Espada is a passionate new Hockey brand for 2014. The manufacturer’s goal was to create extreme and innovative hockey products using cutting edge design and technology. I remember the TV ad of years past, “there are oils that aren’t oils”. The Espada hockey range is just that. It brings both a fresh approach to the marketplace and a range of different design features that caters for different requirements of modern era hockey players.
Espada hockey has supported its 2014 launch with the sponsorship of a Hockey Zone TV segment. The promotional Espada video is below
When I first reviewed the Espada range I was intrigued by the word Espada and wondered what may be its meaning. Upon research investigation I found Espada means ‘sword’. Hockey sticks have occasionally been referred to in a literal sense as a ‘weapon’ , so the notion of a person playing hockey with a ‘sword’ fits.
The difficulty with launching a new hockey brand today is that there are already many established hockey brands in the market who have loyal followers so starting a new brand is not easy. To become successful it is about creating a brand that
- Is proven from a manufacturing quality perspective
- Can cater for a different range of player’s needs and game functions, e.g., sweeper as compared to a high strike forward
- Looks cosmetically good
- Has a good product warranty
- Is accepted by elite players as a desired stick to play with
- Is marketed to the hockey players for its distinguishing features
- Performs for a lot of players to the extent they ‘brag’ about their new hockey stick acquisition
So how many boxes does Espada tick when it comes to meeting the above criteria. In the hockey community you will always find differences of opinion but for this seasoned hockey player the answer is all.
So what makes them a future brand to watch out for?
I was impressed that there is such design variance in the top of range sticks. Today’s hockey sticks may be similar is composition, i.e., the amount of carbon, Kevlar or aramide, and glass fibre in the stick but vary in the following way
- Hook shapes are different in terms of shape and thickness
- Shaft thicknesses may vary
- The bow of the stick varies
- The balance points may vary
- Lengths of sticks offered
Each of these variances provide for different individual hockey player needs. This is what impressed me Espada sticks cater for these variances. A person can find at a close price point a stick that suits them.
Next the cosmetics are striking. Sticks range from what might be considered ‘conservative’ colourings to bright neon colourings – again catering for the personal variance that is evident when hockey sticks are selected. The graphics are modern but not over the top.
What stick do I like the most?
To provide an answer here would be bias and not appeal to everyone but what I like in a hockey stick is a late or low 24mm bow with a low balance point, a ‘meaty’ hook head, high in carbon content for power assistance and that I can get in a 38.5”. So what is my choice- the Espada Velocity. But then again I see others prefer the Espada Primera or Espada Gravity or for those seeking more ‘feel’ they chose the Espada Victory or Espada Steelblade.
About the range
Like competitor brands it is important to have hockey sticks at different selling price points. Espada has entered the hockey equipment marketplace with 11 hockey sticks range from a beginners hollow composite stick at $69.00 AUD RRP to $375.00 AUD RRP. Therefore there is a Espada hockey stick for every hockey players budget.
No hockey stick is complete without a hockey bag to house it when not in use. The Espada back pack style combo bags are impressive with the 3D ‘E’ for Espada and contrasting colours making this combo bag easily found in a crowd or in the dugout.
The following information provides further details of the four top the Espada hockey stick range
Espada Primera
It features a Control XV face that assists with dribbling and trapping by reducing ball spin by up to 15%. Extreme Power King rating thanks to the 100% Carbon content. This is a light stick with maximum power. 24mm Bow located at the 30cm point along the blade provides unrivalled all round hockey mastery.
Espada Velocity
The Velocity was created by Espada to produce unrivalled flicking and aerial ability. With a 24mm Extreme bow located 20cm down the shaft it helps generate pure power and accuracy. Also includes the trademark Espada Control XV face. Twin core structure with 90% Carbon construction boosts the sticks hitting power. Hook head to aid reverse trapping. Light/Medium weight
Espada Gravity
The Espada Gravity is an ideal hockey stick for players looking for the perfect balance between hitting and aerial ability. This is thanks to the 24mm bow located at 25cm along the blade. Great power to hit ratio and slightly thinner head shape will spark 3D skills into action. Light/Medium weight. 90% carbon content for power
Espada Steelblade
One of the best Espada stick moulds in the 2014 fleet. With a light-medium weight and 24mm Medium bow this stick is destined for glory. Players will appreciate the feel and control of the Steelblade thanks to the Control XV and Carbon composition of the stick. C70%
Espada Victory
The Victory has a classic 19mm bow which helps generate enormous hitting power with pin point accuracy. Includes Espadas unique Control XV face and Power King technology, Elegant matte finish plus Espada grip. C70%
The thing about hockey brands is that they can come and go or find themselves being sold out of the boot of a car to survive. Espada hockey has the qualities to grow in the ‘true’ marketplace and be a future stick of demand.
