Choosing the right hockey stick curve can completely change the way you shoot, pass and control the puck. Whether you are a beginner trying to understand the basics or an experienced player looking to upgrade your setup, this hockey stick curve guide will give you everything you need to make the right choice in 2025.
In this guide, we break down the most popular curves such as the P28 and P92, explain who each one is best for, compare shooting performance, and show real NHL examples so you can pick your next stick with confidence.
Before diving in, here are two helpful guides if you are shopping for a new stick or trying to save money:
• For budget options, check out How to Save on Hockey Gear in Canada This Season: https://hockeydeals.ca/how-to-save-on-hockey-gear-in-canada/
• For current stick discounts, see Best Hockey Deals Online: https://hockeydeals.ca/best-hockey-deals-online-canada/
What Is a Hockey Stick Curve and Why Does It Matter?
The curve on a hockey blade affects almost every part of your game. It influences how quickly the puck comes off your stick, the height of your shot, how easy it is to control passes, and even how smooth your stickhandling feels.
A hockey stick curve is made up of three elements:
• Where the blade starts to curve
• The amount of curve
• The shape of the toe
Small differences in these areas dramatically change your performance. That is why choosing the right curve is one of the most important decisions you can make when buying a stick.
Hockey Stick Curve Guide 2025: The Most Popular Curves in Canada
The most used curves in Canada in 2025 are:
• P92 (also called Crosby or Matthews on some brands)
• P28 (McDavid or Eichel depending on the manufacturer)
• P88 (Kane curve)
Each has strengths and weaknesses, and different NHL players rely on different ones depending on their style.
Here is a breakdown to help you choose the best curve based on your level and playstyle.
P92 Curve: The All-Purpose Choice for Most Players
The P92 has been the most popular hockey stick curve for years. It offers a mid-curve shape, which provides excellent puck control and smooth, accurate passing. It is often recommended for beginners but is also used by elite-level players.
Who uses the P92?
• Auston Matthews
• Nathan MacKinnon
• Mikko Rantanen
• Claude Giroux
These players rely on strong puck control, high-volume shooting, and quick release—all areas where the P92 performs well.
Strengths of the P92
• Great for quick, accurate wrist shots
• Easy to control passes in tight areas
• Very good for stickhandling
• Works well for beginners and advanced players
Weaknesses of the P92
• Not the best for toe drags
• Not ideal for players who rely mainly on snapshots or one-timers
If you want a curve that works for almost everything, the P92 is your best friend.
P28 Curve: The Best Curve for Shooting and Scoring
If your goal is to generate high, powerful shots with a lightning-fast release, the P28 curve is hard to beat. It was designed for modern scoring forwards who attack the net aggressively.
Who uses the P28?
• Connor McDavid
• Jack Eichel
• Elias Pettersson
• Jonathan Drouin
These players use fast toe drags, quick pull-and-release motions, and deceptive shooting—all perfectly suited for the P28.
Strengths of the P28
• Amazing for toe drags
• Incredible for quick wrist shots
• Helps get the puck up quickly in tight
• Great for players who shoot off the toe
Weaknesses of the P28
• Harder to receive backhand passes
• Not beginner-friendly
• Less stable for simple passing
If you love scoring goals and rely on a quick release, the P28 will make your shot more dangerous.
P92 vs P28: Which Curve Should You Choose?
The two most popular curves often compared are the P92 and P28. Here is a simple breakdown:
Choose the P92 if:
• You want the easiest curve to control
• You are a beginner or intermediate player
• You pass often and shoot from different angles
• You want a versatile blade
Choose the P28 if:
• You rely heavily on toe drags and quick-release shots
• You attack the net in tight
• You want help lifting the puck fast
• You want a blade that boosts your scoring ability
In general, defensemen, playmakers and all-around players prefer the P92.
Pure shooters and aggressive forwards prefer the P28.
Hockey Stick Curve Guide: Other Curves You Should Know
While P92 and P28 dominate the market, here are two other curves worth mentioning.
P88 Curve
A classic mid-curve used by Patrick Kane and many older-generation players. It offers the most natural feel for passing and stickhandling.
P02 Heel Curve
A great choice for defensemen. It helps generate powerful slap shots from the blue line.
How Stick Curves Affect Your Shooting Style
Different curves benefit different types of shots:
• Wrist shots – P92 and P28 both perform well
• Snap shots – P28 is superior
• Backhand shots – P92 performs better
• One-timers – P92 is more stable
• Toe shots – P28 is unmatched
Understanding these strengths can help you choose a curve that matches your style of play.
Where to Buy Hockey Sticks and Compare Curves in Canada
If you want to compare P28, P92 and other curves in person, here are some reliable retailers:
• Bauer: Hockey Stick Curvature Guide | Bauer
• CCM: CCM Hockey Stick Curve Chart | Ice Warehouse
• Warrior: Warrior Stick Blade Curve Chart | Ice Warehouse
If you prefer to compare all deals from stores across Canada, visit our deal listings where you can filter by brand and price:
https://hockeydeals.ca/deal-listings/
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Hockey Stick Curve in 2025
Selecting the right curve can dramatically improve your shooting accuracy, puck control and overall confidence on the ice. The P92 remains the most versatile choice for beginners and all-around players, while the P28 continues to dominate among scorers who rely on toe drags and quick-release shots.
With this hockey stick curve guide, you now have everything you need to choose the best option for your playstyle. Once you find your perfect curve, you will feel an immediate difference in your game.
If you want to save money while shopping for your next stick, do not forget to check:
• Best Hockey Deals Online: https://hockeydeals.ca/best-hockey-deals-online-canada/
• How to Save on Hockey Gear in Canada This Season: https://hockeydeals.ca/how-to-save-on-hockey-gear-in-canada/