Stick bow: low, mid, standard – what it really means

When choosing a field hockey stick, two things catch the eye right away: length and price. The third – the bow – is less obvious, yet it largely defines how a stick behaves in play. In this post we explain what the rules say about the bow and what is just manufacturers' naming, how a low bow differs from a mid bow, and which bow suits whom.

What is the bow, anyway?

Lay a stick flat on the floor and you will see the shaft is not straight – it has a gentle curve. The bow is that curve. Two figures describe it: the bow depth, i.e. how many millimetres the highest point of the curve sits above the ground, and the point of maximum bow, i.e. the spot on the shaft where the curve is greatest – closer to the middle or closer to the head. The differences between sticks look small, but you soon feel them on the pitch.

What the rules say and what is just a manufacturer's label

The FIH rules regulate only two things: the bow depth must not exceed 25 mm, and the point of maximum bow must be at least 200 mm from the base of the head. Names such as mid bow, low bow or extra low bow do not come from the rules. They are manufacturers' conventions – each brand divides its profiles slightly differently and often uses its own names. So when comparing two sticks, look at the number of millimetres and the position of the point of maximum bow, not just the label.

Mid bow (standard) – the universal middle ground

In manufacturers' catalogues this usually means a bow of around 20–22 mm with the point of maximum bow roughly halfway up the shaft. The stick handles predictably: flat trapping, reliable passing, a controlled shot. For most beginners and intermediate players it is a safe choice – technique develops faster when the stick does not force corrections.

Low bow – for drag flicks and 3D play

A depth closer to the permitted maximum (usually 23–25 mm), with the point of maximum bow shifted towards the head. This profile makes lifting the ball, drag flicks, aerial passes and 3D dribbling easier – which is why players who use those skills regularly often go for it. The price for these abilities: less forgiving trapping and a flat hit that demands better technique. It is a profile for players who know why they are buying it.

Extra low / pro bow – a variant for specialists

A low bow variant with the point of maximum bow as close to the head as the rules allow. You will find it in top-of-the-range sticks designed with drag flickers in mind. If you do not practise drag flicks and aerials regularly, you will not yet make use of its advantages, but you will pay for them with harder trapping.

How to choose in practice?

• Just starting out or playing recreationally – start with a predictable profile, i.e. a mid bow.
• Regularly practising drag flicks, aerials or 3D dribbling – a low bow will make those skills easier.
• Mostly after secure trapping and a strong flat pass – mid bow, possibly a gentle low.
• Buying a stick for a child – for most beginner juniors a predictable mid bow is a safe start; choose more advanced profiles together with the coach.

Your position on the pitch is only one of the clues – what matters more are the skills you actually use and your individual feel for the stick.

In our shop the bow profile is listed for the sticks, and in the sticks category you can filter by the Bow attribute – alongside length. Bear in mind that the attribute shows the names given by manufacturers (e.g. Low Bow, Extra Low Bow, Dynabow, Probow), not the number of millimetres. Have a look at the Hockey Sticks category in our shop. If you are just starting out, also read our guide on how to choose your first stick.

Still not sure which bow suits your game? Drop us a line – we will recommend a profile for your technique and level.