Hockey enthusiasts have the flexibility to enjoy their favourite game on a variety of surfaces, ranging from traditional grass fields to artificial grass. These types of hockey surfaces allow players to adapt their skills and techniques accordingly.
Grass fields are the most common and traditional surface for field hockey. They provide a natural playing surface, offering players a traditional and authentic experience. The quality of the grass surface, including density, length, and quality, can impact the speed and control of the game. However, players must be adaptable and adjust their gameplay according to the conditions of the grass field, which given the UK’s temperamental climate can increase maintenance requirements and limit playing during the winter months.
As such, synthetic hockey surfaces have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to grass fields as a hockey surface. Made from synthetic materials, such as plastic fibres, artificial grass is designed to mimic the feel and performance of a grass field. It offers a consistent and predictable playing surface, allowing for faster gameplay and more precise ball control. Additionally, artificial surfaces require less maintenance compared to grass fields, making it a popular choice for both professional and recreational hockey.
In addition to grass and artificial grass, field hockey pitches can also be played on other surfaces such as watered turf and indoor courts. Watered turf, which is a step up from natural grass, involves regular watering to maintain its quality. However, it still encounters weather-related issues and demands constant upkeep.
Indoor courts, typically made of wood or synthetic materials, provide a controlled environment for field hockey. These surfaces allow for fast-paced gameplay with a focus on agility and quick decision-making. The smooth and flat nature of indoor courts allows players to showcase their skills with ease. Indoor field hockey is often played during the winter months or in areas where outdoor play is limited due to weather conditions.
With such a diverse range of surfaces available, field hockey enthusiasts can choose the type of playing field that suits their preferences and challenges them to adapt their skills accordingly. Whether it's the natural feel of grass, the consistency of artificial turf, the uniqueness of sand, or the controlled environment of indoor courts, each surface offers its own advantages and adds a new dimension to the game.
Click here to find out more about Playrite’s range of Hockey surfaces, or contact us on +44(0)1924 412488 or email info@playrite.co.uk
