How to Choose the Right Hurley Size

Choosing the right hurley size can make a massive difference to your game.

Whether you are buying for a young player starting out, a club player moving up a size, or someone simply looking for a better feel in the hand, the right hurley can improve your touch, striking and confidence straight away.

At Martin Hurls, one of the most common questions we get asked is:

“What size hurley should I be using?”

The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Height, age, strength, playing style and personal preference all come into it. But there are a few simple things that can help you choose the right one.

Why hurley size matters

A hurley that is too short can leave you cramped and reduce your reach.

A hurley that is too long can feel awkward, heavy and harder to control, especially in tight situations or when lifting off the ground.

The right size hurley should help with:

• cleaner striking
• better first touch
• improved balance
• easier control
• more confidence on the ball

In simple terms, if the hurley feels right in your hand, you are already giving yourself a better chance.

The general rule for choosing hurley size

A good starting point is the player’s height.

Traditionally, when the hurley is stood upright beside the player, it should come up to around the hip area or just about the wrist area depending on personal preference and style of play.

Some players like a slightly shorter hurley for tighter control and quicker hands.

Others prefer a slightly longer hurley for reach and striking power.

That is why two players of a similar height might still choose different sizes.

Hurley size guide

As a rough guide, players will usually choose a hurley size based on their height and age group.

Younger children will move up gradually as they grow, while older juvenile and adult players often settle into a size that suits their game.

The key thing is not just choosing the size that “should” suit you on paper, but choosing the size that actually feels comfortable and balanced when you hold it.

It is not just about length — weight matters too

This is where a lot of people get caught out.

You can have two hurleys that are the same length, but one may feel completely different from the other because of the weight, balance and shape.

Some players prefer a lighter hurley because it feels quicker in the hand and easier to control.

Others like a stronger or heavier feel through the strike.

In general:

• a lighter hurley can suit younger players, forwards or anyone who values speed and touch
• a slightly heavier hurley can suit players who want a stronger feel and a bit more weight through the strike

Neither is right or wrong. It comes down to what suits your hand and your style of play.

What younger players should consider

For younger hurlers, it is important not to go too big too soon.

A hurley that is too long or too heavy can make the game harder to learn and can affect confidence, control and technique.

For juvenile players, it is usually better to choose a hurley that feels manageable, comfortable and easy to swing rather than one they are “hoping to grow into”.

A hurley should help a young player enjoy the game, not fight against it.

What adult players should consider

For adults, choosing the right hurley often comes down to habit and preference.

Some players stay loyal to the same size for years.

Others move up or down slightly depending on the type of hurley they want, how they play, or whether they are looking for something lighter, sharper or more powerful.

If you are changing hurley maker, it is worth remembering that not every 34" or 35" hurley will feel exactly the same. The profile, balance and finish can all affect how it feels in the hand.

Premium or standard — does it matter?

A lot of players also ask whether they should choose a standard hurley or a premium hurley.

The answer depends on what you want from it.

A standard hurley is ideal for many players and gives great value and performance.

A premium hurley is often chosen by players who want a higher-spec finish, top timber selection and a more refined feel.

At Martin Hurls, we always believe it is about matching the right hurley to the right player, not simply pushing the most expensive option.

Our advice from the workshop

One thing we have learned over the years is this:

two hurleys of the same size can still feel very different.

That is why choosing a hurley is not just about the number on the stick.

It is about:

• the size
• the weight
• the balance
• the shape
• the player using it

That is also why many players come back to the same hurley maker once they find a feel that suits them.

Final thoughts

If you are choosing a hurley for yourself, your child, or someone else, start with the size guide — but do not stop there.

Think about the player’s height, age, strength, experience and the type of feel they like in the hand.

The right hurley should feel comfortable, balanced and natural.

And if you are ever unsure, it is always better to ask than guess.

At Martin Hurls, we are always happy to point players in the right direction and help them find the hurley that suits them best.

Browse our range of handmade hurls and find the right fit for your game.