Understanding the pitfalls of hockey equipment selection is essential for any player looking to maintain an edge on the ice.
The wrong stick can be a silent game saboteur, so identifying the worst hockey sticks becomes as important as perfecting your slap shot.
In this guide, I’ve computed the list of sticks that have missed the mark, ensuring your gear supports, not hinders, your performance.
Table of Contents
Worst Hockey Sticks
The worst hockey sticks to avoid that break easily and have poor reliability are Franklin NHL 1090, NERF FLEXPLAY, and Franklin Ambush.
Franklin Sports NHL 1090
I recently picked up a Franklin Sports NHL 1090 Phantom Street Hockey Stick, enticed by its promises of enduring the rough-and-tumble of street hockey.
However, my experiences quickly contradicted its rugged reputation. It snapped on a routine pass, just 2 uses in, right where the shaft meets the blade — a spot that should have been reinforced, given its design for outdoor play.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Other users reported similar durability issues, with sticks breaking within minutes of casual play by children, not the intense competition it was built for.
The initial low cost of the stick, appealing at first glance, seemed to be its only advantage. However, this advantage was short-lived as the stick broke very quickly.
On closer inspection, the stick’s build quality was clearly lacking. The plastic sticker, supposed to provide a grip on the shaft, felt cheap, and the blade rattled from the onset.
From my experience and the feedback from others, the Franklin Sports NHL 1090 feels more like a cheap indoor hockey stick than one ready for the demands of the street game.
For those in the market for reliable hockey gear, it may be worth looking at slightly pricier, solid wood sticks that offer the durability this one lacks.
NERF Kids Hockey Stick
The NERF FLEXPLAY Kids Hockey Stick and Ball Set is marketed as a versatile addition to any child’s sporting collection, suitable for both indoor and outdoor play.
However, user experiences suggest that the product’s resilience is insufficient, especially for outdoor activities.
The stick’s inability to withstand even the gentle impact of a mini rubber ball being hit on a hard surface questions its practicality in a standard game setting.
Customers have reported significant wear and tear after minimal use.
One particular case involved a child, not particularly aggressive in play, who managed to damage the stick in less than 1 week.
The bottom of the stick was worn and developed a hole, indicating a design that might not be suited to the typical environments where one would expect to use a hockey stick.
Additionally, there have been instances where the product arrived with pre-existing damage, such as cracks that compromise its integrity right out of the box.
Such a state of disrepair straight from the packaging greatly diminishes the potential for any lasting enjoyment and leads to an inevitable breakage, cutting playtime short.
The NERF FLEXPLAY sticks’ fragility becomes evident with reports of the plastic snapping during light use, contradicting the ruggedness one would expect.
It’s concerning when a product meant for the rough and tumble of kids’ play fails to deliver on a fundamental promise of durability.
Considering these points, the NERF FLEXPLAY Kids Hockey Stick and Ball Set could be classified as one of the worst kids’ hockey sticks available in terms of durability.
Franklin Sports Street Hockey Stick
The Franklin Sports Ambush Youth Street Hockey Stick has a visually appealing design, but its functionality raises concerns.
The decal on the shaft, meant to add to its appeal, peels off too easily, suggesting a lack of durability that’s less than ideal for active play.
In practical terms, durability issues surface quickly. Reports indicate the stick split down the middle even during light, regular play.
It is a major flaw for a product designed to withstand the rigors of street hockey.
The lack of robust materials like the advertised fiberglass is also a letdown, with the stick featuring a basic plastic shaft and a wooden handle.
Additionally, customer feedback points to a pattern of stick-breaking within weeks of purchase, which is not just inconvenient but also disappointing, given the expectations set by the brand.
When coupled with unresponsive customer service, it only amplifies the frustration.
Considering these points, those seeking reliable street hockey equipment might want to explore other options.
The brand misses the mark for lasting playability and may not provide the value or quality one would expect for the price.
Conclusion
You’ve got the drive and the passion, but without the right stick in your hands, you might be shooting in the dark.
Remember, as you lace up your skates and hit the pavement or rink, avoid these worst hockey sticks that promise much but deliver little.
You deserve gear that matches every slapshot and powers through every game.
Equip yourself with a stick that meets your tenacity, and leave these brittle contenders on the bench where they belong.
Choose wisely, play fiercely, and let your hockey skills, not a substandard stick, be the talk of the season.
Check out the following article for other worst products to steer clear of:
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- Fishing Gear Alert: 5 Worst Fishing Rod Brands to Avoid
Christopher Evans is a Mechanical Engineer and is a distinguished expert in tire and electronic appliance testing with over 15 years of experience. Holding certifications like Automotive Tire Service (TIA) and Certified Appliance Professional (CAP). He is also a member of the the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and has significantly contributed to safety standards and testing protocols in both industries. Evans is a respected speaker and award recipient.