How to choose the right size Hockey Stick for my Child

Why Stick Length Matters

A stick that’s too long forces young players to hunch or mishandle the ball, while a stick that’s too short robs them of reach and power. The goal is a length that lets your child stand tall, control the ball comfortably, and strike with confidence.

Quick Size Check (The “Belly-Button Rule”)

1. Have your child stand in bare feet.

2. Place the toe of the stick flat on the floor between their feet.

3. Top of the handle should sit ~ level with the belly button.

   • Above the navel? Too long.

   • Below? Too short.

This simple test works for about 90 % of kids, but use the chart below for extra certainty.

Kid’s Field Hockey Stick Size Chart Child’s

Height Approx.                            Age Recommended        Stick Length

Under 100 cm (3 ft 3″)                  4–6 yrs                             26″                                       100 – 115 cm (3 ft 3″– 3 ft 9″)       5–7 yrs                              28″                                   116 – 125 cm (3 ft 10″– 4 ft 1″)      6–8 yrs                             30″                                 126 – 135 cm (4 ft 2″– 4 ft 5″)       7–9 yrs                             32″                                 136 – 145 cm (4 ft 6″– 4 ft 9″)       8–11 yrs                            34″                                 146 – 155 cm (4 ft 10″– 5 ft 1″)      10–12 yrs                          35″                                   156 cm + (5 ft 2″ +)                        12 yrs +                            36.5″ (full-size)

Tip: If your child sits between two sizes, choose the shorter stick for better control—especially for beginners.

Beyond Length: Three Extra Fit Factors

1. Weight & Balance

   • Lighter sticks help younger players develop skills without wrist strain.

   • Composite blends (50 % carbon or less) give a forgiving first touch.

2. Bow (Curve) Profile

   • Mid-bow (22–24 mm) is ideal for beginners—easy trapping, steady hitting.

   • Leave low-bow “drag-flick” sticks until advanced skills are in place.

3. Grip Thickness

   • Small hands? Add a half-grip or choose a thinner handle diameter.

   • A snug grip stops the stick twisting on hard hits.

Try-Before-You-Buy Checklist

• Dribble 5 m – stick should stay low without crouching.

• Push pass – elbows relaxed, no scraping turf.

• Lift ball slightly – ensures head control and correct bow shape.

Bring your child into Pure Sports & Leisure (Waipukurau)—our team will size them up, let them swing demo sticks, and even regrip a handle on the spot if needed. We ship NZ-wide, so once you find the perfect fit you can reorder online any time.

Final Whistle

A correctly sized stick is the quickest way to boost confidence and fun on the turf. Use the belly-button test, cross-check the chart, and focus on comfort over “growing room.” Your young hockey star will thank you with better skills—and a bigger smile—every game day.

Need help sizing up? Pop into store, call us, or contact us HERE .

Happy hockey!