THE BALL

The ball used in hockey is the same size as a cricket ball.

Covered by a hard plastic coating it's usually white, although other colours can be used as long as both teams agree.

When hit correctly a hockey ball can travel at around 100mph.

GUMSHIELDS

Hockey balls are hard and move at speed, so players' teeth and gums need to be protected by gumshields.

Your gumshield should be moulded to fit your mouth. A dentist can fit one for you.

A cheaper option is to buy a "boil in the bag" gumshield which is moulded using hot water.

Place the warm shield in your mouth and suck on it for three minutes until it has moulded to the shape of your upper teeth.

SHINGUARDS

Hockey shinguards offer better protection than those worn by footballers.

So although football shinguards are more widely available, it's probably best to have a look around for some special hockey ones.

Some are made of foam compounds which means they are lightweight as well as sturdy.

BOOTS

Most hockey matches are now played on artificial surfaces so you'll need a special pair of boots called turf boots.

They look like trainers but have rubber pimples on the soles that will give you added grip.

You'll be pounding around on the hard surface for lengthy periods of time, so look for a shoe that will cushion your foot.

GLOVES

You can make sure your hands get some protection by wearing special hockey gloves.

They are padded on the upper side but not so bulky as to affect your grip on the stick.

Information provided by the BBC, please see there hockey pages for more information.