Top Shelf: A Hockey Blog

The Hockey Shop's latest blogs and articles featuring reviews of the most sought after hockey and goalie equipment. Detailed guides on the basics of hockey, and updates on current events in the world of hockey.

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Bauer Vapor Flylite

Bauer Vapor FLYLITE Goal Stick Review

Explore our full review of the Bauer Vapor FLYLITE goalie stick, covering new features like the Hybrid Toe, Quad Air Bridge, and UD Carbon construction....

Jonathan Holloway
Bauer Vapor Flylite review

Bauer Vapor FLYLITE Leg Pads, Catcher, and Blocker Review

Explore our in-depth review of the Bauer Vapor FLYLITE goalie gear, covering key updates to the pads, glove, and blocker. Learn how the FLYLITE compares...

Jonathan Holloway
Connor McDavid shooting with a Jetspeed FT8 Pro stick

CCM Jetspeed FT8 Pro Hockey Stick Review

The Jetspeed FT8 Pro looks to bring the very best that CCM has to offer for players who want to be everywhere and do everything...

Katie Lakusta
Bauer SV-Pro review

Bauer SV-Pro Leg Pads, Catcher, and Blocker Review

Explore our in-depth review of the Bauer Vapor FLYLITE goalie gear, covering key updates to the pads, glove, and blocker. Learn how the FLYLITE compares...

Jonathan Holloway
Warrior Ritual V4 Goalie Stick

Warrior Ritual V4 Goal Stick Review

Read our in-depth review of the Warrior Ritual V4 goalie stick, covering performance features like ASG shaft geometry, Vibex tech, Slide Grip, and more. Find...

Jonathan Holloway
CCM Eflex 7 Review

Warrior Ritual X5 Goalie Gear Review

This blog dives into the latest updates in Warrior’s Ritual X5 goalie gear lineup, focusing on the top-tier RTL series. From the redesigned chest protector...

Jonathan Holloway
hockey player in CCM Next hockey gear

Balancing Act: Tips for Parents of Young Hockey Players

In this article, we’ll be looking into equipment to buy, fitting hockey into your family's lifestyle, and keeping your child motivated. The goal should be...

Katie Lakusta
True Catalyst PX5 Review

True Catalyst PX5 Review

Discover the True Catalyst PX5, the latest innovation for goalies with Diamond Glide material, upgraded design, and minor tweaks to the popular PX3. ...

Jonathan Holloway
Derek Boogaard poised for a hockey fight

Evolving the Sport: A History of Head Injuries in Hockey

We will look at the history of head injuries and how they have affected the world of hockey—with a particular focus on concussions, as well...

Katie Lakusta
Girl in a Detroit Red Wings cap

Hockey Logo Design: The Evolution of NHL Logos

Logos embody the essence of the franchise they represent and are core pieces for driving a fanbase’s passion and team spirit. In this article, we’ll...

Katie Lakusta
Close-up of the Project X Smoke logo on the stick

TRUE Project X Smoke Hockey Stick Review

In celebration of their ten-year anniversary, TRUE is debuting the 2024 iteration of their Project X series equipment. We’ll be taking a look at the...

Katie Lakusta
Brian's Optik 4 Goaltending Gear

Brian's Optik 4 Review

For decades, Brian’s has been a go-to name in goalie gear, known for its innovative designs and Canadian-made quality. This November, they launched the Optik...

Jonathan Holloway
Trevor Zegras playing tossing a puck in the air with a Bauer Twitch stick

Innovation Series: Bauer Twitch Hockey Stick Review

The Bauer Twitch is the latest evolution in Bauer’s innovation series, crafted for goalscorers looking to capitalize on every scoring opportunity. The Twitch looks to...

Katie Lakusta
Bauer Protocol Goal Stick on top of net

Bauer Protocol Pro Goalie Stick Review

Bauer's new Protocol is designed with one purpose in mind: how can we make goalies better at playing the puck. The Bauer Protocol combines a...

Jonathan Holloway
hockey Goalie making a blocker save while in butterfly position

Goalie Basics: How To Pick The Right Goalie Leg Pads

From flex profiles to slide skin, we're breaking down the key things you should consider when buying your next set of goalie leg pads. ...

Jonathan Holloway
player putting on Bauer Mach protective gear

Skating Smart: Essential Tips for Hockey Injury Prevention

By taking proactive steps to protect yourself in every situation—with the proper gear, good technique, and a well-rounded training routine—you can reduce your chances of...

Katie Lakusta
goalie catching the puck

CCM Axis XF Goal Mask & Custom Mask Review

In the not-so-distant past, the process of getting a custom goalie mask began with a plaster face mold. Goaltenders would encapsulate their faces with plaster...

Cedric Hastings
Auston Matthews with the Trigger 9 stick on the ice

CCM Ribcor Trigger 9 Pro Hockey Stick Review

CCM’s new Ribcor Trigger 9 Pro is the latest evolution in the Ribcor series, a line known for its quick release and speed. In this...

Katie Lakusta
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