Choosing the right field hockey stick size is a foundational step for any player looking to improve their performance and enjoy the game safely. A stick that fits well can enhance your control, power, and overall technique, while also minimizing the risk of injury. This comprehensive Field Hockey Stick Size Guide will walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect stick length, ensuring you’re well-equipped to excel on the field.
Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned player, understanding how to choose the correct stick size is crucial. Our field hockey stick size chart below provides a straightforward method for determining the appropriate stick length based on your height. However, we’ll also delve into other important factors, such as playing style and position, to help you make the most informed decision.
Field Hockey Stick Size Chart
This chart provides a general guideline for selecting your field hockey stick length based on your height.
| Player Height (Feet) | Player Height (Centimeters) | Recommended Stick Length (Inches) |
|---|---|---|
| < 4′ | < 122 cm | 28″ |
| 4′ – 4’3″ | 122-130 cm | 30″ |
| 4’3″ – 4’6″ | 130-137 cm | 32″ |
| 4’6″ – 4’9″ | 137-145 cm | 34″ |
| 4’9″ – 5′ | 145-152 cm | 35″ |
| 5′ – 5’11” | 152-180 cm | 36.5″ |
| 5’11” – 6’4″ | 180-192 cm | 37.5″ |
| > 6’4″ | > 192 cm | 38″ |
* Note: This field hockey stick size chart is a general recommendation. Personal preference and playing style can also influence the ideal stick length.
Understanding Hockey Stick Bow
Beyond length, the bow of a hockey stick is another critical feature that impacts performance. The bow refers to the curve in the stick shaft, and its position and depth can significantly affect your playing style, especially for more advanced techniques.
To understand bow, imagine placing the flat side of your stick on the ground. The bow measurement is the maximum distance between the ground and the highest point of the curve on the stick shaft. Different bow types are designed for different player roles and skill sets:
Low Bow: These sticks have the bow positioned closer to the stick head. They are particularly advantageous for attacking midfielders and forwards who specialize in 3D skills, drag flicks, and powerful hits. The lower bow facilitates lifting the ball easily, making it ideal for aerial play and advanced attacking maneuvers.
Pro Bow & NXT Bow: These bows are versatile options often favored by midfielders. They offer a balance that supports strong ball control, as well as effective forehand and backhand hitting. These are great all-around bows for players involved in various aspects of the game.
Mid Bow: Mid bow sticks are typically preferred by defensive and controlling players. The bow’s central position enhances control and accuracy when hitting and passing. This type is excellent for players focused on distributing the ball and maintaining possession.
Proto Bow: Designed for attacking positions, the Proto Bow is specialized for drag flicks and aerial skills. Its shape is engineered to maximize power and control when executing these techniques, making it a choice for players looking to dominate in attacking scenarios.
Show Bow: Show Bow sticks are favored by attacking midfielders and forwards who excel in dribbling and 3D skills. The bow profile is designed to enhance close control and quick movements, supporting creative and skillful play in attacking zones.
Low Groove & XTR Bow: These specialized bows are geared towards attackers and penalty corner specialists. They feature a groove in the shaft designed to cradle the ball, providing enhanced control and accuracy when executing flicks, especially during penalty corners.
Understanding Balance Point in Field Hockey Sticks
The balance point of a field hockey stick is another important factor that influences how the stick feels and performs. To find the balance point, try balancing your stick on your finger or a pen. The distance from this point to the top of the stick head is the balance point.
Why is balance point significant? It greatly affects the ‘feel’ and maneuverability of the stick.
- Higher Balance Point: A higher balance point, closer to the handle, makes the stick feel lighter and more handleable. This is because more weight is concentrated towards the grip, making it easier to maneuver quickly – advantageous for dribbling and quick stick movements.
- Lower Balance Point: A lower balance point, closer to the stick head, increases the weight in the head of the stick. This provides more power behind your hits, as the heavier head generates more momentum when striking the ball. It’s often preferred for players who prioritize hitting power.
Materials of Field Hockey Sticks
Modern field hockey sticks are constructed from a variety of composite materials, each offering unique performance characteristics. The primary materials include:
Carbon: Carbon fiber provides stiffness, durability, and exceptional power. Its high strength-to-weight ratio allows for the creation of lightweight, high-performance hockey sticks. Carbon is essential for players seeking maximum power and stiffness.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass offers flexibility and enhanced impact resistance. It provides better shock absorption due to its lower conductivity, making it more forgiving on impact. Fiberglass is also utilized to create flexible resin structures within the stick.
Aramide (Kevlar): Aramide fibers, often known as Kevlar, are lightweight and boast excellent abrasion resistance. They are commonly used in the heel of the hockey stick to prevent wear and tear from ground contact. Aramide in the shaft also helps dampen vibrations, improving feel and comfort.
Kevlar: In higher-end sticks, Kevlar reinforcement is often strategically placed in key impact zones, particularly the backhand area. This reinforcement enhances the stick’s strength and durability in these critical areas, allowing players to hit with more power and confidence.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Skill Level
Selecting the right material composition often depends on your experience and playing level. Here are some general guidelines:
Beginner Hockey Players: New players, especially children, are often best suited to 100% fiberglass sticks. These sticks are lightweight, flexible, and more affordable, making them ideal for learning the basics. They typically come in smaller sizes with thinner handles, perfect for younger players. The Deshi sticks are excellent examples for beginners.
Intermediate Hockey Players: As players develop more power and demand more from their sticks, composite sticks with added carbon become beneficial. The carbon adds stiffness and strength, enhancing hitting power and control. Sticks like the Vision 55, Vision 85, and Pro Tour 70 offer a great balance for intermediate players.
Advanced Hockey Players: For elite feel, balance, power, and ball control, advanced players typically gravitate towards full carbon sticks. These superlight sticks, often constructed with multiple layers of Japanese Carbon Fiber, provide optimal stiffness and the unique feel sought after by professionals. Different bow types within full carbon ranges, like the ProTour range and Pro Tour Limited, cater to specific playing styles and preferences at the highest levels of the game.
By considering these factors – size, bow, balance point, and material – you can confidently choose a field hockey stick that will enhance your performance, comfort, and enjoyment of the game. Remember to consider your playing style and position, and when possible, try out different sticks to find what feels best for you.
