The Best Hockey Starter Set Shopping Guide for Your Budding Athlete

The Best Hockey Starter Set Shopping Guide for Your Budding Athlete

Choosing the Right Field Hockey Ball for All Levels

When selecting a field hockey ball for your budding athlete, it’s important to consider their skill level and the league rules. As a beginner, a standard smooth plastic ball is a good choice. These are sized similarly to a baseball or softball and help develop proper technique. More experienced middle school players may benefit from a dimpled practice ball, which adds unpredictability to improve dodging skills.

For game play, sanctioned tournaments require an official match ball that meets strict specs. Look for a ball made of durable materials like PU or PVC leather with a quality stitch. Weight ranges from 5.5 to 5.75 ounces for regulation adult balls. Youth balls are sized down for smaller hands. High school leagues mandate a specific ball brand like Kookaburra or Dita. Check regulations before purchasing so you get the right match ball.

Proper inflation is also key. Balls typically need between 7-9 psi to perform correctly. Underinflation causes a “soft” feel that’s hard to control, while overinflation makes the ball too bouncy. Use a pressure gauge and pump with needle adapter to dial in the right firmness. This gives players the best response off sticks for passing, receiving, and shooting in games. With the right ball for their skills, your young athlete will gain confidence mastering essential techniques on the field.

Essential Protective Gear They’ll Need on the Field

When getting started in field hockey, protective equipment is essential for keeping your young athlete safe during practices and games. At minimum, they’ll need a mouth guard, shin guards, gloves and a helmet with face mask. Choosing gear made specifically for field hockey helps optimize fit and coverage.

A sturdy mouth guard protects teeth and lips from blows from sticks or balls. Custom-fit guards molded by a dentist offer the best protection and comfort. But less expensive self-fit options that mold to teeth when heated also work well. Look for a thick guard that allows unrestricted breathing and speaking.

Shin guards shield the vulnerable front of legs from bruising hits. Guards curve to wrap around the leg with protective padding on the shin and knee cap. Hard plastic deflects impact while a soft lining wicks sweat. Proper sizing keeps the pads from shifting during play. If too large, the bulky guards can slide down and leave areas exposed.

Gloves improve grip while handling the stick and protect hands from blisters during long practices. Padded foam across the back of the hands and fingers safeguards against jammed fingers and blows. Abrasion-resistant palms enhance control of the stick. Opt for lightweight, breathable gloves that allow dexterity for stick skills.

The helmet and attached cage mask shield the face, ears and head. Metal cages and high-impact polycarbonate plastic helmets prevent injury from flying balls or stick contact. Ensure a snug fit so the helmet doesn’t shift on impact. Newer styles feature more ventilation and sweat-wicking liner materials for comfort during intense play.

Optional padded undergarments like elbow or thigh protection can be added if desired. Also be sure to get a sturdy equipment bag to carry all their gear to and from the field. Investing in high-quality, protective equipment tailored for field hockey ensures your young player stays safe and confident as they develop their skills.

Complete Starter Sets vs Piecing Together Your Own

When shopping for your child’s first field hockey gear, you can choose between a pre-packed starter set or piecing equipment together yourself. Complete sets offer everything needed to hit the field in one convenient purchase. But customizing your own set allows you to hand select higher quality or specialized gear.

All-in-one starter kits include a stick, ball, shin guards, mouth guard and carry bag. Some also throw in gloves, a helmet, practice cones and an instructional DVD. Sets with matching team colors and logos make great gifts for youth leagues. Major brands like STX and Franklin Sports offer inexpensive combo packages good for recreational play.

The main advantage of an all-inclusive starter set is the simplicity of getting all the basics in one click. This prevents forgetting essential protective gear in the rush to start playing. Pre-selected components also ensure sizing, colors and quality align across the set. However, the included equipment may be low-end with a limited lifespan for serious players.

Creating your own customized starter set allows you to hand pick higher performance gear. Mix and match from brands known for excellence in each category – like a Grays stick, TK helmet and Osaka pads. Go with specialized equipment for their position such as goalie-specific pads and gloves. Splurging on a carbon fiber composite stick can give a new player a sense of pride. Just be sure to get the right size gear for a proper fit.

Blending the two approaches is also an option. Start with a budget-friendly starter kit for basic gear, then upgrade the stick, shoes or other pieces over time. This spreads out costs while still getting them playing quickly. With the right gear selected for your buddding young athlete’s skill level, they’ll be ready to safely take the field and develop their field hockey talents.

Making Sure the Stick Flex Matches Their Strength

When selecting your child’s first field hockey stick, an important factor to consider is flex. Flex refers to how much the stick bends when force is applied. Matching the right flex to your young athlete’s strength allows for better ball control and shooting power.

Field hockey stick flex ratings typically range from 20 (low flex) to 110 (high flex). Youth sticks designed for beginners under age 12 often have a flexible 40 rating. This allows them to bend the stick more easily as they develop swing technique. Older, stronger middle and high school players need a higher stiffness rating like 70-90 for optimal energy transfer.

To test potential stick flex, have your child hold the stick upright on the ground as if dribbling. Press down on the top of the stick using a few fingers. It should bend but not touch the floor. If it barely flexes or folds in half, the stick is too stiff or flexible for their current strength. The ideal flex causes a slight bend without collapsing.

Stick material also impacts flex. Composite sticks with carbon fiber or fiberglass tend to have a higher flex rating than wooden sticks with the same shaft dimensions. Composites transfer more energy into the ball upon contact, but require stronger hands and arms to wield properly.

As your young athlete grows stronger over time, their ideal flex rating will increase. Periodically reevaluate to see if moving up to the next stiffness tier improves their passing and shooting. The right balance of flex allows full bending without excessive vibration or instability upon contact. With the stick flex properly matched to your budding player based on age and strength, they’ll be able to develop proper technique and power as their skills progress.

Key Features of Sticks for Forwards vs Defense

When selecting a field hockey stick, the position your child plays can impact the ideal shape and design. Forwards tend to benefit from sticks optimized for quick shots and passes, while defenders need sticks focused on intercepting balls.

For forwards like strikers and wings, a stick with a curved head is advantageous. The curved hook or scoop shape allows for quicker wrist flicks to send the ball flying towards the goal. A rounded toe on the head increases accuracy placing shots in corners. Lighter, thinner handles maximize speed of stick handling.

For defensive players, a wider, flatter head provides a larger surface area for blocking and tackling. An open face design makes it easier to trap passes and steal possession from opponents. A thicker grip lends added power for driving balls downfield after steals. Some defenders choose reverse sticks for right-handed use on the left side.

Sticks for midfielders need a balance of attributes for both offensive and defensive duties. A moderate mid-range bow on the head offers versatility for passes, shots and intercepting. Mid-weight composite shafts provide a blend of speed and power. Raised ridges on the shaft aid grip during intense all-field play.

No matter the position, select a stick length based on your child’s height. The stick should reach between the hip and shoulder when standing. Goalies require specialized extra-long sticks to defend the full width of the goal. Also consider your young athlete’s experience level and playing style preferences when tailoring stick features to their evolving game.

With age-appropriate sticks tailored to their position, budding players can take the field confident they have the right tool for their role. As skills progress, reevaluate if shifing to a different stick better suits their play as a striker, defender, mid or goalie.

Beginner Stick Materials: Wood, Composite, or Hybrid

When selecting your young athlete’s first field hockey stick, one key decision is material. Wood, composite, and hybrid sticks each have pros and cons for beginners. Analyzing playing level, budget and long-term goals helps determine the ideal choice.

Traditional wood sticks provide a timeless look and feel. Their natural responsiveness and traction make them ideal for developing dribbling and passing skills. Wood is also lightweight and affordable. However, wooden sticks lack power on shots, deteriorate quicker and require protective treatments.

Composite sticks with carbon, Kevlar or fiberglass blend modern performance with durability. The stiffer, engineered construction improves power and accuracy for developing shooters. Composites better withstand wear-and-tear and weather elements. But the rigid feel takes adjustment for stickhandling, and costs run higher.

Hybrid sticks offer a middle ground combining a wooden lower handle with a composite upper head. This provides the control of wood with increased shot power from the head’s materials. Durability improves over all-wood. Hybrids appeal to players making the transition from wood to composite sticks over time.

Also factor in your child’s position, with defenders favoring wood for maneuverability while strikers benefit from composite shooting strength. Consider budget, as introductory wood sticks start under $20, while composite or hybrid run $60 and up. With the right first stick material, new players gain confidence in stick skills, care and maintenance.

Helmet and Goggle Combo Options for Safety and Vision

Protecting your young athlete’s head and eyes is a top priority when equipping them for field hockey. Helmet and goggle combinations are designed to work together to provide full facial protection without obstructing vision.

Helmets shield the head from blows from sticks, balls and contact with other players. Polycarbonate plastic shells disperse and deflect impacts. Cage masks attach to helmets to protect the face along with mouth, teeth and ears. Newer styles offer more air vents for cooling and sweat reduction during intense play.

Goggles safeguard vulnerable eyes from smacks from balls or swinging sticks. Traditional goggle styles fully encase the eyes like swim goggles with an elastic strap to keep them secure during activity. Newer “fitover” designs are contoured to comfortably overlay standard sports eyewear.

When pairing goggles with a helmet, look for compatible combinations designed to work in tandem. Select goggles that are approved by organizations like the ASTM for impact resistance. Ensure the goggles allow adequate peripheral vision and don’t obstruct sightlines. Avoid goggle/helmet mismatches that leave gaps in protection.

Antifog coatings, scratch-resistant lenses and UV protection in goggles maintain clarity even in wet or sunny conditions. Properly fitted, comfortable padding around the eyes prevents slipping. With integrated helmet and goggle sets, young athletes can sharpen field hockey skills with confidence in their safety.

Goalie Gear Sets for Blocking Shots Like a Pro

As one of the most protective positions in field hockey, properly equipping your young goalie is a key investment. Complete goalie gear sets include all the specialized equipment needed to cover the net against fierce shots.

Full goalie sets include leg guards, kickers, gloves with extra padding, and chest protectors or pads. Large leg guards shield the thigh, knee and shin areas most likely to get struck by rapidly flying balls. Kickers cover the feet and toes. Thickly padded gloves prevent stingers from close-range shots.

Chest pads or shoulder-to-leg front pads protect the torso. Arm guards can also be added for netminders in youth leagues facing less controlled shots. Most sets come with a helmet and throat protector as well. Gear specifically designed for goalies offers maximum coverage without restricting mobility in the crease.

Match the set to your child’s size based on weight, height and age recommendations. Proper fit ensures the pads don’t leave any areas exposed or shift excessively during play. Sets with unisex sizing work for both girls and boys. For additional protection, compression shirts under pads reduce bruising.

With a full armor of gear, aspiring goalies can develop the confidence to command the net. High-quality sets built for durability will withstand countless shot blocks and slides. Your young goalie will appreciate the protection during those heart-pounding shootout situations!

Keeping Pads Lightweight but Tough for Protection

Finding the right balance between protection and mobility is key when selecting field hockey pads. While bulky pads can restrict movement, pads too lightweight leave players vulnerable. Advanced materials now allow for protection that stays light while standing up to the rigors of the game.

For leg and shin guards, look for padding made from high-density foams and plastics that effectively absorb and distribute impact. Polyethylene plates dissipate shock along the shin. Multiple layers of padding provide cushioning without excess bulk.

Chest and shoulder pads use similar sturdy yet lightweight materials to protect the rib cage and torso. High-grade foam or plastic sheets backing padded fabric shield core areas. Adjustable elastic strapping ensures a secure fit.

When trying pads, have your young athlete run, bend, and practice stick maneuvers to test mobility. Padding should flex naturally with the body without limitation. Overly thick, stiff pads hinder agility and quick changes in direction.

Advances in fabric technologies also help cut weight. Breathable polyesters and moisture-wicking microfibers keep players cool. Antimicrobial treatments reduce odor buildup. While you don’t want flimsy pads, today’s best options provide durable protection without being a drag on speed and stamina.

Customizing Your Set Based on League Rules and Regulations

When shopping for your young athlete’s first field hockey gear set, it’s important to consider the rules and regulations of the league they will be playing in. Equipment guidelines can vary between youth divisions and school-sponsored teams.

Younger rec league divisions may have more flexibility on gear. Basic wood sticks, plastic balls and lightweight pads allow players to gain fundamental skills. As athletes advance to middle and high school competition, equipment must align with national federation or state athletic association standards.

For example, leading varsity leagues require balls to have specific “stitchless” construction from approved makers like Kookaburra. Protective eyewear must meet certain impact ratings. Goalie sets need chest pads and throat guards. Match your purchases to the mandated gear to avoid scramble before the first game.

Customizing sticks based on position may be limited by cost and rules capping materials for youth players. Best to start with multi-purpose designs until specialized needs and preferences emerge. The same goes for padding, where basic protection suffices until checking is introduced.

Consult your local league director, coach or sporting goods retailer on equipment guidelines and options permitted for play. With age-appropriate gear tailored to league regulations, your aspiring athlete will be properly equipped for fair and safe competition.

Sets With Everything Needed for Tournaments and Events

When your budding field hockey athlete is ready for tournament play, complete starter sets ensure they have all the gear necessary for extended events. Multi-day tournaments place extra demands on equipment beyond single games.

Look for all-inclusive packages with extra items like wheeled bags to transport gear between lodging and venues. Backup sticks prepare for breakage so they don’t miss a match. Extra balls and training cones support off-field practice to keep skills sharp between games.

Given the fast pace of tournament schedules, protective equipment with moisture-wicking fabrics will be valued for quick-drying comfort between contests. Breathable, lightweight pads maintain energy levels through a long day of play. Durability is also key as gear gets more wear-and-tear over a weekend event.

For goalies, extra padding and gloves allow gear to air out overnight after repeated shots. Pack an alternate jersey in case of staining from dives in wet field conditions. Don’t forget accessories like kinesiology tape, cold packs and socks to support stamina over multiple matches.

With a well-stocked starter set tailored for tournaments, your young competitor can focus on honing their field hockey skills, not stressing about their equipment. They’ll appreciate having fresh gear ready for each new matchup!

Gifts to Encourage Skill Building at Home

Beyond field gear, field hockey starter sets make great gift ideas to spark your young athlete’s interest and enable practice beyond team events. Portable items build skills right at home in the yard or driveway.

Mini and pop-up goals encourage shooting practice and goalie training anywhere. Durable but lightweight folding constructions are easy to transport. Target nets attach to goals or posts to refine aim at corners. Have them take 10 shots after school daily to build muscle memory.

Stickhandling practice sets include cones and small nets to weave and shoot through. Dribble challenges nurture footwork. Rebounders and backstops return ball after ball to hone passing and trap technique solo. Training videos demonstrate drills to mimic at home.

For goalies, reaction balls and shooter tutors help refine reaction time and block positioning. Slide pads allow dive practice on wood floors without injury. Even simple items like rebound nets for garage doors build reflexes.

Gifting age-appropriate training tools like these allows your young athlete to improve their skills anytime. Supplementing team practices with home equipment develops into lifelong habits of individual growth and achievement.

Staying Within Your Budget While Avoiding Cheap Gear

Finding an affordable field hockey starter set for your young athlete is possible with smart shopping. While you want to avoid flimsy equipment, quality gear need not break the bank when starting out.

Value-priced complete starter kits include all the essentials like sticks, balls, shin guards and mouthguards. Basic composite or wood sticks are very usable for beginners. Opt for mid-weight protective padding over featherweight options. Mix and match pieces from sale racks and clearance sections.

Buy last year’s helmet and goggle models, which undergo minimal design changes annually. Purchase used higher-end sticks from resale sites to get pro features at reduced costs. Split sets with other parents and share items like goal nets or rebounders.

Consider stretching starter equipment over multiple seasons since young athletes grow quickly. Oversized sticks, pads and gloves allow room to grow. Refurbish used gear with replacement grips, straps, or paint touch ups to extend usefulness.

Don’t skimp on safety – prioritize certified helmets and goggles. But creatively mixing new, used and multiseason gear keeps costs manageable without going cheap on quality your child deserves.

How to Choose the Right Stick Based on Position

When selecting your young athlete’s first field hockey stick, their position is a key factor in finding the right fit. Forwards, midfielders, defenders and goalkeepers each benefit from sticks tailored to their distinct roles on the field.

For offensive players like forwards and strikers, choose sticks with more of a curved hook shape to the head rather than a flat face. The curve allows for quicker wrist flicks and powerful shots on goal. Lighter composite materials are ideal for speed.

Midfielders benefit from a moderately curved head for versatile dribbling, passing and shooting. A lightweight but stiff stick optimized for quick switches between offense and defense is ideal for this all-field position. Raised grip textures help midfield stickhandling.

Defenders need a stick optimized for intercepting passes and tackling opponents. A wider head shape with a relatively flat face excels at blocking balls. Traditional wooden materials allow maximum feel for redirecting balls upfield.

Goalkeepers require specialty extra-long sticks to defend the full width of the net. Extremely stiff composite or carbon fiber materials give their swats and clears added power. A wider head aids covering low corners.

Also match stick length to your child’s height, typically reaching between hip and shoulder. With age-appropriate sticks tailored for their position, young athletes gain confidence in their specific role on the field while developing lifelong skills.

Key Features of Sticks for Forwards vs Defense

When selecting a field hockey stick, the position your child plays influences the ideal design and features. Forward and defensive players benefit from sticks optimized for their distinct roles and skills on the field.

For offensive forwards, quick wrist flicks and powerful drives make curved stick heads advantageous. The hook shape allows faster shots on goal with enhanced accuracy. Lighter composite materials maximize speed during rushes and fast passing plays.

Defenders rely on sticks to disrupt and intercept opponent attacks. Wider, flatter heads give them a larger surface area for blocking balls and tackling away possession. Traditional wooden sticks provide superior feel for scooping up cleared balls to transition into offense.

Sticks for midfielders need a balance of offensive and defensive capabilities. A moderately curved head aids versatile dribbling, passing and shooting. Mid-weight composite materials offer a blend of power and quick handling for all-field responsibilities.

No matter the position, ensure proper stick length based on your child’s height, typically reaching the hip to shoulder. With age-appropriate sticks tailored to their unique role, young players gain confidence to develop specialized skills for forwards, mids or defense.