Warrior Curve Chart & Blade Patterns: The Ultimate Guide

Unlocking your full on-ice potential starts with the right equipment. When it comes to hockey sticks, choosing the ideal curve and blade pattern is crucial for maximizing puck control, shooting power, and overall performance. Warrior Hockey offers a diverse range of curves and blade patterns, each meticulously engineered to cater to different playing styles and skill levels. This guide delves into the fascinating world of Warrior curves, equipping you with the knowledge to select the perfect stick for your game.

In this article, we will cover:

Understanding the Basics of Hockey Stick Curves
The Warrior Curve Chart Unveiled
Detailed Look at Warrior Hockey Stick Blade Patterns
How to Choose Your Warrior Stick Curve
Comparing True Blade Patterns
Common Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
FAQs on Warrior Curve Chart & Blade Patterns Guide

Understanding the Basics of Hockey Stick Curves

Before exploring True's sticks, here are some key blade curve terms to know:

Curve Type: The shape of the curve affects puck control, shooting, and passing. Mid curves offer balanced control, heel curves provide powerful shots, and toe curves allow for quick releases.
Curve Depth: A deeper curve helps with puck control and lifting shots, while a shallower curve improves passing accuracy.
Face Angle: An open face makes it easier to lift the puck, while a closed face offers better control for passing and stickhandling.
Lie: The angle between the blade and shaft. A lower lie suits players who skate lower to the ice, while a higher lie works better for an upright stance.
Toe Shape: A rounded toe enhances stickhandling, while a square toe offers more surface area for puck control and blocking shots.

Knowing these details will help you find the right curve for your playstyle.

Detailed Look at Warrior Hockey Stick Blade Patterns

Warrior's curve chart presents a comprehensive selection of blade patterns designed to suit various playing styles. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

Warrior W90TM

Curve Type: Mid-Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe
Best For: Quick release wrist and snap shots with great puck control
Similar To: Bauer P90TM

Warrior W03

Curve Type: Mid-Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe
Best For: Puck handling, wrist and snap shots, quick elevation
Notable Players: Backstrom, Henrique, Kopitar, Draper, Toews
Similar To: Bauer P92, CCM P29, Sherwood PP92, True T92

Warrior W88

Curve Type: Mid, Medium Length, Slightly Open Face, Round Toe
Best For: Versatile play, easy puck control, strong backhand shots
Notable Players: Gaudreau, Zetterberg
Similar To: Bauer P88, CCM P88, Sherwood PP88, True T88

Warrior W28

- Curve Type: Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe
- Best For: Quick, deceptive shooting with hands close to the body
- Notable Players: Gallagher, Yakupov
- Similar To: Bauer P28, CCM P28, Sherwood PP28, True T28

How to Choose Your Warrior Stick Curve

Position: Forwards might prefer curves that aid in quick wrist shots, puck handling, and quick releases, such as the W28. Defensemen, on the other hand, often look for curves that enhance slap shots, long passes, and overall puck control from the blue line, like the W88.

Playing Style: If you're an aggressive shooter who relies on a quick release and heavy toe drag shots, a deep curve like the W28 can help generate more spin and lift. Playmakers who focus on passing accuracy and a balanced shooting approach may prefer a moderate curve like the W03, which offers more control for precise setups and shots.

Personal Preference: The right curve comes down to what feels most natural for your grip and shooting technique. Some players prefer more curve for extra lift, while others opt for a flatter pattern for better control. Testing different curves on the ice can help you dial in the best fit for your game.

Comparing True Blade Patterns

Pattern	Curve Type	Best For	Notable Players	Similar To
Warrior W90TM	Mid-Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe	Quick release wrist and snap shots with great puck control	N/A	Bauer P90TM
Warrior W03	Mid-Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe	Puck handling, wrist and snap shots, quick elevation	Backstrom, Henrique, Kopitar, Draper, Toews	Bauer P92, CCM P29, Sherwood PP92, True T92
Warrior W88	Mid, Medium Length, Slightly Open Face, Round Toe	Versatile play, easy puck control, strong backhand shots	Gaudreau, Zetterberg	Bauer P88, CCM P88, Sherwood PP88, True T88
Warrior W28	Toe, Medium Length, Open Face, Round Toe	Quick, deceptive shooting with hands close to the body	Gallagher, Yakupov	Bauer P28, CCM P28, Sherwood PP28, True T28

Common Stick Sizing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Choosing the right curve is just one aspect of proper stick selection. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

Incorrect Lie: A lie that's too low can strain your wrists and back, while a high lie might hinder shooting power. Get professionally fitted or use a lie chart to determine the right fit for your height and playing style.
Wrong Flex: A flex that's too stiff reduces shot power, while a flex that's too soft offers less control. Consider your strength, shooting style, and age when choosing flex.
Ignoring Your Height: A stick that's too short limits your reach and leverage, while a stick that's too long can hinder maneuverability. Ideally, the top of the shaft should reach your chin or nose when the stick is standing upright.

FAQs on Warrior Curve Chart & Blade Patterns

How do I know if a Warrior curve is right for my playing style?

Evaluate your position, shooting style, and what aspects of your game you want to improve (e.g., shooting accuracy, puck control).

Can the blade pattern of my stick really impact my game?

Yes, the blade pattern significantly affects puck handling, shooting accuracy, and overall performance on the ice.

Why are there so many different curves and patterns?

Different curves cater to various playing styles, positions, and personal preferences, allowing players to optimize their performance.

How often should I experiment with different stick curves?

It’s beneficial to try new curves periodically to adapt to changes in your playing style or to explore better performance options.

Is there a "best" curve or pattern for forwards vs. defensemen?

While forwards often prefer curves that enhance quick shots and puck handling (e.g., W28), defensemen may favor patterns that aid in powerful shots and passes (e.g., W88). However, the best curve is ultimately subjective and depends on individual preference and style of play.