Hurling is a fast-paced Irish sport described as being a cross between baseball, hockey, lacrosse, rugby and football all rolled into one.
Starting out in the exhilarating sport of hurling requires not only passion but also the right equipment. Among the essential gear, the hurley stick plays a pivotal role in your performance.
In this guide for beginners, we will walk you through the process of choosing the right hurley stick to suit your needs, skill level, and playing style. We’ll also discuss stick design basics, specifications, blade and grip types and more!
Understand the Basics Of A Hurley Stick
Before diving into the selection process, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the basic components of a hurley stick. A typical hurley stick is made from ash wood and consists of a handle, or “haft,” and a blade, or “bas.” The handle should feel comfortable and provide a secure grip, while the blade’s shape and size affect striking and ball control.
As an FYI, the ball that you hit with the hurley stick is called the sliotar as shown above in the image.
Consider Hurley Stick Length
A hurley stick typically ranges in length from 30 to 37 inches (76 to 94 cm).
The length of your hurley stick greatly impacts your gameplay. As a general rule of thumb, the top of the stick should reach your wrist when you’re standing with your hurley stick beside you. Beginners often opt for slightly shorter sticks to facilitate control and maneuverability.
The specific length of a hurley stick can vary based on personal preference, playing position, and individual player characteristics. It is important to find a hurley stick length that feels comfortable and suits your playing style for optimal performance on the hurling field.
Determine Stick Weight
The weight of a hurley stick can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood used, individual player preferences, and playing positions. However, on average, a hurley stick weighs between 15 to 20 ounces (425 to 567 grams).
The weight of a hurley stick is a crucial factor as it affects both striking power and control during gameplay. Beginners often opt for lighter sticks to facilitate better swing speed and accuracy, while more experienced players may choose slightly heavier sticks for increased power. Ultimately, the ideal weight of a hurley stick is subjective and depends on the player’s comfort and playing style.
Choose the Right Blade Shape
Blade shapes vary, and selecting the appropriate one depends on your preferred style of play. Traditional blades are slightly wider and have a flatter striking surface, offering increased surface area for striking the sliotar. More modern, slimmer blade designs provide enhanced ball control and agility. Consider your position, skill level, and personal preference when choosing the blade shape.
Here are some common blade shapes found in hurley sticks:
Traditional Flat Blade
- This is the most common and traditional blade shape.
- The striking surface is relatively flat and wide, providing a larger surface area for striking the sliotar.
- It offers good striking power and is favored by players who prioritize power and accuracy in their shots.
Narrow Blade
- A narrower blade shape is becoming increasingly popular in modern hurling.
- The striking surface is slimmer, offering better ball control and agility.
- It allows for quicker hand movements and enables players to maneuver the sliotar with greater precision.
Semi-Circular Blade
- The semi-circular blade shape is a hybrid between the traditional flat blade and a narrower shape.
- It provides a balance between striking power and ball control.
- The curved shape helps with lifting the sliotar and maneuvering it effectively during gameplay.
Square Blade
- The square blade shape features a more pronounced corner or squared-off edge.
- It allows for more precise striking, particularly for shots requiring accuracy and placement.
- Some players prefer the square blade for its distinctive feel and ability to execute specific techniques.
Rounded Blade
- The rounded blade shape has curved edges, offering smooth contact with the sliotar.
- It provides a forgiving surface for striking and helps reduce the likelihood of the blade catching or sticking in the ground.
- This shape is often favored by players seeking a balance between striking power and control.
It’s important to note that the availability of different blade shapes may vary among hurley stick manufacturers and individual craftsmen. Additionally, personal preference and playing style play a significant role in determining the ideal blade shape for each player.
Trying out different blade shapes can help you discover the one that suits your style of play and enhances your performance on the hurling field.
Grip Comfort and Material
The grip of your hurley stick greatly impacts your control and feel during gameplay. Opt for a grip material that feels comfortable in your hand and provides sufficient traction. Common grip materials include rubber, synthetic materials, or traditional leather.
There are various grip options available for hurley sticks to enhance player comfort, grip strength, and control. Here are some common grip options:
Rubber Grip
- Rubber grips are a popular choice for hurley sticks.
- They provide a comfortable and cushioned grip, offering good control and reducing hand fatigue during gameplay.
- Rubber grips offer excellent traction, even in wet conditions, ensuring a secure hold on the stick.
Synthetic Grips
- Synthetic grips are made from materials such as polyurethane or synthetic leather.
- They provide a similar feel to traditional leather grips but offer added durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Synthetic grips are often designed with textured patterns or perforations for enhanced grip and moisture management.
Leather Grip
- Traditionalists often prefer leather grips for their classic look and feel.
- Leather grips offer a natural and traditional touch, providing a secure hold on the stick.
- They can mold to the player’s hand over time, offering a personalized and comfortable grip.
Overgrip
- Overgrips are additional grip layers that can be applied over the existing grip of a hurley stick.
- They provide extra cushioning and tackiness, improving grip strength and control.
- Overgrips are typically made of synthetic materials and can be easily replaced when worn out or for customization purposes.
Grip Tape
- Grip tape is another option to enhance the grip on a hurley stick.
- It is typically self-adhesive and can be wrapped around the handle for added texture and grip.
- Grip tape offers a customizable grip option, allowing players to adjust the thickness and feel according to their preferences.
The choice of grip option ultimately depends on personal preference, playing conditions, and the level of grip and comfort desired by the player. Some players may experiment with different grip options to find the one that suits their playing style and provides optimal control during hurling matches and practices.
Seek Expert Advice
If possible, visit a local hurling equipment store or consult with experienced players and coaches. Their expertise can provide invaluable guidance in selecting the right hurley stick for your needs. They can offer insights into specific brands, models, and customizations that may benefit your gameplay.
Practice and Adapt
Once you’ve selected your hurley stick, remember that it may take time to adjust to its feel and characteristics. Regular practice and game experience will help you develop a deeper understanding of your stick’s strengths and weaknesses, enabling you to adapt your technique and style accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hurley stick is a vital step towards enjoying and excelling in the sport of hurling. By considering factors such as length, weight, blade shape, grip comfort, and seeking expert advice, you can find a hurley stick that complements your skills and playing style.
Remember, the perfect stick may evolve as your game progresses, so be open to trying different options to find your ideal match. Embrace the journey, practice diligently, and unleash your passion for hurling with the right hurley stick in hand.