How to Choose a Hockey Stick: Length, Bow and Feel

If your stick feels too long, too whippy or just a bit "off", it usually shows up fast on the pitch. The good news is you don’t need to overthink it. A few simple checks will get you into the right length and shape for the way you play.

What length hockey stick should I get?

A common question we hear in-store is whether a stick should come up to your hip or your belly button. As a starting point, stand the stick upright on the ground in front of you (toe on the ground, shaft vertical). For most players, the top of the stick landing around your hip bone is a practical baseline.

From there, think about your position and how you move. If you’re a defender who likes to jab-tackle and block, a touch more length can help with reach. If you’re a midfielder or forward who does lots of close control, spins and quick hands, a slightly shorter feel can make the stick easier to manoeuvre.

If you’re buying for a junior, try not to “size up for growth” too aggressively. A stick that’s too long makes basic skills harder, and kids start lifting their hands to compensate.

Which bow is right for me (mid bow vs low bow)?

The bow is the curve in the stick. It changes how the stick feels when you trap, hit and push, and how easy it is to lift the ball for skills like aerials or drag flick style movements.

• Mid bow: the most forgiving option for most club players. It tends to feel balanced for hitting, trapping and general play.
• Low bow: puts the curve lower down the shaft and can feel more “skill friendly” for 3D skills and quicker lifting. The trade-off is it can feel less stable for some players on big hits, especially if your technique is still developing.

If you mainly play on Melbourne’s winter grass pitches or damp synthetic turf, keep it simple. A mid bow is often the easiest place to start, then you can move to a lower bow once your touch and ball control are consistent.

How stiff should my hockey stick be?

Stiffness is one of the biggest feel differences between sticks. A stiffer stick can feel more powerful and direct on hits and long passes, but it can also be less forgiving on first touch. A more flexible stick can feel easier to control and kinder on the hands, but it may feel less punchy if you rely on big hits.

In practical terms:

• Beginners and developing juniors: usually do better with a stick that prioritises control and comfort.
• Regular club players: can choose based on style. If you hit hard, you may like a firmer feel. If you dribble and pass quickly, you may prefer something with a bit more give.
• Advanced players: often know exactly what they want. If you’re chasing a very stiff feel, make sure your trapping is solid first, otherwise the ball can feel like it’s bouncing off the stick.

Indoor or outdoor hockey?

Indoor sticks are typically lighter and built for quick control, fast passing and tight spaces. Outdoor sticks are designed for bigger hits, longer passes, and the wear and tear of the pitch. If you’re only playing outdoor, buy an outdoor stick. If you play both, some players keep a dedicated indoor stick so they can enjoy the lighter feel without beating up their main outdoor stick.

How do I know if the grip is right?

Grip is the underrated part of stick choice. If the grip is too thin, you tend to over-squeeze and your forearms fatigue. If it’s too thick, it can make your hands feel clumsy on quick touches. Most players are fine with the stock grip, but if your hands are larger, or you like a cushier feel, an overgrip can be a simple upgrade.

It’s also worth checking where the grip sits. If you choke down (hands lower), you might like the grip coming a little further down the shaft so you’re not holding bare stick.

Popular right now at Sportsmart

If you’re comparing options, here are a few hockey stick pages our customers often look at when they’re narrowing it down:

• Grays GX 4000 Hockey Stick – a solid all-round option if you want a balanced feel for club hockey.
• Grays GTI 2000 Ultrabow Indoor Hockey Stick – worth considering if you play indoor and want something quick and light.
• Gryphon Speed G25 Hockey Stick – a popular pick for players who like a responsive stick for fast passing.
• Gryphon Lazer G25 Hockey Stick – a good one to look at if you’re after a different feel through the shaft and head.
• Grays Rogue Junior Hockey Stick – a practical junior option when you want a stick that’s easy to handle and learn on.
• Kookaburra Beast Junior Hockey Stick – another junior choice that suits school and club development.

If you want to browse more broadly, start with our hockey sticks collection and filter from there.

Common mistakes we see when people buy a hockey stick

• Going too long: it feels like extra reach, but it often makes basic skills harder and slows your hands down.
• Chasing “more power” too early: a very stiff feel can cost you first touch and control if your trapping isn’t consistent yet.
• Buying for the highlight reel skills: if you don’t do aerials or 3D skills regularly, pick the stick that feels best for your core game first.
• Ignoring grip comfort: small grip tweaks can make a bigger difference than you’d expect over a long training session.

FAQ

How do I size a hockey stick for a junior?

Use the same standing check (toe on the ground, stick upright) and aim around hip height as a starting point. If the stick sits closer to the belly button, it can be harder for kids to get low and control the ball cleanly. If your child is between sizes, it’s usually better to go slightly shorter and focus on skills, then size up next season.

Should defenders use a longer stick?

Some defenders like a touch more length for reach on tackles and blocks, but it’s not a hard rule. If you feel like you’re lifting your hands high, or your dribbling gets messy under pressure, the stick may be too long. For most players, a good length is the one that lets you stay low and controlled, then you build your defensive skills around that.

Is a low bow stick only for advanced players?

Not necessarily, but it helps to be honest about what you do most often. Low bow sticks can make lifting and certain skills feel easier, but they can feel less stable if you rely on big hits and your technique is still developing. If you’re unsure, a mid bow is usually the safer first pick. Once your touch is consistent, switching to a lower bow becomes an informed choice.

Do I need a separate stick for indoor hockey?

If you play indoor regularly, a dedicated indoor stick can be a great idea. Indoor sticks are designed for quick, close control and fast passing, and they tend to feel lighter in the hands. If you only play the odd indoor game, you can often get by with your outdoor stick, but it may feel a bit clunky compared to a true indoor option.

Equipment safety: Always check your stick for cracks and sharp edges, and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.

Still deciding? Drop into our Moorabbin, Kilsyth or Preston stores and chat through what suits your position and level, or contact our online team for help narrowing it down.