Starting to play floorball is a fun beginning for children, but as a parent it can be difficult to know what is actually needed before the first practice. Do you need to buy everything right away? Which stick is suitable? And are protective goggles required?
In this guide, we go through what equipment children need to start playing floorball, from the most basic items to additional accessories. The goal is to make it easy for you to choose the right equipment from the start, so your child gets a safe and enjoyable introduction to the sport.
Basic equipment – this is what you need
When your child starts playing floorball, there are a few things that are almost always needed from the beginning. This is the equipment required to participate in training and matches in a safe and comfortable way.
Often, you can borrow a floorball stick and protective goggles from the club during the first sessions when your child is trying out floorball.
Floorball stick
For children, it is mainly about choosing the right length so that the stick is neither too long nor too short. A general rule is that the stick should reach approximately up to the navel when the child is standing upright.
For the youngest children, between 5–7 years old, stick lengths around 65–75 cm are common. Children aged 8–10 often use 75–85 cm, while older children and juniors usually use 85–95 cm. However, the most important factor is always the child’s height, not age, so measure before deciding.
It is also important that the stick feels light and easy to handle. For younger players, a lighter model is often easier to control and helps develop better technique from the start.
Floorball goggles
Floorball goggles are mandatory in children’s and youth floorball. According to rules from the Swedish Floorball Federation, all players up to and including 16 years old must wear approved protective goggles during matches. Most clubs also require goggles during training.
The purpose is to reduce the risk of eye injuries from sticks and balls. Even if the pace is not always high in younger age groups, accidents can happen quickly.
When choosing floorball goggles, it is important that they fit comfortably, do not slip down, and feel stable even when the child moves a lot. An adjustable elastic strap and a model designed for children usually provide the best fit.
Floorball shoes
Floorball is played indoors on sports hall floors, which requires the right type of shoes. Regular running shoes are not designed for quick lateral movements and sudden stops, and therefore provide less grip and stability.
A good floorball shoe should be lightweight, provide good traction on the floor, and offer stability around the foot. Since floorball involves many quick changes of direction, it is important that the shoe keeps the foot in place and provides support during stops and starts.
For children, fit is especially important. The shoe should be comfortable without being too tight and provide sufficient cushioning to reduce strain on the feet and knees.
Stick bag
A stick bag is not required to play, but it is highly recommended. It protects the stick from wear and tear and makes it easier to carry equipment to and from training and matches.
A stick bag usually holds several sticks, and many models also have space for smaller accessories such as goggles or spare blades. This means the child does not have to carry loose items by hand or in a regular backpack.
For younger players, a lightweight and practical bag is usually the best choice. Easy to carry and easy to keep organized.
Water bottle
A personal water bottle is needed for both training and matches. Floorball is an intensive sport with a lot of movement, and children need to stay hydrated regularly during sessions.
It is a good idea to label the bottle with the child’s name. This makes it easier to keep track of during gatherings and breaks and reduces the risk of bottles getting mixed up within the team.
Additional accessories – as interest grows
In addition to the basic equipment, there are some accessories that can be useful. These are not necessary in the first few years, but they can make it easier to maintain equipment and keep things organized over time.
Floorball blade
The blade is the part of the stick that wears out the most. After some time of playing, it can become softer, crack, or lose its shape. Having an extra blade at home allows you to quickly fix the stick if something happens before training or a match. You can also change blades to try a different feel, for example for better ball control or shooting.
Some players also choose to switch blades to try a different feel in their game or simply to find a color or design that feels more fun and personal.
In our guide, we show you how to change the blade on your floorball stick.
Grip tape
The grip tape is placed at the top of the stick and provides better grip during play. Over time, it wears out, loses its grip, or feels slippery due to sweat. Replacing the grip tape is a simple and inexpensive way to refresh the feel of the stick.
Many players also choose colors based on personal preference, making the stick feel more personal. A new grip can make a bigger difference than you might think, especially for children who play regularly.
It is easy to replace the grip tape at home. In our guide, we show you step by step how to do it.
Goalkeeper in floorball – what children need
Being a goalkeeper in floorball is both fun and a big responsibility. In many clubs, goalkeeper equipment is provided for younger ages, but if your child wants to focus on being a goalkeeper, it may be relevant to get their own equipment adapted for children or juniors.
- Goalkeeper helmet
- Goalkeeper jersey
- Goalkeeper pants
- Goalkeeper gloves
- Goalkeeper protection
- Knee pads
- Goalkeeper shoes
Goalkeeper helmet
The goalkeeper helmet is the most important piece of equipment. It must be approved for floorball and fit securely without wobbling. A proper fit is crucial for safety.
Choose a helmet adapted for children or juniors. It should feel comfortable but stable, with adjustable straps that keep it in place.
Goalkeeper jersey
The goalkeeper jersey is often padded over the chest, shoulders, and arms to absorb shots and provide extra protection from balls. For children, it is important that the jersey is not too large. It should allow freedom of movement without feeling bulky, so the goalkeeper can move easily.
Goalkeeper pants
Goalkeeper pants are durable and reinforced at the knees to withstand a lot of play on the floor. They are often padded over the hips and thighs to protect from both shots and sticks. The pants should fit comfortably and allow good mobility. For younger children, it is especially important that they are not too long or too heavy.
Goalkeeper gloves
Goalkeeper gloves provide better grip on the ball and protect the hands from hard shots and contact with sticks. They are designed to provide both control and mobility. For children, simpler models are usually sufficient in the beginning, as long as they fit well and feel comfortable.
Goalkeeper protection
In addition to helmet, jersey, pants, and gloves, there are additional protective items that may be relevant. This mainly includes knee pads and elbow protection. As children grow older and the pace increases, these protections become even more important. Some also choose to wear protective shirts or padded shorts under match clothing for extra cushioning.
Knee pads
Knee pads are one of the most important additional protections for goalkeepers. The game involves many movements on the knees and quick drops to the floor, which puts significant strain on the knees. For children, it is important that the pads stay in place without sliding down during play.
Goalkeeper shoes
Goalkeeper shoes are exposed to a lot of wear since the game involves many movements close to the floor. They are reinforced to withstand contact with the floor while providing comfort and support for the feet. At younger ages, some goalkeepers play in regular indoor shoes, but models adapted for goalkeepers are more durable over time when the child plays regularly in goal.
How to choose the right floorball stick for your child
Choosing the right stickis one of the most important parts when children start playing floorball. It should have the correct length, feel light in the hand, and provide good ball control.
- Length: The stick should reach approximately up to the navel when the child is standing upright. It is the child’s height, not age, that determines this.
- Price level: For children who are just starting, an affordable entry-level model is usually sufficient. The most important thing is that the length is correct.
- Brands: Well-known floorball brands generally maintain a high level of quality. Oxdog, Unihoc, Zone, Salming and Fat Pipe all offer models for the youngest players.
- Guides: If you are unsure, you can explore our length guides and flex guides to help you choose the right floorball stick.
Mistakes when children start playing floorball
When children start playing floorball, the focus should be on keeping it simple, safe, and fun. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Stick that is too long or too short: A stick that is too long or too short makes it harder to develop technique and control and can cause back pain.
- Skipping protective goggles: The requirement for goggles is not based solely on age but on the league level. In green, blue, and red level leagues, as well as leagues intended for children, approved protective goggles are mandatory.
- Wrong shoes: Regular running shoes provide less grip and stability indoors. Proper indoor shoes make a big difference.
- Too expensive equipment from the start: Children grow quickly and interests can change. Start with affordable and suitable equipment.
- Oversized goalkeeper equipment: If the child wants to be a goalkeeper, the right size is crucial for both safety and mobility.
Frequently asked questions about floorball for children
How old do you need to be to start playing floorball?
Many clubs offer floorball for children from around 5–6 years old. It varies between clubs, but most start with playful training sessions focused on movement and basic ball control.
How much does it cost to start playing floorball?
The cost varies depending on equipment and the club’s membership fee. For a new player, it usually involves a stick, goggles, and shoes. It is possible to get started with relatively affordable equipment, especially in the beginning.
Do you need to bring your own stick to the first practice?
It varies between clubs. Most provide sticks and protective goggles for trial sessions, but for regular training, a personal stick adapted to the child’s height is usually required.
Do you need your own protective goggles?
Yes. According to rules from the Swedish Floorball Federation, all players up to and including 16 years old must wear approved protective goggles during matches. Most clubs also require goggles during training.
How do I know what stick length my child should have?
A simple rule of thumb is that the stick should reach approximately up to the navel when the child is standing upright. It is the child’s height that determines this, not age.
Can you borrow goalkeeper equipment at the beginning?
Many clubs provide goalkeeper equipment in younger age groups. If the child wants to continue as a goalkeeper, it may later be relevant to get their own equipment.
What is most important to prioritize?
The correct stick length, approved protective goggles, and good indoor shoes. The rest can be added over time.
Summary
Starting to play floorball should be simple and fun, both for the child and for you as a parent. With the right stick length, approved protective goggles, good indoor shoes, a water bottle, and a stick bag, your child is ready for their first training sessions.
Other accessories can be added over time. The most important thing in the beginning is that the equipment fits properly and that the child feels safe and has fun on the court. That creates the best possible conditions for an enjoyable start in floorball.
