Best Rod Hockeys for a Fun and Challenging Game!

Review & Comparison, Last Update September 15, 2024
A rod hockey game embodies speed, timing, rhythm, concentration, hand-eye coordination, sportsmanship, and luck! It has all the main features of ice hockey but it’s much more intense and concentrated. You can fully immerse in the play with fast breaks, passing, shooting, and sudden-death overtime! Choose one of our best rod hockeys to get a great play experience! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Age Range
Table Construction
Dimensions
Materials
Controls
Usability
Number of Players
Warranty
 
PROS

The rod hockey table has durable rubber handles that provide maximum grip for superior play. The legs are covered with a heavy vinyl that is incredibly resistant to denting and wear.

CONS

If you are more than 5.5 feet tall, you may feel a slight discomfort in your back.

OUR VERDICT

If you like to spend your leisure time playing rod hockey with your friends, the Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table is a great choice for an exciting and realistic playing experience. If needed, the assembly can be done on your request.

detailed parameters
Age Range

13 years and up

Table Construction

Closed on high legs

Dimensions

47 х 58 х 45.25 inches

Weight: 140 pounds

Materials

Shatter-resistant plastic dome

Cabinet: thermal-fused, black marble, wear resistant melamine

Play surface: White styrene with silkscreen graphics

Legs: Heavy black vinyl

Controls

Rubber handles, Electronic scoring unit

Usability

Puck return mechanism, Sound and lights, Shuts down after 3 min. of inactivity, Removable dome, Rubber hand grips, 2 pucks included

Number of Players

12 plastic players (6 red and 6 blue)

Warranty

90-day limited warranty

PROS

The ESPN Hockey Table has chrome-plated metal rods that make the hand painted players move over an ice surface, adding more interactive fun to the game. The game features an electronic scoring system with sound effects for more realistic play.

CONS

Should be placed near an outlet.

OUR VERDICT

This rod hockey table will become a perfect addition to your living-room where you and your kids spend most of the time. The hockey set comes pre-assembled and sets up in no time. Create lasting memories participating in family oriented activities!

detailed parameters
Age Range

5 years and up

Table Construction

Closed on a stand

Dimensions

52 х 36 х 41 inches 

Weight: 152 pounds

Materials

Shatter-resistant dome, Aluminum, Medium density fiberboard, PVC

Controls

5/8 inch chrome-plated metal rods, Electronic scoring unit, Timer

Usability

Sound effects, Control unit, Removable dome, Plastic hand grips, 2 pucks included

Number of Players

12 plastic players (6 yellow and 6 red)

Warranty

90-day limited warranty

PROS

This rod hockey game comes with official NHL team logos and colors, thus you can play for your favorite team. The three-dimensional players with right- and left-hand controls are a distinct advantage of this model.

CONS

Can slip on a tabletop.

OUR VERDICT

Would you like your children to boost their imagination, improve focus and motor skills, as well as have fun? Then the Stiga Rod Hockey is what you need! Also, the NY Rangers/Boston Bruins are available.

detailed parameters
Age Range

3 years and up

Table Construction

Open on legs

Dimensions

3 x 37 x 19.75 inches

Weight: 12 pounds

Materials

Durable polystyrene

Controls

Steel control rods, Manual counter

Usability

Right-hand and left-hand controls, All parts are replaceable, Behind-the-net plexi-shield protectors, Extra rod grips, 2 pucks

Number of Players

12 polystyrene players (6 white-red and 6 white-blue)

Warranty

30-day seller warranty

PROS

The rod hockey table with a lever and stick is designed to shoot the puck that creates a dynamic game experience. Children can use decals to customize each player and represent their favorite NHL team.

CONS

A puck can be easily lost because of its small size.

OUR VERDICT

The PLAYMOBIL Playset can be a perfect gift for hockey fans of all ages. Imagine yourself a member of your favorite NHL team, coaching it to the championship game!

detailed parameters
Age Range

4 years and up

Table Construction

Open

Dimensions

3.7 х 23 х 19.7 inches

Weight: 4.3 pounds

Materials

Plastic cabinet

Controls

Player's pull-back lever, Joystick to maneuver the goalie, Scorekeeping ruler

Usability

Decals to customize the arena, Movable arm and hockey stick, Removable edge, 4 pucks

Number of Players

4 plastic players (2 red-white and 2 blue-black)

Warranty

30-day seller warranty

PROS

The Franklin Rod Hockey Pro has legs with rubber suction cups that provide excellent stability during a rough play. It's easily assembled, so you don't have to spend much of your time.

CONS

A puck may get stuck in playfield holes.

OUR VERDICT

This hockey set will be an excellent addition to your child's game collection. Your little one will be able to make decisions, develop team tactics, and create scoring chances. Available with expert assembly.

detailed parameters
Age Range

6 years and up

Table Construction

Open on legs

Dimensions

6.5 х 32 х 20 inches

Weight: 6.5 pounds

Materials

Plastic cabinet

Controls

Steel control rods, Plastic handles, Manual counter

Usability

Behind-the-net plexi-shield protectors, Plastic hand grips, Legs with rubber suction cups, 2 pucks

Number of Players

12 plastic players (6 blue and 6 red)

Warranty

90-day limited warranty

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Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table

Made of Extra-durable Material

A hockey table made from superior quality, durable and long-lasting components will last for years to come, even when used frequently. The Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table is finely constructed using the most durable materials to provide years of playing enjoyment. The cabinet is constructed of a thermal-fused black marble with melamine that provides high wear resistance, allowing you to play hundreds of games with your family and friends. The heavy black vinyl coated legs provide solid footing and protect the surface from scratches and dents during a rough play. The dome is made of durable plastic that is highly crack-resistant, so it won’t snap too easily. Also, it helps keep the playfield dust-free, as well as prevents spills from drinks. The plastic dome is easily removed for keeping the playing surface clean and maintained. The easy-to-move control rods are made of high strength solid fiberglass that enhances their strength and durability.

Review of Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table

Immediate Puck Return

The hockey table features a puck return mechanism which restarts the game after each goal, immediately directing the puck back to the player. So, you won’t get distracted during a breathtaking hockey game. When the puck enters the net, you can easily take it out of a hole located in front of each player. An electronic scoring unit located on the top of the dome displays the cumulative scores after each goal, while the dome itself keeps the playing area free of dust. There's more to that. Unlike cheaper models of red hockey tables, the scoring unit of this table produces amazing light and sound effects at each goal, giving the game a more realistic atmosphere, and can be reset at any point in time to start a new game. Since the scoring unit uses 4 batteries to work, make sure that you always have some spare ones at hand in order not to halt the game when the battle only starts to unfold. To save the battery charge, the scoring table shuts down after 3 minutes of non-use.

Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table in the use

A Set of Colored Stick Hockey Players

The rod hockey game includes a set of 6 solid colored players and a goalie in each team. The lifelike players in blue and red colors are made of durable molded plastic. Yet, a set of hand painted players in the uniform of your favorite team can be purchased separately.

Detailed review of Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table

More Products to Consider

A rod hockey is an excellent game for active people, but if you prefer more passive recreation activities like cards, consider buying one of our poker sets for playing at home with your friends around the kitchen table.

Carrom Super Stick Hockey Table application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00TY6DQ8E

 

ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table

Rink-styled Table Game

Would you like to feel the atmosphere of a real hockey game? Then take a closer look at the ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table! There are 12 players - the same number like in NHL tournaments. Each team has five players and one goalie on the ice. The players are controlled by chrome-plated metal rods with attached plastic hand grips that provide superior control and make every turn easier. This game is perfect for 2 or 4 players, so choose the team you like and start playing. Each player from both teams is hand painted in yellow or red uniforms. A smooth air powered playfield ensures ultimate speed and quick puck action during the play, making it more dynamic. What is more, the table has a dome made of a durable, shatter-resistant material that is absolutely safe even when the puck hits the dome at high speed. Besides, dome allows for a clear view of play action from any angle.

Review of ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table

A Highly Functional Control Panel

An easy-to-use control panel on one of the sides of this hockey table allows you to move players swiftly along the surface of the table and count the goals scored. The push button controls make it easy to start a new game. On the control panel, you will also see the game duration and a number of goals you've scored or missed. The scoring unit will announce each goal loud and will produce sounds on each restart of the game. 

ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table in the use

A Stand Provides a Stable Base

This hockey table is quite heavy, however, it comes with a stand for steady performance. The stand looks robust, narrow in the middle and wide at the bottom. The legs are reinforced to keep the stand stable on any surface. Thus, you can place it in any part of a room with an outlet being in close proximity. 

Detailed review of ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table

For Fun Outdoor Activity

A rod hockey is designed for fun indoor play! But if you want to play outside, you can use an easily adjustable basketball hoop. It's an excellent way to get exercise while practicing shooting and dribbling, as well as have some fun in a one-on-one game.

ESPN Premium Dome Hockey Table application

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01KLJTEDS

 

Stiga NHL Stanley Cup Rod Hockey

Encourage Your Child's Development!

In our world of modern technologies, it's hard to surprise children with smartphones or tablets, considering that most of them play on them since the moment they are born. However, understanding the harm of mobile gadgets on children's unformed and unstable yet mind, most parents look for alternatives. And the Stiga Cup Hockey can be considered the best one of them. This hockey game will keep your children amused and entertained for hours, providing a room for their imagination to unfold. The Stiga Cup Hockey is designed for kids from 3 years old and older. It involves several teams of players allowing your child to decide which of the team he or she would love to be a part of. Be aware, the table does contain tiny parts that might run a risk of your child swallowing something, hence, never leave your little one playing the game alone. In other respects, the table is pretty nice and safe for a child. The control rods respond smoothly, enabling little hands to move the players over the surface without too much effort. The manual goal counters on each end of the table will let your child keep track of the game, prompting him or her to make the right decisions. 

Review of Stiga NHL Stanley Cup Rod Hockey

A Table for an NHL Worthy Play

Even though the Stiga hockey tables are designed for children, they are often used in table hockey tournaments and even table hockey world championships. This professional grade hockey table is skillfully crafted using durable materials. It has a smooth, plastic playing surface and the players driven via helical cut gears on steel rods for superior speed and puck movement. The rod hockey table features left- and right-hand controls that make it easier to turn the players either side and strike the puck. Moreover, this rink-styled table game has realistic hand-painted designs for maximum authenticity. There are three-dimensional players with official NHL team colors. Yet, you can buy players that represent your favorite team. It's also worth mentioning that manufacturer reduced the number of so-called dead spots on the table surface to enable the players to reach the puck easier and improve users' gaming experience overall. 

Stiga NHL Stanley Cup Rod Hockey in the use

Entirely Safe for Kids

This hockey table is absolutely safe for kids to play. Fitted with behind-the-net plexi-shield protectors, it prevents hard slaps as well as doesn't let the puck fly off the surface. Thus, you can be sure that your child won't ever be attacked by the puck, more so have some injury. In addition, the table contains no harmful compounds. It is made of non-toxic durable polystyrene which is totally safe for both little players and grown-ups. 

Detailed review of Stiga NHL Stanley Cup Rod Hockey

Fun to Play With Your Kids!

Another game that we think your child will surely love is badminton. Once you notice that your kid starts to lose interest in hockey, hand your son or daughter a badminton racket and go on the field to start a new tournament. 

Stiga NHL Stanley Cup Rod Hockey application
Last updated price $142.50
Stock In stock
ASIN B0000YQVFE

 

PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset

A Small Hockey Arena

If you would like to place a table hockey in your child’s bedroom, you need to choose the best table size for your playing area. We recommend you to pay attention to the PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset that has a compact design and can be placed on any game room table. There are only two players representing a different team so your child will be able to use both of his hands to control them. The game is recommended for children of 4 years old and up, thus, you can safely purchase it now and help your child's early development. Made of durable plastic with small edges, this hockey game is convenient to store in a vertical position. Besides, one of the edges can be removed to allow an ice resurfacing machine to clean and the ice rink. It should be noted that PLAYMOBIL® produces various ice hockey accessories to add to your hockey set, including an electronic scoring unit, referees, hockey players in different uniforms, and other game-tactic stuff. 

Review of PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset

Unique Game Controller

Many rod hockey manufacturers use metal rods that allow hockey players to slide along the track, turn, pass, and shoot the puck. However, this hockey table has a bit different game controller. The movable arm and stick help control the players, while a pull-back lever allows swinging a hockey stick to shoot the puck into the net. With the help of the joystick, you can move the goalie from side to side and make game saving blocks to defend the net during an offensive play. Also, you can track goals with a scorekeeping ruler located at each end of the arena.

PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset in the use

A Customizable Play Surface

If you own the hockey game, chances are you're a fan of one of the NHL teams. With that said, more likely than not, you are fully aware that hockey arenas may differ in design. The good news is, this PLAYMOBIL set comes with a set of decals to customize each player and arena for even more realistic game play. Bring your favorite team on the field with one of the decals for 30 NHL teams. 

Detailed review of PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset

More Products to Consider

If your child gets bored with a hockey game after a while, they can try their hand at baseball. A baseball bat will help make a good contact with the ball. And if your little one wants to play as a pitcher, consider buying baseball gloves that offer excellent hand protection.

PLAYMOBIL NHL Hockey Arena Playset application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $79.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00XRWF512

 

Franklin Rod Hockey Pro

A Simple Playfield Construction

The Franklin Rod Hockey Pro has a simple playfield construction used by most table hockey manufacturers. It represents a smooth plastic playing surface with the players driven by helical cut gears on steel rods to provide smooth puck movement. You can order this set assembled or disassembled. In case you foresee yourself or child willing to take it to tournaments, do not overpay and assemble it yourself. It is very easy and won't take you longer than several minutes. For kids' safety, the manufacturer designed it with behind-the-net plexi-shield protectors that keep the puck from flying off the table and a Plexiglas enclosure. For added stability on the floor, the legs are reinforced with rubber suction cups and can be adjusted to level up the height you want. With easy-to-move control rods, the players can move not only in straight lines but also go behind the net as well as spin in a full circle so that they can pass, push, shoot, or stop the puck with a stick.

Review of Franklin Rod Hockey Pro

Enjoy Fun and Interactive Play With Your Family!

A rod hockey is an exciting leisure activity for the whole family. Start your table hockey tournament and enjoy this time interacting with your kids. This game will help your child build trusting relationships with family members, develop their social skills, and interact with others through friendly competitions. A rod hockey game is recommended for children of 6 years of age and up. So, both kids and adults will find enjoyment in this game.

The table is lightweight and can be placed anywhere in your home or backyard. Despite a low price tag of this hockey set, it boasts a durable construction and quality materials to survive the roughest tournaments. And even if your child accidentally breaks something, you will easily find a replacement part in a store.

Franklin Rod Hockey Pro in the use

Air Hockey Table Tips and Tricks

Keeping your hockey table in a good running order requires proper maintenance. Here are some tips and tricks that will help extend the lifespan of your table. After buying a rod hockey table, it’s recommended to apply silicone lubricant to your table gear. You can find silicone grease in any auto parts store. In case you accidentally overbend the rods in the opposite direction during the game, unbend them and carefully put in place. Make sure to regularly wipe the table with a soft cloth to clean it of dust and ensure smoother glide and better stability. 

Detailed review of Franklin Rod Hockey Pro

A Fascinating Adventure Ride for Your Child

After a hockey session, you can go ride around the city with your kid on a fancy electric scooter. Take this fascinating adventure ride! Pretty cool, right?

Franklin Rod Hockey Pro application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $54.93
Stock In stock
ASIN B002MQE27C

 

What is a Rod Hockey?

A rod hockey is one of the most popular leisure time activities in recreational centers. You can challenge your friends for a fun game of rod hockey to fight your way up to victory. A rod hockey is a rectangular playing field with steel rods attached to metal or plastic players sliding along defined track segments. The easy-to-move control rods allow the players to spin, make passes, and shoot the puck. A rod hockey is a challenging and fun game, regardless of your age. Yet, some hockey table games have age restrictions, as they may contain small parts. A hockey table won't take up much space, and the pleasure does not have to end. It's a good alternative to computer games, that allows developing motor skills, focus, and imagination in children.

If you are a football fan, enjoy a table football game with your family and friends. And a quick game of darts against your friend or a solo practice will help maintain your concentration ability, reduce stress and increase your sense of peace.

What Features to Compare

Construction and Dimensions

When it comes to buying a rod hockey, you should primarily pay attention to the construction and dimensions to make sure it perfectly fits your space. For those who have enough room for a hockey table, we would recommend considering tables that come on stands. However, keep in mind that such tables are usually heavy weight and you may need help to move them around. For a small room, a table with a small stand or legs would be a better choice and you will have more options of choosing the place to set it up. They are very portable and lightweight to move from one room to another. 

Material

The next thing to consider is the playfield material that directly affects the lifetime of the table and the frequency of use. Most modern hockey tables are made of a durable plastic and have a smooth playing surface that allows a puck to glide effortlessly over the surface. More expensive models are made of a thermal-fused marble with wear-resistant melamine. Air hockey tables that have closed construction feature a sturdy, shatter-resistant plastic dome. A clear plastic dome keeps a rod hockey table free of dust, prevents playing pieces from escaping, and the puck from flying off the table when you play aggressively.

Controls

Most rod hockey tables feature easy-to-move control rods that move the players forward and back on the ice, as well as make them shoot the puck. Some models come with a manual control lever to move the players over the ice surface. Also, you can keep track of the game scores with the help of an electronic scoring unit or a manual counter.

Usability

More expensive models have a puck return mechanism that allows you to immediately restart the game after each goal without chasing after pucks. The rod hockey tables with sound effects are designed for a more realistic game experience. Since pucks are small in diameter, they can be easily lost. With this in mind, most hockey sets contain extra pucks.

FAQ:

Q: How do rod hockey tables work?

A: Rod hockey tables are drilled with tiny air holes across the whole surface to make a frictionless playing field. And a fan located underneath the table pumps up the air through these holes. The air pressure makes players move over the playfield and the puck hover over the table. The smooth surface allows the puck to move at high speeds without getting stuck, while the raised edges keep the puck from flying off the table. If you try to stop the puck abruptly, it will continue moving but slowly due to the small air funnels being forced up through the floor. 

Q: What kind of equipment is needed for my hockey table?

A: The table hockey game requires minimum equipment. All you need is a hockey table, a couple of pucks, mallets, and a place to plug it in.

Q: How do I take care of my hockey table to keep it in a good running order?

A: It’s recommended to clean a hockey table on a regular basis for keeping the playing surface smooth. However, avoid cleaning your hockey table with a rough cloth or harsh chemicals. This may strip the finish and cause drag. Wipe the table surface with a soft, damp cloth, making sure the tabletop is completely dry. In case the puck starts to slow down during the play, you can try to apply a little bit of furniture polish on its surface. This should help accelerate its move. Clean out the air holes with pipe cleaners and make sure there is nothing that may block the air from getting through. Before cleaning, turn your hockey table off and unplug it.

Q: What if my blower doesn't work?

A: Over time, your blower unit may break down through excessive use. Before requesting a repair, make sure the fan blades are clean, as dirty blades don’t produce much air. Use a soft cloth to clean dirt and dust from your fan blades. Check out the air holes to make sure they aren't clogged. If you can't spot other problems but the blower still doesn't work, in that case, you will need to take it to a repair shop. 

Q: How many players can play at a hockey table?

A: A rod hockey table is designed for 2 players. Yet, doubling up makes the play more exciting and varied. Besides, you can always take turns, especially when participating in competitions. This will give more fun. 

Q: How do I select the right table size?

A: See how much space you have in the room for a hockey table. Make sure it's bigger than the dimensions of the table as you will need extra inches at each end of the table to move freely around it. Typically, a full-size table makes 50 inches in width and 90 inches in length. However, portable models are also available. 

Q: What should I look for when choosing a rod hockey table?

A: If you've decided to buy a hockey table, you should consider the quality of the components, namely the motor, exterior, and walls. Hockey tables considerably vary in price, so you should understand what exactly you want to get the best quality for the money.

Sources:

1. Table Hockey Games, Wikipedia. October 23, 2016.

2. ITHF Table Hockey, Wikipedia. July 22, 2016.

3. Air Hockey Table Buying Guide, eBay. March 10, 2016.

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Publish Date: 2017-07-27 13:34:34