Getting a field hockey stick that is the correct size is crucial when it comes to performing and developing as a field hockey player. A field hockey stick that is too long or too short is likely to impede technical development, raise the risk of injury and diminish a player’s overall enjoyment of the sport.

With this in mind, we’ve put together a field hockey stick size chart, so you can be confident you’re buying the right field hockey stick size.

What size field hockey stick should you buy?

If you are not sure what size field hockey stick you need, you can use the simple field hockey stick size guide below. Height in feet and inches is shown as the top measurement, with the recommended hockey stick length in inches below. For example, if you are 6’2” or taller, you will need a 37.5” field hockey stick.

field hockey stick size guide

Field Hockey Stick Size Chart

The field hockey stick size table below makes it easy to determine which field hockey stick size you need, according to your height. Measurements for the field hockey stick are shown in inches and cm, whilst the player height is displayed in both feet & inches, and cm.

Junior & Senior Field Hockey Stick Length By Height
Stick Length (inches) Stick Length (cm) Height of player (feet & inches) Height of player (cm)
28” 71cm 3’10” 117cm
30” 76cm 3’10”-4’2” 117cm-127cm
32” 81cm 4’2”-4’8” 127cm-142cm
34” 86cm 4’8”-5’4” 142cm-163cm
36.5” 93cm 5’4”-6’2” 163cm-188cm
37.5” 95cm 6’2” + 188cm +

Average Field Hockey Stick Length & Dimensions

As shown by the chart and table above, the length of field hockey sticks can vary quite significantly when you compare youth and senior sized sticks which range from 28 inches to 37.5 inches.

All rules & regulations relating to field hockey sticks, including field hockey stick sizes, are established by The FIH (International Hockey Federation). For senior field hockey players, hockey sticks typically vary in length from 35 inches to 37.5 inches (89-95cm). The handle on a senior field hockey stick normally measures 12 to 14 inches (30.5cm - 35.6cm) in length and 1.2 inches (3.0cm) in width.

In 2015, in order to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage, a rule was introduced stipulating that the maximum length of a field hockey stick is 41 inches (104.1cm).

The weight of a field hockey stick can directly affect its performance. Lighter sticks are often preferred for swift stick movements, while heavier ones can provide more power. The weight of an adult field hockey stick usually falls between 19-21oz (538-595g). A rule introduced in 2013, states that the maximum allowable weight of a field hockey stick is 26oz (737g).

The rules on the size and shape of field hockey sticks have changed over the years and are updated regularly. For instance, in the 1980s, a maximum limit of 10cm (3.9 inches) was imposed on the upturn of the toe head, while in 2011, a rule was introduced stating that the stick bow position could not be less than 20cm (7.9 inches) above the head of the stick.

hockey stick dimensions

How do you size a field hockey stick?

The easiest way to check if a hockey stick is the correct size, is to see where it reaches up to on your torso.

  • Stand the field hockey stick upright on the floor next to you
  • Compare the stick’s length to your hip - as shown in the field hockey stick size guide image above.

Most players prefer a stick that comes up to the top of their hip bone. However, many defensive field hockey players prefer a slightly longer stick for tackling & driving the ball out of defense, while attackers often favor a shorter stick for better handling and control. For children, most coaches suggest a hockey stick that comes up slightly higher, approximately in line with the belly button.

You can also use the “Dutch Method” to find the right size field hockey stick:

  • Flip the field hockey stick upside-down and place the head of the stick (the curved part), under your armpit
  • Stand up straight
  • For adults, the bottom of the stick should be inline with the middle of the kneecap*

*The individual player’s style of play, position and personal preference should also be taken into account.

field hockey stick sizing methods

Now that you have all the necessary information to choose the right-sized field hockey stick, you can confidently browse and choose from our range of FORZA field hockey sticks. Available in a range of sizes for both juniors and adults, these sticks are crafted from materials high-quality such as wood, fiberglass, and carbon, ensuring that you'll find the perfect stick for you and your budget.

At Net World Sports, we carry a wide selection of professional-quality field hockey equipment that can help take your game to the next level. We have a comprehensive range of field hockey goals, field hockey balls and field hockey training equipment to work on the technical aspects of your game, as well as a diverse selection of fitness equipment including free weights and kettlebells. Whatever aspect of your game you are looking to improve, you are sure to find exactly what you need, at Net World Sports.