Equipment
Powerchair hockey uses specialized equipment that enables athletes with severe physical impairments to participate safely and effectively. All equipment used in the sport must meet international safety and competition regulations.
Every athlete competes in a specially designed electric sport powerchair. Engineered for performance, these powerchairs provide the speed, agility, safety and precision needed for high-level competition while ensuring consistency and safety on the court. Sport powerchairs enable athletes to accelerate, change direction quickly, and execute tactical movements. Maximum speed is 15km/h.
Some players use a hand-held floorball stick. This allows them to:
- control the ball directly
- pass to teammates
- shoot at goal
- intercept passes
Players with limited arm or hand function use a T-stick, attached to the front of the powerchair. This T-shaped device enables them to:
- block the ball
- guide passes
- score goals (worth 2 points)
- create defensive barriers
- actively participate using chair movement
Powerchair hockey is played with a floorball ball.
Its characteristics allow athletes using both hand-held sticks and T-sticks to control, pass, and shoot the ball effectively.
Key features include:
- Lightweight construction
- Smooth movement on indoor surfaces
- High visibility for players, officials, and spectators
Adaptive equipment includes devices, supports, and modifications that enable athletes to compete according to their individual functional abilities. These adaptations are assessed during classification and, when approved, become part of the athlete's competition equipment.
Examples include:
- Seat belts, straps, and harnesses
- Body and trunk supports
- Arm, wrist, or hand supports
- Seat and positioning adaptations
- Modified hand-held sticks or stick holders
Adaptive equipment helps athletes maintain stability, optimise function, and compete safely and effectively.
Player safety is a fundamental part of powerchair hockey. Athletes may wear protective equipment to reduce the risk of injury during play.
Protective equipment may include:
- Safety belts
- Helmets
- Protective eyewear
- Knee pads
- Arm pads
In addition, all powerchairs must comply with strict IPCH safety requirements, including protective features, rounded components, non-marking tyres, and the absence of sharp or protruding parts.
Field
Powerchair hockey is played on a hard, smooth indoor court measuring 26 × 16 metres, enclosed by 20 cm-high sideboards. The court features clearly marked playing zones, including centre, goal, and penalty lines, with goals positioned at each end.
The sideboards keep the ball in play, encourage fast, continuous action, and add a strategic element to the game. The standard goals measure 2.5 m wide × 20 cm high and are fitted with nets to securely retain the ball.
