Curling is a competitive ice sport played worldwide but that is particularly popular in northern Europe and Canada. Curling traces its roots back to the 15th century with the modern game evolving in Scotland during the early 17th century, according to website of the city of Windsor in Ontario, Canada. The game was played exclusively on outdoor surfaces such as lakes until the 20th century, when the game moved onto indoor ice sheets.
Stone
The stone is sometimes referred to as the rock. The stone is the implement in play during curling. The stone is made of granite mined exclusively in Scotland, according to the city of Windsor website, and weighs in at approximately 42 lbs. The stone has a handle on the top that is held and then turned during release by the player.
Brush/Broom
The brush or broom is the piece of equipment that players use to clean the ice surface in front of a moving stone. The handles of brooms are typically made of fiberglass or carbon fiber, although wood varieties are also available. The head or brushes of the broom were originally made of corn but today come in fabric, hog or horsehair. Players are allowed to change brooms during competition as long as there is no delay in play.
Hack
The hack is a stationary piece of equipment that is used at the start position during the push-off and release of the stone. The hack is a pair of rubber, angled blocks, one for right-footed players and the other for left-footed players, that are secured to the ice surface. When delivering the stone, the player begins with his dominant foot placed against the hack. He then pushes off of the hack as he releases the stone.
Shoes
Special shoes are worn by athletes in the sport of curling. Curling shoes are low-cut athletic shoes that have two different types of soles. The sole of one shoe features a smooth sliding surface while the other features a textured gripping surface. Some players may choose to wear gripper or slider boots, which fit over their shoes.
Gloves
Gloves are an optional piece of equipment, although they are not allowed to be worn on the delivery hand during the delivery of a stone. Gloves are used for hand protection and warmth and to improve grip.
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