Dek hockey—also known as ball hockey or street hockey—is a fast-paced, high-intensity sport that blends the spirit of ice hockey with the accessibility of playing on foot. Unlike traditional ice hockey, dek hockey is played on foot (not skates) on a hard playing surface, typically outdoors or in a gymnasium. One of the most essential pieces of equipment in the game is the dek hockey stick. While it might resemble an ice hockey stick at first glance, the dek hockey stick has unique characteristics designed for performance, durability, and control on dry surfaces.
What Is a Dek Hockey Stick?
A dek hockey stick is a modified version of a traditional hockey stick, built specifically for use in street or ball hockey. It’s engineered to handle rough surfaces like asphalt, sport court tiles, or concrete, and to perform well with a plastic ball instead of a puck.
Dek hockey sticks are typically lighter, more durable, and often more affordable than ice hockey sticks. The design emphasizes ball control, quick handling, and durability, particularly since the playing surface is harsher on equipment than ice.
Materials Used in Dek Hockey Sticks
One of the biggest differences between dek and ice hockey sticks lies in the materials:
- Plastic Blades:
Most dek hockey sticks come with ABS plastic blades, which are highly durable and made to withstand abrasive surfaces. These blades are less likely to chip, crack, or wear down quickly, making them ideal for outdoor play. - Wood Shafts:
Many players prefer wooden shafts for their strength and solid feel. Wood also offers a good balance between flexibility and stiffness, making it a popular choice for recreational players. - Composite Shafts:
For more advanced or competitive play, composite shafts—made from carbon fiber, fiberglass, or a mix—offer improved responsiveness, lighter weight, and better control. These sticks often cost more but deliver superior performance.
Some sticks are one-piece, where the blade and shaft are fused together, while others are two-piece, allowing players to replace the blade or shaft independently.
Key Features of Dek Hockey Sticks
- Durability:
Since dek hockey is played on unforgiving surfaces, durability is key. The stick must be able to endure consistent contact with the ground, the ball, and other sticks without breaking down quickly. - Lightweight Feel:
Quick ball handling is essential in dek hockey. A lighter stick helps players move the ball faster, make quicker passes, and take accurate shots with less fatigue. - Blade Curve and Flex:
Dek hockey sticks often have minimal blade curve compared to ice hockey sticks. This allows for better control of the ball, which doesn’t glide like a puck.
Flex (the bend of the stick during a shot) matters too, especially for shooting accuracy and power. Since players don’t have the same leverage as on skates, flex is usually lower (more bendable) in dek hockey sticks. - Grip and Feel:
Grip tapes, textured shafts, or special coatings help improve control. Some players add their own tape jobs to personalize grip and improve comfort during play.
Choosing the Right Dek Hockey Stick
Selecting the right dek hockey stick depends on a few key factors:
- Playing Surface:
If you mostly play outdoors on asphalt or rough concrete, go for a wood or composite shaft with an ABS blade. For indoor gym play, you might choose a lighter stick with a smoother blade. - Player Position and Style:
Forwards often prefer lighter sticks with a quick release for passing and shooting, while defensemen might choose stronger, slightly heavier sticks to block shots and poke-check. - Player Size and Strength:
A stick’s length and flex should match the player’s height and strength. Most adult players use sticks between 52” to 60” in length, depending on personal preference. - Budget:
Wooden sticks with ABS blades are usually more budget-friendly and durable for casual or outdoor players. Composite models are pricier but offer better performance and lighter weight.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To make your dek hockey stick last longer:
- Avoid Excessive Use on Rough Surfaces:
Even the best ABS blades will wear down over time. Use your stick only for hockey—not for prying open doors or dragging things across the court. - Tape the Blade and Shaft:
Adding hockey tape can reduce wear and offer more control. Taping the bottom of the blade helps slow wear from constant surface contact. - Store in a Dry Place:
Avoid leaving your stick outside in the elements. Rain and heat can damage the stick over time, especially if it’s made of wood.
The Evolution of Dek Hockey Sticks
Over the years, dek hockey stick have undergone significant improvements. Brands like Mylec, Franklin, Bauer, and CCM now offer lines specifically tailored to street hockey. Players can now choose from sticks that mirror the technology of ice hockey sticks while also accommodating the unique challenges of dek hockey.
Some sticks even feature interchangeable blades, allowing players to swap out worn blades without needing to buy a whole new stick. Others come with custom flex options, helping competitive players fine-tune their shooting and passing game.
Conclusion
A quality dek hockey stick is essential for anyone serious about playing the game, whether it’s in a competitive league or casual pickup games. With the right balance of durability, weight, and performance, a good stick enhances your control, accuracy, and enjoyment of the sport. As dek hockey continues to grow worldwide, the technology and variety behind these sticks will only get better—helping players of all ages take their game to the next level.