Second Hand Hockey Equipment | Sports & Leisure Classifieds

Hockey or Field Hockey as it is known in some parts of the world, is a stick and ball game with origins dating back thousands of years. The following seeks to provide guidelines on the purchase of equipment and accessories necessary to enhance a hockey player's performance and safety, regardless of ability.

BUYING HOCKEY EQUIPMENT

Hockey Sticks
A hockey stick is, obviously, the most important item of hockey equipment. Traditionally, hockey sticks have been made of wood, mulberry in particular. However, developments in the game and in technology have led to the introduction of composite sticks, constructed from a number of woven fibres. Before purchasing a stick, take advice from someone with an in-depth knowledge of the game, perhaps a coach or experienced player.

Wood
Wood is cheaper than composite materials, resulting in sticks that are cheaper, despite being of the same specification. The natural characteristics of wood result in a softer "feel" for the ball, which better players favour. However, wooden sticks have a head with a small "sweet spot," so accuracy is required for maximum hitting power. Wood also tends to absorb moisture, leading to a loss of power and possible breakage.

Composite Materials
Sticks made from composite materials have a greater power to weight ratio than wood. The same strength and stiffness can be achieved in a composite stick that is lighter than its wooden equivalent. The heads of composite sticks create a larger, more forgiving "sweet spot," allowing maximum power. Due to higher costs of materials and production, a composite stick is generally more expensive than a comparable wooden stick.

Sticks are available in several weights, with lengths varying from twenty-eight to thirty-seven inches plus. A thirty-seven inch stick is appropriate for most adult players. The appropriate stick type will depend on the player type and role within the team. The principal difference is in the shape of the head, of which there are three main types:

Short : Ideal for ball striking.

Midi : A general-purpose stick.

Hook : Ideal for dribbling and flicking.

It is advised that spending large sums on a hockey stick is unwise until a good standard of play is achieved. It is suggested that a hockey stick costing �50 or less is suitable for most players, unless they are playing regularly for a club. Expensive sticks are very difficult to use effectively and will actually reduce a novice player's performance.

Second-Hand Hockey Sticks
Hockey sticks are about the only item of hockey equipment that could be bought second-hand (unless you fancy someone else's used gumshield!) There seem to be few sellers on online sites, and this appears to be an area open to exploitation. Examination of sites such as eBay show that sellers often include a recommended retail price (RRP) for a used stick, far in excess of the actual figure. Additionally, it is impossible to buy a stick that suits the individual based on merely description and price. It is recommended that any stick should be tried out at a local outlet and then purchased new, online if the price is preferable.

Hockey Footwear
Most hockey matches are played on artificial surfaces, so appropriate footwear is very important. It is advised that purpose-made hockey shoes, rather than general purpose trainers, be purchased, as these afford better protection. Most hockey shoes are similar in appearance to trainers, but have pimpled soles for additional traction. They also have hard protective toecaps. High-quality shoes can cost in the region of �70, but judicious hunting may well secure them for half that amount.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Gloves
Special hockey gloves are available, which are padded on the knuckle side, but do not affect the grip of the stick. Since hockey players need to sweep the stick along the ground, with the hands held very low, the protection offered is more from grazes from the surface of the pitch than from impact.

Gum Shield
A hockey ball is extremely hard and can be propelled at surprising speeds. Players' teeth need to be protected by mouth guards / gumshields. A dentist can mould a hockey gumshield, or, if a cheaper option is required, there are several types of "boil and bite" gumshields available. These, however, do not provide as much protection as the custom-made type.

Shin Pads
Whilst many players wear them, football shin pads are not designed to absorb the impact of a hockey ball. Purpose-made hockey shin pads are constructed from a high density foam material, making them extremely lightweight. However, they are also sturdy and spread the force of any impact over a wider area.

It is strongly recommended that the appropriate safety equipment and footwear be worn when playing or practising hockey.