Low bow or Mid bow Hockey Stick?
While it’s true that to play great hockey you require superior skills and experience. But equally important is to choose the best gear, especially the right Field Hockey stick for both your position and skill set. Selecting the bow of a field hockey stick can be challenging for many. The ongoing debate has captivated players, coaches, and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we explore the characteristics and benefits of all stick types, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision that perfectly complements your playing style and elevates your performance on the field.
What is a Hockey Stick Bow?
Put simply, the bow of a Field Hockey Stick is the curve or bend along the length of the stick. Best seen when looking at the stick from the side.
Low Bow, Pro Bow, Mid Bow??
It can all sound confusing, however, to summarize –
- Low bow sticks are better for aerial strokes, drag flicks, push passes, and 3D skills.
- Whereas the mid bow is much straighter, almost like a cricket bat. Much easier to pass a lower ball and be more predictable when tackling.
- While a higher bow (Ultra Bow) is very straight, ideal for beginners.
However, the matter is not as straightforward as it seems. Field hockey stick manufacturers have a tendency to utilize their own terminology to describe the bow type of their sticks. I’ve broken it down for you by manufacturer
To determine which stick is better suited for your playing style, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of each stick type, allowing you to make an informed decision tailored to your specific position and gameplay requirements.
What are the best Field Hockey Sticks for Forwards?
What are the best Field Hockey Sticks for Defenders?
As they say, a picture tells a thousand words, here is a great diagram to start with, demonstrating the different hockey stick bows.
Low Bow Hockey Sticks
Advantages of the Low Bow Stick?
The low bow hockey sticks are mostly used by experienced players. They’re recommended for those who have gained some notable experience in the sport. A lower bow will help you master the following –
Drag flick and push passes: Appearing in the early nineties, this revolutionary skill allows players to literally collect the ball on the ‘D’ drag and flick it at great speed when taking a penalty. A low bow stick allows players to drag and flick more easily towards the top corners, as the lower peak of the bow allows more of a scoop hit, which in turn increases the accuracy of each aerial hit. As such, using this bow will lead to more precision when shooting the ball towards the upper areas of the net. You will be able to hit the top corners of the goal with practice or reach the targeted player that you intended to pass to.
Aerial passes and 3D skills: Low bow sticks promote skills such as aerial passing, dribbling (while lifting the ball slightly above the field), and chipping it over opposing hooks as part of the latest 3D skills. Low bows are far better for sending aerial passes. This makes the low bow great for different positions, particularly the midfield or forward positions that require more dribbling and 3D skills.
With low bows, players can chip and shoot the ball effectively with good wrist control using clever techniques when necessary.
Modern Design of the Low Bow
The design of the low bow is seen to be more trendy and modern than the mid bow stick. Low bows are attracting a new generation who want to practice 3D skills. This makes it preferable for many young players who not only go for the attacking powers of the stick, but also for more agility. A bow in the stick helps to create more ‘slingshot’ type power from push passes, and also helps to bring the ball under control when it’s trapped.
As the name suggests, this bow is made with a lower peak of the bow that measures 24 mm at the 250 mm section from the base of the stick.
Disadvantages of the Low Bow
While the low bow is a great option, it’s not for everyone. A great player, skilled on a mid or higher bow may not seem so great if changing to a low bow. It is quite different and takes some time to get used to. These sticks can be harder to control, something that can prove challenging to those who are not experienced.
Our favorite Low Bow is Dragon Hockey’s Eclipse 100. Its mold is nice and lightweight, perfect for those wanting an all-rounder hockey stick. Ideal for the playmaker of the team it keeps you strong on the fundamental skills, while also giving you an edge on 3D.
If the Eclipse 100 is out of your budget, then the Eclipse 85 or Eclipse 70 are also fantastic options.
Mid Bow Hockey Sticks
Mid Bow Benefits
The mid bow has a medium curve and isn’t as powerful at drag flicks as the low bow. They tend to be more popular with players who want a stick which benefits every area of the game equally, while a more dramatic bow creates a more dramatic head angle, to assist in dynamic play and lifts. Therefore, the mid bow is more dependable across the board. Mid bows have their peak height much higher up the hockey stick, and as such, are easier to trap the ball with. They feel like a flatter stick. Most goalkeepers tend to opt for mid-bows because they’re arguably easier to use and tend to be easier to control the ball with. The mid bow is becoming less common, as the low bow is attracting more players who want to perform 3D skills and aerials.
Size of the mid bow: the mid bow field hockey stick measures between 22 mm and 24 mm at the 300 mm section from the base of the stick.
The mid bow sticks can be more suited for those who don’t have expertise in playing hockey, especially the beginners. However, that said, they are still the number one choice for some experienced players as they can be relied on to make a flatter pass. Their reliability and tackling strength are important factors for some players, as it allows them to be confident in the basics of the game.
Although these sticks are no longer deemed “fashionable” by some people, their popularity hasn’t been affected by loyalists. They remain some of the most liked field hockey sticks with traditionalists, defenders, and goalies.
A Disadvantage of the Mid Bow
The mid bow, on the other hand, is not so good at aerial passing and shots. Players have a tendency to scuff the hook and fail to lift the ball. However, they have other strengths to consider.
Hockey Stick Bow Terms by Brand
How do Grays Hockey label their Bows?
Most Field Hockey brands create their own terms to label their bows. Grays Hockey is no exception. Starting at the Probow through to the Ultrabow.
The bow options for Grays Hockey Sticks, from lowest to the highest bows are:
- Probow Extreme
- Jumbow
- Probow
- Dynabow
- Midbow
- Ultrabow
The top of the range sticks from Grays are the Probow-S, Ultrabow-S and Dynabow-S. All higher spec models than standard, best viewed in the spec sheet below.
Adidas Hockey Bow Guide
Adidas categorize their sticks with traditional terms, however, they don’t label the sticks as such. You’ll need to refer to the image below for the current range or alternatively, read the fine print for each stick.
The previous generation of Adidas Field Hockey sticks used the labels below. With the DF being Ultra Low Bow, through to V as a Mid Bow.
Osaka Hockey Bow Guide
Osaka Hockey uses quite traditional, and therefore easier understood terms when describing the bows of their field hockey stick range.
Starting with the straightest bow called the Grow Bow, through the Mid, Low, and on to the Pronto (with a few in-between).
How about Higher than a Mid Bow?
Once you go higher than a mid bow, the stick becomes quite flat. Great for learning how to trap the ball and improve your general skills.
Conclusion
Both the low bow and mid bow field hockey sticks offer excellent performance in their own ways. Both your position and preferred playing style will play a major role in determining which one to choose. As mentioned earlier, each type has its strengths in various aspects of the game, such as receiving or dragging, flicking, and tackling. For example, if you enjoy shooting on goal and want to showcase your creativity, the low bow stick might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner focusing on defensive play, it would be beneficial to familiarize yourself with the mid bow stick, as it offers advantages in tackling. While some forwards prefer the flatter and more reliable mid bow style, particularly in tight spaces.
Please note there are no rules set in stone. The important factor is to choose which stick feels comfortable for you. Try a few out at your college or sports club before finding a good deal on a stick online.
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.
This is so useful! Especially the conversion of the l-bow and m-bow descriptions into the different brands’ descriptions. Thank you!