Detroitpete where we practice there is no back stop, we just make sure that everyone is well out of the way. The grass helps with the stopping of the slide, I personally don't were cleats just hiking boots and haven't had any problems with sliding. Adding a pair of gardening style gloves from wall mart or the such will help you hold on the the hammer handle and should eleviate any fear of losing your grip. You may also try some tacky and the handle. Good luck with the practice when are you going to compete?