The Definitive Guide to Maintaining Your Field Hockey Nets

A high-quality portable field hockey net can provide years of service - in the case of Bownet®, our nets can last forever with replaceable parts. However, good maintenance habits get the most value from your training system. By caring for a field hockey net, it will last longer and you'll need replacement parts less often. Our field hockey goal maintenance tips let you take control of your training with a net that's ready for action.

1. Inspect the Netting Regularly

The most important field hockey net maintenance is to have a regular inspection schedule. This way, you will catch small problems before they become big problems. Look for broken mesh, fraying, cuts, discoloration and kinks. Also, inspect the hardware to make sure it's properly secured and rust-free. If any hardware shows signs of rust, replace it immediately before the rust can seep into the netting.

2. Bring the Net Inside When You're Done

Although Bownet field hockey nets are designed to resist the elements, even the best nets aren't indestructible. Prolonged exposure to rain, sunlight, wind and snow can cause the material to wear out prematurely. So keeping nets inside between practices - or at least put a cover over them. It takes two minutes for two people to set up a Bownet Official Size Field Hockey Goal, and that's worth all the extra shots you'll get over time.

3. Store Nets in a Climate-Controlled Environment

Simply putting your nets in the backyard shed or an unheated garage isn't enough. While you will keep the sun and snow off, these areas are still subject to big changes in temperature and humidity. As a result, moisture can get into the netting, or extreme cold can cause fraying. A climate-controlled space with an air conditioner, heater and/or dehumidifier provides environmental stability.

4. Keep Them in the Bag

You should always take the time to pack a field hockey net into the roller bag or carrying case. Part of this is for convenience; it's easier to transport the net and it will take up less space. But there's another hidden reason. If the rubber and plastic hardware is exposed to light for too long, it will start to decay and crack. The bag blocks light to keep the hardware intact.

5. Roll the Netting Up

We know you're tired from practice when you're taking down a field hockey goal. But don't just toss the netting haphazardly into the bag - take the time to gently roll it up. Being careless will cause creasing, tangling and catching that damage the material. Not to mention it takes a lot longer to set up a net if you have to untangle it first.

6. Wash Your Netting

Cleaning the net will remove dirt and debris so they can't do lasting damage. In most cases, spraying nets down with a hose is sufficient. You have to be careful with soaps and other cleaners as some will cause the material to break down. Remember to let the net dry completely before packing it up.