—Isaac Howard, Gabe Perreault, and Oliver Moore to name a few—showcased a special USA-themed version of the stick, generating early buzz that carried through the season.

 

What sets the FT7 Pro apart is its hybrid kick point, delivering a versatile mix of a quick-release and shot power, making it a favorite among playmakers and snipers alike. The stick took center stage during NHL All-Star Weekend in Toronto in February 2024, where many CCM athletes had their first chance to test it out. Impressed by its performance and look, many players adopted it for the rest of the season. Whether for quick hands of elite forwards or the heavy shots of so many notable defensemen, the FT7 Pro became a staple among the NHL’s best.

 

Connor McDavid recorded his 1,000th career NHL point with the JetSpeed FT7 Pro.

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Users this month: 101 (14.11% of league)

 

Notable users: Quinn Hughes, Moritz Seider, Trevor Zegras

 

The Bauer Vapor HyperLite 2 is known for its feather-light design at only 360 grams. This stick offers elite players the speed and responsiveness they need for dynamic play. Trusted by many stars across the National Hockey League, it was released at retail on July 28, 2023, and quickly gained traction on the ice.

 

Fans received an early look at the HyperLite 2’s capabilities when Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki showcased a custom red version during an informal event in June 2023. Notably, the stick builds on the original Vapor HyperLite with significant upgrades in technology and feel, making it a formidable choice for players who rely on quick maneuvers and puck handling. Trevor Zegras captured fans’ attention at the start of the 2023-24 season with his unique and colorful variations of the HyperLite 2, adding to the stick’s growing appeal.

 

With its ultra-light weight and fine-tuned performance features, the HyperLite 2 is built for players who look for precision in every play.

Users this month: 91 (12.71% of league)

 

Notable users: Anze Kopitar, Cole Caufield, Mikko Rantanen

 

The Bauer Nexus Tracer features an optimized mid-kick point and a five-gram weight reduction from the previous Sync. This stick builds on the success of the Nexus line, delivering an ideal balance of power and precision. Bauer’s Nexus line has been a popular choice among NHL stars since its introduction over a decade ago. The Tracer, which first caught public attention during Bauer’s Combine event in early June 2024, is no different. At that event, it was tested by then-Winnipeg Jets prospect Rutger McGroarty (now property of the Pittsburgh Penguins).

 

Released to the retail market on July 18, 2024, the Tracer carries on the Nexus Sync’s sleek design with “Bauer” prominently displayed in the center of the shaft. However, it introduces new customization options with a unique dual-color zone, allowing players to get creative with their stick’s look. This feature has helped it stand out among other sticks in the game.

 

For players looking for a blend of control, power, and aesthetic appeal, the Nexus Tracer is a winning choice.

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Users this month: 47 (6.56% of league)

Notable users: Mika Zibanejad, Brandon Hagel, Connor McMichael

The CCM JetSpeed FT6 Pro was initially released to the public on May 26, 2023, but it first appeared during the NHL’s Stadium Series matchup in February 2023. It was on that evening when Stefan Noesen—then with the Carolina Hurricanes—used it outdoors against the Washington Capitals. Noesen has since moved to the New Jersey Devils, but his early use of the FT6 contributed to its initial buzz.

Known for its smooth performance and durability, the FT6 became a go-to stick for players transitioning from older models, such as Mika Zibanejad, who had been loyal to his JetSpeed FT2 before making the switch. Since then, Zibanejad has consistently used the FT6, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable stick that meets the demands of elite players.

Though the FT6 has been succeeded by the FT7 Pro, its solid features and proven track record keep it in the hands of many NHL pros. With its balanced mix of speed, power, and control, the FT6 Pro remains a strong choice for players seeking performance in every play.

Users this month: 47 (6.56% of league)

 

Notable users: Erik Karlsson, Jake Guentzel, Elias Lindholm

 

The QR6 Pro immediately captures attention with its sleek, all-black design. This stick from Warrior’s well-known Covert line brings a classic, stealthy look to the ice, making it a standout for players and fans.

 

Though it was officially released to the public on July 12, 2024, the QR6 made its first NHL appearance on December 30, 2023, when Ethan Bear debuted the stick during his first game with the Washington Capitals. Interestingly, the QR6 had gained a surprising amount of traction in the ECHL last spring, where sightings of the stick were more common than expected. In minor leagues, it's rare to see unreleased gear make appearances before the following season, adding to the QR6’s mystique and appeal.

 

With its proven quality, professional endorsement, and eye-catching design, the Warrior Covert QR6 Pro has cemented itself as a strong choice for players looking for both performance and aesthetics in their stick.

Users this month: 46 (6.42% of league)

 

Notable users: Charlie McAvoy, Thomas Chabot, Alex Pietrangelo

 

The Bauer Proto R was first released on October 13, 2023, and it first drew attention when Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield showcased it at a Bauer event in mid-July of that year.

 

One feature that sets the Proto R apart and likely contributes to its sustained popularity is its customizable color options. Currently available in a bold gold, this colorway has become a favorite among players who want to stand out. Last season, an all-white version made waves as well, catching the eyes of fans and hockey personalities alike for its clean, unique look.

 

With its blend of aesthetic appeal and performance-driven design, the Proto R continues to resonate with players across the NHL. Despite newer models entering the market, its enduring popularity suggests that the Proto R has become a modern classic, combining style with the elite performance that Bauer is known for.

Users this month: 44 (6.15% of league)

 

Notable users: Leon Draisaitl, Rasmus Dahlin, Mark Stone

The Warrior Alpha LX2 Pro represents a balance of control and power. This stick, in its prime, has been favored by some of the NHL’s biggest stars. It has earned its reputation as a reliable and high-performance choice, appealing to players who demand precision and versatility in their game.

First spotted in the hands of Brad Marchand at a Boston Bruins media event in September 2022, the LX2 Pro didn’t reach the public until nearly a year later on July 7, 2023. Since then, it has continued to make waves, standing out in Warrior’s lineup despite newer models and competing options. Many Warrior pros and other NHL players have chosen to stick with the Alpha LX2 Pro heading into this season, valuing its unique blend of responsiveness and durability.

With its solid construction and player-friendly features, the Alpha LX2 Pro has become a staple for those looking to elevate their on-ice performance. Its ongoing popularity in the NHL underscores Warrior’s commitment to producing elite-level gear trusted by the game’s top players.

Users this month: 32 (4.47% of league)

 

Notable users: Sam Reinhart, John Carlson, Carter Verhaeghe

The CCM Ribcor Trigger 8 Pro may be considered obsolete, but it continues to hold strong appeal among NHL players. Initially released on September 15, 2023, the Trigger 8 Pro made its first notable appearance months earlier at the 2023 IIHF World Championship, where Detroit Red Wings standout Lucas Raymond was seen using it in early May.

One key factor in the Trigger 8 Pro’s continued popularity is its sleek custom silver and black design, which has become a preferred look for many players. With its distinctive layout and eye-catching color scheme, this model stands out visually on the ice, complementing its solid on-ice performance.

The loyalty of CCM users to older models like the Trigger 8 Pro speaks to the high standards CCM consistently meets. Despite newer models being available, players continue to favor the Trigger 8 for its responsiveness, power, and aesthetics, solidifying its place as a top choice even into the current season.

Users this month: 29 (4.05% of league)

 

Notable users: Evan Bouchard, Kyle Connor, Mathew Barzal

The CCM Ribcor Trigger 9 Pro was developed with shot-loading capabilities and easy puck handling in mind. This model was first spotted in action at the Vancouver Canucks' development camp on July 2, 2024, where it was used by Aiden Celebrini. Shortly after, his younger brother Macklin Celebrini, who was selected first overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2024 NHL Draft, was seen testing the Trigger 9 Pro at San Jose's camp. Although Macklin has since moved on to another stick, this unique introduction added to the intrigue surrounding CCM’s latest Ribcor release.

Officially available to the public as of August 30, 2024, the Trigger 9 Pro offers significant updates that enhance shot performance. A new kick point paired with a softer hosel allows players to load their shots more easily and release the puck with greater control, catering to the needs of the game’s high-powered shooters.

The Ribcor Trigger 9 Pro’s popularity continues to rise as NHL players seek sticks that combine comfort, precision, and power. With its player-friendly features and streamlined design, this stick upholds CCM’s commitment to performance, making it a formidable choice for athletes at the top level of the game.

Users this month: 19 (2.65% of league)

 

Notable users: Mitch Marner, Brady Tkachuk, Timo Meier

 

The True HZRDUS 9X4 hockey stick was built for elite-level players who demand the best from their gear. Engineered for today’s fast-paced game, the 9X4 delivers a combination of pro-grade release, explosive power, and a finely tuned low-kick profile. It was first spotted at the 2024 IIHF World Championship being used by Jake Sanderson, Marco Rossi, and Jack McBain. Later released to the public in July 2024.

 

At the heart of the 9X4 is True’s innovative SRT4 blade technology, designed to enhance durability and consistency. By reinforcing the blade from heel to toe, it absorbs and redirects the puck’s impact efficiently, ensuring optimal energy transfer with every shot and pass. 

 

Strategically placed materials throughout the stick amplify power generation. Whether ripping a slapshot from the blue line or releasing a quick wrister in close, the HZRDUS 9X4 provides the edge needed to outplay the competition.

 

Endorsed by many of the NHL’s most recognizable True users, the HZRDUS 9X4 is a trusted choice among professionals.