95% of serious field hockey players compete on artificial turf nowadays. Although there may be times when you play on grass fields. Whether you want the same shoes to perform well on both pitches must be considered when you choose your field hockey shoes.
What to consider when buying Field Hockey Shoes
Surface
- Artificial Turf – The best performing field hockey shoes on artificial turf will need quite small studs/or cleats, as a light option that will allow you to grip well, yet be as agile as possible.
- Grass –Â The same sports shoes will be ineffective on a grass pitch which requires large cleats/studs – made from rubber to help you gain grip in soft ground.
Waterproofing
Advanced field hockey players will look for additional features in their field hockey shoes. Waterproofing should be a key consideration when choosing your hockey shoes. No one wants to play in wet socks. Not only is it uncomfortable, but sodden feet also weigh you down. Quality shoes will have waterproofing around the ankle and above the toe.
Reinforcement
Have you ever wondered why the best field hockey shoes are raised from the ground? They appear to be like walking on platforms, and for good reason. With hard-hitting balls running fast across the turf, you don’t want bruises on your toes and heels. The top brands circumnavigate the need for this feature, somewhat, with extra reinforced impact areas.
Lets have a look at four top field hockey shoes for advanced field hockey players that are available worldwide…
My favorite Field Hockey Shoe for advanced players in 2022 was an easy pick. Easily the standout, the Osaka IDO Mk1 is, in my opinion, the GOAT of Field Hockey Turf Shoes. Not exclusively for men, they come in a slim version for women too!
The process of creating this masterpiece took over 2 years! The design was a collaboration of many top athletes, along with an ex Nike Shoe Engineer. What stood out the most when I first put on these shoes was just how light they are. Along the unique sole, are what makes these worth the money.
Prominent Features of the Osaka IDO Mk1 :
- Decoupling – Split sole with each part operating independently for greater flexibility around your foot
- Round molded heel for snug comfort,
- SLING system prevents the foot from moving over the sole when changing directions
- Constructed from Engineered mesh fabric which is lightweight, and doesn’t absorb water
- Toebox protection to dissipate the force if hit on the front
- O spot on the sole -supports the junction under the cuboid bone in the foot
- Multi-directional tread pattern for maximum traction during all phases of gameplay
- Stack height of 8mm, which is lower than most to keep your foot closer to the ground
Learn more about the features here >>
Available in 3 different colour schemes, plus Standard and also Slim Fit Sizes.
The Osaka IDO Mk1 shoe is the top-of-the-range shoe for field hockey professionals. A CHEAPER OPTION is the Osaka KAI Mk1 shoe. Also an excellent shoe, with the only difference to the IDO being slightly less flexibility in the sole.Â
*Available in the UK and parts of the EU only*
Grays take their field hockey very seriously. This shoe is a testament to that. It’s not the type of shoe you’d wear casually around town. The only function is to give you a cutting edge on the playing field. Grays say the Burner Pro has been designed with the help of international players. Ideally suited for water-based artificial turf, the Pro is designed with a waterproof lining that is fully breathable.
The IMPULSE+ Mid-sole is Grays
‘innovative cushioning technology that compresses under ‘pressure for better shock absorption’ with a ‘natural impulse to return instantly to its original shape’. Impluse+ offers superior energy return thus delivering more comfort and performance.
These shoe’s are lightweight, designed to keep your footwork agile. Currently only available in the UK and parts of the EU.
The Asics Gel Typhoon 3 is designed for toughness. Built with toughened synthetic/leather uppers, gel heels protect the ankle well and the whole shoe is designed to be waterproof. The removable sock liner is a nice touch that ensures a snug fit and keeps you dry.
The P-guard Toe Protector With DUOMAX Technology is tough, protecting you from swinging sticks and fastballs. While the blue design looks cool.
With Adidas’ experience and massive range in sports shoes, it’s not surprising another of their designs makes it into the current top 4 for advanced field hockey, men’s shoes. The rubber cleats are perfect for water-based synthetic turf. An extra-durable exterior offers good protection throughout the shoe. The raised sole design is also protective while the TPU toe cap provides extra protection from impact. The TRAXIONâ„¢ outsole gives maximum grip in all directions.
Snug-fitting ankle supports offer moisture protection. In traditional Adidas style, the Divox are comfortable to wear and light.
The Adidas Divox Field Hockey Shoes are constructed with air mesh in the forefoot which allows airflow throughout the shoe for a dry and cool foot environment.
Ideal for artificial turf only the Lux has a raised heel, which is perfect for protection from balls running along the turf. Small, yet effective cleats/studs offer good grip on turf, while remaining part of a light hockey shoe. The reinforced toe area is waterproof. The ‘bootee design’ and ‘neoprene material’ around the ankle keep the moisture out. Snug-fitting ankle supports offer moisture protection.Â
These shoes look great too, especially in the red, orange and aqua. Some of the best on the market, suitable for everyone as the Lux is unisex.Â
Eddie G
Eddie G, lives and breathes field hockey. In fact, he would go as far to say that he is a bit of a field hockey nut. He loves to research the latest trends and happenings in the game, so that he can stay ahead of the competition. While not so much on the pitch these days, Eddie enjoys reading up on the latest news and developments in the world of field hockey.
Eddie G
Eddie G, lives and breathes field hockey. In fact, he would go as far to say that he is a bit of a field hockey nut. He loves to research the latest trends and happenings in the game, so that he can stay ahead of the competition. While not so much on the pitch these days, Eddie enjoys reading up on the latest news and developments in the world of field hockey.
