Quick answer
A child starting field hockey needs a stick of the right length, shin guards, a mouthguard, suitable shoes and a water bottle. Many US programs also require protective eyewear (goggles). Balls are often provided by the club or school at first, but one ball at home is useful for practice. Goalkeeper gear is usually supplied by the club. You don't need expensive kit to start: fit and safety matter much more than brand or price. Always check your club's or league's rules before you buy.
Key takeaways
- Essentials: stick, shin guards, mouthguard, shoes, water bottle.
- Goggles are required in many US programs. Check your league's rules.
- Stick length matters more than stick material for young players.
- Buy a mouthguard that fits well. Kids won't wear one that's uncomfortable.
- Ask the coach before buying anything expensive. Many clubs lend gear to beginners.
The checklist
| Item | Needed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stick | Yes | Right length for height. Some clubs lend sticks at the start. |
| Shin guards | Yes | Should cover from just below the knee to just above the ankle. |
| Mouthguard | Yes, in most leagues | Boil-and-bite or custom-fitted. Must stay in place when the player talks and runs. |
| Protective eyewear | Required in many US programs | Must meet the standard your league names. Less common in Europe. |
| Shoes | Yes | Turf shoes for artificial pitches, studs or cleats for grass. Check what your pitch allows. |
| Ball | Useful | Clubs provide balls at practice. One at home helps with practice. |
| Glove | Optional | Usually one glove for the left hand. Helpful in cold weather and indoor hockey. |
| Water bottle and bag | Yes | A named bottle and a bag that fits the stick. |
Stick: get the length right
A common guide is that the top of the stick reaches roughly the child's hip bone when the stick stands upright next to them. Too long, and the child stands too upright and loses control. Too short, and they bend over too much. Kids grow fast, so check the length at the start of every season.
- Material: for beginners, wood or a low-carbon composite stick is fine. High-carbon sticks are stiffer and hit harder, but they don't make a beginner better.
- Bow: a standard or mid bow is the safe choice for young players. Extreme low bows are for advanced 3D skills and drag flicks.
- Grip: make sure small hands can hold it comfortably. A thinner grip can help younger children.
Shin guards and mouthguard
These protect against the most common knocks in field hockey: a ball or stick to the shin, and a ball to the face. Shin guards should not slide around when the child runs. Some players wear them inside socks, some with a sleeve. Try them on with the actual socks the team wears.
For the mouthguard, a boil-and-bite model is fine for most kids. If your child wears braces, ask your dentist or orthodontist what to use.
Goggles: US vs Europe
In the US, many high school and youth programs require protective eyewear for field players. In most European club hockey, field players don't wear goggles, although face masks are used by defenders at penalty corners. Rules differ by country, league and age group, so check your league's rules before the season starts.
Shoes and clothing
- Artificial turf: turf shoes with small rubber studs give grip without damaging the surface.
- Grass: molded studs or cleats. Some leagues don't allow metal studs.
- Indoor hockey (Europe, winter): clean indoor court shoes with non-marking soles.
- Clothing: team kit is usually bought through the club or school. Add layers for cold evenings.
Goalkeeper kit
Goalkeeper equipment (helmet, body protection, leg guards, kickers and gloves) is expensive and specialised. Most clubs and schools supply it, especially for young players who are trying the position. Wait until your child commits to goalkeeping before buying their own.
What not to buy yet
- An expensive high-carbon stick for a first season.
- A full goalkeeper set before your child has tried the position for a while.
- Several sticks. One good-fitting stick is enough.
If your child enjoys the sport and wants to practise at home, a ball, a few cones and a wall are a good start. You can add training aids later, once you see what they actually use.
FAQ
What equipment is required for youth field hockey?
Usually a stick, shin guards and a mouthguard. Many US programs also require protective eyewear. Check your club's or league's rules, because requirements differ.
How do I know if a field hockey stick is the right size?
Stand the stick upright next to your child. The top should come to roughly the hip bone. Check again every season as they grow.
Does my child need goggles for field hockey?
In many US high school and youth programs, yes. In most European club hockey, field players don't wear them. Check your league's rules.
What shoes are best for field hockey?
Turf shoes for artificial pitches, molded studs for grass and non-marking court shoes for indoor hockey. Ask the coach what the home pitch needs.
Should I buy goalkeeper equipment?
Not at first. Clubs and schools usually provide it. Buy your own only when your child is committed to the position.
