Editor’s Full Product Review

“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.”

“For players who value speed, control, and a smooth feel, we’re anticipating a big season with the Project X Smoke.”
TRUE Project X Smoke: Read the Review!

TRUE reintroduces the Project X Smoke hockey stick for the 2024 season. The original Project X was known for its low kick point and extremely low weight, and the 2024 version returns with that renown and more. TRUEs lightest stick to date (SR – 325g) features much of their best tech, including Axenic Technology, Resflo Technology, SRT, and PLD.

Stick Profile

Just like its predecessor, TRUEs Project X series of sticks uses a low kick point. The low-kick point is positioned near the bottom of the shaft, allowing players to generate maximum energy transfer from the blade to the puck during snap shots and wrist shots. This design works well for players who prioritize speed in their shooting technique. The lightning-fast release makes the stick ideal for fast-paced gameplay and situations where a quick shot is crucial. The rapid energy transfer allows players to release the puck with minimal windup, catching goaltenders off guard and increasing the chances of scoring goals.

Shaft Construction

The TRUE Project X Smoke hockey stick boasts an impressive lightweight design, tipping the scales at a mere 325 grams for the senior 60-inch model, making it TRUE’s lightest player stick to date. One of its key technological advancements lies in the integration of Resflo Technology, which focuses on rib placement to minimize voids and keep the stick stiff and consistent for as long as possible. Complementing Resflo is TRUE’s patented Axenic Technology. This unique manufacturing process is instrumental in crafting an ultra-consistent, one-piece design. The absence of fusion points or overlaps in construction leads to an optimally balanced stick, translating to better control in handling the puck and shooting, as well as an enhanced overall feel during play. The stick also uses a Precision Laminate Design (PLD 2.0) for more focused ply angles, minimizing interlaminar shear for overall stronger laminates in the construction.

Blade Construction

Strategic Rib Technology (SRT) involves the precise placement of ribs throughout the blade, strategically aligned to coincide with typical puck impact points. By doing so, the stick achieves a heightened level of stability upon impact for more accurate and powerful shots. The Project X Smoke stick introduces the SRT-4S blade design, which adds four strategic rib placements from the heel to the toe, which gives more strength and stability when taking powerful shots. The SRT blade technology features a construction that compacts the laminate, contributing to a maximized strength-to-weight ratio. The result is a blade that both performs consistently and exceeds durability requirements, setting a new standard for longevity and resilience.

Grip

The Project X Smoke stick uses a soft gloss grip that balances keeping a solid hold on the stick with maneuverability across the shaft, with a matte finish on the blade. A tactile finish throughout the stick allows for improved stickhandling and puck control.

Graphics

The stick sees a refresh from what we’ve seen in the past Project X sticks, with a metal grey coloring found throughout the stick and exposed carbon checkering.

Blade Patterns, Flex & Stick Length

The Project X Smoke Junior hockey stick is available in the following blade curves: T92, and T28.

T92 is the best blade pattern for all-around play, with a mid-curve style. It is great at handling the puck in small spaces, including face-offs. This curve may suffer a little bit on the backhand.

T28 is a much more aggressive stick pattern, used often by elite players. This blade curve specializes in quick and accurate shots, but it can be a bit difficult to get used to since it is also very good at raising the puck.

40 Flex (T92, T28), L/R – 52