Explore a comprehensive guide to field hockey equipment and their functions

Field hockey is one of the world's most famous sports, with millions of followers from over 100 countries. Like most team sports, it is played on a surface and requires a unique combination of quickness, agility, and strategy. Field hockey equipment such as sticks, balls, footwear, and apparel helps players have fun and succeed in the sport.

The renowned sport originates from the earliest civilisations and thus ranks as one of the oldest in the world. Recently, it has thrived in regional clubs, competitive leagues, and tournaments. The sport would rank among the most dangerous without the proper gear. So, what do you need to play field hockey?

All field hockey equipment list

Due to advancing technology, hockey equipment has undergone some positive transformations in recent years. According to various online sources, such as SV Sports and NBC Olympics, here is a list of some field hockey equipment and its functions.

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12. Grip

A grip is one of the most essential gears an athlete requires in the sport. It replaces the stick's lost grips caused by wear and tear.

11. Electrical tape

Athletes often modify their sticks with electric tape. They wrap the tape around the end of the sticks to protect them from damage. The tape also helps beginners learn ball control in hockey.

10. Mouth guard

A mouth guard is crucial for athletes since it safeguards their teeth and gums from potential impacts. It is vital to wear one that fits well, whether a boil-and-bite option or a custom-fit one, to protect the mouth against unexpected blows and accidental collisions.

9. Goalie equipment

To effectively perform their duties and prevent shots, goalpost guards need protective gear to ward off hard shots and deflections. Active SG Circle lists the knee and leg pads, kickers, gloves, and helmets as the crucial goalie field hockey equipment.

Kickers help goalkeepers deflect shots more effectively by cushioning and protecting their feet. Gloves provide the perfect blend of dexterity and grip, protecting hands from flying balls, and helmets protect the head from crashes and shots.

8. Ball

The hockey ball is an essential part of the gear needed in the sport. A typical ball is made of long-lasting plastic, which allows it to play well on different surfaces and makes tackling, shooting, and passing a breeze.

7. Shin guards

Shin guards are among the most important gears in the renowned sport. Wearing these protectors is necessary for a player since they safeguard their shins and ankles from the impacts and shocks that may cause injury when playing.

6. Shoes

Like in most sports, shoes are important in field hockey. Thanks to their threads, which grip the grass and provide lateral support, shoes allow players to move quickly and turn easily, improving their pitch performance and stability.

5. Gloves

Players who want to be more comfortable and defter during games often wear field hockey gloves, which protect their hands from friction while improving grip and control. Gloves also protect players from blisters and injuries while maintaining a secure grip on the stick.

4. Helmet

A helmet is among the most essential equipment a hockey player should have. It prevents minor to severe injuries that players may experience on the pitch. The helmet includes a full-face mask, a secure chin cup, and a reliable chin strap. The Hockey Equipment Certification Council must approve the helmet to ensure it meets the required standards.

3. Bag

A bag is an essential piece of hockey gear. It helps players to store and carry the other equipment. Players need a convenient way to move around with their sticks, balls, and protective gear.

2. Apparel

The sport uses various clothing, including shorts, protective eyewear, and jerseys, to allow players to move freely and stylishly on the pitch. The ergonomic designs, moisture-wicking technologies, and breathable materials keep players dry, cool, and focused.

Socks and rash guards are among the important apparel needed by the athletes in the sport. The socks help protect the shin by preventing blisters. On the other hand, although rash guards are optional, they help reduce the possibility of discomfort from the shin guards.

1. Hockey stick

Topping the field hockey equipment list is the dependable stick, an essential tool for any player in the sport. Choosing the perfect stick, with its various materials and lengths, boils down to an individual's preference and playing techniques.

For beginners, composite or fibreglass sticks offer an easy-to-grip option, while carbon fibre sticks provide a powerful and precise choice for professionals.

Girls field hockey equipment

Although hockey's fundamental gear is the same for men and women, several minor adjustments are made to accommodate different body types and playing styles.

While men's sticks tend to be bigger and heavier to accommodate bigger hands and more power, girls' sticks tend to have smaller grips and lower weights to accommodate smaller hands and less physical strength.

Frequently asked questions

Most enthusiasts are interested in learning more about the famous stick-and-ball team sport, and they often wonder about the names of field hockey equipment and its functions. Here are some frequently asked questions about hockey gear.

What kind of gear is needed to play field hockey?

For a player to play and give maximum performance in the sport, they need various gear, including protective gear such as shoes, apparel, and mouth guards, alongside other gear such as a ball, stick, and helmet.

What is the proper way to play hockey on a surface?

Players move the ball around the pitch by hitting it with a stick towards an opponent's goal. The team that scores the most goals within the designated time wins the game.

How many players are in field hockey?

Each team has 11 players, one goalkeeper and 10 outfield players. Each team is allowed 5 substitutions, and unlike in soccer, there is no limit to the number of times a player can be substituted.

Final word

Field hockey equipment is essential for a player's performance. With the right gear, players decrease injury risk and enjoy the sport. Regardless of their skill, all players should have the basic equipment necessary for practice and play.

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