Selecting
a Field Hockey Stick
From TK to Talon, from Penn Monto to Mohinder, from
Grays to Gryphon, there's a field hockey stick for everyone. But while selecting the right
stick is eventually a matter of personal preference, there are some factors to consider
when making your stick selection.
Balance & Weight
Get a "feel" for the stick. It should be
well balanced and feel comfortable in your hands. Depending on your preference, the
weight may be evenly distributed throughout the length of the stick or concentrated
in the stick's toe or head. The weight in the toe should not be so much as to limit your
stick speed when playing the ball.
Field hockey sticks range in weight from light (18 oz. to19 oz.), to medium (19-22 oz), to
heavy (22 oz to FIH maximum 25.9 oz [737 grams]). Most players will use a stick in the
medium range. Generally, forwards prefer a lighter stick for quick
maneuvering in the
circle while defenders often choose a heavier stick for powerful clearing hits and to
prevent attackers from casually "pushing" the stick aside.
Length of Stick
Field hockey sticks range in length from 26 &
28-inch youth sticks to 38-inch sticks for taller and more exprienced players.
While the length of the stick is often determined by height, players often select the
longest stick they can handle comfortably.
The chart below shows the general guideline for
choosing the appropriate length stick.
| Up to 4' |
4'-4'3 |
4'4-4'6 |
4'7-5' |
5'1-5'3 |
5'4-5'6 |
5'7-5'8 |
5'9 + |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 26" |
28" |
32" |
34" |
35" |
36" |
37" |
38" |
Toe Length
The "toe" or "head" of the stick
may also vary depending on your position or style of play.
 |
Shorti
The "shorti toe" features a one-piece head to allow quick maneuverability around
the ball.
|
 |
Midi
The "midi toe" features an increased hook surface and slightly longer length to
allow a larger hitting and stopping area to facilitate receiving, flicking and reverse
stick play. |
 |
Hook
A "hook toe" hooks up to provide the maximum surface for receiving and a larger
sweet spot for hitting. |
Flexibility
& Stiffness
A flexible stick that absorbs shock
is often the stick of choice for beginning or novice players. Flexible sticks tend to be
more durable than their stiffer counterparts.
Advanced players may apt for a stiffer
stick for increased power
Manufacturers may add a variety of
reinforcing materials to the stick to add strength and durability or promote either
stiffness or flexability. Fully composite and fiberglass sticks are legal at the
collegiate and high school level, and revised international definations of the stick at
the international level allow the stick to "be made of or contain wood or any
material other than metal or metallic components, provided it is fit for the purpose of
playing hockey and is no risk to health."
Fiberglass: A basic material
reinforcing the handle. Fiberglass adds strength and durability. Fiberglass reinforcement
also helps to prevent wear.
Carbon (or graphite): One of the
most effective stiffening materials. The added stiffness in the handle allows for
increased hitting power for experienced players. However, in cold temperatures, a stick
with carbon tends to transmit the shock from the head, through the shaft up to hands.
Players should consider playing conditions, such as temperature when selecting a stick.
Kevlar® (or Aramide): Adds
strength to the handle while dampening the vibration to the hands. The more Kevlar in the
stick, the less shock is felt, yet the fibers still allow for flexability and a smooth
"feel" of the ball when hitting and receiving.
Kevlar is a manmade organic fiber produced by DuPont used in a wide variety of
applications such as bullet-proof vests, tires, fibre optic cables and sporting goods.
Dyneema®: Added over the
stiffening and strengthening materials at the base of the shaft for impact resistance.
Dyneema is a polethylene fiber characterized by its high impact strength and high energy
absorption qualities.
Where to Get Your Stick/USA Field
Hockey Sponsors
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