At Big 5, we stock a huge variety of hockey equipment to make sure you can choose the right equipment for you. From absolute beginners to experienced amateurs and professional players, we make sure we have a range that has something for everyone, to enhance your game and make sure that the way you play is to the best of your ability every time.
Hockey Sticks
When you’re in the market for a new hockey stick, there’s a lot to think about. The length, weight, bow shape, toe shape, composition, and your own level of experience will help determine the kind of stick you should be looking for.
Sticks usually range from 24″ to 38″, and, as a rule of thumb, should come up to your hip, but this depends on personal preference, as longer sticks are better for reach, while shorter sticks improve ball handling. Heavier sticks are also better for defence, while attacking players often go for a more lightweight stick. Hockey sticks can be made from a variety of materials, including carbon, aramid, fibreglass and wood, all of which have different properties, making them better for different players. For example, wood is the softest and most flexible, while carbon adds power and strength to a stick, though can be more pricey. Aramid adds longevity and fibreglass is a flexible and economical alternative to carbon. The shape of your stick makes a difference to your play style too, so making sure you find one that suits you will be sure to help you improve your play.
This can seem like a lot to consider, but with Big 5’s range and experience, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect hockey stick for you.
Protective Equipment
Whether you’re playing hockey for the first time or have been at it for years, making sure you have the right protective equipment is one of the most important things you can do. As a minimum, you should have a well fitting mouthguard and shinguards. We offer these in a wide variety of sizes and styles, from well-known brands such as Gryphon, Kookaburra, Reece and Mercian to keep you safe no matter what your level of play.
Goalkeeping Equipment
Goalkeepers need specialised equipment in order to play well and stay safe during their games at every level. We offer partial and full sets of padding to help protect the whole body when goalkeeping, including full chest, arm, abdominal and leg padding, helmets and protection for hands and feet.
Hockey Balls
The ball your team plays with will make a difference to how you play. There are important differences between indoor and outdoor balls, and dimpled or smooth balls which can impact on how you play. Dimpled balls are the most common and widely used hockey balls as they are versatile, durable and work well in a lot of different weather conditions, but smooth balls are also popular for sand or astroturf pitches.
We also sell practice and miniature balls to help you improve your skills and handling from a range of premium hockey ball brands, including Kookaburra, Gryphon and Mercian, so that no matter your budget, training ground or level of experience, your hockey equipment won’t let you down.
