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If you’re an avid hockey player or enthusiast, you might have heard the term ‘kick point’ thrown around in discussions about hockey equipment, more specifically, hockey sticks. The kick point of a hockey stick is an integral detail that directly impacts a player’s performance on the rink. This article provides a more in-depth look at low kick point hockey sticks – what they are, how they work, and why they might be the right choice for your gameplay.
Understanding Kick Points
A hockey stick’s kick point refers to the spot on the shaft that flexes or ‘kicks’ when pressure is applied, or during a shot. Where this point is located on the stick can drastically affect the stick’s performance and the type of shot it’s best for.
Modern hockey sticks are typically crafted with either a low kick point, a mid kick point, or a high kick point; each serving distinct play styles and preferences in the rink.
How do I choose a kick point for my hockey stick?
Choosing the right kick point for your hockey stick depends largely on your style of gameplay and shooting preference. If you are a player who prefers a quicker release and uses a lot of wrist and snap shots, a low kick point would likely be the best choice for you. Alternatively, if you rely on powerful, heavy shots like slap shots and one-timers and prefer a slower release, a mid or high kick point might be more beneficial. It’s also important to consider your position in the game; forwards tend to prefer low kick point for quick puck release in close-quarter plays, while defensemen often favor mid or high kick points to deliver powerful shots from the point. As always, personal comfort and performance are paramount when making this decision.
What is a Low Kick Point Hockey Stick?
A low kick point hockey stick has the flex point closer to the blade. This design allows the lower part of the hockey stick’s shaft to bend significantly, which results in a quicker and often more accurate release of the puck. Therefore, the ‘kick’ or the snap-back action happens fast and aids in speeding up the shot release.
The Advantages of Low Kick Point Hockey Sticks
Low kick point hockey sticks come with distinct advantages that could benefit different styles of play. Here are some notable benefits:
1. Quick Release
Perhaps the most distinguished attribute of low kick point sticks is their quick release. They are designed to allow players to release shots quickly, making them an ideal choice in situations requiring rapid-fire shooting, like in a crowded zone in front of the net or during sudden breakaways.
2. Superior Control
The flex of low kick point sticks focuses on the bottom third of the stick, offering players superior puck control, especially with swift, speedy maneuvers.
3. Versatility
Low kick sticks are versatile and work exceptionally well in various playing situations. They’re beneficial for both defensive and offensive plays, and they’re well-suited to players that rely on wrist shots and snap shots for their scoring methods.
4. Improved Accuracy
Thanks to the quick release and lower flex point, players often find they have improved precision in their shooting with low kick sticks.
What hockey sticks are low kick point?
Low kick point hockey sticks are specifically designed for players seeking quick shot release and improved puck control. Some popular hockey sticks with low kick points include the Bauer Vapor FlyLite, CCM Ribcor Reckoner, and Warrior Alpha. These sticks are known for providing the responsiveness and rapid release preferred by players whose game is based on speed, agility, and precision. Manufacturers are constantly working on new technologies and materials to create lightweight, high-performance low kick point sticks to further elevate the game for players who depend on quick wrist and snap shots in their on-ice performance.
What does a high kick point stick do?
A high kick point stick is designed to provide powerful shots with an emphasis on maximum energy transfer. With the flex point located further up the shaft, these sticks store more energy, leading to harder shots such as slap shots and one-timers. They are often preferred by defensemen and players who depend on long-range and powerful shots to contribute to their team’s offense. While high kick point sticks may not offer the quick release found in low kick point sticks, they excel in delivering raw power to the puck, making them an ideal choice for players who prioritize forceful shooting in their gameplay.
Ideal Players for Low Kick Point Hockey Sticks
Low kick point sticks are not for everyone, as they cater to a certain play style and shooting preference. They are designed specifically for players who:
- Have a preference for getting off quick shots;
- Depend largely on their wrists for shooting;
- Enjoy working in close to the net;
- Favor shooting accuracy over raw shooting power.
Notable Low Kick Point Hockey Sticks
Numerous manufacturers offer low kick point models. Some popular sticks include:
- Bauer Vapor FlyLite: The Bauer Vapor FlyLite incorporates Advanced Carbon Layering for improved speed and puck control. Its lightweight structure significantly enhances maneuverability.
- CCM Ribcor Reckoner: The Ribcor Reckoner is known for its incredible responsiveness and quick release, due to its low kick point design.
- Warrior Alpha: The Warrior Alpha focuses on a quick shot release, with a low kick point that ensures accurate shooting.
Is Bauer agent low kick point?
Yes, the Bauer Nexus ADV (also known as the Bauer “Agent”) hockey stick comes with a low-kick point. This feature makes it particularly responsive and allows for a quick release of the puck during gameplay. It is designed to support players who require agility and speed during shots, making the Bauer Nexus ADV an excellent choice for fast, precision-based play styles.
Pros and Cons of Low Kick Point Hockey Sticks
👍 Pros:
- Quick Release: Low kick point sticks allow for quicker release rates, providing an advantage in fast-paced situations.
- Improved Control: With the flex concentrated in the lower section of the stick, players often experience enhanced puck control.
- Versatility: These sticks work well in various playing circumstances and for both offensive and defensive players, thanks to their quick release.
- Precision: The quick release and lower flex point can result in improved accuracy on shots.
👎 Cons:
- Durability: Due to the high stress near the blade, these sticks might show signs of wear and tear earlier than mid or high kick points sticks.
- Power: If you are focusing on taking hard, powerful slap shots or long-distance shots, the low kick point stick might not give you the power that a mid or high kick point stick does.
- Adjustment Period: For some players, the feel of a low kick point stick – where the flex and whip is so close to the blade – can take some time to get used to.
Additional Considerations for Low Kick Point Hockey Sticks
It’s imperative to keep in mind that while low kick point hockey sticks provide certain benefits, they also have some unique considerations that shouldn’t be ignored before choosing one.
Flex Rating and Length
It’s not just the kick point of a hockey stick that determines its feel and performance—a stick’s flex rating and length are equally paramount. Choosing the correct flex profile for your play style is crucial when selecting a low kick point stick. If the flex rating does not match a player’s strength and shooting style, even a quick-release low kick stick may not provide the desired results. Additionally, the length of the stick plays a significant role in performance; sticks that are too long or short can negatively affect maneuverability and control.
Durability
Low kick point sticks may flex and bend closer to the blade, and this can lead to higher stress in this area during play, potentially affecting their longevity. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for these sticks to exhibit signs of wear and tear along the lower third of the shaft over time. When considering a low kick point hockey stick, players should also look for models that incorporate advanced construction methods or materials that might enhance stick durability.
Puck Feel
For some players, low kick point sticks can alter the ‘puck feel,’ or the sense of control and connection between the player, stick, and puck. Because most of the flex and reaction occurs near the blade with these sticks, players may feel the puck differently when held compared to a mid or high kick stick. It’s largely subjective and depends on personal preference, making it important to get hands-on with a low kick stick before making a choice.
Making the Most of a Low Kick Point Hockey Stick
One of the keys to utilizing a low kick point stick to its full potential involves mastering quick-release shooting. This means developing strong wrist-work and releasing your shots quicker than you would with a mid or high kick stick. Practicing snap and wrist shots can also improve your performance markedly when using low kick sticks.
Moreover, powerful slap shots or one-timers might not be the main allure of low kick point sticks, although they are not completely discouraged. As these sticks are focused on speed and quick release, players might need to adjust their approach to such shots to ensure the most power and accuracy.
Eight Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does ‘kick point’ in a hockey stick mean?
Kick point refers to the place on the shaft of the hockey stick that flexes when pressure is applied, typically during a shot.
2. How does a low kick point stick differ from other hockey sticks?
In a low kick point stick, the flex or ‘kick’ is located closer to the blade, making them ideal for quick puck releases and providing superior control for swift maneuvers.
3. Are low kick point sticks suitable for any player?
While low kick point sticks are versatile, they are especially suited for players who rely on getting off quick shots, shoot more often using their wrists, prefer working in close to the net, or value precision over raw power.
4. What is the benefit of using a low kick point hockey stick?
The key benefit of a low kick point stick is the ability to release shots rapidly, making them excellent in high-pressure, rapid-fire situations.
5. Can I perform slap shots with a low kick point stick?
Yes, slap shots can be performed with a low kick point stick, but these sticks are focused more on quick release and less on raw power. Players might need to adjust their slap shot technique slightly when using these sticks.
6. Do low kick point sticks wear out faster?
As low kick point sticks flex closer to the blade, they might show signs of wear and tear in this area earlier than mid or high kick point sticks, but this largely depends on the construction and quality of the stick.
7. Can low kick point sticks improve my game?
Yes, they can. If your game is based on speed, agility, and precision, a low kick point can improve the speed of your shot release, potentially boosting your overall performance.
8. Are certain brands known for their low kick point sticks?
Yes, many brands offer low kick point models. Some renowned models include Bauer Vapor FlyLite, CCM Ribcor Reckoner, and Warrior Alpha.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the choice of a hockey stick is about matching your equipment to your style of play for optimal performance on the ice. Low kick point hockey sticks, with their fast release and improved control, offer distinct advantages, especially to players who thrive on speed and agility. Like any equipment choice, understanding these sticks’ key features and benefits will help you make an informed decision and possibly even enhance your performance during your next hockey match.
Like any performance tool, the best way to know if a low kick point hockey stick is right for you is to try it out in real game scenarios. Consider renting different models or borrow one from a teammate to see how well it fits your style of play and preference.
But remember, personal performance and comfort always outweigh trends. Depending on your position and style, you may still prefer a mid or high kick point stick. It’s about choosing the best tool for your unique approach to the game. Hockey is a sport of constant learning and adaptation. So, keep exploring, keep playing, and keep enjoying the sport!