The Grays GX1000 field hockey stick is a superb stick for anyone looking for an entry-level stick, possibly their first composite stick, or someone looking for a great stick but without breaking the bank. Much like many Grays sticks, it looks sharp on the pitch and certainly does not disappoint.
Grays field hockey brings a very light stick with GX1000. Its lightweight can be attributed to the low carbon content or the great distribution of the weight, giving it a superb balance point, perfect for flicking and dribbling. Like every Grays stick, the GX1000 excels at dribbling. Its lightweight construction allows for quick left-to-right ball movements, helping players maneuver past defenders or position the ball for a powerful shot on goal.
Key Features of the GX1000
Advanced Composite Construction: Built with the latest thermographite technology, providing exceptional balance and feel.
Multi-Directional Fiber Matrix: Made with a fully integrated matrix of 70% fiberglass, 15% carbon, and 15% aramid, the GX1000 offers a combination of durability, flexibility, and control.
Forgiving Ball Control: The high fiberglass content absorbs shocks effectively, making it easier for players to receive passes without excessive vibration.
Super Stiff Power Rating: Designed for players who need a responsive stick, the GX1000 provides solid feedback when hitting the ball.
Enhanced Grip: Equipped with a Traction Hi-Soft grip, the stick ensures a secure and comfortable hold, even in high-intensity gameplay.
Standard 20mm Bow: A classic bow shape that suits a variety of playing styles, offering a well-balanced mix of control, power, and maneuverability.
Performance on the Field
With lower-carbon field hockey sticks, we found that the GX1000 has a relatively hard feel, making dribbling slightly more challenging. This characteristic also impacts ball control—receiving passes requires soft hands to absorb the ball effectively, something that many players take time to adjust to. Despite this, 3D skills are impressive, with the Maxi head allowing for controlled lifts over defenders’ sticks.
As mentioned earlier, flicking is very smooth with the stick. Its Maxi head gives the GX1000 a nice angle on the head of the stick, giving it a whip on the ball. Drag flicking is that little bit harder, with the bow of the GX1000 being a lot higher than that of a drag flickers stick.
Slapping with the GX1000 is effortless, thanks to its low weight giving it an easy swing and helping produce that extra speed. When on the pitch the GX1000 allows a nice flat ball along the floor, however sometimes the GX1000 requires a lot more power- due to the lower carbon content making it a lot more about technique and upper body strength to produce much of the ball speed. This is similar with shooting, we found that the GX1000 is great for precision shooting, helping ensure you get your shots on target. However, getting ultimate power out of this stick takes some work, with technique and timing bringing this sticks hitting power to its best.
Durability and Performance
One of the highlights of the GX1000 is its durability. The combination of fiberglass, carbon, and aramid ensures that the stick can withstand rigorous play without compromising performance. The fiberglass content makes ball control forgiving, particularly for players transitioning to composite sticks from wooden ones. Additionally, the Chamois Grip enhances comfort and provides superior control in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for all-weather play.
User Experience
Many players appreciate the GX1000 for its lightweight feel and balance, making it easier to maneuver during fast-paced gameplay. The stick provides a great balance between power and control, with a slightly stiffer feel compared to higher-end models. While some players noted that it takes a bit of time to adjust to receiving passes due to its stiffness, once accustomed, the stick offers reliable performance across various playstyles.
The Grays GX1000: Our Final Words
Overall, the Grays GX1000 is a great stick for players looking for a well-rounded stick that supports all aspects of the game without requiring significant technique adjustments. We found that the Grays GX1000 excels in dribbling and flicking, but its low carbon content slightly limits its power. That said, this trade-off makes it an excellent option for junior players looking for their first composite stick or players who prefer a lightweight stick for quick stick skills.
At an affordable price point, we rate this stick 3 stars. It’s a solid choice, but not the best stick produced by Grays. However, for those prioritizing agility, control, and a lightweight feel, the GX1000 is an excellent option.
