Home Coach's Corner Field Hockey Tip
Questions? Call us! 1-800-645-3226

Field Hockey Coach's Corner

Field Hockey Tip

How To Pick Out a Field Hockey Stick

How To Pick A Field Hockey Stick

When picking out a field hockey stick, it can be hard to know which stick will best suit you. With so many options the task can seem overwhelming. Here is a guide from some of our all skill field hockey camps directors, with some of the key components to keep in mind before picking out a stick. 

Length

The length of your stick plays into your position and height. A defensive player or midfielder may prefer a longer stick and a offensive player pay prefer a shorter stick. Look at the guide below to see which length is suggested based on your height. 

Pro tip: The stick should come up to the top of your hipbone.

Height

Length


4’ & Under

28”


4’1”-4’3”

30”


4’4”-4’6”

32”


4’7”-5’

34”


5’1”-5’3”

35-35.5”


5’4”-5’9”

36-36.5”


5’10” & Over      

37-37.5”     



Weight

Sticks weight ranges between 535 to 560 grams. Light sticks allow for quick wrist movements, while heavier sticks allow for more power and can also be more durable.  

Pro Tip: There is no such thing as a left handed field hockey stick, field hockey requires all players to use right-handed sticks.

Skill Level

In field hockey there are typically four different types of sticks to train with. As you advance in the sport, the level of composite to fiberglass changes. Your skill level will help guide you to which stick to buy. Advanced players will generally want a stick with high carbon content.

Beginner- Beginner sticks are typically used by 10 year olds or younger, and are a great tool to learn on. Wood sticks are great beginner sticks.

Intermediate- As you advance in the sport, and learn more control with the ball, it is time to introduce a higher level of power in your stick. This stick is recommended for ages 10-13, with 1 or more years of experience.

Expert- These sticks are ideal for ages 13 and older, with 2 or more years of experience. They help players continue to improve their skills and work on ball control and power.

Elite- Elite sticks are recommended for ages 15 and older, with 3 or more years of experience. These sticks have a higher carbon content and are meant for power.

Composition

Most sticks are made with carbon, fiberglass, or wood, or are a composite of carbon and fiberglass.

Carbon adds a stiffness and more power to your stick. A high carbon content will generate into more power behind your stick.

Fiberglass adds durability and strength to the stick. When fiberglass is used with carbon it is used more as reinforcement, but there are sticks that are solely fiberglass.

Wood is the least stiff of all materials and adds flexibility to your stick and is most favored by beginners. 


When buying a stick, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are buying the right stick for your skill level. Make sure that the stick is the right fit for you, and will guide you to the level you want to perform at. Check out more helpful field hockey tips and drills and get better this summer at a Nike Field Hockey Camp.

Share This
Filter Coach's Corner by Sport

Find a camp near you:

Select your sport and get into camp!
If you need more assistance, just give us a call
at 1-800-645-3226 we would be happy to help!

close