Indoor Vs Outdoor Field Hockey Stick
Field hockey sticks, whether indoor or outdoor, are the most crucial piece of equipment for any field hockey player. Choosing the right field hockey stick can make a huge difference in your performance on the field. However, choosing between an indoor and outdoor field hockey stick can be quite overwhelming for a player new to the sport.
This article will break down the differences between indoor and outdoor field hockey sticks, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and help you make an informed decision on which stick to choose.
Indoor Field Hockey Stick
An indoor field hockey stick is specially designed for indoor hockey. It is a shorter stick with a smaller blade, usually about 36 inches long, and the blade is also smaller in surface area. The head of the stick is also thinner, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
The indoor field hockey stick is designed for speed, quick turns, and better ball control on the hard, smooth indoor playing surface. Since the game is played on a smaller court, the shorter length of the stick is ideal for tight spaces and quick movements.
Another important characteristic of an indoor field hockey stick is its weight. Indoor hockey sticks are generally lighter than outdoor sticks for better control and quick movements.
However, the smaller size of the indoor field hockey stick makes it less suitable for outdoor play. The smaller blade and thinner head make it more challenging to hit the ball effectively on grass or turf, reducing the power of the shot and the ability to handle the ball effectively.
Outdoor Field Hockey Stick
An outdoor field hockey stick is designed for play on grass or turf. Unlike indoor sticks, outdoor sticks are longer, usually between 36 and 38 inches, and have a larger blade with a greater surface area. This allows for more ball control, a stronger shot, and better passes on the grass or turf playing surface.
The larger size and weight of outdoor field hockey sticks make it easier to generate power for longer passes and stronger shots. The added length also makes it easier to steal the ball from opponents and tackle effectively.
However, the added weight and size of outdoor sticks can make it more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or make quick turns. The uneven surface of grass or turf can also make it more difficult to control the ball with an outdoor stick, especially for players new to the sport.
Conclusion
Choosing between an indoor and outdoor field hockey stick is a matter of personal preference and the type of playing surface on which you will be playing the game. If you are playing indoor hockey, it is best to use a shorter, lighter indoor stick for better control and maneuverability. On the other hand, outdoor field hockey requires a longer, heavier outdoor stick for better power and ball control on grass or turf.
It is important to note that field hockey sticks come in varying levels of stiffness and flexibility, which can also impact your performance on the field. When selecting a stick, experiment with different lengths, weights, and flex levels to find the one that suits your style of play best.
So whether you're playing indoor or outdoor field hockey, make sure you choose the right stick that will help you make the most of your game!
