Hockey is one of the most popular contact games played in the US, likely next only to soccer and rugby. There are lots of versions of hockey played such as field, inline, rink and ice hockey. All use specialized gear and equipment.

The basic equipment of hockey is a stick, which might be about three feet long. Hockey sticks are around and generally made from wood coated with aluminum; aluminum sticks can also be used and both varieties comprise suede and rubber grips. Field hockey sticks have hooked bases, which can be curved at one end and flat in the other to accurately smack the ball into the goal. Ice hockey and inline hockey sticks have wider bases and most are designed for right-handed players. When holding the upper section of the pole with your left hand and the lower portion with your right, the foundation pops forward, forming a shallow scoop for catching and guiding the puck.

Field hockey uses a molded plastic ball. Ice hockey and inline hockey use difficult, vulcanized rubber discs called pucks. Both balls are sized according to baseball institutions. The aim of any edition of baseball is to guide the ball or puck towards the goal net. Goal nets are supported by metal frames and have durable synthetic nylon nets.

Protective gear and team jerseys are equally as important as the skates or footwear, the stick and the puck. Protective hockey equipment is comprised of a chest protector, a helmet, big padded shorts, shin pads, a neck protector, and other equipment. Ensure you use all protective equipment whenever you play hockey. Some pick-up games of hockey aren't played with protective gear, but safety should come first.