The right stick can make a big difference to your hockey game. If the stick is too short then you will have to bend too far to hit the ball. Choose an over-long stick, and dribbling and accurate shooting becomes more difficult. Hockey sticks also vary in shape for different positions. Generally, sticks range from 28 inches to 3 feet in length. At the lighter end, field hockey sticks weigh just 12 oz., but the bulkier wooden sticks weigh up to 28 oz. All sticks should fit through a 2-inch circular ring, otherwise the stick is illegal.
Step 1
Lean a field hockey stick against the side of your leg. The top of the handle should reach your hip bone. That's your ideal hockey stick size.
Step 2
Select a "shorti" style stick if you play defense and like to hit the ball hard up the field, or if you're looking for a good all-round stick. Shorti sticks are stronger and a better choice for all-round play.
Step 3
Choose a "hook" or "midi" hockey stick if you specialize in dribbling or like to flick the ball over your opponent's sticks and feet. These stick styles are made from compressed layers of wood, so they are slightly less durable than shorti sticks, according to "Field Hockey: Rules, Tips, Strategy, and Safety."
Step 4
Purchase a stick reinforced with Kevlar or Dyneema for added shock absorption, which makes hitting the ball easier on your hands. Choose a carbon fiber hockey stick if you want to hit the ball hard and far.
Step 5
Ask for a stick with a kinked shaft if you play in the goalie position. Also, opt for a lighter, thinner stick that you find easy to maneuver to save aerial shots, according to hockey coach Kathleen Partridge.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're a young player, remember that you might be still growing and pick a stick slightly larger than you need at the current time. Remember that reinforced sticks tend to cost a lot more money. If you don't play regularly, you might want to stick with wooden styles.
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