With their new Catalyst line of sticks, True wanted to make a stick that was more responsive, more durable, lighter and more usable. They packed a lot of tech into the Catalyst 5X goal stick with a redesigned flex point, improved impact strength and increased durability all while making it one of the lighter midline sticks on the market. Shaft Construction The 5X uses a square corner, double concave shaft which is made using a new Precision Laminate Design layering system. This construction method angles the carbon layers in a way that increases the strength and durability of the shaft while reducing the overall shaft weight. Paddle Construction The Catalyst 5X sticks use a newly redesigned braided rib technology throughout the paddle and blade. These braided sleeves work to provide better vibration damping on shots and when playing the puck along with increased durability and a less blade-heavy feel. The 5X also has a new mid kick profile that loads easily and offers better control of the puck at release. Blade Construction/Stiffness Just like the paddle, the blade uses the same braided rib technology to build a lightweight, stiff and durable blade that has great pop when shooting puck and making saves. Graphics True keeps their graphics simple on the Catalyst sticks with a choice of a black or white base with a yellow accent running down the paddle and up the shaft. Grip Straying from the splatter paint style grip seen on the AX line of sticks, the Catalyst line uses a simplified grip hexagonal grip paired with a steeper shoulder that gives the stick a more controlled feel in the stance and when stick handling. Blade Patterns, Paddle Lengths, Stick Lengths, Weight, Level of Play The 5X Intermediate comes in a 23” and 24” paddle length with a single curve from retail being the MC2 curve most similar to a Bauer P34 which is a mid curve with an open face. The 5X Intermediate comes in at 580g making it one of the lighter midline sticks on the market today perfect for that performance level goalie looking for a lightweight, durable option.