Warrior Ritual V2 Series Goalie Sticks Review
In recent years, Warrior sticks have been a favourite among goalies of all ages and skill levels due to their light, vibration free, balanced feel. For the V2 line, Warrior looked to make a mid-kick point stick that retains innovative features like VibexLite, SlideGrip and HiFused construction that made them a top contender in the goalie stick market.
Minimus Carbon Construction
Warrior introduced a new grade of carbon for the Ritual V2 Pro+ stick called their Minimus Carbon 25. This new carbon uses a higher grade 25k weave and is featured from the blade all the way up to the shaft. It enhances performance and durability compared to the previous 1200 grade carbon seen on the Ritual V1 line of sticks.
SlideGrip Technology
The V2 sticks keep the SlideGrip technology first seen on the CR line of sticks. This form of grip allows goalies to get a solid grip on the stick when holding it at the paddle yet is designed to allow the blocker hand to effortlessly slide up the shaft when it comes time to play the puck. This is aided by little rails that run up the shaft that help reduce friction between the palm of the blocker and the shaft of the stick allowing goalies to more quickly get their hand up and ready to play the puck.
Vibration Dampening
One feature of their composite goal sticks that Warrior is renowned for is ensuring any and all uncomfortable vibrations that can occur when a composite stick is hit are completely eliminated. VibexLite is a gel insert within the composite fibres of the stick that works to absorb harsh vibrations from any level of shots peewee to pro. It’s been seen on their composite sticks since the CR1 and has done a great job of reducing that uncomfortable sting some sticks can give your hand upon impact.
HiFused Construction
HiFused construction is the fusing of the paddle and shaft at a strategic location to provide a perfectly balanced feel in hand while resisting twisting upon impact and when shooting. This construction method also gives the stick its mid kick point which is designed for goalies who want greater accuracy and control over their shots and passes.
TwinSpar Paddle Reinforcement
Warrior wanted to create a more stable stick in the V2 line which is where their new TwinSpar reinforcement technology comes into play. TwinSpar paddle reinforcement uses two internal reinforcements that run down the length of the paddle inside the stick adding structure and stability without adding extra weight.
Flex Profile
Warrior’s V2 line of sticks is designed to have a mid-flex profile allowing for easy energy transfer through the stick for maximum shooting power. The kick point of the V2 line lands right below the shoulder making it sit higher up than in their M1 line of sticks which gives goalies better control and accuracy over their shots and passes no matter the distance.
Aesthetics
In addition to the bright chrome logos, Warrior wanted to showcase more of the new 25k carbon weave to really give the stick a premium look. In turn, the V2 Pro+ goal sticks pack a less colourful and more understated yet eye-catching appearance than their predecessor.
Warrior Ritual V2 Models
Warrior Ritual V2 Pro+
The Pro+ is Warrior’s top-end trim. This stick is for the elite level goaltender who demands elite performance from their sticks. It features top-end materials and technologies like the all-new Minimus Carbon 25, SlideGrip, VibexLite, Hifused construction and TwinSpar Paddle reinforcement to create one of the lightest, most balanced sticks on the market while retaining durability needed to predictably handle elite level play.
Warrior Ritual V2 Pro
The V2 Pro may be a step down from the Pro+ however, it is nonetheless an elite level stick that packs a ton of features into a more affordable price point. Using Minimus Carbon 12, it is slightly heavier than the Pro+ while retaining all of the high-end features such as the SlideGrip, VibexLite, Hifused construction and TwinSpar Paddle. For being a second price point, the V2 Pro stick is a great option if your budget is a little shy of the V1 Pro+.
Warrior Ritual V2 E+
For the goalie looking for a solid performance level stick that balances durability and performance, the V2 E+ is the way to go. Built with Minimus Carbon and the same features as the higher end Ritual sticks such SlideGrip, VibexLite, HiFused construction and TwinSpar paddle reinforcement. One advantage of the V2 E+ stick is the Impact Fiber Layer seen in the shaft which works to enhance durability without sacrificing the lightweight balanced feel that Ritual sticks are known for.
Warrior Ritual V2 E
While the V2 E may be the entry price point of the new Ritual line of sticks, it’s still built from a lightweight, durable Minimus Carbon and packed with features like SlideGrip, VibexLite, HiFused construction and Impact Fiber Layering to create a well balanced, durable stick at an affordable price point.
Reviewed By: Cedric Hastings
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