Lost among so many options? We can help you.
When buying a first deck, it is advisable to contrast what you want to spend with the use and continuity over time that you are going to give to it.
To start with, a wooden head with composite tops (brown, black, bacon...) and an aluminium stick is a good option. A mallet of this type can last a lifetime and is obviously more economical. We have many choices of wood, but the choice is guided more by aesthetic than technical taste. Please note that we add internal weights or holes to the heads to achieve the desired weight for the whole. On a technical level, it is noticeable to switch from aluminium to carbon. If we are going to play regularly we will notice the change.
Other options can be added that improve the inertia of the mallet somewhat, such as brass striking caps. These are more resistant and we will never see a deformation, chipping or fracture due to a violent blow to the rim or similar.
The "top" deck, in terms of in-game performance, is the full carbon deck. Given that its price is higher and that its performance is not valued until a certain level of play is acquired, it may not be the best option if you are just starting out or if you are not going to dedicate much time to the game.
The decks are customised, this does not only mean that we can put the player's initials on them, but that regardless of their type and configuration, we give them the weight and height that the player wishes.
If you already have some playing experience you may already know what weight suits you best, no problem, we can customise it. But otherwise we would recommend an intermediate weight, in the order of 1,300g. Some people think that the ideal is a mallet as light as possible, but this is not exact, even if you have joint problems or similar. The weight gives stability in the swing, launches the ball with less effort and absorbs more vibration on impact. Obviously you have to find a balance.
You also need to customise the height of the head+stem. Again, if you are not sure, we would recommend a medium-high height. But it is better if you can calculate it. You can do it in the following way:
- With a mallet from someone you know or from your club, get into a hitting position as if you had the ball in front of you. Be comfortable. Measure from the ground to above your hands. This will be our reference. If you don't have a mallet at hand, you can even use a sweeping brush or similar.
We can give you any further recommendations or clarifications you may need. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need it.
To do so, you can write to us at susirs@mazosdecroquet.es or call us on (+34) 667 618 870 or (+34) 609 350 526, and you will be attended by Susana Romero, International Croquet Coach.
