It’s reasonable that you play very naturally when you’re confident in your best pair of field hockey shoes. Guess what! Knowing the rules of hockey and the various ways you can shoot or dribble the ball is not enough to play this game. Still, you need a range of quality and comfortable equipment. That’s why the best field hockey shoes among others, are very important to any hockey player regardless of their gender or seniority. In fact, a good player’s power starts from being relaxed in his equipment.
There are over 100 styles of shoes in the athletic footwear market, as well as in the world, and each and everyone has a particular purpose. For instance, you can’t use a pair of ballet shoes for running, or a pair of beach sandals for hiking. Guess you got the point. When it comes to running, you need special kinds of running shoes, that suit your purpose such as long-distance running shoes, cushioned shoes, beginners’ running shoes, etc. Similarly, you need a pair of hiking shoes for hiking and a pair of football boots for the game of football. As same as that, you’ll need a pair of the best field hockey shoes to win your game of hockey!
This article will guide you through the features, advantages, and disadvantages of the best field hockey shoes designed by world-famous brands that specialize in field hockey equipment for 2021. Let’s start and buy yourself the best field hockey shoes to give premium comfort during the heat of battle!
What are Hockey Shoes Called?
Simple answer is – cleats and turf shoes. Let’s see what are the specific features of this two types.
Cleats: When playing on outdoor grass fields, cleats are always the best option. They are specifically targeted at field hockey and therefore have longer rubber, plastic or metal studs on the bottom of the shoe that help with traction when running over grass. For hockey players who are looking for as much grip as possible out on the field, cleats are the perfect choice of hockey shoe.
Turf shoes: Thanks to their trainer-like exterior which offers a decent degree of ankle support, most novice and beginner hockey players prefer turf shoes for playing on artificial fields. In fact, you will find that much like cleats, turf shoes do not use spikes. They use a rubber grip instead which helps you keep your balance on the field or on Astro-turf while playing. Gait regulation, which controls how the foot lands is another feature of turf hockey shoes. Generally, they are more budget friendly than regular turf shoes.
What are the Best Brands for Field Hockey Shoes
Adidas, Asics, Grays, and Under Armour are among the most famous field hockey shoe brands.
Adidas Field Hockey Shoes
Another well recognized brand of sporting goods is Adidas. In creativity and recognition, Adidas hockey shoes are one of the best in the range. And these hockey shoes provide both comfort and safety for players. The bootie of the shoe covers the player’s foot, and this is enhanced using foil overlays to make it waterproof. Also you can find a good grip on a variety of different pitches. In addition, Adidas is a brand that has established a strong reputation for making high-quality shoes.
Asics Field Hockey Shoes
Asics is another major player in the hockey sports shoes market. It was based on the notion that advancing overall health and wellbeing is the most ideal path to developing a strong and upbeat way of life. When it comes to desirable field hockey shoes, these are also among the best field hockey shoe brands around the world. If you are playing on rough ground, turf, or even damp surfaces, they are the perfect hockey shoes. For the maximum comfort and support, they also feature a gradient heel and gel cushioning system.
Grays Field Hockey Shoes
Grays is one of the most famous brands in the world. They sell some of the most fashionable and best hockey shoes available. They are designing the best field hockey shoes to match the requirements and to fulfill the expectations of the global players. For Grays shoes, high quality performance is the key. Their shoes are best for elite players looking for better execution and more distinctive features. Grays shoes also provide awesome shoe styles and color options to choose from for professional players. In addition, you will find that they offer plenty in terms of reliability, durability, and comfort. Meanwhile, the new outsole technology reduces weight by an impressive 42% from previous models.
Under Armour Field Hockey Shoes
This brand is a specialist in advanced footwear with cutting-edge design that improves performance. Under Armour shoes with ingenuity, consistency, and a lightweight fit could be just what you need to stand out from the crowd. Their goal is to improve all athletes through enthusiasm, design, and a never-ending search for new ideas.
What are the Best Shoes for Field Hockey?
Here is a list that contains ten of the best field hockey shoes designed by top sports brands such as Adidas, Asics, Grays, and Under Armour that specialize in field hockey equipment.
- Adidas Divox 1.9S Women’s Field Hockey Turf Shoes
- Grays GX12000 Shoes
- Adidas Men’s Turf Hog LX Low Shoes
- Asics Gel-Lethal MP71 Shoes
- Adidas Performance Men Kanadia Trail Shoes
- Asics Women Gel Upcourt Shoes
- Asics Women’s Gel-Hockey Neo Shoes
- Under Armour Women’s Finisher Turf Lacrosse Shoes
- Asics Men GEL-Rocket 7 Shoe
- Under Armour Men’s Spotlight Turf Lacrosse Shoe
During games and practice sessions, a good pair of hockey shoes can provide protection from fastballs and heavy sticks. That’s why it is so important to invest in the right hockey shoes for safety and optimal performance during games. So, whether you play field hockey for your college, university, club or FIH Hockey World Cup, or even Olympic field hockey games, a pair of good quality field hockey shoes are a must to have! Hence, let us now get to know about these hockey shoes in detail.
Best Shoes for Field Hockey in Detail
You may surely be curious about the features of these hockey shoes after going through the list. Continue reading! The segments below will definitely help you clear up your questions and help you buy the right field hockey shoes for yourself. Let’s jump into the discussion with Adidas field hockey shoes!
1. Adidas Divox 1.9S Women’s Field Hockey Turf Shoes
This pair of turf shoes by Adidas comes with synthetic upper and an inner bootie for best comfort fitting, to give you a significant benefit over opponents. In order to provide additional support during lateral movement, they use synthetic overlays. They have open mesh areas to provide ventilation within and allow the foot to bend easily when you travel in various directions on the field. The legs are further secured from water and ball impacts by foil overlays. Traxion outsole, offers full traction at all speeds in all directions. On top of the above benefits, the lightweight and flexible textile upper and bootie construction offers a sock-like fit around your foot for optimum comfort and mobility.
Pros
- Foil overlays to protect from water and impacts of balls.
- Provide excellent grip on any pitch.
- For extra comfort, the EVA midsole offers lightweight cushioning.
Cons
- Adidas Divox 1.9S women’s field hockey turf shoes are also a little expensive, just like every other quality hockey shoe.
2. Grays GX12000 Shoes
The layout of Grays GX12000 Hockey Shoes is an excellent thing to remember. As they come along with a G-cage upper XP2, you will obtain a high degree of protection from these field hockey shoes. Together with robust compound PU welded to the mesh, the high performance welded G-CAGE system offers safety and stability. On top of that, it is ultra-lightweight and flexible. The top is stitched around a canvas or EVA board and connected to the midsole directly. The G-Tech II Pro sole unit utilizes multi-directional cleats (studs), suitable for pitches based on sand and water. The heat-responsive memory foam tongue of XFit guarantees prolonged comfort as the season progresses. For a secure hitting base, this innovative outsole technology comes along with the flex free technology. Also these hockey shoes incorporate an ‘Anti-fatigue Torsion System, which enhances stability, propulsion and shock absorption.
Pros
- Upper G-Cage XP2 for optimal performance
- High level of protection
- Lightweight design
- Multi-directional cleats (studs)
- Flex free technology to enhance speed
- Waterproof
- Durable
Cons
- It comes in at a higher price. (but the quality of the shoes is worth the price on the other hand)
3. Adidas Men’s Turf Hog LX Low Shoes
They may be marketed on the internet as football shoes, but they are a lightweight, sturdy, durable, and solid field hockey alternative. These shoes have a breathable coated leather and textile upper and are made of sturdy synthetic materials. They have the most comfort and normally do not take any extra time for break-in. The uppers are made of leather and mesh, and the midsoles are made of compression molded EVA. Furthermore, they provide you with the adaptability and versatility you need while also providing you with the best safety and comfort possible while out on the field.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Breathable
- Do not take any extra time for break-in
4. Asics Gel-Lethal MP71 Shoes
Asics Gel-Lethal MP7 field hockey shoes are suitable for professionals as well as beginners. These are your shoes if you are looking for a turf shoe that will be durable, comfortable and trendy. This shoe is light and compact; it gives you the advantage of agility. There is synthetic leather in the upper section. It also has a broad and wide toe area, ensuring that a player’s toes are free and comfortable while playing. Furthermore, a perfect grip pattern with a pivot point on the outside sole allows you a fast 360° turning. And you know what, these shoes’ insoles are removable! This lets you have medical insoles or even insoles of dual density. When cleaning the shoes, the removable feature of the insole also gives the player an easy time. In addition to the above advantages, it is incorporated with a Gel cushioning that absorbs any impacts.
Pros
- Wide range of fittings including larger sizes.
- Has a Lightweight structure.
- Comes with removable insoles.
- Outstanding grip pattern.
- Pivot point on the sole allows an easy 360° turning.
- Gel cushioning that helps to absorb external impacts
Cons
- The upper section is made of leather.
5. Adidas Performance Men Kanadia Trail Shoes
Although these are promoted as trail or running shoes, they are also ideal for field hockey, particularly when considering the value you get for your money when purchasing field hockey shoes. They’re a great choice because they’re made to be tough and long-lasting material. Adidas Performance Men Kanadia Trail Shoes are made up of a lightweight cushioning insole and a Traxion outsole for superior grip in all directions. In addition, this pair provides basic arch support. Furthermore, the stitching and lining of these shoes are both long-lasting and resistant. These shoes are very comfortable and breathable thanks to the air mesh upper. They’re also tough and long-lasting enough to survive everyday use in the field.
Pros
- Tough and long-lasting
- Lightweight cushioning insole
- Simple arch support
- Breathable thanks to the air mesh upper
6. Asics Women Gel Upcourt Shoes
We recommend Asics Women Gel Upcourt Shoe for someone looking for the best field hockey shoes on a budget. Some refer to it as a roadrunner due to its sturdy synthetic and gum rubber sole, while others favor it over all others due to its rugged grip and long-lasting construction. They’re warm, flexible, and supportive. This one offers strong arch support, encourages better performance strategy, and allows for fast lateral movements while playing. The rearfoot gel cushioning system and APMA seal of approval indicates that these field hockey shoes provide approved and sealed delivery after receiving approval for their design and ergonomic construction from a podiatric medical association. They work really well for novices and beginners in terms of fit, efficiency, and comfort as well.
Pros
- Rugged grip
- Long-lasting construction
- Strong arch support
7. Asics Women’s Gel-Hockey Neo Shoes
Asics Women’s Gel-Hockey Neo is explicitly designed to conquer the hockey field. Using Trusstic System Technology, these shoes are designed to make them lightweight without compromising on the integral structure. Furthermore, a better protection is given by a dual density midsole (DuoMax Support System) and guarantees smooth movements. And when you wear them for a long time, mesh engineering makes airflow to make your feet feel dry and comfortable.
Pros
- Has a lightweight design.
- Greater ventilation.
- Better support and allows smooth movements.
8. Under Armour Women’s Finisher Turf Lacrosse Shoes
Field Hockey is a great fit for the Under Armour Women’s Finisher shoes, which are known as Lacrosse shoes. They are not only attractive, but also practical and comfortable. The lightweight construction of these shoes is their key selling point. This is due to the synthetic upper and extremely light toe-box. This one also has a Die-cut EVA sockliner that reduces cleat pressure for improved underfoot comfort. On artificial turf and dry natural fields, the patterned rubber outsole with mini-lugs provides incredible grip and traction. The mini-lug sole provides excellent grip and traction on turf and grass. They have a tendency to run tiny, so order one size up to be safe.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Suitable for turf and dry grass
- Die-cut EVA sockliner for added comfort
- Incredible grip and traction
Cons
- The sizing can be a little tight
- There isn’t much toe protection when it comes to being hit by balls.
9. Asics Men GEL-Rocket 7 Shoes
Though Asics Men GEL-Rocket 7 is marketed as a volleyball shoe, it also provides exceptional value and outstanding performance for a lighter and more robust feel for field hockey as well. These shoes, made with cutting-edge technology, are by far the best for improved traction, structured direction, and strategy. It comes with a Trusstic system to significantly influence and relieve the weight of the sole for improved stability and agility when playing. Furthermore, they are specifically helpful for athletes who prepare for fast lateral movements to provide the traction and strategy that field hockey players need on the field. It is well insulated to withstand a variety of weather and playing conditions. Thanks to the Forefoot Gel Cushioning System, it provides excellent shock absorption. It also has a significantly higher natural rubber content than other field hockey shoes on the market, allowing for more strategic and efficient on-court action.
Pros
- A lighter and more robust feel
- Improved traction
- Improved stability
- Excellent shock absorption
- Cushioned footbed
- Allows more strategic and efficient on-court action
10. Under Armour Men’s Spotlight Turf Lacrosse Shoes
The upper of Under Armour Men’s Spotlight Turf Lacrosse Shoe features woven design for a lightweight, sock-like fit, with TPU coated yarns woven in for zonal stability and support. This one features a full-length bootie with a molded ankle collar for added structure, protection, and a safe, comfortable fit. TPU heel device and toe box coating for added security and durability. SuperFoam insoles with high rebound offer maximum shock absorption and comfort. BZM and TPU combine for exceptional stability and strength in this ultra-lightweight speed plate. They are not difficult to put on, and fit like a sock with a little stretching out before putting them on, and the foot fits snugly and tight with strong ankle support, according to customer feedback.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Suitable for turf and dry grass
- Strong ankle support
- Offers maximum shock absorption and comfort
- Exceptional stability
What Makes a Good Field Hockey Shoe?
You may wonder what are the features of a good pair of field hockey shoes. No need to worry, we have listed them for you.
Protection
You can see why field hockey players face a risk of being injured while everyone is holding wooden sticks and hitting a hard plastic ball. This is why players are typically equipped with a variety of safety equipment to reduce their risk of serious injury. You may want to make sure that you are searching for shoes that provide optimum levels of safety since the odds of leg injury are higher in field hockey compared to other sports. Further, there are ample amounts of padding in the vast majority of footwear made specifically for field hockey. You may want to pay careful attention to the degree of protection around the toes when looking at field hockey shoes.
Foot Support
It is vital for the player to wear well-fitting shoes to play a good game. Check for shoes that internally have a decent amount of cushioning or padding and have sides that will not rub on your ankle or heel. It also gives the ankles adequate protection and keeps the feet dry and comfortable. Good support can make sure that you can easily alter direction without twisting your ankle.
Grip, Traction and Maneuverability
You must have enough grip and traction on your hockey shoes, particularly on water-based pitches, or on wet and rainy days. This is made possible by rubber studs on hockey shoes. Similarly, shoes with a firm grip allow the player to easily run and maneuver. Tip – rather than more simple points, go for bladed treads. With a reasonable degree of maneuverability, you can easily turn sixpence and run in the opposite direction at speed.
Durability
You need a pair that’s fairly robust, if you don’t want to change your shoes for a couple of seasons at least. Put simply, you’re going to get what you’re paying for, so a cheaper pair of hockey shoes won’t last you as long as an expensive pair. That’s why the above mentioned shoes are worth the extra cost – because of their quality.
Conclusion
Remember, the best hockey shoes can make you a powerful player. You might notice that this article has a selection of pricey pairs. But when you consider the design attributes, including lightness, durability, water resistance and safety, they are all worth the cost. You can make the difference between having a good or poor experience on the field, running in comfort or discomfort, and most importantly, whether you stay safe from injuries or get hurt by your choice of hockey shoes. So, never let your shoes let you down when you play! To conclude, always keep in mind to remain confident in your skills and give it your all, even though the competition may be tough!
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