Floorball, also known as unihockey or innebandy, is a fast-paced indoor sport that originated in Sweden in the 1970s. As floorball has grown into an international sport with professional leagues, the equipment used by players has evolved and specialised. This article will provide an overview of the various equipment used in floorball, from sticks and balls to protective gear and footwear. Read on for a comprehensive guide to assembling the gear you need to play floorball.
Floorball Sticks
The most essential piece of equipment in floorball is the stick, which is used to control and pass the ball. Floorball sticks have a shaft that is usually made of carbon composite or plastic polymers like fibreglass. The shaft is lightweight and rigid to allow for precise ball control. At the bottom end of the shaft is a curved blade used for shooting and passing the ball. Here are some key features of floorball sticks:
- Blade: The blade is made of plastic polymers and is attached to the shaft either as one piece or detachable. It has a ‘hook’ shape to cradle the ball. Blades vary in length, depth and curvature. Forwards tend to use longer and more curved blades for shooting power, while defenders use shorter and flatter blades for quicker passes.
- Shaft: Typically 90 to 110 cm long. Made of carbon composite or fibreglass. Lightweight construction for easy handling. Some shafts may have grip tape or matted finish for control.
- Weight: Varies from 240 to 380 grams. Lighter sticks allow quicker movement, while heavier sticks provide more powerful shots. Forwards tend to use heavier sticks than defenders.
- Flex Profile: The shaft flexes when hitting a ball. Different flex profiles allow for different types of shots. Some sticks are stiffer for power, while others flex for more control.
- Handle: Can be straight or pistol-shaped. Allows one or two-handed grips. Often has grip tape.
Stick Handling and Control
Properly gripping the stick is essential. Place the lower hand just above the blade, gripping tightly with fingers and thumb for control. The upper hand holds the top of the shaft loosely to allow wrist movement. Keep a flexible hold and move the stick using wrist and arm movements rather than full upper body rotation. Practice stick handling to improve control. Move the stick left and right parallel to your body, moving the ball from forehand to backhand. Lift the blade to move the ball side-to-side as well as forward-backward. Dribble the ball with different surfaces of the blade to gain versatility in ball control.
Stick Care and Maintenance
Take good care of your floorball stick to improve performance and extend usage lifespan:
- Wipe down the shaft after games to remove dirt, sweat and marks
- Ensure the blade is free of cracks. Replace if damaged.
- Tighten the blade if detachable. Ensure it fits snugly.
- Store sticks safely in bags to prevent damage.
- Avoid stepping on sticks and leaning heavily on them.
Floorball Balls
Floorball is played with a small, lightweight plastic ball with holes. The ball usually weighs 23 to 26 grams and has a circumference of 72 to 74 mm. The 26 mm ball is standard at the professional level. The holes in the ball reduce air resistance for a faster and livelier game. The ball is made of durable plastic polymers and is white or brightly coloured for visibility. When selecting balls, opt for approved brands that are crack-resistant and maintain shape after impact. Look for good rebound, consistency and durability.
Ball Control
Controlling the ball is key in floorball. Keep the ball close to your stick. Use your peripheral vision to track the ball while looking up to assess play. Move the ball across different surfaces of the blade to shield it from defenders. Practice dribbling the ball in tight spaces and changing direction quickly under control. Pass the ball crisply by snapping your wrists and angling the blade correctly. For powerful shots, strike through the horizontal midline of the ball for maximum energy transfer. Accuracy comes from keeping your eye on the ball throughout the strike.
Protective Equipment
As a fast-paced contact sport, players wear protective gear to prevent injury:
- Face Mask: Protects the face from ball and stick impacts. Made of metal or plastic with grill or clear visor. Mandatory for youth and recommended for adults.
- Gloves: Provide grip and protect hands from blisters when stick handling. Made of stretchy cotton or leather, with or without plastic pads. Goalkeepers wear padded blocking gloves.
- Goggles/Eyewear: For protecting the eyes from fast-moving balls. Strapped or wrap-around styles help secure eyewear during play.
- Mouthguard: Prevents dental and mouth injuries from contact. Custom moulded or boil-and-bite guards available. Recommended for junior and senior players.
- Groin Protection: For males, a cup or padded shorts protect the groin area from blunt impacts. Essential from youth levels onwards.
- Knee/Shin Pads: Hard shell pads worn under trousers to protect knees and shins from slides and collisions. Recommended for field players.
- Elbow Pads: Similar to knee pads in construction. Optional for field players requiring more arm protection.
Goalkeepers require full protective gear of helmet, chest protector, padded gloves, leg guards and a stick without a hooked blade. A neck guard may be worn in addition.
Footwear
Indoor court shoes with a non-marking gum rubber outsole are ideal for gripping the floorboard or gym surface. Look for lateral support and stability in the midsole along with good forefoot flex for quick direction changes. The upper material should be breathable and durable. Choose fit for comfort and snug heel lockdown when moving. Ankle support is recommended to prevent roll-overs. While indoor shoes are ideal, any cross-training shoes with good traction can suffice for casual play.
Apparel
Comfortable sports apparel in breathable fabrics allows freedom of movement. For the upper body, a t-shirt or sports top paired with a track jacket works well. For lower body, shorts or track pants are suitable. Compression garments can be worn underneath to keep muscles warm. Socks should have cushioning for impact absorption – mid-calf or long socks help prevent abrasion from shoes. Choosing bright colours and team uniforms promotes team spirit.
In review, from sticks to shoes, having the right floorball gear optimises your performance and enjoyment of this fast and technical sport. Stick to trusted brands and shop from authorised dealers to ensure you get approved and compliant equipment, especially for safety gear. With the basics covered, you can now confidently stride onto the court ready to pass, shoot and score your way to the top!
