How to choose the right field hockey stick
Vic Tan explains how to determine the correct hockey stick for you.
Are you just starting with field hockey and do not know anything about equipment specifically with the stick? Are you currently struggling to try to figure out which type of hockey stick suits you? If your answer to both of these questions is yes, then you are in luck, for we are about to share the importance of choosing the perfect hockey stick for you and a guide on how to find it.
The Field Hockey Stick
Finding the perfect hockey stick becomes even more challenging as each aspiring player needs to choose one specific type from hundreds of possible variations. Why do you need to meticulously find one if you can just pick up the first one available, you may ask? Here are just a few of the reasons why:
- Improves stick handling
- Enhances shooting skills
- Elevate your skills further
- Better performance overall
How to choose a field hockey stick?
When choosing field hockey sticks, there are crucial things you have to consider.
Indoor vs outdoor
Hockey sticks used for indoor and outdoor field hockey are very different. The former is much thinner and lighter compared to the latter since faster speed while better control is needed with the indoor game.
Budget
Although you want the best among all the sticks there are, it is still important to consider how much you are willing to spend on one. There are hockey sticks available for less than $100, but the most expensive ones are around $300.
Skill level
There are four classifications of field hockey sticks: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and elite. As the skill level goes up, the composition also increases. Purchase the type of stick that suits your skill level. So, if you are just starting with field hockey, do not expect that you would be able to learn the fundamentals of the game using an elite stick.
Length
Each size of a stick can have different effects on your performance. It all boils down to personal preference, the skill you want to develop, and your position in the team. If you need your reach improved, go with a long stick, but if the stick handling is your issue, you are better off with a shorter stick.
Weight
The weight of your field hockey stick also depends on preference, but it is advised for attacking players to use lighter sticks while defensive players with heavier ones.
Bow
The bow is the curve of the stick. There are three variations of bows: regular, mega, and low.
Toe Shape
Shortis, midis, maxis, and hooks are the four types of toe shapes. Each shape is recommended for a specific position in the team.
Composition/Reinforcements
Composition is what the sticks are made of. It can either be made of carbon, aramid, fibreglass, graphene, and wood.
In the end, choosing the perfect field hockey stick for you boils down to personal preference as well as which type suits your skill level best. Make sure to consult an expert first. If you are looking for an online shop that caters to all types and sizes of field hockey sticks, visit Hockey Sticks UK. It is a one-stop-shop for all the field hockey gear you need.
Page Reference
If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:
- TAN, V. (2021) How to choose the right field hockey stick [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/articles/article640.htm [Accessed
About the Author
Vic Tan is a freelance journalist.