Hockey sticks come in many different shapes, lengths and weights – and of course these factors are down to personal taste but here are some tips to help you.

Head Shape

Hockey sticks used to be either a ‘Maxi’ head shape or a ‘Hook’. In the last few years the Hook head shape has really died away and 90% of players are using a Maxi head shape.

Length

When choosing your hockey stick you should consider the length. The average stick size is 36.5 inches form men and women Children below 10 normally use a junior hockey stick that is shorter (around 35 inches) and lighter.

Although 36.5 inches is the standard length most people play with I think that you should try and use as long a stick as possible. I often see 6ft plus guys hunched over the ball using a 36.5 inch stick when they would be much better off using a 37.5 or a 38. My fried is 5ft 10inches tall uses a 38 inch stick - the extra length is great for tackling.

Weight

The weights are normally Light, Medium and heavy and this change is found in the thickness of the sticks head and shaft. Obviously a heavy stick is going to be heavier and a strapping 6.3 bloke is probably going to wield it much easier than a small 14 year old girl. Heavier sticks are generally stronger in the tackle and follow through with the ball better. They also generally hits the ball harder but the actual control may be less because the head is thicker and gives less ‘feel’. A skillful dribbler might prefer a light weight stick as it will give more control but with probably require more power generated by its user to achieve a high ball speed. The medium is a blend of the two. Heavy stick = defenders. Medium Midfielders and light centre forwards/wingers.