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Field Hockey · Level 5: Upper-Intermediate · Sub-level 5.5

Sticks, Turf and Kit

10 tests · 100 facts · updated 30 October 2026 · markdown

Equipment for players who are getting serious: the parts of the stick, wood and composite, choosing a length, the limits on sticks, the ball, playing surfaces, footwear, protective and goalkeeping kit and looking after it.

Each test below is ten questions on Insporta. The list under a test is what the questions check: one fact per question, with the source it was written from. Read it before the test, or come back from a wrong answer.

Test 1Parts of the stickTake a test

  1. The flat side, the face, is the side that plays the ball.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 9.5 · recall

  2. The head is the curved part at the bottom.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. The toe is the end of the curved head.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. A grip wrap covers the handle for a firm hold.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. The bow is the curve along the length of the stick.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  6. Grips wear smooth and need rewrapping long before the stick is done.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  7. A bow nearer the head helps flicks and drag-flicks.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  8. Grip at the top, then shaft, head and toe.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. Face and edges are used; the back is not.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 9.5 · recall

  10. The tip of the curved head is the toe.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

Test 2Wood and compositeTake a test

  1. Beginner sticks are usually constructed of wood.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  2. Wood is lightweight, less rigid and more forgiving.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. Players move on to a more powerful composite stick.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Composites mix carbon, glass fibre and other materials.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. A stiff stick transfers more energy to the ball.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  6. A forgiving stick makes stopping and control easier.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  7. Stick length, style and weight is based on individual preference.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. From forgiving wood to powerful composite.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. More carbon, more stiffness.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  10. Wood is lighter and more forgiving.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

Test 3Choosing a stick lengthTake a test

  1. Too long is hard to manoeuvre; too short is awkward and limits power.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  2. A stick that is too long will be difficult to manoeuvre.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. A stick too short may be awkward and limit power.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Many players judge from the ground to the hip bone.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. Length follows height.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  6. Two players of the same height may still prefer different lengths.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  7. Shorter sticks favour tight skills.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. Measure, check, grip, test.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. Shorter for small children, longer as they grow.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

  10. Shoulder height is too long for most players.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

Test 4The stick's limitsTake a test

  1. The stick must pass through a ring with an inside diameter of 51 mm.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  2. Maximum weight 737 g.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  3. The bow must not exceed 25 mm.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  4. Limits keep lifted shots safer.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  5. Maximum total length 105 cm.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  6. A thicker stick would not pass through.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  7. Equipment specifications are set by the FIH.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  8. 25 mm, 51 mm, then 105 cm.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  9. Weight, ring, bow, length.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  10. The ring test checks the stick's width.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · applied

Test 5The ballTake a test

  1. Scuffed balls run and bounce less truly.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  2. Usually white or orange, but any colour that contrasts with the surface.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. Dimples cut aquaplaning when the turf is wet.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Any colour that contrasts with the playing surface.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. Weight 156-163 g.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications · recall

  6. USA Field Hockey offers it as beginner equipment.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  7. Different balls may be used for development training and play.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. A golf ball, the normal hockey ball, then the oversized GO Ball.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. Dimples matter most when wet.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  10. Dimples reduce aquaplaning on wet turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

Test 6Turf typesTake a test

  1. Elite outdoor hockey is played on water-based turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  2. Hockey5s is played on synthetic turf, grass and sometimes sand-based turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. Indoor is played on hard courts, including gym floors.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Watering makes the ball run fast and true.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. The chop is only used on astro fields.

    Source: KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Glossary · recall

  6. The drag can only be used effectively on artificial turf.

    Source: KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Injector · recall

  7. Synthetic turf made the game faster and passing more effective.

    Source: KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Tactics · recall

  8. Watered turf is fastest.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. Grass, then turf, then watered turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

  10. Wet, smooth synthetic: water-based turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

Test 7FootwearTake a test

  1. Short rubber studs grip without damaging turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  2. Spikes tear turf and can injure players.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  3. Grass needs studs for grip.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Indoor is played on hard courts with flat soles.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. Match the shoe to the surface.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  6. Kickers protect and help clear the ball.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.2 · recall

  7. Players must not wear anything dangerous to other players.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  8. Flat soles, short studs, longer studs.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. Surface, choice, laces, test.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  10. Short rubber studs suit turf.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · applied

Test 8Protective kitTake a test

  1. Field players are strongly recommended to wear shin, ankle and mouth protection.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  2. Hand protection must not increase the natural size of the hands significantly.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  3. Face masks for defending penalty corners.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  4. All field players must remove corner equipment before taking part in play outside their 23.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 13.3n · recall

  5. For medical reasons, a smooth close-fitting face mask, soft headgear or goggles.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  6. Knee pads may be worn outside the socks if their colour matches or is black.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  7. Mouth guards prevent dental injury.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. Mouth, hands, shins, ankles.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  9. Finish, remove, then play on.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 13.3n · applied

  10. Corner protective equipment is allowed.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · applied

Test 9Goalkeeping kitTake a test

  1. A goalkeeper wears at least protective headgear, leg guards and kickers.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.2 · recall

  2. A goalkeeper wears a different colour shirt.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.2 · recall

  3. Keepers keep the helmet on throughout play; the stroke is the only exception.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 10.1 · recall

  4. Blockers are the keeper's hand protectors.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  5. A throat protector hangs below the helmet.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  6. It is vital the goalkeeper has the correct equipment.

    Source: KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Six-a-side · recall

  7. Padding protects against hard balls.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. Head, chest, legs, feet.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.2 · recall

  9. Body, legs, feet, then head and hands.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  10. Helmet, blockers, pads and kickers: goalkeeping kit.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.2 · applied

Test 10Caring for kitTake a test

  1. A damaged stick can splinter and hurt someone.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  2. A good grip gives control.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  3. Drying stops smells and damage.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  4. Rough edges are dangerous.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  5. Clean guards stay safe to use.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  6. A damaged grille or strap is a safety risk.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  7. Heat can weaken composite and glue.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  8. Stick, guards, mouth guard, pack.

    Source: USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025) · recall

  9. A worn grip is minor; a crack is serious.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · recall

  10. Rough parts are dangerous to others.

    Source: FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.2 · applied

Sources

KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, USA Field Hockey 101, NFHCA notes, FIH history and official results; original questions authored, nothing reproduced. Numbered rules belong to the Rules category (Field Hockey - Rules of Hockey).

  • USA Field Hockey, Field Hockey 101 (2025)60
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Specifications13
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 4.213
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 2.25
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 9.52
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 13.3n2
  • KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Glossary1
  • KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Injector1
  • KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Tactics1
  • FIH Rules of Hockey 2027 (player's view), Rule 10.11
  • KNHB/SAHA Field Hockey Activity Guide, Six-a-side1