Choosing a field hockey stick can be very confusing with the range of sticks available today. So this article will hopefully help you in understanding the different types of field hockey stick available and what will suit you the player best.

The first fundamental difference in field hockey sticks are what they are made from. There are two main types the traditional wooden and the more modern composite, both are used at every level in today’s game of hockey. Sticks were originally made of wood but as technology has improved different materials have been combined with wood to make them tougher, more flexible and absorb more vibration. Materials such as glass fibre, carbon and kevlar are wrapped around and integrated with the wood in varying degrees to achieve different effects to the point where there is no wood left, and so the composite stick was born.

Composite sticks are easier for manufacturers to consistently mass-produce and achieve a reliable weight and durability. There are varying opinions on whether wood or composite is better and I’m sure the argument will continue, as both are still used by players from school hockey through to international level. I think it comes down to personal opinion and preference; I personally prefer wood but carry both types in my bag. Beyond the materials factor you need to consider shape, length and weight.

The shape of a field hockey stick can differ in the shaft and the head. The shaft can be curved or have a ‘bow’ to varying degrees which effects control and flexibility but mostly the ability to flick the ball. The more bow you have the easier it will make it to flick the ball but too much bow and you might end up not being able to keep the ball on the ground. The shape of the stick head comes in a maxi, midi and hook. Maxi heads have a large surface area and so are good for stopping and hitting the ball, useful for defenders and attackers. Midi heads are smaller so are good for reverse stick control and manoeuvrability, ideal for attackers. Then there is the hook that is as it sounds, its large surface make it ideal for stopping and flicking and therefore perfect for defenders.

The other factors to be considered are the length and weight. The length you choose will generally be guided by your height, so the taller you are the longer the stick you need. A tall person with a short stick will probably struggle hitting a ball. Hockey sticks normally come in three weights; light, medium and heavy. A light stick will be good for those who dribble with the ball and have precise, quick control. The medium and heavy weights are used more for hitting and stopping, as it is easier to get more weight behind the ball and so useful for defenders but more strain on the wrists.

For some great deals on field hockey sticks in the UK try:

http://www.newitts.com/shop/1/12/Hockey_Sticks.htm

or

http://www.milletsports.co.uk/hockey/hockey_specials/index.php

Barrington sports also have a good range at:

http://www.barringtonsports.com/Hockey/Category_Hockey_Sticks.htm