Field hockey is a game of great intensity and skill. The right hockey stick will help you play better by enhancing certain skills, so it's important to find the perfect one for yourself!
There are many sticks available on shelves nowadays with similar designs from different companies but they don't all function similarly in terms of responding well or feeling comfortable when used by people who use them regularly- which can make selecting a stick difficult if not impossible without doing hours worth of research.
Factors to consider when choosing a stick 🏑
To enhance your playing experience, consider some of the factors like different shapes, grips, and materials. A few other factors are given below for you to consider.
Skill-Level
Hockey players have three basic levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. A newbie should use an inexpensive stick until they learn the techniques that are necessary for success as well get comfortable with it enough so when their skills improve. More advanced players can find what works best based on how frequently they play hockey.
Type of Position
The type of stick to choose in field hockey will depend on the position of the player. Players in the forward position will need a shorter stick to hit the ball as it falls down the field.
Players in the defensive positions usually choose long field hockey sticks. They usually have a very long reach, and their main purpose is to carry the ball away from the goal and into the field. Players in the forward position usually use lighter field hockey sticks. Midfielders may do better using medium-weight sticks, while defenders should prefer using heavier sticks.
Outdoor vs Indoor field hockey
The most significant factor you have to consider is what kind of sticks should we use in outdoor field hockey; or which sticks are best for indoor field hockey.
Indoor hockey fields are smaller than the outdoor fields, and the game is played at higher speed, so the sticks used in indoor hockey fields are lighter and more flexible. The stick’s narrow toe and thin shaft keep the game moving. This stick is very easy to use, requiring little or no effort.
In contrast, the stick on the outdoor field is thicker and heavier, which helps the player drag the ball around the field. These sticks provide great playing power even on long grass. So in order to get the best hockey stick for a player, it depends on the field surface on which they'll be playing on.
Player height and stick length ratio
A general guideline for the stick length is to use the height of the player. It is not restrictive, as some players prefer a narrower or longer stick, depending on their position and style of play. In most cases, the top of the hockey stick should be close to the player’s hip. Long field hockey sticks are better than shorter sticks because you can adjust them according to your needs.
Here's a better explanation of the stick length:
Stick materials
Instead of wood, manufacturers now usually make stick from one of these three materials: fiberglass, carbon, kevlar; or aramid. Each of these field hockey materials has its advantages and disadvantages.
Carbon: Modern hockey players generally prefer to use sticks made of carbon. Carbon material rods are strong, light in weight, and usable for power shots. However, controlling carbon is not easy and requires a lot of practice to use it effectively. So generally the higher the carbon percentage, the higher the power.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the best choice for those just starting. Fiberglass is strong and simple, making it easy to control. It is not difficult at all for those trying to learn field hockey.
Kevlar (Aramid): Kevlar is a heavier material. This stick is as easy to use as fiberglass but has one property that makes it unique, and that property is the ability to absorb vibrations. This feature prevents the stick from injuring your arm.
Weight, Toe, Head Shape, Bow, and Heel
When you select a stick, the right weight is based on the position, play level, and preference of the player. In terms of weight, there are three types: heavy, medium, and light. If you are an offensive player and move continuously, the light sticks will be best for you. Choose the medium-weight hockey stick if you are a defensive player because of its agility.
The bow choice depends on the preference of the player, as it is simply a bend on the stick. The choice of the head shape is mainly based on the field, whether it is outdoor or indoor. If outdoors, choose the stick with a head that can move well in the grass. And, if indoor, pick up an indoor stick with a maxi head. In addition, the choice of the heel just depends on the preference of the player.
The toe part of the stick determines the curve level of the stick and also has a great effect on the strike rate of the player. The small toes give good moves but limited power. On the other hand, the extensive toes have great power but activity restrictions.
How we choose the best Field Hockey Sticks 🏑
Field hockey can be a really fun sport, but it's hard to know where to start when you're looking for the best stick. It seems like every time you turn around there's a new stick on the market. How are you supposed to know which one is right for you?
We've done the hard work for you and read through dozens of reviews to help find the 3 best field hockey sticks for you. Please check out our favorite picks.
This field hockey stick is made for beginners who come late to the field hockey game and need a long stick. You can have a forgiving and soft feel as this hockey stick comes with 100% fiberglass construction.
🏑 features
This hockey stick’s entire construction is made with fiberglass. For learning skills, the rounded handle of this STX XPR 50 hockey stick is helpful for beginners looking to learn the skills. Moreover, this stick comes in Pink and White colors, which makes it more beautiful.
❤️ why we love this hockey stick
It is helpful for the players to enhance their basic skills with control. In order to be helpful with stops, the maxi toe shape makes more surface area on the stick head. And for the reverse side skills, the thin handle is helpful to teach the position of the hands.
This field hockey stick gives you power while you drag and lift the ball. It is made up of fiberglass (60%), 3K carbon, and aramid (10%), providing solid power in the lightweight design.
🏑 features
This is one of the best field hockey sticks and comes with a Reactive Liquid Polymer, which helps to improve the performance, strength, and durability of the stick. Moreover, this stick will be the best choice if you are looking for an all-rounder.
❤️ why we love this hockey stick
This is an advanced-level stick, which comes with a lightweight design. It is an appropriate stick for beginner high school and advanced middle school level players.
This stick is the next level enhancement to the classic Stallion-i. The player can have a lighter feel and stiffness with added carbon, which is best for indoor players of all levels. This stick is the best for indoor players who want speed, accuracy, and lift on the cage, thanks to its low bow shape and carbon construction.
🏑 features
The STX Field Hockey IX 401 Indoor Stick is made up of 40% of carbon. This stick has a low bow shape. Forgiveness on reception, thanks to the fiberglass and carbon construction.
❤️ why we love this hockey stick
This stick is particularly made for indoor field hockey play. The player will feel balanced in all the positions. It provides the players with a lighter feel and stiffness as well.
Field Hockey Stick FAQs
Buying a field hockey stick can be confusing because there are so many different options. It's hard to know which field hockey stick is the right one for you. Do you need an aluminum or carbon fiber stick? What size should your stick be?
We've answered all of these questions and more on our FAQ page. Field hockey sticks can be expensive, so it's important to make sure you're buying the right one for your needs.
How to choose the right size field hockey stick?
In general, a field hockey stick of the correct length should be above the hips when placed on the ground. This is just a basic method. There are other ways as mentioned in the article.
Why are field hockey goalie sticks bent?
The design effectively prevents the ball from passing under the stick’s handle.
What makes a field hockey stick good?
To answer your question, there are a few things that make a stick good. Firstly, the stick should be made of high quality materials that can withstand regular use. Secondly, the stick should be designed for maximum power and control, so that you can easily direct the ball where you want it to go. Finally, the stick should have a comfortable grip so that you can hold onto it securely during play.
Why can't lefties play field hockey?
The main reason lefties may not be able to play field hockey as well is because of the stick. Field hockey sticks are designed for right-handed people, which makes it difficult for lefties to use them. One side of the stick is flat and the other curved.
Why is a field hockey stick curved?
A field hockey stick is curved in order to provide greater power and accuracy when striking the ball. The curve also allows for increased control over the direction of the ball. When hit correctly, a ball can be made to change direction abruptly, making it difficult for the opposing team to defend against.
Best Field Hockey Sticks for you
The market is full of different field hockey sticks. So you have to consider all the factors discussed above to choose the best stick. In addition, we also reviewed some of the best field hockey sticks in the market. So, don't need to waste your precious time and move ahead to pick up one that meets your needs.
