How does 17 diamond mesh affect goalie performance. What are the key steps in stringing a goalie head. Which factors should be considered when choosing goalie mesh. How can proper stringing techniques improve a goalie’s game.
Understanding the Importance of Goalie Mesh Selection
Selecting the right mesh for a goalie head is crucial for optimal performance on the lacrosse field. The 17 diamond mesh, a popular choice among goalies, offers a balance of durability, control, and feel. But what makes this mesh stand out?
17 diamond mesh provides a wider surface area compared to traditional 10 diamond mesh, allowing for better ball control and reduced rebounds. Its structure also offers increased durability, making it a cost-effective choice for players at all levels.
Key Features of 17 Diamond Goalie Mesh
- Increased surface area for better ball control
- Enhanced durability for longer-lasting performance
- Improved rebound control
- Better feel and responsiveness
Preparing Your Goalie Head for Stringing
Before diving into the stringing process, it’s essential to properly prepare your goalie head. This preparation ensures a smooth stringing experience and optimal performance.
Steps to Prepare Your Goalie Head
- Clean the head thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris
- Inspect the head for any damage or wear
- Gather all necessary stringing materials
- Choose a comfortable workspace with good lighting
Is pre-stretching the mesh necessary? While not always required, pre-stretching can help eliminate initial bagging and ensure consistent performance from the start.
The Step-by-Step Stringing Process
Stringing a goalie head with 17 diamond mesh requires patience and attention to detail. Follow these steps for a professional-quality result:
1. Attaching the Mesh
Begin by securing the mesh to the scoop of the head. Use a fold-over technique to create a sturdy anchor point. Ensure the mesh is centered and evenly distributed across the scoop.
2. Creating the Channel
The channel is crucial for ball control and accuracy. Form a deep channel by pulling the center diamonds tighter than the outer ones. This creates a natural pocket for the ball to sit in.
3. Stringing the Sidewalls
Work your way down the sidewalls, alternating between tight and loose knots to create the desired pocket depth and shape. Pay close attention to tension consistency throughout this process.
4. Forming the Pocket
The pocket is where the magic happens. Create a deep, responsive pocket by adjusting the tension of your sidewall and bottom string. Experiment with different patterns to find what works best for your playing style.
5. Securing the Bottom String
Finish by attaching the bottom string, which plays a crucial role in ball retention and release. Ensure it’s tight enough to prevent the ball from slipping through but loose enough to allow for a smooth release.
Optimizing Your Stringing for Maximum Performance
Once you’ve completed the basic stringing process, it’s time to fine-tune your setup for optimal performance. Consider these factors to elevate your game:
Adjusting Pocket Depth
The ideal pocket depth varies depending on your playing style and preferences. Experiment with different depths to find the sweet spot between ball control and quick releases.
Fine-Tuning Channel Width
A well-defined channel improves accuracy and consistency. Adjust the width of your channel to complement your throwing technique and desired level of ball control.
Balancing Whip and Hold
Strike a balance between whip (resistance during release) and hold (ball retention). This balance is crucial for accurate passes and outlets while maintaining the ability to make quick saves.
Common Stringing Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced players can make stringing errors. Be aware of these common mistakes to ensure your goalie head performs at its best:
- Inconsistent sidewall tension
- Neglecting the importance of the bottom string
- Creating an overly deep or shallow pocket
- Failing to account for weather conditions
- Ignoring league regulations on pocket depth
How can you identify stringing issues? Pay attention to inconsistent ball release, difficulty making saves, or unusual wear patterns on the mesh. These signs often indicate the need for adjustments or restringing.
Maintaining Your Strung Goalie Head
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your strung goalie head continues to perform at its best. Follow these tips to extend the life of your mesh and maintain consistent performance:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your mesh after each use to remove dirt, grass, and sweat. Use a soft brush and mild soap if necessary, but avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the mesh.
Proper Storage
Store your stick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving it in hot cars or damp environments, which can cause the mesh to warp or develop mold.
Periodic Re-tensioning
Check your stringing regularly and re-tension as needed. This helps maintain the pocket shape and prevents bagging over time.
Advanced Stringing Techniques for Experienced Players
As you become more comfortable with basic stringing, consider exploring advanced techniques to further customize your goalie head:
Multi-Color Stringing
Incorporate multiple colors into your stringing for a unique look and improved visibility. This can also help you quickly identify specific parts of your pocket.
Custom Knot Patterns
Experiment with different knot patterns to create unique pocket shapes and ball control characteristics. Some goalies swear by specific patterns for improved performance.
Hybrid Mesh Setups
Consider combining different types of mesh or adding synthetic materials to specific areas of your pocket for enhanced performance in various weather conditions.
Can advanced stringing techniques significantly improve performance? While they can offer some benefits, the most important factor remains consistent practice and familiarity with your setup.
Adapting Your Stringing to Different Playing Styles
Every goalie has a unique playing style, and your stringing should reflect that. Consider these adjustments based on your strengths and preferences:
For Aggressive, High-Pressure Goalies
If you like to play outside the crease and make aggressive checks, consider a slightly shallower pocket with a wider channel. This setup allows for quicker releases and easier handling when moving out of the goal.
For Traditional, Positional Goalies
If you prefer to stay in the crease and rely on positioning, a deeper pocket with a narrower channel might be ideal. This setup provides maximum ball control and helps with rebound management.
For Outlet-Focused Goalies
If you pride yourself on accurate, long-distance outlets, focus on creating a pocket with moderate depth and a well-defined channel. This balance allows for both control and quick releases.
How often should you adjust your stringing based on playing style? It’s best to make small, incremental changes and give yourself time to adapt before making major adjustments.
The Impact of Weather on Goalie Mesh Performance
Weather conditions can significantly affect the performance of your goalie mesh. Understanding these effects and knowing how to adapt is crucial for consistent play:
Rain and Humidity
Wet conditions can cause traditional mesh to absorb water, becoming heavy and affecting ball control. Many 17 diamond meshes are designed to be water-resistant, but additional treatments or wax-based meshes can provide extra protection.
Extreme Heat
High temperatures can cause some meshes to become overly soft and bag out. Look for heat-resistant mesh options or consider slightly tighter stringing in hot climates.
Cold Weather
Cold can make mesh stiff and less responsive. Opt for weather-treated mesh or consider using softer strings in colder conditions to maintain pocket flexibility.
Should you have different setups for various weather conditions? While not always practical, having a wet-weather backup or making small adjustments based on the forecast can be beneficial for serious players.
Leveraging Technology in Goalie Mesh and Stringing
The world of lacrosse equipment is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to enhance performance. Stay informed about these innovations to gain a competitive edge:
Smart Mesh Materials
Some manufacturers are developing “smart” meshes that adapt to weather conditions or provide enhanced feedback to players. While still in early stages, these technologies show promise for future advancements.
3D-Printed Stringing Tools
Custom 3D-printed stringing tools can help achieve precise tension and consistency in your stringing process. Many players are creating and sharing designs for these tools online.
Performance Tracking
New sensor technologies embedded in lacrosse heads or attached to sticks can provide data on shot speed, save percentage, and other metrics. This data can help inform stringing adjustments for optimal performance.
How can goalies stay updated on the latest mesh and stringing technologies? Follow lacrosse equipment manufacturers on social media, participate in online forums, and attend lacrosse expos or clinics to learn about cutting-edge developments.
The Psychological Impact of a Well-Strung Goalie Head
While the physical aspects of goalie head stringing are crucial, the psychological benefits of a well-strung stick shouldn’t be overlooked:
Confidence Boost
A properly strung goalie head that feels “just right” can significantly boost a player’s confidence. This confidence often translates to improved performance on the field.
Muscle Memory and Consistency
Consistent stringing allows goalies to develop strong muscle memory, leading to more instinctive and accurate play. This consistency can be especially beneficial in high-pressure situations.
Mental Focus
When a goalie trusts their equipment, they can focus more on reading the game and making saves rather than worrying about their stick’s performance.
Can changing your stringing affect your mental game? Absolutely. Many goalies report feeling more confident and focused after finding a stringing setup that complements their playing style.
Stringing Regulations and Competition Guidelines
While experimenting with different stringing techniques can be fun and beneficial, it’s crucial to stay within the rules set by various lacrosse governing bodies:
NCAA Regulations
The NCAA has specific guidelines for goalie stick dimensions and pocket depth. Familiarize yourself with these rules to ensure your stick is legal for collegiate play.
Youth League Considerations
Many youth leagues have their own regulations regarding stick specifications. These rules are often designed to promote skill development and safety.
International Play
If you’re involved in international competitions, be aware that different countries may have varying regulations. Always check the specific rules for each tournament or league you participate in.
How can you ensure your stringing is legal for competition? Regularly check your stick using official measuring tools and stay updated on rule changes in your league or level of play.
Building a Stringing Community and Sharing Knowledge
The art of stringing lacrosse sticks, especially for goalies, is often passed down through generations of players. Engaging with the stringing community can greatly enhance your skills and knowledge:
Online Forums and Social Media Groups
Join online communities dedicated to lacrosse stringing. These platforms are great for sharing tips, asking questions, and staying updated on new techniques.
Local Stringing Workshops
Many lacrosse shops and clubs offer stringing workshops. Attending these events can provide hands-on experience and allow you to learn from experienced stringers.
Mentoring Young Players
As you develop your stringing skills, consider mentoring younger players. Sharing your knowledge not only helps others but also reinforces your own understanding of the craft.
How can experienced stringers contribute to the lacrosse community? Consider creating tutorial videos, writing blog posts, or offering stringing services to help grow the sport and pass on valuable knowledge.
The Future of Goalie Mesh and Stringing Techniques
As lacrosse continues to evolve, so too will the technology and techniques used in goalie mesh and stringing. Looking ahead, we can anticipate several exciting developments:
Eco-Friendly Materials
With increasing focus on sustainability, expect to see more environmentally friendly mesh options made from recycled or biodegradable materials.
Customization Technology
Advancements in 3D printing and materials science may lead to fully customizable mesh designed to fit a goalie’s specific playing style and physical characteristics.
Integration with Data Analytics
Future stringing techniques may be informed by advanced data analytics, allowing for precise adjustments based on a goalie’s performance metrics and playing conditions.
How can goalies prepare for future advancements in mesh and stringing technology? Stay curious, be open to experimenting with new materials and techniques, and continue to refine your understanding of the fundamental principles of goalie play.
As we look to the future of lacrosse goalie equipment, it’s clear that the art of stringing will remain a crucial skill. By mastering the techniques of stringing a goalie head with 17 diamond mesh, staying informed about new developments, and continuously refining your approach, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in the ever-evolving world of lacrosse goalkeeping.
Gear Review: 20D Goalie Throne Mesh
My first impressions of the mesh before I even opened the packaging was that it was very nice vibrantly colored not dulled like other wax treated mesh. The packaging was very professional and not just a piece of mesh in a sandwich bag. It was in packaging similar to what the kits from STX and Warrior are packaged in. The item purchased was clearly labeled telling me exactly what was in the bag. Throne mesh is fairly priced for their goalie mesh at a range of $20 – $30 depending on the style you choose. I picked up my 20d black fade mesh for $30. Other well known companies sell a similar item for $30-35.
Once I opened the mesh package I noticed the mesh had a nice feel to it , and it was not gooey or sticky like many meshes can be. It was easy to stretch, and did not leave any flakes all over my table or myself. There was absolutely no wax flaking off the mesh at all. While stretching the mesh i found that not only was it very easy to stretch but it also didn’t leave my hands chapped and dry like a lot of the non -wax treated meshes can sometimes do.
After taking the preliminary look at the mesh and its qualities i decided to string it into my new black warrior nemesis. The mesh was very easy to string using the same exact pattern as I use for all of my personal nemesis heads. I did this to ensure a proper test without any risk of my results being blamed on the stringing and not the mesh itself. After it was strung I noticed it had exceptional hold comparable to a marc mesh or ninja mesh.
I then took my completed stick out side to throw some passes as well as outlet passes to my friends. The mesh offered a great release and exceptional hold, I threw a fake downfield pass to a friend and he though he lost the ball in the sun. so i then dunked the head mesh and all into my bathtub test the mesh after being subjected to an extreme amount of rain and weather, then back outside for the same test as dry. The mesh performed exactly as it did while dry, no water was absorbed. There was also no bagging to the mesh at all.
The next test was the cold weather examination, since there is not any snow on the ground nor cold outside, I put my entire head in the freezer. Throne mesh did not harden or freeze unlike meshes I have used in the past .My next tests were more game like performance. I had a few friends meet me at a local college for some on field situation drills. A friend of mine warmed me up with a typical warm up of 10 – 15 shots to each location , all shots were full speed. The mesh held up to the tortuous conditions I was putting it through with great strength. Rebound control was excellent, I decided to have a friend shoot 10 shots to each location, I saved 5 with brick hands and 5 soft handed to test if it was my natural abilities controlling rebounds or if it was throne mesh. On average the brick handed rebounds landed about 1.5 ft outside the crease where the soft hands rebounds ranged from no rebound to inches away.
Throne mesh held its shape and channel through all of my tests.
Of course the pocket shows some signs of being broken in, but not broken by any means, and I am sure all of you will agree that the pocket wear after these tests are perfectly normal for any mesh. Over all I believe Joe at ThroneOfString has a great product and he is really doing it right. I personally would give Throne Mesh 4.5 stars out of 5. I would say 5 out of 5 but just like anything else I rarely ever give perfect marks. I would strongly recommend Throne mesh to everyone, it is a great investment, and should elevate almost anyone’s game. Thank you guys for reading my review and hopefully you all have similar results. You can find me on YouTube and Facebook.Read More Reviews of Throne Mesh
Purchase mesh today at Throneofstring.com
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