# Factors that influence field hockey footwear selection: An online survey

## TL;DR

This study explores what factors influence field hockey players' choices when selecting footwear, finding that fit, comfort, and support are most important.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into footwear selection factors and usability challenges among field hockey players, particularly highlighting gender differences.

## Key findings

- Fit, comfort, support, and cushioning were the most important factors for footwear selection.
- Female players faced greater challenges in finding properly fitting footwear and often used trail running shoes instead of hockey-specific footwear.
- Most players believed stud design could affect performance and injury risk but had no strong preference for outsole design.

## Abstract

Little is known about factors that influence footwear selection by field hockey players.

An online survey was used to collect data on participant demographics and physical characteristics, factors influencing footwear selection, perceptions regarding footwear design features on injury and performance, and experiences regarding usability. Nominal and ordinal data were described as absolute frequencies and relative frequencies. Free text responses were analysed using content analysis. Sex‐related differences in quantitative and qualitative data were explored.

A total of 401 hockey players completed the survey. Participants reported that fit, comfort, support, and cushioning were the most important factors when selecting hockey footwear. Most hockey players believed that stud design could influence athletic performance (65%) and injury risk (63%) but reported having no preference on outsole design or stud shape. Most participants (63%) used hockey‐specific footwear, but 46% of female hockey players did not, with 40% using trail running footwear instead. Qualitative analysis revealed that hockey players, particularly female participants, encounter difficulties finding properly fitting footwear. They desire more options for wide or narrow feet and face challenges in accessing suitable hockey shoes due to limited choices and availability.

With over a third of field hockey players not using hockey‐specific footwear, future research should attempt to understand the reasons and assess the impact of different footwear features on comfort, performance, injury risk, and usability.