Introduction:
Table of Contents
Athletes consider their equipment as an integral part of their game. Much like in all sports, a good quality field hockey stick should not only match but even enhance a player’s technique. Perhaps the most important piece of equipment in the game, acquiring a proper stick, one that is lightweight and flexible yet still strong, is essential for every player. Read on as we learn more about which field hockey stick can help hone your skills as well as boost your slap shot’s accuracy and power.
Different Field Hockey Stick Size
Field hockey sticks are not one-size-fits-all equipment that will automatically turn you into a champion. There are a plethora of field hockey sticks to choose from which is why whether it’s your first time to grab one off the rack or you’re seeking to improve your game with fresh equipment, getting a hold of the right field hockey stick size can spell a world of difference.
Similar to lacrosse, ice hockey, and baseball, the equipment used should conform to the size of the player. This field hockey stick size chart should help determine which stick length best suits you:
Up to 4′ 3″ – 31″ length
4′ 3″ to 4′ 5″ – 32″ length
From 4′ 6″ to 4′ 8″ – 33″ length
4′ 9″ to 4′ 11″ – 34″ length
From 5′ 0″ to 5′ 2″ – 35″ or 35.5″ length
5′ 3″ to 5′ 9″ – 36″ or 36.5″ length
From 5′ 10″ to 5′ 11″ – 37″ or 37.5″ length
From 6′ 0″ and above – 38″ length
Some players may choose a stick that is shorter or taller contrary to what manufacturers suggest and based simply on their feel and convenience.
What Size Of Field Hockey Stick Do I Need?
Field hockey stick size should accommodate a player’s varying skill level. Although modified versions of any sporting equipment can affect an athlete’s performance, the piece you choose should run attuned to your field hockey game.
1. Beginner
Ideal for first-time or younger players, this stick guides the novice as they look to increase their field hockey knowledge and skill. Often crafted out of fiberglass or wood, it packs a low power rating with less stiffness, allowing rookies to develop better control while learning.
2. Intermediate
Its composition includes more carbon, increasing the stick’s stiffness and power. Often referred to as a competitive stick, it best suits players who have played the game long enough to engage in more serious competition, providing the right amount of flexibility and enabling players to further improve their skills.
3. Advanced
These expert-level field hockey sticks are designed to improve ball control, increase a player’s drive power, and provide enough flexibility to promote an athlete’s scoop, flick, and slap shot. Recommended for the field hockey player looking to up his game level. This cutting-edge piece of equipment can turn you into an all-star in no time.
4. Elite
Considered the best field hockey stick type available, it provides maximum flex and power. Often embodying the latest technological advances to help improve your game and win championships.
A high-quality stick doesn’t make a good player. But still, who could say no to equipment that not only enhances your field hockey game but also helps fill up that trophy cabinet?
Field Hockey Stick Materials
Field hockey sticks are carefully designed with their weight, ease of control, and durability in mind. Crafted out of a variety of materials, its goal is for players to continue honing their skills as well as improve the power in their drives.
Wooden Sticks
Typically referred to as the choice field hockey stick for beginners, they are lightweight. Also offer great control at a minimal price.
Carbon Sticks
This stick provides more power and rigidity, spurring the more experienced and elite players to utilize it as their stick of choice. Although not all sticks are made entirely out of carbon, they can serve as a worthy piece of equipment to guide players toward field hockey advancement.
Fiberglass Sticks
Similar to their carbon peers, these sticks may or may not be made entirely out of fiberglass. Proven to be lighter and more flexible compared to all the other sticks, it offers serious power and durability, allowing it to withstand the most competitive of field hockey.
Field Hockey Sticks Reinforcement
Stick reinforcements are components installed to the side of the stick to enhance your equipment’s durability and strength. Generally applied as a sleeve, carbon and fiberglass materials are applied to both sides of the stick, increasing its stiffness for more powerful and accurate hits. In addition, these reinforcing elements increase the ball’s speed, enhance the stick’s durability, and help dampen vibration.
Other components such as aramid and graphene add a unique combination of powerful energy transfer and shock-absorbing properties, providing field hockey sticks with more strength and less vibration. Kevlar and ceramic tapes are sometimes wrapped around the stick for a smoother feel and reduced uncomfortable vibration.
Toe Design
Although all field hockey sticks are designed similarly to help score goals, their length, weight, composition, and bend differ. Toe designs are constructed based on the numerous ways each position attacks the ball. Here’s a brief guide:
Short Toes
Regarded as the most common toe design, it promotes balance, maneuverability, and control, allowing players to effortlessly turn the stick over the ball.
Midi Toes
Ideal for beginners and midfield players, it provides a larger hitting surface for easier ball flicking and receiving.
Hook Toes
It features a J-shape design, granting players an extra surface area for better ball control and flicks.
Maxi Toes
Throw in the hitting prowess of the midi toe and fuse it with the hook toe’s wider receiving surface and you get the maxi toes which are highly useful for drag-flicks and reverse stick control.
Bow Design
Bow designs refer to the shape or curve of the stick, illustrating the point where your field hockey stick bends from its handle to the toe. There are three bow designs. Here’s a quick look.
Regular Bow
It includes the most impressive curve situated in the middle of the stick. It provides maximum control and power, making it suitable for all field hockey positions.
Control Bow
Recommended for more advanced players, the bend falls closer to the toe, resulting in an increase in power when lifting and drag-flicking the ball.
Late Bow
A favorite of elite players, it curves nearly toward the head, providing the best lift, drag, flick, and control for a high-level field hockey game.
38″ Field Hockey Stick
When it comes to field hockey sticks, size does matter. The length of your stick is of utmost importance as it will help you execute both basic and advanced skills, greatly affecting your ball control and passing capability. A 38-field hockey stick best suits a player who stands around 5’11” tall, providing the appropriate stick height for optimum pitch performance.
40″ Field Hockey Stick
Proper stick length drastically affects your game. Too long a stick exposes it to damage while too short of a stick opens your back to serious long-term problems. A 40-field hockey stick is for tall players who stand 6’5″, allowing them to hit superior wrist shots despite their height.
The Method Of Determining The Correct Length
Finding out if you are using the correct field hockey stick length relies more on practicality than rocket science. It can be in two methods, both requiring your hockey stick of choice and your ability to stand straight on your feet.
1. US Method
Hold the stick to your side with its head on the floor. The top should be about 1-2 inches below your waist to determine if it is the perfect length.
2. Dutch Method
Hold the stick’s head into your armpit. You’ll know you have the right stick if it ends near the middle of the kneecap.
Field Hockey Stick Size: FAQs
How Do I Maintain My Field Hockey Stick?
Avoid using the stick on terrain that can damage it such as concrete and asphalt. Wipe off any dirt, debris, and moisture before storage.
Why Is A Field Hockey Stick Curved?
The particular curve of field hockey sticks ensures that hitting control is maintained at 25 mm to limit the power with which a ball is flicked.
What Are Field Hockey Sticks Made Of?
It can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, carbon, Kevlar, and graphite. As well as composite materials and fiberglass.
What Are The Best Material For A Field Hockey Stick?
Composite and fiberglass make for the best field hockey sticks as they generate more power on hits without compromising their flexibility and endurance.
Are There Right-Handed And Left-Handed Field Hockey Sticks?
Field hockey is yet to cater to left-handed players. Everyone has to use a right-handed stick with the ball allowed only to be hit with the stick’s flat side.
Conclusion
A few leaps and bounds in field hockey sticks have heavily altered the way the game is played. No matter the innovation, a proper stick enhances an athlete’s performance, making the most basic field hockey equipment essential.