How to Choose the Best Stick for Ball Hockey
Choosing the right hockey stick for ball hockey can make a huge difference in your play. From the stick’s weight to its material, specific features work best for the fast-paced action of ball hockey on rougher surfaces. Here are five great stick types and popular brands that offer excellent options for ball hockey players at any skill level.
Tips for Choosing the Right Ball Hockey Stick
- Surface Consideration: ABS and hybrid sticks are ideal for outdoor surfaces, while composite and performance sticks work well indoors.
- Weight: If you’re looking for speed, lightweight sticks are ideal. Wooden sticks are heavier but great for beginners or casual players.
- Price Point: Beginners might want to try something basic to get into the sport, while veterens can spend a bit more on better to elevate their game.
ABS Blade Sticks
- Best for: Durability on outdoor surfaces
- Overview: ABS blade sticks are extremely popular for ball hockey, especially for players on rougher surfaces like asphalt or concrete. These sticks have durable, hard plastic blades that hold up well outdoors. Knapper, in particular, has developed a line of ABS blade sticks optimized for outdoor play, known for their resilience and reliable control.
- Brands: Knapper, Mylec, CCM, and Bauer offer excellent ABS blade sticks that handle outdoor surfaces while still providing good feel and control.
Budget-Friendly Wooden Sticks
- Best for: Casual and recreational players
- Overview: Wooden sticks are often the most affordable option and are great for players who are new to the game or play recreationally. While they’re heavier than composite or ABS sticks, they’re sturdy and affordable, making them perfect for occasional games and practices.
- Brands: Sherwood and Franklin offer budget-friendly wooden sticks that give you a solid feel without a high cost.
Lightweight Composite Sticks
- Best for: Indoor play and quick handling
- Overview: Composite sticks are known for their lightness and agility, which makes them perfect for quick movements and handling. These sticks are typically preferred for indoor play where smoother surfaces don’t wear down the composite material as quickly.
- Brands: Warrior, Bauer, and Sherwood make popular lightweight composite sticks with low-kick points that allow for fast and precise shots.
Composite Shaft with Wooden Blade Inserts
- Best for: Long-lasting lightweight outdoor play
- Overview: For longevity, hybrid sticks with a composite shaft and wooden blade inserts are a fantastic choice. These sticks combine the lightweight feel of a composite shaft with the durability of a wood blade, so you get the best of both worlds. The best part is, when the blade breaks or gets too thin you only need to replace the wooden blade, and the shaft can last you years to come.
- Brands: Any combination of ice hockey composite shaft and your preference of wooden blade
Final Thoughts
The right ball hockey stick depends on your play style, level of commitment, and where you’re playing. Whether you’re just getting into the game or aiming to sharpen your skills, these types of sticks from well-known brands provide quality options for every type of player.