CCM has released its latest addition to the legendary Tacks line, and it's making serious waves in the hockey world. The CCM Tacks XF Ghost represents a bold shift in the iconic stick family, prioritizing elite-level shooting performance with features demanded by the game's top players. If you're considering upgrading your twig or just curious about what makes this stick special, here's everything you need to know.
What Makes the CCM Tacks XF Ghost Different?
The XF Ghost marks a significant evolution in the Tacks lineup. While previous Tacks models have traditionally featured a mid-kick point, the XF Ghost takes this foundation and amplifies it with a pro-inspired design philosophy that focuses on maximum shooting power and precision.
This isn't your typical retail stick with minor tweaks from last year's model. CCM built the XF Ghost from the ground up based on feedback from professional players, resulting in a stick that delivers the kind of performance you'd expect to find in the hands of NHL athletes.
The Pro Mid Kickpoint: Power When You Need It
At the heart of the XF Ghost is its Pro Mid Kickpoint construction. This is the number one kick point demanded by professional players, and for good reason.
How It Works
The mid-kick design features a stiffer middle section of the shaft, which creates a larger loading zone compared to low-kick sticks. When you lean into your shot, this section flexes and stores energy. The result? An effortless yet explosive release that generates serious velocity without requiring perfect technique or maximum effort on every shot.
Why Mid-Kick Matters
Mid-kick sticks excel at:
- Slap shots and one-timers – The larger flex zone allows you to really load up the stick for maximum power
- Snap shots from distance – You get excellent pop even when you're not in tight
- Versatile shooting – Works well for both wrist shots and harder, more powerful releases
- Consistent performance – The stiffer construction maintains its feel and responsiveness longer
The XF Ghost's pro mid-kick construction is specifically engineered for players who want that explosive release without having to muscle every shot. It's all about efficiency and transferring energy from your hands through the puck.
The Pro Stiff Blade: Precision and Power Combined
Complementing the mid-kick shaft is the Pro Stiff Blade, a key feature that sets the XF Ghost apart from softer-blade competitors.
Benefits of a Stiffer Blade
The pro-inspired blade construction offers several advantages:
- Better shooting accuracy – Less blade twist means your shots go exactly where you aim them
- Improved puck feel – The stiffness provides instant feedback on puck contact
- Harder, more accurate passes – Crisp tape-to-tape passes with minimal energy loss
- Durability – Stiffer blades typically hold up longer against wear and tear
When paired with the pro mid-kick construction, this stiff blade creates an overall stiffer flex profile throughout the entire stick. This means the XF Ghost plays stiffer than the flex number might suggest, which is perfect for players with developed technique who can take advantage of a more responsive stick.
Pro Grip and Texture: Feel the Difference
CCM didn't stop at the kick point and blade. The XF Ghost features a completely redesigned grip system that combines old-school feel with modern innovation.
Traditional "T" Shaft Geometry
The stick uses a more traditional "T" shaft geometry rather than some of the rounder or more elliptical shapes you'll find on other modern sticks. This familiar shape provides:
- Natural hand positioning for shooting
- Enhanced control during stickhandling
- Comfortable feel for players used to classic shaft designs
Unique Raised Grip
What makes the XF Ghost truly unique is its new raised grip texture. This isn't your standard tactile grip or matte finish. The raised grip provides:
- Exceptional hand placement consistency
- Superior stick control without requiring death-grip tension
- Confidence during one-handed plays and poke checks
- Excellent feel even with worn gloves
The combination of the T geometry and raised grip creates what CCM calls an "unparalleled feel" – and from early reviews, that's not just marketing speak. Players report immediate comfort and enhanced control from the first time they pick up the stick.
Who Is the CCM Tacks XF Ghost For?
The XF Ghost isn't a beginner's stick, and it's not trying to be. This is a high-performance stick designed for advanced and elite-level players who understand their game and want a tool that matches their skill level.
Ideal Player Profile
The XF Ghost is perfect for:
- Power forwards and snipers who rely on shot velocity and accuracy
- Offensive-minded defensemen who jump into the rush and take point shots
- Players with developed shooting technique who can maximize the mid-kick design
- Competitive players looking for pro-level performance and durability
- Strong skaters who can handle a stiffer overall flex profile
Playing Style
This stick excels in the hands of players who:
- Take a high volume of shots from various distances
- Value shot power and release speed
- Prefer a more traditional stick feel with modern performance
- Want consistency and predictability from their equipment
- Play a physical game and need equipment that can take punishment
Not Recommended For
The XF Ghost might not be the best choice if you:
- Prefer low-kick sticks for quick-release shots in tight
- Want a whippier, ultra-lightweight feel
- Are still developing your shooting mechanics
- Prefer softer blades for enhanced puck feel on dekes and dangles
CCM Tacks XF Ghost vs. Previous Tacks Models
If you're currently using an older Tacks stick, here's what's different:
The XF Ghost represents a stiffer, more pro-focused evolution of the Tacks line. While maintaining the signature mid-kick that Tacks players love, it amps up the stiffness in both the blade and overall construction. The grip system is entirely new, offering a different feel than the matte or tactile grips on previous generations.
Think of it this way: if the traditional Tacks line is for competitive players, the XF Ghost is for elite-level players who demand professional-grade performance.
Flex Options and Sizing
While specific flex and curve options can vary by retailer, the XF Ghost typically comes in a range of flex options suitable for various player sizes and strengths. However, remember that this stick plays stiffer than the flex number suggests due to the pro stiff blade and mid-kick construction.
Choosing Your Flex
If you normally use a 75 flex in other stick lines, you might find the XF Ghost in 75 flex feels closer to an 85 flex in a softer stick. Consider:
- Dropping down 5-10 flex points if you're between sizes
- Trying before buying if possible, especially if this is your first pro-level stick
- Accounting for the stiffer blade when making your decision
Construction and Durability
CCM built the XF Ghost with durability in mind. The pro stiff blade construction naturally resists wear better than softer blades, and the overall build quality reflects its professional-grade positioning.
Expect this stick to maintain its pop and responsiveness longer than softer alternatives, though like all composite sticks, it will eventually show wear depending on ice time and playing style.
Price Point and Value
The XF Ghost sits at the premium end of the market, priced competitively with other elite-level hockey sticks like the Bauer Vapor Hyperlite series and Warrior Alpha line. You're paying for professional-grade construction, advanced materials, and performance features demanded by the game's best players.
For serious players who go through multiple sticks per season, the enhanced durability and consistent performance may actually provide better value over time compared to less expensive options that break down faster.
Where to Use It: Game vs. Practice
The XF Ghost is absolutely a game-day stick. While you can certainly use it in practice, its premium construction and price point make it ideal for competitive situations where performance matters most.
Many players will pair an XF Ghost for games with a slightly older or less expensive stick for practices, drills, and beer league, extending the life of their primary stick while still getting quality reps.
The Bottom Line: Is the CCM Tacks XF Ghost Right for You?
The CCM Tacks XF Ghost represents everything modern stick technology can offer when it's purpose-built for elite performance rather than mass appeal. It's stiff, powerful, and uncompromising in its focus on shooting performance.
If you're an advanced or elite-level player who prioritizes shot power, values traditional feel with modern performance, and wants a stick that can keep up with high-level play, the XF Ghost deserves serious consideration. It's not trying to be all things to all players – it's designed for players who know exactly what they want and demand professional-grade equipment to match their game.
The pro mid-kick construction delivers explosive power, the stiff blade provides accuracy and consistency, and the unique grip system offers unmatched control. For players ready to make the investment in their game, the XF Ghost might just be the upgrade that takes your shooting to the next level.
Final Thoughts
CCM has created something special with the Tacks XF Ghost. It's not just another iteration with minor tweaks – it's a purpose-built tool for serious players who understand their game and want equipment that matches their dedication to the sport.
Whether you're a sniper looking for that extra edge in shot velocity, a defenseman who needs reliable performance on point shots, or a power forward who demands durability along with performance, the XF Ghost delivers. It's the kind of stick that makes you excited to step on the ice and start firing pucks.
Ready to experience the difference? Find your local hockey shop or preferred online retailer and get your hands on the CCM Tacks XF Ghost. Your game – and your goal celebration – will thank you.
