Stick Guide
How to Select a Field Hockey Stick
Selecting the right field hockey stick involves understanding three key aspects: size, stick composition, and bow type. These elements impact a player’s performance, control, and power on the field.
1. Stick Size
The first step in choosing a stick is selecting the correct size.
Junior sticks range from 28" to 35" and are predominantly made of wood or glass fibre, with smaller handle thicknesses to suit younger players.
Senior sticks start at 36.5", adhering to FIH standards for size, width restrictions, and bow shapes. We offer sticks from 36.5" to 37.5", with some models available in 38.5" for players who prefer a longer reach and greater leverage.
Stick Length Guide: Choosing the Right Size Stick Based on Player Height
| Player Height (Ft) | Player Height (cm) | Stick Length (in) |
| < 4' | < 122 cm | 28" |
| 4' - 4'3" | 122-130 cm | 30" |
| 4'3" - 4'6" | 130-137 cm | 32" |
| 4'6" - 4'9" | 137-145 cm | 34" |
| 4'9" - 5' | 145-152 cm | 35" |
| 5' - 5'11" | 152-180 cm | 36.5" |
| 5'11" - 6'4" | 180-192 cm | 37.5" |
| > 6'4" | > 192 cm | 38" |
2. Stick Composition
The composition of a field hockey stick determines its stiffness, power, durability, and responsiveness. The key component is carbon, which directly impacts energy transfer and hitting power. Sticks also may incorporate aramide, Kevlar, fiberglass, and resin to enhance durability, shock absorption, and overall feel.
Lower carbon sticks offer more flexibility and control, making them ideal for developing players, while higher carbon sticks provide greater stiffness and energy transfer, resulting in harder, faster hits. To improve durability and feel, aramide is added to high-wear areas like the heel to prevent quick wear and reduce vibration, while Kevlar reinforces impact zones for stronger hits. Fiberglass is often used to add forgiveness and shock absorption, while resin helps bond the layers together, ensuring structural integrity.
As players develop in skill and strength, they should gradually transition to higher carbon sticks, increasing shot power, ball speed, and overall performance. Progressing through carbon percentages based on age and stage ensures their stick supports growth, from mastering fundamentals to achieving maximum power and precision. For adults, higher carbon sticks are recommended as they offer greater durability and do not need to be replaced as frequently.
- Beginner Player (Wood / Glass Fibre) – Common in junior sticks, these materials provide maximum flexibility and control, making them ideal for beginners learning basic stick skills. The softer composition reduces vibration, making it easier to handle the ball.
- Developing Player (10-25% Carbon | Low Carbon) – Offers more control and forgiveness, allowing developing players to build confidence while still providing some added stiffness. Ideal for younger players transitioning from junior sticks.
- Intermediate Player (40-85% Carbon | Mid-to-High Range Carbon) – A balance between power and control, making it suitable for players refining their technique. This range provides enough stiffness for powerful hits while still allowing for good touch and control.
- Advanced Player (100% Carbon | Full Carbon) – Provides maximum stiffness, explosive power, energy transfer, and durability. These sticks are best for players who have developed control and precision in their game.
3. Osaka Bow Types
The bow (curvature of the stick) influences ball control, drag-flicking, and aerial skills. Osaka offers a progression of bow shapes, each designed for different playing styles and skill levels.
- Standard or Grow Bow (22mm, gradual curve) – A straighter bow designed for developing players. Ideal for accurate passing, basic ball control, and hitting fundamentals.
- Mid Bow (24mm, max bow at 300mm) – A refined blend of the Pro Bow’s technical shape and a traditional Mid Bow. Features a slimmer, faster profile for enhanced control, smooth lifting, and precise hitting. Great for well-rounded players who value versatility. Used primarily by defensive or controlling players, specializing in control, hitting, and passing.
- Pro Bow & NXT Bow (24mm, progressive curve) – Enhances first touch while improving aerial passes, drag-flicks, and 3D skills. A solid choice for advanced midfielders and defenders. Specialized in ball control and hitting forehand and backhand.
- Advanced Low Bow (24mm, precision-engineered curve, formerly Show Bow, max bow at 200mm) – A hybrid of the Pro Bow and Low Bow, designed for fast dribbling, precise drag-flicks, and effortless 3D skills. Features a cutting-edge shape for maximum control and speed, making it ideal for attackers who need precision and creativity in their play.
- Low Bow (24mm, pronounced curve) – Optimized for 3D skills, aerials, and drag-flicking. Commonly used by attacking midfielders, specializing in 3D skills, drag flicks, and power hits.
- Low Groove & XTR Bow (24mm, grooved shaft) – Used by attackers and penalty corner specialists. The groove in the shaft provides better ball control and accuracy when flicking.
- Proto Bow (also known as Extreme Low Bow, 24mm, extreme curve near the toe) – The most aggressive bow, built for high-level flicking, aerials, and deceptive dribbling. Best for attacking positions, specializing in drag flicks (aerials) and 3D skills.
This Osaka Field Hockey Stick Guide provides an overview of stick selection based on skill level, carbon content, bow type and field position.
Bow Shapes & Player Roles
These bow shape recommendations serve as guiding principles rather than strict rules, helping players select a stick that aligns with their playing style and skillset.
- Standard and Grow Bow: Beginners
- Mid Bow: Suited for defensive players, focusing on control, hitting, and passing.
- Pro Bow & NTX Bow: Used by midfielders, emphasizing ball control, accurate passing, and both forehand/backhand hitting.
- Low Bow & Low Bow Advanced: Ideal for attacking players, specializing in 3D skills, drag flicks, and aerial play.
- Low Groove and XTR Bow : Designed for penalty corner specialists, featuring a grooved shaft for better ball control and flicking accuracy.
- Proto Bow: A specialist stick for attackers, particularly focused on drag flicking and 3D skills.
Field Position Recommendations
While these positions generally suit specific bow shapes, players may choose a stick based on personal preference and playing style rather than rigid classifications.
- Defenders: Mid Bow, Pro Bow, and Pro Bow FutureLab for stability and passing precision.
- Midfielders: Pro Bow and Pro Bow FutureLab for versatile control.
- Attackers: Low Bow and Advanced Low Bow or aggressive play and skill execution.
- Specialists: Proto Bow, XTR Bow and Low Groove sticks, optimized for penalty corners and drag-flicking.