Kookaburra Orbit Junior Hockey Shoe - Blue/Yellow 2023/24

Hockey Footwear Buyer's Guide

Introduction

Any sports performance footwear is a very personal choice. While all shoes are essentially trying to do the same thing their individual characteristics in terms of shape and fit are key factors in finding the right footwear for you. The only real way to be sure is to come and try some on.

Key Footwear Components

Hockey shoes are the same as other performance sports footwear in terms of the areas that determine the performance level and, of course, price.

Upper

This is the part of the shoe that sits on top of the sole and covers the top of your foot. Hockey shoes are typically a mix of PU (polyurethane, a breathable and tough synthetic material) and mesh (the kind of material mainly associated with running shoes). Mesh (or similar types of essentially fabric material) is usually added to reduce weight, make the fit more instantly flexible and increase breathability (though PU is breathable it is less so than mesh). PU is generally used to provide extra support and a tougher layer, so you will always see PU at the toe-end of the shoe.

Heel Counter

This is the part of the shoe that sits directly behind your heel. It is an important part of the shoe to keep your foot stable when you are changing direction. In higher end shoes you will get TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) heel counters as these offer high level stability without compromising comfort. Lower priced shoes will use more simple materials to strengthen this area.

Toe Cap

The part round the front of the shoe covering the toes. This area is usually double layered or reinforced to add some protection by being firmer without being 'hard' - otherwise if your foot moved forward it would be painful and uncomfortable from the inside. After all, the idea is to keep your feet out of the way!

Midsole

This is the part that sits immediately below your foot. The shaping, design and content of this area will define the fit and cushioning specifically but also influence stability and support. EVA foam is commonly used in midsoles to create the cushioning needed from impact, with the density varying from shoe to shoe. In higher end shoes this will typically be of varying densities to offer some support where needed or simply cushioning. At the lower end of the range it is more likely to be a single density EVA to focus on cushioning and comfort only.

Midfoot Counter

This is the part that sits roughly below and into the arch. Sometimes this area is reinforced with a synthetic overlay, other options would be a shaped and amended density area using midsole materials. Either way the idea is to prevent the shoe twisting as you turn, to make sure the shoe assists stability under the stress of changing direction.

Outsole

This is the part that sits at the bottom of the shoe in contact with the ground. There are stacks of different configurations, shapes, depths, directions and sizes of "lugs" (the protruding grip) that brands will use depending on what they are trying to do. Typically higher end shoes will have a greater mix of shapes and directions to give a configuration designed to create multi-directional traction for a variety of pitch types. Lower down you are more likely to see a uniform pattern and lug size / shape giving a more simple configuration.

So what should you choose?

Bear in mind that your shoes do a very important job. As well as keeping you upright they also protect your feet, ankles etc from the stresses and strains the multi-directional nature of hockey movement creates. If you scrimp in this area it may be that injury follows - ultimately it's an area where you get what you pay for.

If you play at a level or in a way that places a good deal of stress on your body and therefore your shoes you will certainly benefit from treating yourself to a better pair of shoes. If your level is a bit simpler and the stress levels lower then you can be certain that lower down the range you will not compromise a comfortable ride for a lower price.

Ultimately with such a personal item there is no better way to choose than pay us a visit and try some shoes on to determine the fit and style that works best for you.

If you still need more help feel free to give us a call on 01462 423839, email us on sales@thehockeyandcricketshop.com or even better come and see us!