Erica,
Its not that only skirts are used by women hockey players as many wear shorts pants or tights, even if the players are wearing skirts they will wear a tight slacks inside them which makes it comfortable while running.

There some certain rules which have to be followed while playing any game, as these games like Hockey, Football Basket ball, requires players to jump, throw and leap in the playing ground wearing shorts for men and skirts for women is more comfortable.

Where as games like cricket and Base ball are played with full pants whether male or female groups are playing the games.

Answered by Jateen Gutta , an ibibo Master, at 12:28 PM on October 15, 2008

Well Erica, as such the FIH has not laid down any specific rules for the dress code to be worn by players during the game play, and for womens in specific. This aspect of the game is left to the players and the local associations to be decided as they fit.

And, even though there are no set rules that players follows, but due to generation of trial and error women have found skirt to be the best suited for the free flow and movement. And they have preferred to wear this instead of any other leg covering. And, even this is not such a specific dress code, as at many national and state level meets Women wear shorts too as per convenience and availability.

But, said that there are many instances when local or parent association may impose some restrictions or guidelines that are to be followed by players that are represented under their banner.

Answered by Shreshtha , an ibibo Master, at 8:37 PM on October 02, 2008

From my point of view skirts are more comfortable in comparison to shorts and other leg coverings.
you know that hockey players have to move fast in the field, so wearing a shorts and other things will make them uncomfortable.Skirs are wide that help them to play easily

Answered by Sanjay , an ibibo Citizen, at 1:38 PM on October 02, 2008

It's not specified in the hockey rule book, but national or local associations may specify certain dress codes for players. It's just traditional that men play in shorts and women play in skirts – although many women prefer skirts these days. They may feel comfort in it.But there is no fixed rules for it i think.

Answered by Satyakam , an ibibo Master, at 3:26 PM on October 01, 2008