Hockey sticks are available in various shapes, designs, sizes, and colors. While buying hockey sticks for the game, you might feel overwhelmed. But if you know the necessary tips and tricks, you can easily bring home a new hockey stick without any worries.
Over the last few years, there has been a considerable increase in the sale of hockey sticks. According to a market research report, the hockey equipment market is likely to touch a $15 billion figure by 2028 at a CAGR of around 4.8%. The demand for hockey sticks has increased because of the youth’s incessant love for the game.
You’d be amazed to know that Hockey is not just popular in South Asian nations, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Afghanistan, but also in Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and others. In hockey matches, two teams play a game consisting of 11 players each on both sides and two goalkeepers standing beside their respective goalposts.
Besides field hockey—Ice Hockey, another popular game in which hockey sticks are used—has a huge fan base across Canada, the United States, the Czech Republic, Russia, Sweden, and Finland.
Here are necessary factors you need to consider before buying a hockey stick:
Length of Hockey Stick
You should know that the size of hockey sticks varies. For example, tall players need to buy a stick that helps them hit shots without bending too low. Similarly, if you are short in height, you need a small stick to maneuver the ball during the match easily. So, you should keep in mind that, unlike Tennis racquets, there’s no one-size-fits-all remedy in the case of Hockey sticks.
The length of a hockey stick must be appropriate, and you should feel comfortable while holding it or dragging the ball.
Weight of Hockey Stick
The weight of a hockey stick matters a lot. Your decision should be based on your position in the match. For example, you should opt for a lightweight stick if you want to play as a forward. A light-weighted stick helps you smartly shoot the ball toward the goal.
As a midfielder, the optimum weight of your hockey stick should be between 500-gram to 600-gram. The use of such a medium-weight stick is preferred for midfielders and players who don’t have any specific position to play.
For defenders, a heavy-weight stick is crucial. Ritual Hockey is your one-stop junction to buy any type of Hockey stick you need to elevate your performance in a hockey match. The ideal weight of the stick you should zero in on needs to be within the range of 600 grams to 700 grams.
Stick Material
Field hockey sticks should be made of mulberry wood. These sticks come with shock-absorbent capacity, making them more durable and powerful. If you’ve just started playing Hockey, choose a flexible wood-made hockey stick. But if you are a pro, go for stiffer sticks.
Focus on the Construction of the Hockey Stick
Depending upon your needs, you can buy hockey sticks that come in a one-piece set or go for sticks with two-piece formats. In a one-piece constructed stick, you’ll get a pre-designed hockey stick. But if you choose the latter, you can design your own stick with a blade and a shaft. If required, you can even make use of separate blades and see which ones suit your requirements.
Know the Shaft Numbers
You can choose a shaft with greater numbers if you are slightly bulky. On the other hand, go for lower-number shafts if you are thin and lean. Shafts are numbered from 40 to 100. Choosing the shaft based on your body weight and overall requirements is completely your discretion.
Blades and Curve
The blade curve of a hockey stick holds a key role in a match. All blade curves may not suit the requirements of all players. Each player has to choose the blade curve based on their position on the ground.
You should know that defense players opt for blades having moderate heel curves. It helps the player tacitly maneuver the ball all across the field. But players in the forward position prefer using a toe curve for wristy work.
In Conclusion
Beginners can go and buy any hockey stick that they want. But professional players should ensure that they buy the appropriate hockey stick, which helps them play and shoot the ball as per the game’s situation. Thus, choosing a hockey stick is not something you do in haste. Instead, take your time and choose the best stick that suits your needs.