Grays
ActiveOverview
Grays Hockey is a sports equipment brand specializing in field hockey gear, recognized as the oldest in the industry since the mid-19th century. It produces sticks, apparel, and accessories, with a market position tied to its long heritage and family ownership under Grays of Cambridge. The brand supplies equipment across multiple sports including cricket, netball, rugby, and tennis through subsidiaries.
History
Founded in 1855 (or 1858 per some records) in Cambridge, UK, by rackets champion H.J. Gray, initially producing equipment for cricket, hockey, and other sports. It expanded internationally by 1914, exporting customized hockey sticks, acquired Hazells in 1941, and established Grays Pakistan in 1965 for shorter stick production. Remains family-controlled by the fifth generation through Grays of Cambridge.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| GX Series Sticks (performance hockey sticks) | elite player level | $200 - $450 |
| GR Series Sticks (intermediate hockey sticks) | club and advanced recreational | $150 - $300 |
| G7000 Sticks (entry-level hockey sticks) | beginner and youth players | $100 - $200 |
| Apparel (hockey kits and training wear) | team and individual use | $30 - $150 |
| Protective Gear (goalkeeper and player pads) | safety equipment | $50 - $250 |
| Bags (stick and gear bags) | equipment storage | $40 - $120 |
Manufacturing
Hockey sticks are manufactured in Pakistan via Grays Pakistan, established in 1965. Historical production included a dedicated plant in Cambridge, UK, after acquiring Hazells in 1941. Current operations likely combine in-house design with outsourced production in Asia.
Notable Products
- GX5000 - High-performance composite hockey stick used by professional players.
- GR7000 - Popular mid-range stick for club hockey with balanced power and control.
- G8000 - Pro-level stick known for lightweight construction and precision.
- GK Supreme Glove - Goalkeeper glove with reinforced protection for elite play.
- Match Balls - Official-spec field hockey balls for training and competition.
Reputation
Enthusiasts and professionals value Grays for its heritage and reliability in hockey equipment, particularly sticks with consistent quality from over 150 years of production. It holds trust among national teams and club players for durability. Some note higher pricing compared to newer brands, though family ownership ensures focused innovation in traditional sports.
Sources (9)
- https://prospeo.io/c/grays-hockey
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grays_International
- https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/00405884
- https://longstreth.com/blogs/field-hockey/a-trip-to-grays-headquarters
- https://www.grayshockey.co.za/explore/discover/about-us
- https://www.grays-hockey.com/pages/about-us
- https://www.grays-hockey.com/pages/contact-us
- https://grays-int.com
- https://help.grays-hockey.com/hc/en-gb/sections/360004165119-Distributors