Discover the Best Ice Hockey Brands: A Comprehensive Guide

Trying to figure out which hockey brand actually delivers the best gear for your style, skill level, and budget? Whether you’re shopping for skates that won’t kill your feet, sticks that give you that perfect release, or just gear that feels right every shift—you’re not alone. The hockey equipment market is flooded with choices, and finding what truly fits you can be a game-changer.

This guide breaks down the most trusted hockey brands in 2025—based on real performance, innovation, player feedback, and what NHL pros are actually wearing.

2025 Hockey Equipment Market Snapshot

• Market Size (2024): $1.66 billion globally

• Projected Growth (2025–2029): Reaching $2.08 billion by 2029 (CAGR: 4.9%)

• Top Brands: Bauer, CCM, Warrior, True Hockey, STX

• Latest Innovations: Boron fiber sticks (Bauer AG5NT), modular glove palms (True Z-Palm), ergonomic shafts (STX PureGrip), impact-reactive foams (CCM D3O)

• Regional Growth: Asia-Pacific showing fastest growth; Europe leads market share

• Stick Market Size (2025): $351.6 million (CAGR 4.2% through 2033)

📊 NHL Gear Usage by Brand: What the Pros Actually Wear (2025)

One of the best ways to understand which hockey brands truly dominate is by looking at what the pros use. The NHL is a high-performance testing ground—and player preferences reflect real-world trust, durability, and innovation.

So I pulled the latest gear data from NHL rosters, breaking it down by skates, sticks, gloves, helmets, pants, and visors.

Here’s a visual breakdown of brand usage across all gear types:

💡 Note: These numbers reflect active NHL player data (2024–2025 season) and offer a valuable snapshot of brand loyalty at the highest level of play.

🔍 Key Insights from the Chart

• Bauer is still king across the board—dominating in every major category (especially skates and sticks), with consistently high numbers in gloves and helmets as well.

• CCM remains the closest competitor, showing strength in helmets, pants, and sticks. Their D3O foam and boot tech innovations seem to resonate with players prioritizing protection and responsiveness.

• Warrior has carved out a loyal base in gloves and sticks, thanks to its ergonomic design and aggressive styling. You’ll spot their gear especially among younger, flashier players.

• True Hockey is climbing, especially in sticks and gloves. Their one-piece skate construction is also gaining traction.

• Smaller or legacy brands like Easton, Reebok, and Nike have mostly faded from current rosters—but you’ll still see a few die-hards holding on to older gear models (especially Easton sticks).

• Helmet and visor choices tend to favor familiarity and fit—where CCM and Bauer share most of the market.

Why This Matters for You?

If you’re trying to decide what gear to buy—or which brand to trust—NHL brand usage is a strong indicator of performance and comfort. These are players who rely on gear that works under pressure, shift after shift.

While not every pro-level feature is necessary for rec or junior players, many technologies do trickle down into retail models. Think of this chart as a shortcut to understanding what works best—and where each brand shines.

Want to go deeper? Scroll down for the full brand-by-brand breakdown and personal gear insights from years of trying (and replacing) gear at all levels.

Let’s break down the top hockey brands, what makes them stand out, and how they might fit into your game.

Before we dive into the brand-by-brand breakdown, I’ve pulled together a quick comparison table. It ranks the top ice hockey brands based on popularity, product range, and reputation—so you can quickly see who’s leading the game and what they’re best known for.

Rank	Ice Hockey Brand	Year Founded	Product Categories	Notable Technologies	Top Athletes Using the Brand
1	Bauer	1927	Skates, Protective Gear, Sticks, Goalie Equipment	AG5NT Stick (boron), Curv Composite, FitLab, 37.5® Tech, Nexus Tracer	Auston Matthews, Patrick Kane, Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield
2	CCM	1899	Skates, Protective Gear, Sticks, Goalie Equipment	D3O Smart Foam (impact protection), SpeedBlade XS, One-Piece Boot	Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Connor Bedard
3	Warrior	1992	Protective Gear, Sticks, Gloves, Goalie Equipment	Alpha LX Pro (durability), Covert Taper, Quick Strike, AxyFlex	Erik Karlsson, Jonathan Huberdeau
4	True Hockey	2000 (Hockey)	Skates, Protective Gear, Sticks, Goalie Equipment	One-Piece Skate (custom fit), AX9 Stick, Z-Palm Gloves	Mitch Marner, William Nylander
5	Sher-Wood	1949	Sticks, Protective Gear, Accessories	Rekker Line (lightweight tech), Project Line, EkstraLite	Paul Byron, legacy: Mario Lemieux
6	STX	2014 (Hockey)	Sticks, Gloves, Protective Gear	Surgeon RX3, Stallion HPR, PureGrip Shaft, PowerFlex Tech	Vincent Trocheck, Jaccob Slavin
7	Easton (Legacy)	1922	Skates, Sticks, Helmets (discontinued)	Mako, Stealth, Synergy (Legacy Tech)	Phil Kessel, legacy: Brett Hull
8	Graf	1921	Skates	Cobra NT Holder, Anatomical Fit, European-crafted performance	Henrik Lundqvist (past), pros in Europe
9	Vaughn	1982	Goalie Equipment	Velocity Pads, Carbon Enhanced Shells	Jonathan Quick, Thatcher Demko
10	Mylec	1970	Sticks, Protective, Street/Inline Gear	MK5 Line, Air-Flo Blade	Recreational & roller hockey players
11	Winnwell	1906	Protective Gear, Sticks, Training Aids	CleanSport NXT (odor management), AMP500 Series	Youth, entry-level & rec players
12	Howies Hockey Tape	2004	Accessories (Tape, Laces, Wax)	Grip Tape, Stick Wax, Pro Cloth Tape	NCAA, NHL, junior league players

1. Bauer

Bauer, founded in Kitchener, Ontario, in 1927, has been a leading ice hockey equipment manufacturer for nearly a century. Bauer remains the most recognized name in hockey equipment, dominating both NHL locker rooms and local rinks. Known for pushing innovation, Bauer’s FitLab, AG5NT stick (boron fiber), and Curv Composite materials continue to lead the industry.

• Product Categories: Skates, sticks, protective gear, goalie equipment

• Top Technologies: AG5NT boron sticks, FitLab custom skate fitting, 37.5 moisture-wicking tech, Curv Composite boots

• Popular Lines: Vapor (agility), Supreme (power), Nexus (balanced—discontinued but still favored)

• What Sets Bauer Apart: Elite-level customization and pro-favored performance without sacrificing durability

My Experience with Bauer: Bauer offers some of the most dialed-in gear for all levels—top-tier performance with evolving customization. Their skates feel like they were made for speed.

2. CCM

CCM, short for Canada Cycle & Motor Co., was established in 1899 as a bicycle manufacturer. CCM has built a legacy on player-first innovation. Their integration of D3O Smart Foam into protective gear, plus seamless one-piece boot construction for skates, makes them a top pick for safety and responsiveness

• Product Categories: Skates, sticks, goalie gear, protective gear

• Top Technologies: D3O Smart Foam (impact-reactive), SpeedBlade XS, One-Piece Boot

• Popular Lines: Jetspeed (speed/agility), Tacks (power), Ribcor (flexibility)

• What Sets CCM Apart: A focus on safety, fit, and stability that appeals to pros and serious amateurs alike

My Experience with CCM: CCM combines comfort with control. I’ve always liked how their skates mold to your foot after just a couple of skates—and their helmets are among the safest.

3. Warrior

Warrior Sports was founded in 1992 by former lacrosse player David Morrow. A younger brand backed by New Balance, Warrior has carved a niche with aggressive designs and player-driven tech. Their sticks—especially the Alpha LX Pro—are praised for their quick release and control.

 

• Product Categories: Sticks, protective, goalie gear, gloves

• Top Technologies: Alpha LX Pro taper, AxyFlex gloves, Covert taper, Quick Strike for release speed

• Popular Lines: Covert, Alpha, Dynasty

• What Sets Warrior Apart: Sleek aesthetics paired with cutting-edge release speed and mobility tech

My Experience with Warrior: Warrior feels modern and bold—great for players who want gear that looks sharp and performs sharp. Their sticks are light but responsive.

4. True Hockey

True Hockey, a division of True Temper Sports, has a long history of manufacturing high-quality sports equipment. Wrue has become the go-to for custom-fit gear. Their one-piece skate mold and modular Z-Palm gloves allow elite personalization, making them a rising star at all levels of play.

rue has become the go-to for custom-fit gear. Their one-piece skate mold and modular Z-Palm gloves allow elite personalization, making them a rising star at all levels of play.

• Product Categories: Skates, sticks, gloves, protective gear, goalie gear

• Top Technologies: One-piece skates, AX9 stick, Z-Palm system

• Popular Lines: HZRDUS, Catalyst, TF series

• What Sets True Apart: Unmatched customization and comfort thanks to a made-for-you philosophy

My Experience with True Hockey: True’s skates really hug the foot—it’s hard to go back once you try them. If you love the feel of a tailored boot, this is your brand.

5. Sher-Wood

Sher-Wood Hockey, founded in 1949, is a Canadian company with a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality hockey equipment. A legacy brand that’s found new life with modern stick design. The Rekker line stands out for lightness and puck feel, and the brand’s craftsmanship hasn’t faded with time.

A legacy brand that’s found new life with modern stick design. The Rekker line stands out for lightness and puck feel, and the brand’s craftsmanship hasn’t faded with time.

• Product Categories: Sticks, protective gear, accessories

• Top Technologies: EkstraLite shaft design, Rekker and Project lines

• What Sets Sher-Wood Apart: Great value and feel, especially for players who want lightweight sticks without the premium price

My Experience with Sher-Wood: I’ve used Sher-Wood sticks during a rec season—they’re light with a nice release. Teammates like the feel, and they’re affordable without feeling cheap.

6. STX

Company history and background

STX, founded in 1970, initially focused on manufacturing lacrosse equipment but later expanded into ice hockey in 2014. STX brought its lacrosse design roots to hockey with standout stick engineering. Players love their PureGrip shaft for handling and ergonomic comfort.

STX brought its lacrosse design roots to hockey with standout stick engineering. Players love their PureGrip shaft for handling and ergonomic comfort.

• Product Categories: Sticks, gloves, protective gear

• Top Technologies: Surgeon RX3, Stallion HPR, PureGrip, PowerFlex tech

• What Sets STX Apart: Ergonomics and innovation, especially for players looking for elite-level feel on a mid-tier budget

My Experience with STX: STX gear is underrated. While I haven’t used their sticks extensively, friends in beer leagues say the Surgeon RX3 has great pop off the blade.

Other Noteworthy Hockey Brands

Easton (Legacy) Once a giant in the hockey world, Easton produced lightweight sticks and innovative skate designs like the Mako. Since its acquisition by Bauer, Easton no longer produces new hockey gear, but their equipment remains popular among collectors and rec players.

Graf Known for handcrafted Swiss-made skates, Graf emphasizes comfort and precision. While no longer as dominant in North America, they remain a go-to option in Europe and among niche loyalists.

Vaughn A goalie-first company, Vaughn’s pads and gloves are trusted by elite netminders. They continue to innovate with carbon-enhanced shells and advanced strapping systems.

Mylec The OG of street and roller hockey gear. Mylec’s lightweight sticks, goalie gear, and balls dominate outdoor surfaces and still hold nostalgic value for many.

Winnwell Winnwell focuses on affordable, practical gear for youth and entry-level players. Their CleanSport NXT odor control tech and dependable pads make them a solid budget pick.

Howies Hockey Tape If you’ve played at any level, chances are you’ve used Howies. Known for high-quality cloth tape, laces, and wax, they’ve earned their place as the go-to for hockey accessories.

After highlighting some of the top hockey brands that dominate the market, it’s important to acknowledge the wide array of options available to players and fans alike. Below is a comprehensive list, divided into four columns for easier navigation, that includes both renowned and emerging brands in the hockey industry.

Comprehensive List of Hockey Brands

Brand List 1	Brand List 2	Brand List 3	Brand List 4
4ORTE	Flare	Mitchell & Ness	Sport Write
A&R	Flow Hockey	Montreal	Sports Image
Adidas	Flow Society	Mr. Assist	Sportsmask
Adrenaline Design, INC	Fox 40	Mr. Zogs	Step Steel
Alkali	Frameworth	Mueller Sports	Sticker Grinder
Alphabet Legends	Franklin	Mustang International	Streaker Sports
Antigua	G-III Sports	Mustang Products	SummerSkates
Athletic Knit	Gamewear	New Balance	Superfeet
Avision	Gatorade	New Era	Superjock
BOA	Gear	Next Level	Surgeon
BUTTENDZ	GearHalo	Nike	Sweat it Out
Badger Sports	Gongshow	NoSweat	TEKTOR
Barstool Sports	Graf	Not Specified	TPS
Base	Great American Products	OGIO	TRUE
Base360	Green Biscuit	Oakley	Tacki Mac
Bauer	Grit	Odor Crusher	Tackla
Beauty Status	GuardLab	Outerstuff	TermPro
BenShot	HTA Sportswear	Pacific Rink	Tex Style
Bike	Hespeler	Painted Pastimes	The Highland Mint
Blade Barber	HockeyShot	Pama	The Utty
Bladetech	Hockeyis	Passau	Theragun
Bladetech Hockey	Howies	Piranha Peg	Top Shelf Targets
Blue Sports	Human Kinetics	Playmobil	Torch Hockey Knob
Boost Oxygen	Hyperice	PowerTek Sport	Tour
Braidlace	ISlide	Prime Brands	Tovi
Brians	Ideal Design Sports	Pro Guard	Travis Mathew
Brown	InGlasco	Pro Player	Tron
Byonic	Innovative	Pro Skate Balance	Tuff-N-Lite
CCM	Itech	ProStockHockey	Tuuk
Cannon	JF Sports	Pure Hockey	Twigz
Captodor	JRZ	RICO INDUSTRIES	TyDan
Carrom	Jofa	Ramonedge	UNRL
Cascade	Junk Yard Athletics	Rebellion	Uncanny Brands
Cirque	KOHO	Reebok	Under Armour
Combat	Kenesky	Renfrew	VH
Concepts Sports	Konixx	Requipd	VSC
D.F. Sports	Kozo Gear	Revision	Vaughn
Duke Cannon	Labeda	Rezztek	Verbero
DyeSport	Level Wear	Richardson	Vital Nation
EZ ICE	Levelwear	Rink Rat	VukGripz
EZPuck	Link	Rocket Sport	Warrior
Eagle	Lizard Skins	Rollergard	Warroad
Easton	Logo Brands	STX	Wet Gear
Easy Crease	Louis Garneau	Sauce Hockey	Wild Sports
Elite Hockey	Louisville	Scholastic	Wincraft
Exclusive Pro	Lucky Puck	Sher-Wood	Winnwell
Extreme Armor	Lululemon	Sherwood	Woodchuck USA
Factory Modification and Design	MFE Sports	Shock Doctor	Worthy Promo
Fanatics	Majestic	Skate Fender	Xcel
Farrell	Major League Socks	Skate Fender Pro	YEW!
Fast Hands Hockey	Marsblade	Skate Mate	YouTheFan
Fathead	MasterPieces	Skateez
Fischer Hockey	Mission	Sonic

How to Choose the Right Hockey Brand for Your Needs?

1. Start with Your Play Style & Frequency Before anything else, think about how often you play and your style on the ice. Are you a weekend warrior or a competitive player in a league? Are you fast and nimble or do you prefer a power game? These factors help determine whether to prioritize agility, power, fit, or durability.

2. Match Gear to Your Skill Level and Budget Every major brand offers entry-level to elite gear. Beginners may do well with balanced and forgiving skates and sticks, while advanced players might benefit from specialized lines like Bauer’s Vapor or CCM’s Tacks. Price reflects performance tiers—go with what complements your level and frequency.

3. Try Before You Buy (If You Can) Getting gear on your feet or in your hands makes a world of difference. Attend demo days at local shops or borrow gear from teammates. Some brands like True even offer custom fittings at select pro shops.

4. Learn from Others—Not Just Ads Talk to teammates, coaches, and players with similar builds or play styles. Most of what I learned came from locker room conversations and watching what people trust in game situations. Online reviews can help, but word-of-mouth is often more honest.

5. Prioritize Fit, Not Just Brand Hype Great gear that doesn’t fit properly is bad gear—for you. A snug, supportive fit improves performance and prevents injury. Whether it’s skates, gloves, or helmets, find what conforms best to your body.

Explore More in Our Hockey Brands Series

Dive deeper into the world of hockey gear with our curated series on top brands cherished by professionals and enthusiasts.

• Top Hockey Stick Brands
• Top Hockey Skate Brands
• Hockey Helmet Brands
• Hockey Clothing Brands
• CCM vs Bauer: In-depth Analysis & Review

Common Questions Related to Ice Hockey Brands

Is CCM owned by Nike?

No, CCM is not owned by Nike. CCM is a subsidiary of the Canadian company, Tournament Sports, which was acquired by the sporting goods manufacturer, Adidas Group, in 2004. In 2017, Adidas sold CCM to a private equity firm, Birch Hill Equity Partners.

What brands are associated with hockey?

Some of the top brands associated with hockey include Bauer, CCM, Warrior, True Hockey, Sher-Wood, STX, Easton, Graf, Vaughn, Mylec, Winnwell, and Howies Hockey Tape.

What brands do NHL players wear?

NHL players wear a variety of brands depending on their personal preferences, sponsorship deals, and the specific equipment they require. Some popular brands among NHL players include Bauer, CCM, Warrior, and True Hockey.

Is CCM owned by Bauer?

No, CCM and Bauer are separate companies. Bauer is owned by Performance Sports Group, while CCM is owned by Birch Hill Equity Partners.

What are the most popular hockey brands?

Some of the most popular hockey brands include Bauer, CCM, Warrior, True Hockey, and Sher-Wood. These brands are well-known for their quality, innovation, and performance in the ice hockey equipment market.

Understanding the differences between skates is essential to making the right choice for your hockey needs. Explore our comprehensive guide on Hockey Skates vs. Figure Skates, and check out our review of the top hockey skate brands to find the perfect pair for you.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, I’ve explored some of the top hockey brands, including Bauer, CCM, Warrior, True Hockey, Sher-Wood, and STX, as well as other noteworthy brands like Easton, Graf, Vaughn, Mylec, Winnwell, and Howies Hockey Tape. Each brand offers unique features, technologies, and product lines catering to different skill levels, playing styles, and preferences.

Importance of finding the right equipment for performance and safety

Over the years, I’ve learned that the right stick or skate doesn’t just help me play better—it helps me enjoy the game more. Whether you’re chasing championships or just chasing the puck with friends, good gear lets you stay safe, stay sharp, and stay in love with hockey.

As a fellow hockey player, I encourage you to explore various options and consider factors like skill level, budget, and personal preferences when selecting your hockey equipment. By trying out different brands, seeking advice from experts, and conducting thorough research, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect fit for your hockey journey. So, take your time, test out the gear, and enjoy the process of discovering the best equipment for your game.