Hockey
Hockey is a fast moving and intense sport – having the right equipment can help you to stay sharp and not get left behind. Here at Big 5, we stock a huge range of hockey equipment, from hockey sticks and protective equipment, to hockey balls and goalkeeping equipment. We’ve got gear for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro.
Hockey Sticks
Your hockey stick is your most important item while out on the pitch. It’s going to define your game – how you feel and perform with your stick is what makes your style unique and different. When finding the right hockey stick, there’s quite a lot to consider: the length, bow, weight, shape, composition, toe shape and more can determine which kind of stick is right for you. Not to mention your own playing style and level of experience playing a part!
Sticks mostly range between 24” and 38”, and it’s often said that your stick should come up to your hip. But this also depends on your style, because longer sticks are great for reach, while shorter sticks allow for better handling. Do you play in defence? You might want a heavier stick, while attacking players often opt for a more lightweight option. Hockey sticks can be made from carbon, aramid, fibreglass and wood – all of which have different properties and can affect your playing style. We can help you to find out which combination of length, material and weight is right for you. Our range of hockey sticks has something for everyone!
Protective Hockey Equipment
Hockey can be an incredibly physical sport. It’s fast moving and intense, and players often pick up injuries and strains. With players and sticks colliding into one another, it’s no surprise that hockey players see their protective equipment as some of the most important pieces of gear in their locker. Whether you’re new or you’ve been playing for years, you need to make sure that you stay safe and protected with the right equipment.
Almost all hockey players see mouthguards and shin guards as an absolute necessity. It’s incredibly easy to take a stray hit from a stick. A lot of players also opt for face masks and gloves to further protect themselves. Even if you’re not playing in goal, you want to make sure that you can stay on pitch safer, for longer. We offer protective equipment from leading brands such as Gryphon, Kookaburra, Reece and Mercian.
Goalkeeping Equipment
The needs of a hockey goalkeeper are completely different to those of the other players on the pitch. To play well and safe, hockey goalkeepers need specialised equipment. They can take a lot of punishment during a game, with hockey balls flying at them fast and hard throughout the match. We offer both full and partial sets of padding to help protect your body while playing in goal.
From legguards and gloves, to body armour, helmets and more, there’s a lot to choose from when deciding how you’re going to protect yourself. We have a wide range in stock and can help guide you to a safer experience as a hockey goalkeeper. When you feel more relaxed and confident, you play better. We also sell throat guards, kickers, abdominal guards and girdles so you can make sure that your entire body is protected.
Hockey Balls
To spectators, it might just seem like a ball. But to hockey players, there’s a lot that goes into a hockey ball. From the differences between indoor and outdoor balls, and smooth or dimpled balls, the ball that you use can make a big difference to how the game is played. Dimpled balls are the most common and widely used hockey balls because of their versatility and durability – the can work in different weather conditions and be used inside or out. But smooth balls are often used when playing on sand or astroturf surfaces.
We stock hockey balls from a range of leading and premium hockey ball brands such as Kookaburra, Gryphon and Mercian. No matter what your budget or level of experience is, we’ve got excellent quality hockey balls that you’ll be able to rely on. We also sell practice and miniature balls that are fantastic for improving your skills, dribbling, shooting and handling. Sharpen up so that when you hit the pitch, the other team won’t know how to handle you!
