These (and other similar sticks...) do the job, but are really quite delicate, so if the fellow is already splintering his sticks, they might not last a song, let alone a gig. I'm not at all a heavy hitter, and never break sticks, or even chip them, but wanted to reduce volume for rehearsals and studio sessions. I found none that would last long at all. It's true that they are quite good for 'feel' (although 'frise-rolls' and rebound need some getting used to...). My solution has always been to use cloth covers over the drums (like shower caps, but cloth...); I now have the ultimate answer with my e-kit, which does it all (except swish brushes...).
With a sly wink, I could also suggest the following...
Aerodrums 2 ...
Video of Aerodrums 2 in action ...
I'm waiting on delivery of mine, ordered at their first announcement, supposed to be delivered in the next couple of weeks or so.