How to choose a floorball hockey stick? Don't make mistakes when choosing and save!

Floorball is a popular sport among young people and adults. It is a team sport that is similar to field hockey. It originated in the USA, from where it was transferred to Europe. The International Floorball Federation (IFF) was founded in 1986, and Slovakia has been a member since 1998.

Floorball in Slovakia

In Slovakia, floorball is covered by the Slovak Floorball Association . Currently, more than 90 clubs throughout Slovakia fall under it. Representations include:

• men

• women

• juniors

• junior girls

• youth

Floorball is played on a 40 × 20 m bounded field . In addition to sportswear and indoor shoes, players' equipment also includes a floorball stick and a ball . If you are also interested in this sport, or If your child wants to try this sport, come with us to find out how to choose a floorball hockey stick. 

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1Fp3QteEfI

What a floorball hockey stick looks like

The floorball hockey stick has a shape similar to a classic hockey stick. Unlike, for example, ice hockey, this hockey stick is shorter, lighter and, of course, its design and features are adapted for indoor play . Its main parts are:

• shaft : It is the long and straight part of the hockey stick that the player holds. It is usually made of materials that ensure its strength and flexibility.

• wrap (grip) : It is the part on the top of the handle, which is covered with a special material for better grip, grip and thus the comfort of the player during the game.

• blade : It is the part at the lower end of the hockey stick that comes into contact with the ball. The blade is curved (right or left) and has holes that reduce its weight and improve aerodynamics.

• joint : Some hockey sticks have a joint between the handle and the blade, which allows the blade to be replaced without the need to replace the entire stick.

Why is choosing the right hockey stick important?

The floorball stick is a key tool that significantly affects your game and overall performance. The right hockey stick ensures control over the ball, accuracy when shooting and comfort during the game. The choice of floorball stick also affects your technique and reduces the risk of injuries . Therefore, it is important to devote some time to its selection.

What to focus on when choosing a hockey stick for floorball

When choosing the right floorball hockey stick, you must take into account the fact that floorball is a dynamic, sometimes contact sport. The hockey stick is your extended hand and is key to overall performance and comfort during the game . Here are some factors you should consider when choosing it:

The length of the hockey stick

The correct length of the hockey stick will allow you to better control the ball on the court. In general, the hockey stick should reach approximately to the navel when you place it on the ground . When determining the correct length, you can proceed as follows:

1. stand up straight and place the hockey stick vertically in front of you
2. the upper end of the hockey stick reaches the level of your navel, you have chosen the right length

Here is an indicative overview according to the player's height:

(player height/stick length)

• up to 150 cm / 75 - 85 cm

• 150-160 cm / 85-90 cm

• 160-170 cm / 90-95 cm

• 170-180 cm / 95-100 cm

• 180-190 cm / 100-105 cm

• over 190 cm / 105 - 110 cm

Flex (flexibility or hardness of the hockey stick)

The flex of the hockey stick indicates its flexibility under a certain load (how much it bends) and is expressed in millimeters . The most common values are 23 to 36 mm. A lower number means a stiffer stick, a higher number means a more flexible one.

How to choose the right hardness of a floorball stick?

The right flex depends on your weight, strength and playing style:

• up to 50 kg: flex 32 - 36 mm

• 50 - 60 kg: flex 30 - 32 mm

• 60 - 75 kg: flex 27 - 30 mm

• 75 - 90 kg: flex 25 - 28 mm

• over 90 kg: flex 23 – 25 mm

The correct flex according to the position of the player:

• defender (adult): flex 23 - 27 mm

• striker (adult): flex 27 - 30 mm

You can also follow the player's experience, as follows:

• beginners and children : flex 32 - 36 mm (soft hockey sticks are easier to control)

• advanced players : flex 26 - 31 mm (medium hard sticks provide better control and speed)

• professionals : flex 23 - 25 mm (hard hockey sticks are ideal for strong shots and high speed)

A stiffer stick (lower flex) provides more accurate shooting and control, but requires more power. A more flexible stick (higher flex) is suitable for technical players who use quick wrist shots.

Material and construction

Florab hockey sticks usually weigh around 150-300 grams. They are made of different materials, which affect their properties and price. They are most often made of glass, polycarbonate or carbon fibers.

• floorball hockey sticks made of fiberglass are cheaper and suitable for beginners, they are heavier and less durable

• carbon floorball sticks are lighter, more durable and provide better ball control, better speed, but are more expensive

• composite floorball sticks are more durable and suitable for beginners or recreational players

Shaft and grip

The surface treatment of the handle in the form of a wrap, known as grip, ensures a firm and comfortable grip . There are different types of grips that differ in material and texture.

• rubber grips - provide a firm grip and are slip resistant

• textile grips - they are comfortable, but they can wear out faster

The right grip provides grip, so the handle of the hockey stick does not slip during a game or training. Some grips are better for dry hands, others are better for hands that sweat more . Even the grip wears out over time, so it is important to change it regularly so that your grip is always firm and secure. Replace the grip when it starts to lose its grip or tear.

Selection by player position

Hard and medium hard blades are mainly used by defenders, while soft and medium hard blades are used more by attackers.

Depending on the stick, the blade may be replaceable without having to buy a new stick. Regular maintenance and replacement of the blade ensures optimal performance of the hockey stick and extends its life . Replace the blade when it starts to lose its shape or elasticity.

Blade curvature - right/left side

Choose the right side of the hockey stick according to your dominant hand as follows :

• if you are holding the hockey stick with your left hand down, order side L (blade bend to the right)

• if you are holding the hockey stick with your right hand down, order side P or R (blade bend to the left)

Blade

The blade should be adapted to your playing style . Some blades have more curvature, which makes it easier to shoot, while others have less curvature, which improves ball control. However, a maximum bend of 30 millimeters must be observed when bending.

The blades are made of various plastic components (PE, HDPE) or nylon components (PA). Most manufacturers divide blade hardness into soft, medium and hard.

• soft blades are suitable for technical players, they control the ball well

• medium hard allows for vigorous and accurate shooting but still maintains excellent control over the ball

• hard are ideal for frequent and powerful shooting

How much does a floorball hockey stick cost?

The price of a floorball hockey stick is influenced by several factors . It is the choice of material, its properties, the manufacturer's brand and also for whom it is intended (children, beginners, advanced or professionals).

You can buy the cheapest floorball hockey sticks for those who are new to floorball and want to try it, starting from about €20-30. For professionals, hockey sticks made of the highest quality materials cost more than €100. Children's hockey sticks for floorball can be bought for as little as €10.

When choosing a hockey stick, it is best to try several models and consult with an expert about your choice.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

How often should I change the blade on a floorball stick?

You should replace the blade when it starts to lose its shape or elasticity. With regular playing, it is advisable to change it every 6 to 12 months.

Can I use one hockey stick on different surfaces?

Yes, most floorball sticks are designed to be used on a variety of surfaces, but it is recommended to have a special stick for outdoor and indoor surfaces.

What is the difference between right-handed and left-handed hockey sticks?

Right-handed hockey sticks have a blade that is angled to suit players who hold the stick lower with their right hand. Left-handed hockey sticks have the opposite bend.

How to choose the right hockey stick for a child?

When choosing a hockey stick for a child, it is important to consider his height and level of experience. Children up to 150 cm should use sticks 75-85 cm long, and for beginners, sticks with a softer flex are suitable.

How often should I change my stick grip?

You should change the grip when it starts to lose its grip or tear. With regular playing, it is advisable to change it every 3 to 6 months.

Can I change the blade on the hockey stick myself?

Yes, changing the blade is quite simple and you can do it yourself with the help of tools that are commonly available.

How do I know if the hockey stick is too hard for me?

If you have a problem with bending the stick when shooting or controlling the ball, the stick may be too hard for you. A softer hockey stick can help improve your technique and comfort while playing.

Choosing the right floorball stick is key to your performance and comfort on the field. We believe that we have provided you with enough information to help you make your choice. The right choice means more enjoyment of the game and more opportunities for success!

Author: Katarína Bačíková

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