Field Hockey Stick Size Chart
Field hockey sticks are sized in inches, from about 28 inches for young children to 38.5 inches for tall adults. Enter your height to see the usual stick length, then confirm it with the hip-bone test and read how bow, weight and playing position affect the choice.
Stick size finder
Field Hockey Team Equipment Kit
Printable stick size chart for the clubhouse, team equipment size tracker, pre-season kit checklist and a skills practice log.
- Stick size chart (PDF)
- Team equipment tracker (XLSX)
- Kit checklist (PDF, DOCX)
- Skills practice log (PDF, DOCX, XLSX)
Formats: PDF, XLSX, DOCX. Instant download after payment (link valid 72 hours, up to 5 downloads). AI-assisted: the templates were drafted with AI help and reviewed and laid out by Kedop.
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Field hockey stick size chart
| Player height | Typical stick length |
|---|---|
| Under 3′10″ (117 cm) | 28″ |
| 3′10″–4′1″ (117–124 cm) | 30″ |
| 4′2″–4′5″ (127–135 cm) | 32″ |
| 4′6″–4′11″ (137–150 cm) | 34″ |
| 5′0″–5′3″ (152–160 cm) | 35″ |
| 5′4″–5′6″ (163–168 cm) | 36″ |
| 5′7″–5′9″ (170–175 cm) | 36.5″ |
| 5′10″–6′0″ (178–183 cm) | 37.5″ |
| Over 6′0″ (183 cm) | 38″–38.5″ |
Charts from different brands vary by about half an inch either way. Use the chart as a starting point, then check the length against your body with the hip-bone test and, if possible, hold a few sticks before buying.
The hip-bone test
- Wear the shoes you play in.
- Stand upright with the stick vertical beside you, toe (hook) on the ground.
- The top of the handle should reach about the top of your hip bone — the bony point at the front of the hip.
- If it reaches your belly button or higher, it is probably too long; if it barely reaches the top of your thigh, it is probably too short.
Some coaches measure from the ground to just below the navel instead; the two methods usually agree within an inch.
Why stick length matters
A stick that is too long makes it hard to keep the stick low, slows your stick handling and can pull your posture upright. A stick that is too short forces you to bend over too much, which strains the back and reduces your reach for tackles and interceptions. The right length lets you dribble with knees bent and back reasonably straight, with the stick head flat on the ground.
Position and playing style
| Position | Tendency | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Forwards | Same size or half an inch shorter | Close control, quick dribbling and 3D skills |
| Midfielders | Chart size | Balance of control and reach |
| Defenders | Chart size or half an inch longer | Reach for tackles and interceptions; longer passes |
| Goalkeepers | Goalie sticks are a different design | Used mainly for saves; follow goalie-specific guidance |
Other things to consider
- Bow (curve) — the curve along the shaft. Regular bows suit beginners and all-round play; low or extreme low bows help lifted shots and drag flicks but are harder to control. The rules limit the maximum bow to 25 mm.
- Weight — most adult sticks weigh around 530–570 g (light to medium). Lighter sticks are faster to handle; heavier sticks hit harder.
- Material — wooden sticks are forgiving and good for beginners; composite sticks with carbon fibre are stiffer and more powerful as carbon content rises, but transmit more vibration.
- Head shape — most modern sticks have a “midi” or “maxi” hook; shorter heads suit quick stick work.
- Grip — replace worn grips; some players add an overgrip for thickness.
Sizing sticks for children
Children grow quickly, and it is tempting to buy a stick to “grow into”. A stick more than an inch too long makes learning basic skills much harder, so it is better to buy the right length now and pass it down later. For young children just starting, a light wooden stick in the correct length is ideal. Check the fit at the start of each season.
Worked example
A 5′4″ midfielder checks the chart: 5′4″ falls in the 5′4″–5′6″ row, suggesting 36 inches. Standing in her boots with a 36-inch stick upright, the top reaches her hip bone, so it fits. Her teammate, also 5′4″ but playing as a forward who likes close dribbling, chooses 35.5 or 35 inches for quicker hands. A 5′4″ defender might prefer 36.5 inches for extra reach on tackles.
Indoor hockey sticks
Indoor field hockey uses lighter, thinner sticks because the ball is pushed rather than hit hard and the game is played on a smooth floor. Players often choose the same length as their outdoor stick or half an inch shorter for faster handling close to the ground. Indoor sticks should not be used outdoors, where hard hits can damage them.
Buying your first stick
- Find your length from the chart and confirm with the hip-bone test.
- Choose a regular bow and a light to medium weight.
- Pick a wooden or low-carbon composite stick for forgiveness while learning.
- Check the grip feels comfortable in both hands.
- Ask your coach whether the club has sticks to try before buying.
Higher carbon content and specialist bows make more sense once your basic skills are secure.
Caring for your stick
Wipe the stick after playing, especially on wet or sand-dressed pitches, and let it dry at room temperature — not on a radiator. Check the head and shaft for cracks and splinters regularly; a damaged stick can be dangerous. Wooden sticks benefit from occasional sanding and oiling of the head. Store sticks upright in a bag away from extreme heat, such as a car in summer.
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Frequently asked questions
What size field hockey stick do I need?
Use the height chart as a guide; most adults use 36–38.5 inches. The stick should reach about your hip bone.
How do I measure a field hockey stick?
From the bottom of the hook (toe) to the top of the handle, in inches.
Should beginners use a shorter stick?
Beginners should use the correct length; a slightly shorter stick can help close control but avoid anything too short.
What is the most common adult stick size?
36.5 and 37.5 inches are very common adult sizes.
What is stick bow?
The curve along the shaft; regular bows suit beginners, low bows help lifted skills.
Is my data stored?
No, the size finder runs in your browser.