The Best Field Hockey sticks of 2023 feature some impressive new brands this year. While the likes of Grays, STX, and Kookaburra still make fantastic products, we have some fantastic new brands getting a foothold in the market, such as Osaka, Dragon Hockey, and Catalyst Hockey.
Nowadays, top hockey stick manufacturers have designed hi-tech features to reflect a player’s position, skill level, and budget. With your budget in mind, we have categorized the list to provide you with a selection of ‘Best Field Hockey Sticks of 2023’ for all ages and experience. Because as you know, the right stick can enhance your game, providing you with the best playing experience. The following range of field hockey sticks are all available online.
All of the following field hockey sticks have been reviewed rigorously with no BS or bias. I’ve handpicked my top fifteen on offer this year, that in my opinion, are the most competitively priced and best value to enhance your game.
Best Advanced Field Hockey Sticks priced at $200+
POWER PLAY
EXCLUSIVE HH DISCOUNT!
PROFESSIONAL POWER PLAY. DRAG FLICKING LEGEND
DRAG-FLICKING PRO
SERIOUSLY POWERFUL 98% CARBON FIBRE PRO STICK
ELITE ALL-ROUNDER. STRAIGHTER BOW
UNRIVALED POWER PLAY
BEST OF THE BEST FOR INDOOR HOCKEY
ELITE ON A BUDGET MID BOW FOR ALL-ROUNDERS
BEST FOR ADVANCED DEFENDERS
ELITE ALL-ROUNDER. GOOD FOR DRAG FLICKS AND AERIAL PASSES
CREATE YOUR OWN UNIQUE ONE-OFF MASTERPIECE
Best Beginner Field Hockey Sticks priced between $50-$150
QUALITY ALL-ROUNDER
VERSATILE MID BOW ENTRY LEVEL STICK
VERSATILE ENTRY LEVEL BUDGET STICK
GOOD BUDGET OPTION
ELITE STICK FOR FORWARDS. GOOD FOR 3D SKILLS
Best Junior Field Hockey Sticks of 2023
GREAT BALL CONTROL AND SLAP SHOTS
ELITE JUNIORS ON A BUDGET. GOOD FOR 3D SKILLS
Looking for some other options? Have a read of our more specific Field Hockey Stick guides of 2023 here –
How to choose the Best Field Hockey Stick for 2023?
There are so many factors to consider when choosing the perfect stick. What size stick is best for my child’s age? Are there different sticks depending on what position I play? There are many factors that come into play. Follow the links to learn more about each consideration.
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Best Advanced Field Hockey Sticks priced at $200+
Dragon Nemesis 100 has been perfectly tuned to the skilled hockey player’s needs, it combines the power, balance, and flexibility to deliver a dynamic hockey stick. Whilst the extreme low bow is perfect for practicing 3D skills, aerials, and drag-flicking.
At 100% carbon, it responds incredibly quickly to the player’s input – transferring power immediately from stick to ball. Powerful, aerodynamic, and lightweight, it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Dragon’s Onyx Series utilizes advanced computer modeling and gravitational dynamics to create a series of moulds that combine strength and power in a stick like no other.
The lightweight feel makes it a breeze to play with, while the refined head keeps it thin for fast skills. The carbon composition and layup push the boundaries of stick manufacturing – putting it at the forefront of stick fabrication. If you’re a player that demands nothing less than the best in class then look no further.
One of my favorite advanced sticks for advanced forwards is the Catalyst LX1 Field Hockey Stick. Weighing in at 528g, this low-bow stick is available in 3 sizes, from 36.5″ to 38.5″. The slim head makes it ideal for 3D skills and lifting the ball. While the grooved shaft guides the ball to the head for powerful drag flicks.
What stood out the most for me was the power behind this stick. So much so that it will take a couple of games to master it. Once you do, however, you won’t look back.
Prominent features
- 95% Japanese Carbon Fibre (the other 5% contains a unique composition of Kevlar or Aramid & Fibreglass)
- 3K twill (3,000 carbon filaments). This diagonal pattern uses standard 4×4 weave to increase pliability meaning there are fewer stress points and more stability in your stick
- Low Bow shape with concave face to restrict ball movement during drag-flick and aerial movements. This stops the ball from moving up and down the stick during the motion meaning all the power goes through the ball
For those looking for the best drag-flicking stick on the market, look no further. You’ll own those penalty shootouts!
One of my favorite advanced sticks for advanced forwards is the Catalyst XX1 Field Hockey Stick. Weighing in at 528g, this extra low-bow stick is available in 3 sizes, from 36.5″ to 38.5″. The slim head makes it ideal for 3D skills and lifting the ball. While the grooved shaft guides the ball to the head for powerful drag flicks.
What stood out the most for me was the power behind this stick. So much so that it will take a couple of games to master it. Once you do, however, you won’t look back. The XX is the most powerful stick in the Catalyst range.
Prominent features
- 95% Japanese Carbon Fibre (the other 5% contains a unique composition of Kevlar or Aramid & Fibreglass)
- 3K twill (3,000 carbon filaments). This diagonal pattern uses standard 4×4 weave to increase pliability meaning there are fewer stress points and more stability in your stick
- Extra Low Bow shape with concave face to restrict ball movement during drag-flick and aerial movements. This stops the ball from moving up and down the stick during the motion meaning all the power goes through the ball
We found the XX1 to have incredible power with a slightly stiffer feel than the LX model. A noticeable improvement, especially for the advanced forward.
For those looking for the best drag-flicking stick on the market, look no further. You’ll own those penalty shootouts!
The first thing we know about Adidas is they undoubtedly have the sporting experience and financial resources to create a field hockey stick of supreme technology. Resources deep enough to create the Estro Kromaskin .2 using Formula 1 technology!
This stick looks dazzling, as you would expect being an evolution of the LX Kromaskin. Built out of 95% Carbon with the same mid-low bow at 250/22mm, allowing for agile forward play or robust passing and aerials from midfield or defense. Its weight distribution is well advanced compared with a few other premium sticks we tried.
While there are 3 Estro Kromaskin models, for my game I prefer the .2. It’s a great compromise between hard-hitting power and the soft touch we all sometimes need.
The gentle bow allows for upright forward play in tricky dribble and tight maneuvers. It may be a bit harsh not scooping the Adidas Estro Kromaskin .2 into the top 3!
The Kromaskin isn’t a stick you can be thrifty over. Well worth the money!
The Adidas Shosa Kromaskin .3 is a field hockey stick designed for advanced players, ideally forwards looking for a reliable and high-performing drag-flicking stick. With its standout design, this stick is sure to catch the eye of all hockey enthusiasts. But, is it worth the investment? Let’s take a closer look.
Designed to be the ultimate drag-flicking stick, the Shosa Kromaskin .3 features a grind rail specifically created to keep the ball connected as long as possible during the drag-flick.
Using Formula 1 technology, the stick is made using a pre-molded epoxy core in the head which produces superior layer compaction. The Shosa uses a higher strength-to-weight ratio than a standard carbon lay-up, to increase the power generation and durability of the stick.
In terms of performance, the Shosa Kromaskin .3 lives up to expectations. While not quite as powerful as the Shosa Kromaskin .1 or .2, I found for my playing style the touch was noticeably better. The stick’s Ultra Low Bow design allows for increased ball control and precision, making it ideal for advanced forwards who need to make quick movements and passes. The stick’s stiffness still provides a powerful hit, while the surface area of the reverse edge has been increased to make reverse hitting more powerful and accurate.
Don’t forget that ultimately, this is a drag-flicking stick! It really does have quite a dramatic bend.
While this premium stick does not come cheap, you get what you pay for with this agile leader.
**2023/2024 Shosa Kromaskin .3 Update**
For 2023, Adidas has unveiled the updated version of the Shosa Kromaskin .3. The new model for 2023-24 maintains its ultra-low bow design but now features a refined drag flick groove. This enhancement provides players with improved playability without sacrificing the drag flick power that the stick offers.
The Osaka Pro Tour 100 Low Bow is the creme de la creme of the Osaka Hockey range. Available in a range of different bows, it’s the Low Bow that is our favorite.
Constructed of 98% Japanese Carbon fibre, wrapped together in twenty-two layers creates a seriously powerful stick!
Starting at the bottom, you’ll find a maxi-head leading up into quite an aggressive profile. With the maximum bow profile being 200mm from the head with a maximal height of 24mm. Continuing up, the soft-touch grip that comes standard on the Osaka Pro Tour 100 range is superb. The chamois style feel is thanks to the Vibrastop foam layer underneath. We found from testing the stick that it is comfortable on the hand, so you don’t need to modify it with additional grips, like many of the leading brands.
Now, how does the Osaka Pro Tour 100 hockey stick perform? Most noticeable is how the soft-touch grip dampens the shocks from tackles and miss-hits. I found the stick to be well balanced with quite a large sweet spot. The low bow makes it easy to lift the ball, perfect for shooting at goal. For tighter play, the feedback while dribbling gives you confidence. I found my reverse edge tomahawk was spot on every time thanks to a large sweet spot.
While the power transfer on slap shots was impressive, I did find it hard to keep the ball planted. A problem well and truly made up for by the extra confidence you’ll have during aerials, slap hitting, and drag flicking.
While this is not an entry-level hockey stick, if you want to give yourself an advantage, the Osaka Pro Tour 100 range will have your teammates wondering what hockey camp you went to over the offseason!
The STX HPR 901 boasts an elite player design for the versatile player.
With its maxi head, balanced bow shape this stick could be enjoyed by a defender or a forward. The maxi head offers more consistency in the take and the shot while the balanced bow supports upright play. I could see either a forward or a defender happily using the HPR901.
STX is big on anti-vibration and the HPR 901 is comfortable with Countervail Vibration technology. A power core system in the toe is meant to add more power, and I can agree with that, though it also has a light toe feel with a thin design, which makes it feel nimble when slapping or hitting a ball.
The HPR 901 is a top-end 90 percent carbon stick.
There’s no room for a budget if you want the best.
Launched in late 2020 in the UK, Rival Hockey are producing some quality sticks. The Striker Pro has swung into our list of the Best Field Hockey Sticks for 2021.
Constructed with 95% Japanese carbon fibre and 5% Kevlar, the power from this stick is incredible. For those that like to launch some big hits, you won’t be disappointed. The high carbon content does make it quite stiff, but we got used to this during testing, with the power and accuracy far outweighing any stiffness.
Featuring GripX technology, which adds a unique roughness to the head of the stick. Designed to help control the ball, this actually works! You’ll find it’s a bit sticky at first, but improves to be a fantastic feature once you wear it in.
Prominent Features –
- 95% Carbon Fibre + 5% Kelvar
- Weighing in at 545g
- Low Bow
- 24.5mm curve with a 200mm bow point
- GripX playing surface
- Thick Edge Hitting Zone for Power and Reverse Hitting
The Striker Pro is available in two colours – Black and Gold, or Blue and Silver. With their matt finish, they really look the part!
Evolving from a cult classic stick – the Adidas DF24 Kromaskin – left very big shoes to fill. In my opinion, although not better in all aspects, the Chaosfury is one of the best power sticks that Adidas produces.
Wrapped in a full Kromaskin carbon fiber layer adapted from Formula 1 technology, the Adidas Chaosfury Kromaskin .1 delivers powerful shots with ease.
New for 2023/24 is the striking dark blue chequered pattern, a change from the previous gold design.
Having spent some time testing this stick, I found it was great for tomahawk shots, strong reverse edge hits, and excellent support for 3D skills. However, I did find that the stick required some time to get used to, due to its initially muted first touch. Once I adjusted to it, the stick performed amazingly.
Another of my favorite advanced sticks on the market is the Catalyst LX1 Field Hockey Stick. Weighing in at 528g, this low-bow stick is available in 3 sizes, from 36.5″ to 38.5″. The slim head makes it ideal for 3D skills and lifting the ball. While the grooved shaft guides the ball to the head for powerful drag flicks.
What stood out the most for me was the power behind this stick. So much so that it will take a couple of games to master it. Once you do, however, you won’t look back.
Prominent features
- 95% Japanese Carbon Fibre (the other 5% contains a unique composition of Kevlar or Aramid & Fibreglass)
- 3K twill (3,000 carbon filaments). This diagonal pattern uses standard 4×4 weave to increase pliability meaning there are fewer stress points and more stability in your stick
- Low Bow shape with concave face to restrict ball movement during drag-flick and aerial movements. This stops the ball from moving up and down the stick during the motion meaning all the power goes through the ball
For those looking for the best drag-flicking stick on the market, look no further. You’ll own those penalty shootouts!
STX Field Hockey iX 901 Indoor Stick is an advanced stick designed especially for Indoor Hockey. Constructed with 90% carbon, this stick is ultra-light yet incredibly strong.
Featuring an extreme low bow, as seen above, the STX iX901 is perfect for getting underneath the ball. Well suited for those who want to master their 3D, aerial and drag-flicking skills.
Prominent features
- Lightweight construction
- 90% carbon design
- Ultra-low bow shape
This stick offers top range performance at a competitive price. That’s why it makes my list. With 70% carbon and 30% Kevlar the stick is strong. Its mid bow shape makes it versatile and usable for all positions. The maxi head makes it more consistent in the take and the shot while being useful for juniors, beginners, or more advanced players.
Dual-core construction with THZ protection is designed for durability and making sure the power stays through the ball. The Tomahawk Zone provides stiff reinforcement in the area of the stick used for tomahawks.
The silica surface on the toe helps reduce the spin of the ball while providing more grip on the ball. The Kevlar composite makes the V8 stiff and that leads to more power and a powerful feel. You will find top Australian players like Casey Slabowski using the Mazon, and for good reason!
Used by golden girl Casey Sablowski *For UK/EU*
Another great stick from Mazon is the Black Magic Hook. The distinct hook-shaped head is ideal for reverse stick and trapping skills. Built with similar features to the V8, you can count on the hook to provide excellent hitting power.
Hockey sticks don’t come more durable than those made with a substance that’s 200 times stronger than steel, namely graphene. The Grays GR8000 is made with exactly that. Then there’s the addition of the hi-tech composite Aramid.
Aramid/Kevlar has superb impact absorption and durability so it is useful for using on high impact points such as stick edges and faces. A Low Backhand Zone provides greater consistency when reverse hitting.
Apart from durability, the mid bow, with a 24.75 mm shaft peak, and curve around the head of 300 mm offers a gentle bow that will offer easier consistency in passes. Along with when hitting and controlling the ball.
With the thicker reverse edge for backhand control, the GR8000 will allow you to reach the peak of your powers. Forwards will know they’re in for a tough game when they see the livery of an opposing defender’s GR8000. In short, it’s an excellent choice for advanced defenders looking for a hockey stick.
Updated in 2023, this TK One Plus Silver Field Hockey stick lays claim to having an extra late bow. The 25mm bow is placed well down the stick, close to the hook making it ideal for drag-flicks. This is quite a high-tech field hockey stick, constructed of a high-performance tri-axial weave called Ballistix. Along with an Integrated Dampening System which converts kinetic energy into heat to absorb vibrations.
Weighing in at a super light 510g, this is a drag-flicking weapon! Thanks to its 80% Carbon and 15% Glass composition, the TK One Plus Silver is a great option in the mid-price range.
The Osaka Custom Pro Field Hockey stick is a top-of-the-line stick designed for advanced and professional players. Being customizable, it offers a perfect blend of power, control, and precision, making it ideal for players who want to perform at their best on the field.
I was blown away by the extent of customization that is possible. You can create a unique, one-off masterpiece that can even have your name, country, and club on it!
You can customize the following parameters –
- Carbon Content – 100% or 75%
- Length – 35.5″ through to 38.5″
- Weight – 530g to 570g
- Matte or Gloss finish
- Choose the color of every minute detail on the stick
- Including the grip and cap
- Bow Type – from Low Bow through to Pro Bow
The Osaka Custom Pro field hockey stick is an excellent choice for advanced and professional players who want to perform at their best on the field. With its versatile customization options, this stick is sure to help players take their game to the next level.
With the PrePreg Enhanced Zone, it’s good to know your stick has reverse play benefits; Gray, the well-established brand has added the feature to improve the performance of the low backhand area, strengthening play. The dynabow style means the shape sits between a low bow and mid bow so it’s at home with 3D skills as well as drag flicks. Defenders who like to employ a few dribbling skills may even like this top stick while forwards will benefit from the more predictable gentle shape in tighter spots.
Best Beginner Field Hockey Sticks priced between $50-$150
I have been using the Grays GX2000 field hockey stick for a few weeks now, and I am really impressed with it. It is lightweight, durable, and balanced, making it easy to control and generate power.
Prominent Features –
- Dynabow shape for all round play
- Micro head design for 3D skills
- Available in junior and adult sizes from 32″ to 37.5″
- 2023/24 range comes in Coral/Mint or Red
The GRAYS GX2000 touch is smooth as advertised, but it still packs a punch! It’s spot-on for those moving up from beginner level. And hey, it’s a looker too!
The STX RX 101 field hockey stick offers excellent value for beginners and those transitioning to intermediate-level play. Its affordable price point allows aspiring players to experience the benefits of a high-quality stick without breaking the bank. The stick’s 10% carbon composition provides a glimpse into the performance characteristics of more advanced models, giving new players a taste of what’s possible.
Prominent Features –
- Weighs in at 540g
- Maxi head with 24mm low-bow design.
- Available in sizes from 34″ to 37″
- Constructed of 10% Carbon and 90% Fiberglass
- Slightly stiffer than the 50 style sticks
Bear in mind that although the STX RX 101 looks great, it is susceptible to chipping if treated too rough.
This stick is a good multi-purpose option allowing drag-flicks, and sweep-hitting while still having enough power for some hard-hitting shots. Overall, this is a decent stick for a relatively affordable price.
Firstly, I love the finish of this stick. Its charcoal, black and gray tones with a glossy head is a piece of art in itself.
Notwithstanding the top tier look, the Stallion HPR 101 is an ideal beginner’s hockey stick yet could be used without problems in club hockey. Quite a lot of stick for 50 GBP. The balanced and gentle bow allows for upright play so forwards who like to twist and weave in tight spots will like its design.
At 580 g it won’t pull any punches in the hard tackle while 5% Kevlar gives it good stiffness and durability.
With carbon, Kevlar, and fiberglass composite offering responsiveness power, and strength. It’s, without doubt, one of the best value sticks on the market. The maxi toe has a nice wide surface area. For the difference in the price of a few pizzas, it certainly is a worthy upgrade on a wooden stick.
The TK Total 3.6 Field Hockey stick dribbles into my top ten field hockey stick reviews as the best value, affordable stick. At around the $75 mark, it represents great value for money. Its composition is made from fiberglass and Kevlar allowing for a soft touch, great for receptions and softening vibrations so you won’t feel uncomfortable hitting the ball.
Its maxi toe has become the standard and could be used in any position on the field. With its 25 mm apex moved nearer the toe it’s almost a low bow and a good all-round stick for beginners or more advanced players. At 550 grams it’s heavier than some more expensive models, though on the upside it feels solid in the tackle and powerful when taking a shot.
You can read the full review of the best sticks for defenders here…
You’ll find this great budget stick for an incredible entry-level price.
You can get a chamois grip or a gel grip with this popular Aussie stick. I used the chamois style and was impressed with its softness.
The extremely low bow with an apex of 24.75 is ideal for 3D skills and it feels nimble and light. It has a comfortable maxi toe and vibrations are dampened with the Soft-touch compound. The price is good for an advanced stick!
This Kookaburra Energy Field stick lives up to its name. Constructed with 10% carbon and 90% fiberglass provides decent power, yet still allowing good ball control. With a maxi head and 25mm medium-bow design, this stick is a good multi-purpose option allowing drag-flicking, sweep hitting while still enough power for some hard-hitting.
Its greater surface area around the shaft gives it a responsive feel. Overall, this is a decent stick for a relatively affordable price.
Best Junior Field Hockey Sticks of 2023
Another great stick from the team at Osaka Hockey is the Vision GF. Designed as an entry-level stick for kids, this is one of my favorite junior sticks on the market in 2023. I love the French navy, however it comes in 8 funky color options!
With its all-round shape and thinner handle for smaller hands, your kids will take like a horse to water to this stick. The maximum bow point lies at 300mm from the head with a maximal height of 17mm. This is an ideal stick for slap passes while being a perfect platform into a higher-budget stick as their game progresses.
Constructed of
- 95% Fibre Glass
- 3% Kevlar Cross reinforcement
- 2% Aramid Backhand Blade reinforcement
Available in a range of sizes from 28″ to 34″ which in real-life terms, means children from 107cm to 152cm tall.
Osaka currently has these sticks on sale with 20% off NOW!
Made with graphene, the GR4000 Dynabow is most probably the best junior stick available for the serious junior. The Dynabow has a narrow midsection for smaller hands, while the composite features hi-tech graphene which stiffens the stick (usually reserved for Grays marquee field hockey sticks) offering superior durability.
This stick is designed for a good, light feel to hone control skills and 3D skills.
The midi/micro head allows for nimble play, switching to reverse play and back. The dynabow is somewhere between a low bow and mid bow allowing for 3-D skills while also being more predictable than a low bow.
The GR4000’s silver style gives the stick a top dollar look and surely any parent investing in this stick will see a beaming face looking back up at them.
This advanced beginner’s stick is affordable at the sub $100 mark. It has a powerful hit due to the Kevlar and carbon construction. It’s worth noting the stick is 610 g which is the heaviest stick on this list. Is that a bad thing? The weightiness isn’t noticed. The weight assists powerful plays and strikes.
The gentle 20 mm bow type makes the stick an all-rounder and a good stick to learn with. The fiberglass and Kevlar should make this stick last a few seasons. The maxi head has a large surface area good for the take and Kevlar weave dampens vibrations. All said the Grays GX1000 is a powerhouse stick to give assurance to defenders, while helping midfielders and forwards hone their skills at a price that’s a steal.
Considerations when choosing the Best Field Hockey Stick for 2023
Position and skill level
A defender will often opt for a flatter bow-shaped stick which is more predictable for trapping and clearing the ball. If you’re a forward player you’ll need a more competitive stick that will be designed to be more nimble and help with 3D skills. While a midfielder may often opt for an all-rounder, perhaps with reverse play features, adapted for dribbling. A beginner’s stick will be more affordable, designed to help the player learn control plus basic skills.
The keyword being ‘often‘. In choosing the best hockey stick; the final decision is yours. Choose the right design for your skills, the shape you’re most comfortable playing with, and your budget. For example, some forwards prefer a flatter bow shape because they prefer a more predictable shape when in an advanced tight spot which goes against normal advice found on many review sites.
- Which position do you play?
- What standard have you reached?
- What is your budget?
These are a few important factors that must be considered before buying your field hockey stick. However, your status is important too: are you a junior player who is a beginner, or are you already skilled at the game (with aspirations to progress further and play at a high level)?
Perhaps you’re an adult novice who wants a starter stick? Or you may be a skilled adult looking for a stick that will enhance your skills and help progress your game at a club level.
Maybe you have found your ideal position either as a defender, midfielder, or forward and you are looking for a stick to enhance the skills that you need for that position. We will address the design modifications manufacturers have built to enhance those exact skills.
Stick Length
Of great importance is the length of the stick. Buy a stick that’s too long and your close control and your 3D skills will be hampered. Buy a stick that’s too short and it could lead to long term back problems. Indeed, the length of your stick can be the deciding factor in helping complete an accurate pass or making a successful steal and not undercutting the shot. However, it’s a myth that forwards play with shorter sticks.
With a stick that’s too long, you can cause long term damage to your stick by continuously scuffing the toe and causing cracks to the head.
We have created our field hockey size guide to help you choose…
Field Hockey Bow Guide
Bows are important to consider when buying a hockey stick. They are as important as the tires of a racing car, or the shape of a golf club. Hockey stick bows are like violin bows. You can imagine a bow for a violin where the apex is designed to be in the middle.
For field hockey, the curve of the bow can be gentle and the apex directly in the middle, which suits players who are looking for more control and predictability or are learning the game. The straighter stick is sometimes preferred by forwards who like the predictability of the shape in tight spots.
The standard shape is best suited for defenders, though some forwards like the flatter design for more upright play. Ultra bows and mid bows fall into this category.
Meanwhile, forwards will often look for a low bow shape with the apex nearer the toe – good for 3D skills, scooping, and drag flicking capabilities from penalty corners.
Bow Jargon Buster:
- Probow-Xtreme Composite Hockey Sticks. Probow Xtreme is a low bow shape (Grays low bows have contoured faces combined with reshaped LBZ’s for backhand hits).
- Probow Composite Hockey Stick. The Probow shape is a modern low bow designed for drag flicking and 3D skills. The straighter rear profile allows more consistency on reverse stick passes and shots.
- Jumbow is a traditional low bow that is used by many top international players. A Jumbow is a flat-faced low bow stick.
- Dynabow Hockey Sticks: The Dynabow shaft profile is designed for the all-rounder hockey player, and is excellent for stick handling and passing consistency. It sits between a mid bow and a low bow – good for drag flicks but more of an all-round shape.
- Mid bow Hockey Sticks. Are medium curved bows that are good all-round shapes, helping to provide some lift. In my opinion the best for defenders.
- Ultrabow Hockey Sticks. The high bow curve is good for defenders and beginners. Ultrabow is a straighter shape and is designed specifically to help with learning
Head Size and Shapes: Midi vs Maxi
Manufacturers largely stick with 2 well-known head shapes, despite sometimes branding them with their own names – the maxi and the midi.
Many experts believe midi heads are better for forwards and maxi heads are more suited for defenders. We’ve reviewed the issue, however, and found that many forwards like maxi heads for their larger sweet spots which are good for receiving and striking power shots and for reverse stick play. A midi head offers more speed and nimbleness while dribbling.
The new shapes are designed to suit certain hockey players’ styles and the roles they take in their playing positions. A slightly more curved head allows for a better take of the ball while an indent in the space between the shaft and the head of the hockey stick is designed to help drag flicking or aerial passes upfield.
Maxi Head
The maxi head is probably used in over 90% of sticks today. As the Maxi head is so dominant, manufacturers have turned to developing additional features to aid players such as larger reverse areas, concave head profiles for drag flicking, and further bow development.
Developers have created an indented, or concave head, running from the toe to the top of the head which is normally available with a low bow profile stick. This development is aimed at players who like to drag-flick as the ball can flow through the channel for greater accuracy and speed.
An unintended design benefit of the Maxi provided several other benefits. Because the head shape of the Maxi has the largest allowed surface area the ‘sweet spot’ is enlarged making harder shots and passes more successful.
Midi Head
This small head saw the demise of the ultra-short head in 1986. What the midi gives up in control it gains in agility.
Midi heads are preferred by players who like a really quick stick, since it is shorter than the hook head and Maxi head when dribbling, it’s easier and quicker to flip the head from forehand to backhand and vice versa. This shape is best suited to forwards who have a high skill level.
Which head is best will be debated at hockey clubs up and down the country, though each has benefits for different reasons. If you are of a very high skill level you may love the midi for its nimbleness, though the maxi is no deadweight. With the best hockey stick manufacturers investing so much into modifying the maxi year after year they’re betting heavily on its popularity, and are confident in its design as a top head. If not the best design for field hockey sticks.
Here are a few modifications we reviewed and noted by popular manufacturers:
TK CWT 2 / Kookaburra Skill Zone technologies use the benefits of the concave design but on a reduced amount of the stick so the normal player can have greater ball control and a more consistent rebound/stopping ability while playing.
Grays Scoop Profile uses a 4 mm indentation around the head for greater control on the ball, however, it leaves a flat central playing surface. On the downside when hitting from an upright position it’s easy to lose control, of the ball unless you have a high skill level. The large surface area will give more chance of making the strike.
“ Field hockey is my strongest sport, and if I lose a game, I take a long, hot bath and moan about it. ” Emma Watson.
You don’t need to be a mathematician to know that a heavier stick will be more powerful in the shot and tackle and distance in your hits which is ideal for clearing balls and passing. Often preferred by no-nonsense defenders a heavier stick can be a real asset to a defender. For forwards who like to dribble and execute tricky skills a more nimble, lightweight stick is often the sporting instrument of choice.
Field hockey sticks range from about 515 g to about 680 g in weight. This typically depends on personal preference.
Composition and Weight of Field Hockey Sticks
With the emergence of artificial turf wooden sticks were largely phased out. With full modern composite sticks, the structural integrity is superior, can be controlled with more predictable results. Wooden sticks would hold water and heads would often bloat and crack. Modern tech formulations have made the composite field hockey sticks more predictable in quality.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass/fiberglass, (depending on which side of the pond you live in) adds strength, durability, and better handling to a hockey stick. These are less rigid than carbon-heavy sticks making them more forgiving.
Fiberglass is similar to carbon but found in entry-level sticks at lower prices.
Carbon: Adds stiffness to the stick. The higher the carbon percentage the more powerful your hits will be.
A stick with less carbon will improve control and make trapping easier. Sticks with higher levels of carbon tend to be more expensive.
Graphene: Is the latest technological advance now used in hockey sticks. Graphene is more than 200 times stronger than steel but is also very flexible. Manufacturers claim such the addition of graphene, makes their sticks the most lightweight, durable, and the most responsive sticks yet.
Currently, graphene is only found in the top of the range sticks.
Kevlar/Aramid: Kevlar is so strong it’s used to make bulletproof vests. Kevlar adds durability to the stick and absorbs vibrations sent through the stick when striking and receiving balls.
Conclusion
I always recommend for advanced players to firstly consider your position. While those newer to the game are best to opt for a more versatile stick. Size certainly is important for a field hockey stick, so take some time to get that right. If the stick is too long it will impinge on your dribbling skills and ultimately you will scuff the toe. While if your new stick is too short you’ll end up bending your back and costing yourself more in physio bills than the price of a new Kromaskin! Normally i’d say here that the top brands have experience in creating sticks that last, so I’d stick with them. However, this year the quality of the new players in the stick market are too good to ignore. Combine that with their impressive money back guarentees, and you will not be disappointed if taking a punt with something different.
Play safe and enjoy.
by Eddie G, your field hockey enthusiast.
Eddie G
Eddie G, lives and breathes field hockey. In fact, he would go as far to say that he is a bit of a field hockey nut. He loves to research the latest trends and happenings in the game, so that he can stay ahead of the competition. While not so much on the pitch these days, Eddie enjoys reading up on the latest news and developments in the world of field hockey.
Eddie G
Eddie G, lives and breathes field hockey. In fact, he would go as far to say that he is a bit of a field hockey nut. He loves to research the latest trends and happenings in the game, so that he can stay ahead of the competition. While not so much on the pitch these days, Eddie enjoys reading up on the latest news and developments in the world of field hockey.
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The post Best Field Hockey Sticks | Buyers Guide 2023 appeared first on Hockey Hooked.
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