Hockey Stick Guide

STICK SIZE

Determining the correct stick length can be a challenging decision. We're here to provide guidance. The table below offers recommendations for stick length based on your height. However, the choice of stick length can also be influenced by personal preferences. For instance, a shorter stick may benefit a striker or midfielder, requiring them to maintain a lower stance and providing enhanced ball control. Conversely, a defender might opt for a longer stick to gain additional reach.

STICK COMPOSITE MATERIAL

Field hockey sticks are constructed using various materials, with the most common ones being carbon, wood, and fiberglass. Each material has its unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different player preferences and playing styles:

Carbon Fiber Field Hockey Sticks:

Material: Carbon fibre sticks are made predominantly from carbon composite materials. They often have a combination of carbon layers and other materials like aramid or fiberglass.
Advantages:
Lightweight: Carbon fibre sticks are known for their lightweight construction, making them easy to manoeuvre and control.
Stiffness: They are typically stiffer than other materials, providing excellent power and accuracy when hitting the ball.
Power: Carbon sticks are favoured by players who seek powerful shots and precise passing. They're especially popular among drag flickers.
Durability: Carbon fibre is durable and resistant to impact damage, which prolongs the stick's lifespan.

Wood Field Hockey Sticks:

Material: Traditional field hockey sticks were primarily made of wood, but modern wood sticks often incorporate composite materials to enhance performance.
Advantages:
Feel: Wood sticks offer a natural, classic feel that some players prefer. They provide good ball control and touch.
Flexibility: Wood sticks tend to have a more flexible shaft, allowing for a softer touch on the ball and easier ball reception.
Durability: Although not as durable as carbon sticks, wood sticks can still be resilient when well-maintained.
Affordability: Wood sticks are often more budget-friendly compared to carbon sticks.

Fiberglass Field Hockey Sticks:
Material: Fiberglass sticks are constructed using layers of fiberglass material. They can be a good compromise between carbon and wood sticks.
Advantages:
Flexibility: Fiberglass sticks offer a balance between stiffness and flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of playing styles.
Ball Control: They provide good ball control and are suitable for players who want a versatile stick for different skills.
Affordability: Fiberglass sticks are generally more affordable than pure carbon sticks, making them accessible to a broader range of players.

Choosing the right material for your field hockey stick depends on your playing style, position, and personal preferences. Players who prioritize power and precision might opt for carbon sticks, while those who value traditional feel and ball control may prefer wood or fiberglass sticks. Experimenting with different materials and stick compositions can help you find the perfect match for your game.

BOW TYPE

Mid-Bow
Characteristics: The Mid-Bow has a medium-level curve, with the apex typically positioned around the mid-section of the shaft.
Advantages: Mid-Bow sticks offer versatility and are suitable for a wide range of playing styles and positions. They provide a balanced blend of skills, making them ideal for passing, hitting, and dribbling. Mid-Bow sticks are often favoured by midfielders who need to excel in various aspects of the game.

Low-Bow
Characteristics: The Low-Bow has a subtle curve, with the apex positioned lower down the shaft, closer to the blade.
Advantages: Low-Bow sticks are excellent for advanced skills like 3D dribbling, aerials, and drag flicks. They offer enhanced ball control and make it easier to lift the ball off the ground. These sticks are often preferred by players who want to focus on creative and dynamic playmaking.

Xtreme Bow
Characteristics: The Xtreme Bow has a highly pronounced curve, with the apex located very low on the shaft, close to the blade.
Advantages: Xtreme Bow sticks are designed for advanced players who prioritize drag flicks, aerial skills, and powerful hitting. They provide maximum power for hitting and precise control during advanced skills. These sticks are often used by penalty corner specialists and aggressive attackers.

When choosing between these standard bow types, consider your playing style, position on the field, and personal preferences. If you're an all-around player, the Mid-Bow offers versatility. If you excel in skills like drag flicks and aerials, the Low-Bow or Xtreme Bow may be more suitable, with the Xtreme Bow offering the most extreme curve and power potential. Testing out different bow types and seeking advice from experienced players or coaches can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and playing style.