TRUE Project X Smoke Hockey Stick Review
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Time to read 4 min
In celebration of their ten-year anniversary, TRUE is debuting the 2024 iteration of their Project X series equipment. The Project X Smoke hockey stick embodies a decade of innovation and elevated performance into a refined, high-performing design that players can rely on. Over the past decade, TRUE has set themselves as one of the main pioneers in developing ice hockey equipment, and with a reputation as one of the fastest-growing brands in the sport.
The Smoke is TRUE’s most powerful stick to date, crafted to give players a competitive edge from different angles across the rink. Combining a lightweight profile with advanced materials and expertly engineered features, this stick is designed to maximize speed, as expected of a low kick hockey stick, as well as control and dominate all areas of the ice. We’ll be taking a look at the features that make this stick a top choice for any player looking to take their game to the next level.
Project X Smoke - New Features and Overview
Optimized Low Kick Point
TRUE continues its signature approach with the Project X Smoke by focusing on an optimized low kick point, catering specifically to players who want to prioritize quick shots and efficient release.
The low kick point design channels energy through the shaft and down, close to the blade around the hosel where the stick would then flex. The location being lower on the shaft means less potential energy—although that does mean that the stick won’t really help you when generating power on the shot, it does mean that the shot will go off quicker, which is an ideal quality you want in a low kick stick.
As a result, like all sticks under the low kick point category, the Smoke will excel in close quarters and complement a more agility-focused playstyle.
Graphics
The first thing you’ll notice is the stick’s “blackout” style, which embodies a sharp, clean look across the stick. The stick also features subtle grey logos and accents, coupled with a striped gradient effect near the top of the shaft and around the taper and blade. The minimalistic approach not only gives the stick that refined, “I mean business” look, but it also has a hand in some of the tech for this Project X release.
New: SRT-4S Blade Design
TRUE’s newest innovation for the Project X series is the SRT-4S blade, which incorporates four strategically placed ribs in the construction spanning from heel to toe. These reinforcements are designed to add strength and stability precisely where it’s needed. By enhancing the blade’s structural integrity, players can maintain better puck control when taking more powerful shots without sacrificing the stick’s agility and release speed.
This balance is particularly important in low kick sticks since it still allows it to be quick and efficient while keeping the blade from twisting under that speed, causing the shot to be inaccurate. With this design, players can fully engage the Smoke’s speed in close-range shooting without worrying about the blade’s foundation and reliability.
Returning and Upgraded Technology
PLD 2.0 Advanced Layering Process
TRUE’s Precision Laminate Design (PLD) has been upgraded in the Smoke, featuring an advanced layering process that strategically places plies to improve flex, weight distribution, and durability. This design enhances both the stick’s responsiveness and strength on the shot.
Unlike earlier versions of the design, PLD 2.0 incorporates a minimalistic aesthetic and wrap to reduce weight further, bringing the stick down to an impressive 325-333g (SR)—solidifying it as one of the lightest sticks on the market. As mentioned, in addition to its ultra-light build, PLD 2.0 strengthens key areas across the stick, enhancing its structural integrity while still allowing for quick puck handling and hard shots.
Resflo: Focused Resin Design
TRUE’s Resflo technology is back in the Project X Smoke; this is a specific construction designed to enhance consistency in the build. It does this by increasing reinforcement in the laminate and reducing voids for a more uniform structure; This process boosts overall strength and durability, helping the stick retain its original stiffness as if it were fresh off the shelf.
Like the structure in the SRT-4S blade, Resflo includes a strategic rib placement design to enhance performance without compromising the stick’s resilience.
Axenic One-Piece Construction
Axenic one-piece construction technology is exclusive to TRUE and is designed to make the connection from the blade through the shaft as seamless as possible. The manufacturing process allows for an ultra-consistent design, enhancing control and comfort for players. As implied, Axenic is a one-piece stick construction—meaning that the necessity to fuse components is eliminated. This creates a cohesive construction, delivering a closer, more connected feel when handling the puck.
Final Thoughts
The Smoke stick reflects a decade of TRUE’s expertise and innovation in hockey. As soon as the stick appeared in the store, we’ve been excited to see it in action. The graphics may not be as flashy as some others currently out there, but they are sleek with no room for nonsense, while additionally serving another purpose in keeping the stick weight as light as possible. One of the first things we noticed was how the stick felt in hand—the Smoke combines an impressively light weight with a balanced feel, making it easy and comfortable to handle.
For players who value speed, control, and a smooth feel, we're anticipating a big season with the Project X Smoke—and it might just be the right stick for you.
