Know your Carbon
Field hockey sticks have come a long way in terms of materials and construction techniques. One crucial component in the manufacturing process is carbon fibre, which provides strength, stiffness, and lightweight properties. In this write-up, we will delve into the different types of carbon used in field hockey stick production, namely Kevlar, Aramid, Swedish Silver carbon, and Japanese carbon, highlighting their attributes and benefits.
1. Kevlar Carbon: Kevlar is a well-known synthetic material that is both strong and lightweight. When incorporated into field hockey sticks, Kevlar carbon fibres add durability and impact resistance, making the stick less prone to cracks or fractures upon intense contact with the ball or other sticks. Additionally, Kevlar offers excellent vibration dampening properties, resulting in a more comfortable feel and improved control during gameplay.
2. Aramid Carbon: Aramid carbon fibres are known for their exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. By incorporating Aramid into the construction of field hockey sticks, manufacturers can create sticks that are not only lightweight but also incredibly strong and resistant to deformation. This allows players to generate powerful shots while maintaining control and accuracy. Aramid carbon also aids in shock absorption, reducing the risk of injury caused by ball impact or stick clashes.
3. Swedish Silver Carbon: Swedish Silver carbon, also known as high-modulus carbon, is revered for its exceptional stiffness and responsiveness. Sticks crafted with Swedish Silver carbon provide players with enhanced power transmission, enabling them to generate more force behind their shots. The increased stiffness also contributes to improved ball control, as the stick offers a more direct and precise feedback response. However, it’s worth noting that Swedish Silver carbon may offer slightly less vibration dampening compared to other carbon types.
4. Japanese Carbon: Japanese carbon, renowned for its lightweight nature and excellent tensile strength, is widely used in high-end field hockey sticks. Sticks utilising Japanese carbon fibres deliver a perfect balance of strength, responsiveness, and manoeuvrability. The lightweight construction allows for quick and effortless stick handling, making it easier to dribble, flick, and execute quick passes. The superior tensile strength of Japanese carbon contributes to enhanced durability and longevity, ensuring the stick remains reliable throughout countless matches.
In conclusion, the choice of carbon material plays a significant role in determining the performance characteristics of field hockey sticks. Kevlar carbon offers durability and vibration dampening, Aramid carbon provides strength and shock absorption, Swedish Silver carbon enhances stiffness and responsiveness, while Japanese carbon delivers a combination of lightweight agility and durability. Each carbon type brings its own set of advantages, and selecting the right field hockey stick ultimately depends on an individual player’s style, preferences, and desired performance attributes.