Best Field Hockey Sticks – Buyer’s Guide

There are many varieties and brands of best field hockey sticks to choose from when buying a stick online. Although you might think that nothing could be simpler than a wooden stick for batting a ball around, subtle shifts in stick design make all the difference in giving you a competitive advantage.

Do you prefer to keep the ball exactly where you move your stick, or are you continually juggling the ball, zig-zagging in and out, passing it over and above your opponent’s stick, keeping it always out of your reach? Are you a defender, needing to make long shots on defense, or the offense, preferring maneuverability?

Best field hockey sticks to buy in January 2023

In this article, we review ten of our top choices for field hockey sticks, going over the key components that will help give you the edge to up your game. We’ll consider best field hockey sticks for2023.

Let’s talk about some of the best options out there, looking at ten field hockey sticks that might be ideal for your specific field hockey position and need.

Brand Model	Carbon, %	Fiberglass, %	Aramid, %	Weight, grams	Bow Type, mm
Mazon Black Magic (Editor’s Choice)	92	0	8	550	20	[amazon fields="B011WIVAOS" value="button"]
Grays GX1000 Composite Stick	60	20	20	545	24	[amazon fields="B01HDNXFQ2" value="button"]
Grays Surf 500	35	50	15	560	20	[amazon fields="B006B2F2TA" value="button"]
Grays Surf Junior	35	50	15	560	20	[amazon fields="B072JW2FK9" value="button"]
Grays GX6000	50	40	10	610	20	[amazon fields="B00LNDIKNM" value="button"]
TK Total 1.3 Innovate	100	0	0	500	25	[amazon fields="B07CWN2HCX" value="button"]
TK Platinum 1 Deluxe	100	0	0	520	25	[amazon fields="B01JDDG706" value="button"]
Grays GX750	10	80	10	570	20	[amazon fields="B0042C22BC" value="button"]
Cranbarry Breakaway	0	100	0	560	20	[amazon fields="B004CJQO0K" value="button"]
TK Synergy Deluxe	60	30	10	550	25	[amazon fields="B0744P32MP" value="button"]

1. Best Overall Field Hockey Stick: [amazon link=”B011WIVAOS” title=”Mazon Black Magic”]

This stick is designed for quick flicking, utilizing a “traction control zone” on the surface of the toe in order to give you the control and tapping ability you need.

Ideal for players who need close ball-handling abilities, this stick lets you pick up the ball easily to easily flick it over your opponent’s stick, passing it out of their reach.

This stick is ideal for technical players in the forward position looking to improve their ball-handling abilities.

Features

• Length: Available in 36.5 and 37.5 inch sticks
• Weight: Approximately 505 to 550 grams
• Composition: 92% Carbon, 5% Kevlar, 3% Zylon
• Bow Type: Standard Bow (20 mm)

[amazon box=”B011WIVAOS”]

1b. Best stick for advanced players: [amazon link=”B01HDNXFQ2″ title=”Grays GX1000 Composite”]

This is a great choice for an aggressive player, giving you a good balance of elasticity and durability.

If you are an intermediate to advanced player, you might consider this as a good way to transition from mastering the fundamentals into more technical play.

Features

• Length: Ranges from 35.5 to 37.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 545 grams
• Composition: 20% Fiberglass, 60% Carbon, 20% Kevlar
• Bow Type: Late Bow (24mm)

[amazon box=”B01HDNXFQ2″]

2. Best stick for beginners: [amazon link=”B006B2F2TA” title=”Grays Surf 500″]

The Grays Surf 500 offers you a mostly fiberglass model, ideal for beginning players who need a lightweight stick for learning the ropes.

Fiberglass means added durability, but will lack the power of a carbon-based stick. If you are an adult-sized player still mastering the fundamentals, you might consider using the Grays Surf 500.

Features

• Length: available in 24 to 36 inches
• Weight: Approximately 560 grams
• Composition: 35% Carbon, 15% Kevlar, 50% Fiberglass
• Bow Type: Standard
• Toe Shape: Maxi

[amazon box=”B006B2F2TA”]

3. Best junior stick: [amazon link=”B01GGQB5LY” title=”Grays Surf Junior”]

The 2017 version of Grays Surf 500, this model offers an updated version of the Surf 500 for 2017.

The only significant change between this and previous models are aesthetic. Like the earlier model, the Grays Surf 500 works well as a beginner’s stick.

Features

• Length: available in 24 to 36 inches
• Weight: Approximately 560 grams
• Composition: 35% Carbon, 15% Kevlar, 50% Fiberglass
• Bow Type: Standard
• Toe Shape: Maxi

[amazon box=”B01GGQB5LY”]

4. Best stick for defenders [amazon link=”B00LNDIKNM” title=”Grays GX6000″]

If you are an intermediate to elite level player, you might consider using the Grays GX6000.

The scoop feature adds some extra help for cradling the ball, letting you pick it up and flick it, making the ball more maneuverable and aerials easier.

Features

• Length: 35 to 38 inches
• Weight: comes in medium (610 grams) and light (553 grams)
• Composition: 50% Carbon, 40% Fiberglass, 10% Aramid
• Bow Type: Standard (20mm)
• Shape of Toe: Maxi
• Adds a scoop feature to the toe

[amazon box=”B00LNDIKNM”]

5. Best stick for forwards: [amazon link=”B07CWN2HCX” title=”TK Total 1.3 Innovate Field Hockey Stick”]

The TK Total 1.3 Innovate offers experienced players a 100% carbon option and an extremely late bow. This stick is ideal for an elite player. The unique feature of the TK Total 1.3 Innovate Field Hockey Stick is the unique carbon braiding system, which incorporates a seamless carbon structure into the stick for maximum strength and responsiveness.

Best 100% Carbon Field Hockey Stick

It will significantly increase your ball control and handling, and is designed for those who have gone far beyond mastering the fundamentals and are looking for that last leg of competitive edge.

Features

• Length: Comes in either 36.5 or 37.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 500 grams
• Composition: 100% Carbon
• Bow Type: Extremely Late Bow (25mm)
• Adds a “center sweet spot” for direct transmission of ball.

[amazon box=”B07CWN2HCX”]

6. [amazon link=”B01JDDG706″ title=”TK Platinum 1 Deluxe – Excellent ball control”]

The TK Platinum 1 Deluxe has the lowest possible placement of the bow within regulations, making it ideal for flicking the ball into the air. This stick is also 100% carbon, making it ideal for elite or high level players.

If you are an experienced player looking to increase the power of your shots and your ability to control and pass the ball, you might consider looking into the TK Platinum 1 Deluxe.

Features

• Length: Comes in either 36.5 or 37.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 520 grams
• Composition: 100% Carbon
• Bow Type: Extremely Late Bow (25mm)
• Three-cell carbon technology adds power, control, and drag flicking.
• Head surface has traction coating for better handling

[amazon box=”B01JDDG706″]

7. Good for youth: [amazon link=”B072JW2FK9″ title=”Grays GX750″]

This model is suitable for younger players, coming in a variety of youth and junior sizes.

This model is made of mulberry wood wrapped in fiberglass, making it feel more natural, while keeping the strength of a fiberglass coating. The wood makes it slightly less durable than a pure fiberglass model.

Features

• Length: Available in 35 to 38 inches
• Weight: Medium (570 grams)
• Composition: 10% Carbon, 10% Aramid, 80% fiberglass.
• Bow Type: Standard bow (20mm)
• Toe Shape: Maxi

8. Best Cheap Stick: Cranbarry Breakaway

The Cranbarry Breakaway is another great option for beginner to intermediate players. It’s made of 100% fiberglass, which means you will be able to learn to move the ball without the excess elasticity of a carbon stick.

This stick provides the perfect tool for mastering the fundamentals. The fiberglass provides less vibration, which means the ball will be bouncing off your stick less.

Although such vibration can be utilized by advanced or elite players, you need to master the fundamentals using a fiberglass stick before moving on to a more responsive stick.

Features

• Length: ranges from 34 to 37 inches
• Weight: Approximately 560 grams
• Composition: 100% Fiberglass
• Bow Type: Standard
• Toe Shape: Maxi

9. TK Synergy – For learning technical maneuvers

The TK Synergy 3 Deluxe is recommended for advanced players looking to move up into the elite category. These boast a 60% carbon content, letting you get used to the added power without making you commit to the full 100%.

Like the previous models, the TK Synergy 3 Deluxe incorporates the extremely late 25mm bow, letting you get the edge for those fancy maneuvers that decide the difference between advanced and merely mediocre play.

If you are looking to push your game to the next level, the TK Synergy 3 Deluxe will help you develop that last leg of ability.

Features

• Length: Comes in 35.5, 36.5 or 37.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 550 grams
• Composition: 60% Carbon, 30% Fiberglass, 10% Aramid
• Bow Type: Extremely Late Bow (25mm)
• Liquid Polymers in stick’s fiber matrix for durability.

10. Dragon Nero

Powerful, lightweight and perfectly balanced, Nero from the Ignite Series is one of the most hard-hitting sticks you’ll find on the market today. Utilizing world leading technology, its AeroCarbon bonding significantly increases tensile strength, whilst its precision engineered I-Core combines both power and weight saving advancements never seen before.

Its carbon composition and layup are for the advanced hockey player. Packing a full 100% carbon, it offers uncompromised, near unmeasurable power and stiffness. With an extreme low bow mould of 205mm, advanced skills like 3D, drag flicks, and aerials far easier to execute.

Nero’s technological advancements push the boundaries of stick manufacturing – putting it at the forefront of stick fabrication. It has been specifically developed for the advanced hockey player, who demands nothing less than the best in class.

11. Dragon Fury – Perfect for intermediate players

The Dragon Fury is a lovely stick to use. The 75% carbon blend superbly brings together stiffness and flexibility to deliver the optimal combination of power and versatility. With the extreme low bow, you’ll be able to pull off the advanced aspects of hockey with ease (3D, aerials, and drag flicks).

This stick is ideally suited for those who are more suited to touch and control rather than extreme power. And, Dragon’s I-core technology has enabled the stick manufacturing process to reduce stick weight, while retaining a superior aspect of speed for your shots.

Overall, the Dragon Fury is an exceptional stick. Its balance and composition has been brought together succinctly whilst maintaining an advanced degree of power and versatility. This stick really packs a punch on our wow-factor making it one of the best all-rounders available on the market today.

Features

• Length: Ranges from 35.5 to 37.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 515-530 grams (Superlight)
• Composition: 75% Carbon,
• Bow Type: Extreme lowbow
• TBow height: 24.75mm
• Bow position: 205mm

12. Dragon Pulse – A fantastic all rounder

Flexible, dynamic and forgiving, Pulse from the Ignite Series has been perfectly tuned for the next generation of first-class hockey players.

Similar to the other Ignite series, Pulse encompasses a significant number of technological advancements, and its blend of 55% carbon provides the optimum level of flexibility and feedback.

Pulse also has a low bow mould of 205mm, making it easier to learn the more advanced aspects of the game.

Pulse’s AeroCarbon bonding significantly increases tensile strength making it more durable and longer-lasting on sand-based astroturfs. Its precision-engineered I-Core combines a perfect blend of power and weight to deliver stick capabilities never seen before. With its face touch compound – for improved touch control, and a foam loaded grip to reduce vibrations, gives it a great all-round feel.

Pulse has been finely tuned for the progressing hockey player who is looks for a stick that can perform at every level.

Frequently Asked Questions

[amazon box=”B07T323M6M”] [amazon box=”B07Z26JLRN”] [amazon box=”B00DOE0D4W”]

What Features Should I Consider in a Field Hockey Stick?

When choosing a field hockey stick, make sure you pick a stick that matches your position, play style, and experience. It’s important for beginners to choose a stick that will help you lean how to control, dribble, and balance the ball. On the other hand, if you are looking to use aerials, you might consider a stick specifically designed to give you some extra lift in your shot. Typically, you will be doing aerials on offense, although some defensive players have also been known to use aerials.

If you are on offense, you should maximize your capacity to make precise and agile movements.

Check the dribbling and hitting of the ball to get a feel for your new stick. Make sure it gives you the kind of control you prefer.

Weight

When choosing the weight of your field hockey stick, consider your position and level of play. There are three different weight categories of sticks:

• Light (under 540 grams) – For experienced offensive players. Designed for quick dribbling, moving the puck downfield, and agility. Best for forwards.
• Light to Medium (around 540-560 grams) – Used by midfielders and forwards, also offers quick stick work and agility.
• Heavy (over 560 grams) – Heavy sticks offer more hitting power, letting you drive the ball further downfield. Such sticks are most suitable for a defensive position.

Composition

Field hockey sticks are primarily made from three different types of material: carbon, fiberglass, and aramid. The material affects the weight of your stick, but you should also consider its elasticity. If your stick is a weaker material, it will absorb more of the force of impact when driving a ball, thus giving you a somewhat weaker power.

Let’s review each of the major types:

• Carbon: Material gives you strength and hitting power. Recommended for advanced players. A field hockey stick with more than 90% carbon will be both durable and light. Carbon content often adds to the price of field hockey sticks. However, the higher carbon content will add extra power when you hit or sweep the ball at the loss of some control level. These sticks are more difficult to use, but mastering them will offer a payoff in increased power and strength.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass works best for beginning players, as it’s more durable and easier to control. It also will be much lighter weight, giving you the control necessary for mastering the fundamentals. This material is less expensive, interwoven, and adds to the durability of the stick. These sticks will feel softer and be easier to play with.
• Aramid or Kevlar: Designed to absorb vibrations, strengthening your stick. Aramid or Kevlar is a higher-quality alternative to fiberglass.

If you are a beginner, you should probably start with about 30% carbon. When you reach an intermediate level, you can upgrade to a 30% to 60% level stick. Finally, advanced players can upgrade to a 60% to 100% carbon stick.

What’s the biggest difference between carbon and fiberglass?

Carbon field hockey sticks are more elastic. Upon impact, a carbon-based stick will give a larger equal and opposite reaction to the ball, adding extra momentum to your swing or block. If you are inexperienced, you won’t know how to use this extra momentum effectively. Instead of turning this extra bit of force to your advantage, the carbon fiber stick’s elasticity will throw off your aim.

Once you have mastered ball control, you might consider increasing your output by learning to master the carbon-based field hockey sticks. These will add an extra spring to your shot, and can give you a great competitive advantage.

Bow Type

The bow shape refers to the curvature of the hockey stick, which ranges between 19 and 25mm of depth. What bow type should you choose? It largely depends upon your play style, level of play, and personal preference.

• Standard bow: These offer a straight shape. A standard bow is best for beginners trying to master the fundamentals, as it will make ball control much easier.
• Control, or Mega Bow: These help you perform drag flicks and lifts. By peaking the curvature in the direction of the toe of the stick, the Mega Bow gives you an extra lift in your shots, enabling advanced players to lift the ball more easily for an aerial power shot.
• Late Bow: With the late bow, control is the name of the game. These help you change directions quickly while dribbling, lift the ball quickly for an aerial pass, and flick a quick shot. The late bow peaks right before the toe, helping you get underneath the ball better to lift it.

The more experienced players probably want to get the latest bow possible. For a regulation field hockey stick, this is 25mm. However, a bow this late isn’t recommended for beginners. For experienced or elite players, by contrast, such a bow might give you the competitive advantage you need, letting you lift the ball for quick aerial plays.

Shape of Toe

The main thing to consider when looking at the toe area is the surface area. The various toe configurations offer different advantages at different levels of play. The basic shapes are:

• Shorti: These add agility, precision, and control, useful for the tasks of a forward. These are great for offensive players, who need to keep the ball moving across the field and keep it away from other players.
• Midi: These give you a larger hitting surface, helping you shoot, flick, catch, and pass better. The balance of this shape makes it ideal for beginners, giving you something relatively easy to use for mastering the fundamentals before discovering your own preferences.
• Maxi: These have a large hitting area, letting you quickly drive the ball downfield and block. If you play defense in field hockey, this is the type of toe configuration you want.

Conclusion

When buying an indoor field hockey stick, no single stick offers the unequivocally best option. Instead, you need to choose a field hockey stick that adapts to your needs and play style. As we have seen, the biggest observable difference between sticks is composition. While carbon puts a bit more bounce into the ball, the fiberglass gives you much more accuracy.

If you are an advanced or elite player in a forward position, the 100% carbon TK Total One Carbon Braid 512 or TK Platinum 1 Deluxe offers great 100% carbon choices, as does the Mazon Black Magic Slingshot with its 92% carbon composition.

For intermediate players or beginner players looking for an extra bit of push, you might look into some of the sticks with significantly less carbon, such as the Grays GX6000, TK Synergy 3 Deluxe, Harrow RD8 International Low Bow Tembo, Grays Surf 500, Grays Surf 500 2016.

If you want to cut elasticity completely, you have several heavy fiberglass options, including the 80% fiberglass Grays GX750 and the 100% fiberglass Cranbarry Breakaway.

But most importantly, don’t choose a stick with more elasticity than you control, or you will skip the fundamentals and must relearn them to improve your game.

You can also read about another summer game called croquet. In croquet can be played near the house together with friends.

Ref: http://www.fieldhockeyforum.com/