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Croquet

Croquet is a fun outdoor lawn game for kids and adults and it can provide hours of entertainment both at home or in a park. While fun for amateurs, croquet is also a competitive sport as of late and it can be played in clubs and even at the collegiate level. As far as equipment goes, the game is relatively simple. Most recreational players will prefer to buy a set, as it comes with all the necessary items to start a game as soon as you open the box.

Buying a Set

Many croquet sets are available for online purchase from a variety of companies that manufacture the equipment. Here are some options you can expect to see: * Four, six, or eight player sets. * Sets for adults or children. * Indoor or outdoor options. * Recreational family sets or competition sets. Buying a recreational set is the best choice for amateur players since they are the least expensive. For the casual player, expect to spend from $60$800; however, prices can go into the thousands. ! * '''Mallet''' This is the 36" long (on average) wooden device with which you hit the ball. ** '''Height''' Choosing height is a matter of comfort and personal playing style (certain grips may warrant a longer or shorter mallet). Taller people will typically prefer a longer mallet. ** '''Weight''' Unlike other sports where you choose higher weights because you are heavier yourself, in croquet you do the opposite. If you are a strong or heavy player, opt for a lighter mallet. If you are a lighter or less powerful player, then a heavy mallet will produce more force and speed. Keep in mind that in tournament play with 16oz. balls, a lighter mallet will wear quicker than a heavier one. Typical range for croquet mallets is from 2lbs to 3 lbs 12oz. ** '''Head Size''' Mallets are usually 9" long. Some tournament players may prefer a longer head (up to 12") since it provides more weight, thus a more stable swing and a better potential for making longer shots. ** '''Head Shape''' There are both round and square heads to choose from. Round heads are usually used by recreational players and square heads by pros. The square head can sneak easily around hoops when a ball is very close to them, plus it can also stand on its own, making it ideal for lining up shots from a distance. ** '''Material ''' Opt for ash or composite wood with small heads for garden play. Lightweight mallet shafts may also be made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum, or nylon. They reduce shaft weight and create a great pendulum effect in the head, which may be preferred by some experienced players. ** '''Grips''' Premium mallets are made to be much more durable and feature luxuries such as leather grips. ** '''Head Protection''' faces are the best bet. * '''Wickets''' They may also be called hoops. They are the check marks which you must pass the balls through to advance through the game. ** Durability is the most important feature to look for. Recreational hoops will be made of thinner materials, but you should look for the thickest available. Cast iron wickets are known for their strength and stability so they are what the pros use in tournaments. Wrought iron is also quite durable and weighs much less than cast iron, so it is acceptable for home use by avid croquet players. ** Regulation hoops are 4" wide, 5/8" in diameter, and should be seated with a 12" clearance above the ground. Recreational hoops are wider so as to make it easier to get the balls through. ** Hoops with "carrots" are better at staying in the ground. Typically these are found on pro hoops. ** A rough hoop surface is preferable to a smooth one as it is more restrictive to the balls attempting to pass through. Again, this is only something to look for if you are playing professionally. * '''Stakes''' These small goal posts or pegs are usually made of wood and are painted with colored rings. * '''Stand''' This helps keep your set in order and helps transporting your equipment. * '''Balls''' These are what you attempt to hit through the hoops. ** Choose a color, any color. Four people usually use red, black, yellow, and blue, but other colors can be added to the game if other players join. ** Plastic balls are much more durable and weather resistant than wooden balls. ** For recreational use (especially when kids are playing), 12 oz. balls are well matched with lighter mallets. Go competitive and stick with balls that are 3 5/8" wide with a 16oz. weight. Also check for the CA (Croquet Association) seal of approval.

Brands

* Paris Croquet Sets ** Newport ** Scottsdale ** Acadia ** Hilton Head ** Bar Harbor ** Eastport * Sportcraft Croquet Sets * Coleman Croquet Sets * Franklin Croquet Sets * Jacques Rare and collectible croquet sets manufactured with high quality standards for pros and tournament players.

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