Hockey Buying Guide

Your complete guide to choosing the right hockey stick, shoes, and protective gear — whether you’re a beginner or an elite player.

Stick guide by Lara Valstar

Choosing the Right Stick

Whilst budget is always important, don’t make the mistake of purchasing a cheaper stick in the short-term and then regretting it later. There are essentially two key considerations when choosing a hockey stick — regardless of your playing level:

1. Optimal stick length
2. Your field position (striker, link, defender, goalie)

1. Stick Length

As a general guide, use the table below when choosing the correct stick length. When standing, hold the stick to your side — it should come up to around hipbone level. Personal preference plays a part too: a defender may want a longer reach, while a striker may prefer a shorter stick for quick handling.

2. Field Position & Stick Choice

Most hockey players have preferred playing positions. When choosing a stick, think of your favourite position and choose stick length, weight, hook and bow accordingly.

Weight

Most sticks weigh between 538 – 623g. Let field position be your guide:

• Strikers — choose lighter sticks for quick stick skills under pressure
• Defenders — may choose slightly heavier sticks for harder hits
• Links & Defenders — with astro being the surface of choice, the slap is now more accurate and faster than the hit. Choose a balance that feels right as you swing or do yardsticks

Shaft Bow

The bow refers to the curve in the shaft of the stick:

• Maximum bow (25mm) — chosen by elite drag flickers and aerial experts (regulations permit max 25mm)
• Standard bow (17–22mm) — allows greater stopping control and more accurate slap hitting. Recommended for most players

Head, Hook or Toe Shape

This is personal choice, but here’s a guideline:

• Shorti — Shortest toe with the smallest hitting area. Very few sticks use this design anymore as aerial skills on astro require a larger hook area.
• Midi — Great toe shape for beginners. Allows control and head speed on the ball with a larger sweet spot for hitting.
• Maxi — Greater hitting power and tackling surface. Often chosen by defenders. Good for reverse hitters, short-corner injectors, and skilled players using 3D aerial play (overheads, pops, drag-flicks).
• Hook (J-shape) — Larger surface area gives greater ball control. Favoured by high-level drag-flickers. Ideal for aerial skills, evasive dodges, and reverse stick play.

Stick Composition

Different brands use varying degrees of materials. Here’s what each material does:

• Carbon — adds stiffness (greater % carbon = stiffer = more power output)
• Kevlar — adds strength and reduces vibration
• Fibreglass — adds durability and strength, also reduces vibration
• Graphene — great for shock absorption, control and performance
• Wood — flexible and forgiving, but being replaced by modern technology

Which Stick Composition Is Right for Me?

Hockey Shoes

The right shoes make a big difference on astro turf. Look for:

• Astro-specific soles — small rubber studs or dimpled patterns designed for grip on artificial turf
• Lightweight construction — allows quick direction changes and sprints
• Ankle support — important for lateral movements and sudden stops
• Cushioning — astro is hard on joints; good midsole cushioning reduces fatigue
• Reinforced toe — protects against ball impact and drag

Tip: Avoid running shoes or indoor court shoes on astro — they don’t provide the right grip and wear out quickly on the surface.

Protective Gear

Safety is essential — especially for younger players and those playing at a competitive level.

• Shin Guards — mandatory in most leagues. Choose a snug fit that covers from ankle to just below the knee
• Mouthguard — highly recommended at all levels. Custom-fitted offers the best protection
• Gloves — protect knuckles and fingers, especially useful for defenders and drag-flickers
• Face Mask — required for short-corner defenders. Must meet FIH regulations
• Goalie Kit — full set includes helmet, leg guards, kickers, gloves, chest pad, and arm guards

Accessories & Extras

• Grip Tape — replace regularly for better stick control and comfort
• Hockey Bag — keeps your stick, shoes, and gear organised and protected
• Hockey Balls — smooth, hard balls for astro; dimpled balls for grass (less common now)
• Stick Tape — wrap around the head of the stick for extra grip on the ball
• Water Bottle — hydration is key during training and matches

Our Hockey Brands

We stock hockey equipment from trusted brands:

• ASICS — premium hockey shoes with excellent cushioning and grip
• Joma — affordable, high-quality footwear for all levels
• Salming — lightweight performance shoes and apparel

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which stick or gear is right for you? Our team can help match you with the perfect equipment based on your level, position, and budget.

📧 [email protected]
📞 083 231 6858
💬 WhatsApp Us

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