What are the best lacrosse heads for defense in 2024. How do top defensive lacrosse heads compare in durability and performance. Which defensive lacrosse head offers the most value for money.
The Evolution of Defensive Lacrosse Heads: From Strength to Performance
Defensive lacrosse heads have come a long way since their inception. Originally designed purely for strength and durability, modern defensive heads now offer a perfect blend of toughness, precision, and performance-enhancing features. This evolution has revolutionized the way defenders approach the game, allowing for more aggressive play styles and improved ball control.
STX Hammer 500: The Pinnacle of Defensive Head Technology
The STX Hammer 500 stands out as the premier defensive head on the market today. Its innovative design and cutting-edge features make it a top choice for serious defenders looking to elevate their game.
Key Features of the STX Hammer 500:
- Speed Scoop technology for improved ground ball pickup
- Three-strut sidewall brace design for unparalleled stiffness
- C-Channel technology in the base for enhanced durability
- Tighter face shape for improved ball control
- Visually appealing with aggressive styling
Why has the STX Hammer 500 gained such popularity among defensive players? The combination of durability and performance-enhancing features sets it apart from the competition. The Speed Scoop technology, in particular, addresses a long-standing issue for defenders by reducing drag on ground balls, giving long poles a significant advantage in possession battles.
Maverik Tank: Trusted Reliability for Defensive Dominance
The Maverik Tank has earned its reputation as a reliable workhorse in the defensive arsenal. Its design prioritizes versatility and durability, making it an excellent choice for players at various skill levels.
Standout Features of the Maverik Tank:
- Wide face shape for improved passing interception and ground ball control
- Level 5 bottom rail ideal for high pockets
- True Form technology to maintain shape after heavy use
- 4-strut design for increased stiffness
- Two-screw hole design to prevent shaft rattle
How does the Maverik Tank’s design benefit defensive players? The wide face shape is particularly advantageous for defensemen, as it facilitates easier pass interceptions and ground ball pickups. Additionally, the True Form technology ensures that the head maintains its intended shape even after prolonged use and heavy checking, a crucial factor for consistent performance throughout the season.
Warrior Regulator MAX: Built for Aggressive Defensive Play
For defenders who pride themselves on delivering punishing checks, the Warrior Regulator MAX is an ideal choice. This head is engineered to withstand extreme abuse while providing the stiffness and precision required for high-level defensive play.
Notable Attributes of the Warrior Regulator MAX:
- Reinforced design for maximum durability
- Tilt-Tech stringing capability for superior pocket customization
- MAX Design with SYMRAIL for increased rigidity
- Loc-Throat Technology for a secure, rattle-free shaft fit
Can the Warrior Regulator MAX withstand the toughest defensive play? Absolutely. Its reinforced design and MAX Design with SYMRAIL technology create a head that can endure heavy checks and aggressive ground ball play without compromising its shape or performance. This durability instills confidence in defenders, allowing them to play their most physical game without fear of equipment failure.
STX Stallion U 550: Versatility Meets Defensive Prowess
While originally designed as an all-around head, the STX Stallion U 550 has found a strong following among defensive players. Its versatile design offers a unique combination of features that cater to various defensive playing styles.
Key Advantages of the STX Stallion U 550 for Defenders:
- Balanced design suitable for multiple positions
- Durable construction for defensive rigors
- Improved ball control for defensive transitions
- Customizable stringing options for personalized play
How does the STX Stallion U 550’s versatility benefit defensive players? Its balanced design allows defenders to excel not only in their primary role but also in transition play and clearing situations. This versatility can be particularly advantageous for players who occasionally find themselves in offensive positions or need to contribute to fast breaks.
Choosing the Right Defensive Head: Factors to Consider
Selecting the perfect defensive head involves more than just picking the most popular or expensive option. Several factors should influence your decision to ensure you choose a head that complements your playing style and skill level.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Defensive Head:
- Durability: Look for heads with reinforced designs and materials that can withstand heavy checking and ground ball play.
- Stiffness: A stiffer head provides more accurate checking and improved ball control.
- Face Shape: Wider faces are generally preferred for defensive play, offering better pass interception and ground ball control.
- Weight: While durability is crucial, a balance between strength and weight is important for maneuverability.
- Stringing Options: Heads that offer versatile stringing capabilities allow for customized pocket designs to suit individual preferences.
- Price: Consider your budget and the value offered by each head in terms of durability and performance.
How do these factors interact to determine the best head for individual players? The ideal combination depends on your specific playing style, position within the defensive unit, and personal preferences. For example, a close defender might prioritize stiffness and durability for heavy checking, while a long-stick midfielder might place more emphasis on weight and versatility for transition play.
Maintaining Your Defensive Head: Tips for Longevity
Investing in a high-quality defensive head is only the first step. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your equipment performs at its best throughout the season and beyond.
Essential Maintenance Tips for Defensive Heads:
- Regular Inspection: Check for cracks, warping, or loose screws after each game or practice.
- Cleaning: Remove dirt and debris with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
- Proper Storage: Store your stick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Restringing: Replace worn strings and shooting laces to maintain optimal pocket performance.
- Screw Tightening: Regularly check and tighten the screws connecting the head to the shaft.
Why is proper maintenance so crucial for defensive heads? The physical nature of defensive play puts significant stress on equipment. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your head but also ensures consistent performance, reducing the risk of equipment-related errors during crucial moments in games.
The Future of Defensive Lacrosse Heads: Innovations on the Horizon
As lacrosse equipment technology continues to advance, we can expect to see exciting innovations in defensive head design. These developments promise to further enhance the performance and durability of defensive equipment.
Potential Future Innovations in Defensive Head Technology:
- Advanced Materials: Lightweight yet ultra-durable composites for improved strength-to-weight ratios.
- Smart Technology Integration: Sensors to track check force and provide performance data.
- Customizable Flex Points: Adjustable stiffness to suit individual playing styles and preferences.
- Improved Scoop Designs: Further refinements to ground ball pickup technology.
- Enhanced Stringing Systems: Innovative pocket designs for improved ball control and release.
How might these innovations impact the game of lacrosse? As defensive heads become more advanced, we may see changes in playing styles and strategies. Improved ground ball control could lead to more possession-oriented defensive tactics, while enhanced durability might encourage even more physical play.
In conclusion, the world of defensive lacrosse heads continues to evolve, offering players an ever-expanding array of options to suit their individual needs and playing styles. Whether you prioritize durability, performance, or versatility, there’s a defensive head out there that can help elevate your game to the next level. By considering factors such as your playing style, position, and the specific features of each head, you can make an informed decision that will serve you well on the lacrosse field.
Best Defense Lacrosse Heads for 2017
Best Defense Lacrosse Heads for 2017 | Universal Lacrosse Blog
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Top 5 Defense Heads
Finding a defense head to last the abuse is of this game and hold up all season long is no easy task. There is nothing worse then having your defense head break mid season and leave you dealing with a back up. It’s important to have a stiff and durable lacrosse head that will last you all the season without warping or breaking. Below is our list of the top 5 best defense heads for the 2017 season.
#1- STX Hammer 500
The STXHammer 500 delivers in a big way as the premier defense head on today’s market featuring unrivaled performance. STX gained a big leg up on the innovative cycle with the huge success of previous models and absolutely nailed the Hammer 500 upgrades. Loaded with updated looks, new face shape, and overall performance this head sets the bar extremely high for a defense head. Perhaps the most popular new feature from STX was the introduction of their Speed Scoop technology for reduced drag on ground balls for easily won possessions. Giving long poles a huge advantage heading into a ground ball war that perviously came as a handicap. The Hammer 500 also uses an updated three strut sidewall brace design, quickly turning this head into the stiffest head on the market. Paired with the three strut wall brace STX included their C-Channel technology in the base of the head to help distribute stress and increase durability. A tighter face shape on the Hammer 500 brings amazing hold while still remaining wide enough to batt down passes, a balance that has been a long time struggle for defensive heads. Aside from the huge performance boost, the Hammer 500 is also one of the most visually appealing heads with updated textures and aggressive styling. Overall, STX created the complete package for a defense head that will hold up all season and offer more performance then ever previously available.
If you are a defenseman looking to upgrade to the best this season, this is the head for you.
#2- Maverik Tank
The MaverikTank has been trusted by defensemen for years and offers great all around performance. The Tank has an extremely wide face shape, traditional for defense and great for all around defensive play. A wide face shape makes it easier to catch and batt down passes while on defense and can help vacuum up ground balls. The Tank uses Maverik’s Level 5 bottom rail making it ideal for a high pocket which helps on two fronts. It provides control immediately off the ground balls and gives you that quick release that defense-men require when moving the ball. Next, the True Form technology will keep the Tank in the shape that it was intended after checks and long-term abuse. This is a huge advantage of the Tank because while there have always been “defensive” heads on the market, the Tank was the first to implement strategic strengthening.
This will make sure that the Tank holds the same shape and won’t warp as quickly as other heads making it ideal for defense. The new 4-strut design also assists in this and gives you the stiffness you desire on defense. The Tank includes a two screw hole design to remove any chance of it rattling on your shaft which can come quick with the defensive abuse. A defender wants every possible advantage when it comes to ground-balls, checks, and picking off passes and the Tank can provide that competitive advantage. If you are looking for a great all around defensive head, the Tank is a perfect fit for you.
#3- Warrior Regulator MAX
The WarriorRegulator MAX lacrosse head is an ideal head for defense-men who like to throw the heavy checks. This is probably the most rigid head on the market and is sure to leave a mark or break a few heads.
Warrior added reinforcement on the Regulator MAX in several key areas to increase the the durability and stiffness of this head. The Regulator Max is designed for straight up abuse, this is a head you can have huge confidence in when abusing in games for heavy checks and running through ground balls. Warrior added several other new performance technologies in this head such as Tilt-Tech for superior stringing capability, which will allow you to string better pockets and increase ball control. Warrior’s new MAX Design with SYMRAIL brings a significant increase in stiffness and rigidity throughout the head. The Regulator MAX also features Loc-Throat Technology which secures a superior fit to any shaft from the inside for a rattle free set up. The Regulator Max is definitely a head feared by attack-men but loved by the defense, if you are a defenseman that loves to dish out the pain then this is the head for you.
#4- STX Stallion U 550
The Stallion u 500 is a head that can be used all over the field but we have seen defensemen take to by storm at Universal Lacrosse and for good reason.
The Stallion u 550 is loved by middies because of it’s elite ball control and extreme durability, turns out defenseman love that too. It’s a unique blend of characteristics that plays a fine between what typically every defenseman would like to see with a defense head. The Stallion U 550 really lends its self to a well rounded defenseman who is looking for some extra ball control without sacrificing strength. STX used an updated throat design on the Stallion U 550 to help strengthen the base of this head which is super important for long poles because of all the extra stress at the throat of the head. Along with the updated throat the Stallion U 550 uses a seemingly beefy profile for increased durability but remains light weight by design with two load baring sidewall struts. Additionally, this head features C-Channel technology and provides extra durability through checking and ground balls. The Stallion U 550 is a favorite because of it’s overall weight, strength, face shape and it’s great “string-ability”.
The pocket in a Stallion U 550 can truly fit a defense player with a mid to high pocket which allows for the ball to sit perfectly in the shooting, passing, or clearing position. Although it may look like a beefier head, it is 5% lighter than the original and will be a perfect fit for any aggressive defense-men who like to cross the midfield line. If you are confident in your stick skills and are looking for a tighter defense head that will last all season, the Stallion u 550 is a great option for you.
#5- Warrior Regulator X
The Warrior Regulator X is very similar to the Regulator Max except it lends it’s self to a more finesse type defenseman with a lighter design and pinched face shape. The key difference is it doesn’t have the MAX technology for added support in key locations but also does not include the excess weight either.
With that being said, the head still is extremely stiff and durable while maintaining a lighter profile making it ideal for quick precision. Warrior LOC-Throat technology eliminates shaft rattle and adds ultimate stability by connecting the head to any shaft from the inside for a more secure fit. The Regulator X features a mid-high sidewall design which caters to a mid/high pocket for easy quick clears and fast ball control after during ground balls. The Warrior Sym-Rail technology eliminates excess weight and provides maximum stiffness for increased durability throughout the head. The Regulator X is engineered for maximum power, stability, and versatility giving you the edge on both sides of the field. This head is ideal for a quick defenseman who runs up the field and scoring a quick goal or playing around with the offense every now and then. If your the type of defenseman that enjoys breaking past that mid field line every once and while, then the Regulator X is a great head for you.
Overall it’s been an amazing journey for the defense head over the last 10 years with mile stone improvements in the last 3 years. It is great to see manufactures really focus on this side of the game and provide defensemen the gear their style of play demands. Lastly, we hope this served as an informative guide to your next defense head, if you didn’t find what you were looking for here be sure to shop all of our lacrosse heads or shop by brand with Universal Lacrosse!
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Michkov scored a lacrosse goal and scored five points, Ak Bars beat Avangard: News
Review of the day
The last matches of the regular season of the 2022/2023 season have ended: Ak Bars beat Avangard in overtime, Sochi defeated Kunlun Red Star thanks to a hat-trick by Artur Tyanulin and five points from Matvey Michkov, and Dynamo Moscow won the derby against Spartak.
5 – 3
Sochi won the last match of the season, Michkov scored five points
3 – 2 OT
Bullitt Radulov in overtime brought Ak Bars victory over Avangard
4 – 2
Spartak ended the season losing in the derby to Dynamo
Sochi won the last match of the season, Michkov scored five points
HC Sochi
Kunlun Red Star
After “0:7” in Nizhnekamsk, the coaching staff of “Kunlun Red Star” shook up almost all combinations. It was mainly the attackers who got it – but in defense, which is surprising after such a defeat, relative stability reigned. Anyway, Greg Ireland changed only the third pair of defenses. Sun Zehao again played in goal.
As for the hosts, in the second link with Artyom Nikolaev and Timur Khafizov played Dmitry Zavgorodniy . Alexander Gordin was again announced as the thirteenth forward, and Mikhail Berdin took the place at the gate.
Outsiders match of the West began with a fast puck by Artur Tyanulin . The Sochi forward opened at the far post and easily turned Matvey Michkov’s pass into a goal.
Soon Michkov distinguished himself – and how he distinguished himself! The young striker scored a lacrosse goal against Kunlun! Before the break, Sochi scored twice more – first Tyanulin made a double, and in the last minute Amir Garaev chalked up another puck.
Kunlun Red Star had only two notable moments in the first period – Colin Campbell’s goal and a fight in which Guo Jiangying defeated Vadim Kudako . After the first period, Sun Zehao lost his place at the gate to Matt Jurusik – but he also could not resist the raging Sochi attack. At the 36th minute of the meeting, Tyanulin scored the first hat-trick in his career.
Even with such an advantage, the third period did not become an easy walk for Sochi – at the start of the third twenty-minute period, the Dragons played two goals at once.
However, the Sochi residents were simply better that evening. The southerners were able to seize the initiative from the opponent and did not allow the “Kunlun” to get closer. 5:3 – Sochi ends the difficult season with a victory.
#Gagarin Cup
- Matvey
- Michkov
- Arthur
- Tyanulin
- Alex
- Rich
Three stars
Matvey Michkov
Scored the winning lacrosse goal, scored 5 (1+4) points
Arthur Tyanulin
First hat-trick of his career
Alex Rich
Helped his team score two goals
Position of teams before the game
11
HC Sochi
West
30
10
Kunlun RS
West
49
see full table
Position of the teams after the game
11 (0)
HC Sochi
West
32
10 (0)
Kunlun RS
West
49
Dmitry Kokorev, acting Sochi head coach:
– I want to thank the fans for the whole season – yes, there were unsuccessful matches, but the fans came, cheered, we heard them, thank you for your support.As for today’s game, the most important thing was to win, and we did it. We closed this season with a victory and we will prepare for the next one. Five points Michkov? Today, all the first three scored five goals – today we have a hat-trick from Artur Tyanulin, and Matvey scored a lot of points, and Amir Garayev scored points. All three played great. Failed the third period? I wouldn’t say so. We relaxed a bit, but in the end we pulled ourselves together, didn’t give the opponent a chance and brought the matter to victory. The end of the season turned out, the guys heard us, and we are on the right track all together. We will prepare for the next season.
As for today’s game, the most important thing was to win, and we did it. We closed this season with a victory and we will prepare for the next one. Five points Michkov? Today, all the first three scored five goals – today we have a hat-trick from Artur Tyanulin, and Matvey scored a lot of points, and Amir Garayev scored points. All three played great. Failed the third period? I wouldn’t say so. We relaxed a bit, but in the end we pulled ourselves together, didn’t give the opponent a chance and brought the matter to victory. The end of the season turned out, the guys heard us, and we are on the right track all together. We will prepare for the next season.Greg Ireland, Head Coach, Kunlun Red Star:
– It is very difficult to lose in the last match of the season 1:4 at some point, but we must pay tribute to our players, who fought until the last second and tried to score goals, to change the situation. Yes, of course, the last few matches did not turn out the way we planned and wanted, but if you look at the season as a whole, we also had good matches, competitive ones, we were a very stubborn team, not very convenient for some opponents.
In general, I will say that I am pleased with the guys – they are stubborn and always fight for victory. I am proud of them and treat them with great respect. For me, the fact that we did not reach the playoffs is a big defeat. Of course, you always want to get into the playoffs and not end the season so early. This makes it very uncomfortable. On the other hand, in the last 12 matches we shifted the focus to the preparation of the national team, and the guys who will play in April at the World Championships began to have more time on the ice, they continued their development for the World Championships in Estonia. During the season, I had moments when I could extend the contract, but I did not do this at that time, because I want to return home, see my family, talk with my relatives, weigh all the possibilities. My mother is not feeling very well, so I am really looking forward to returning home. I am a free agent, so I will consider all possibilities. And yet, I really enjoyed working with the media, with all the journalists who talked to me.
The KHL is an amazing league, so I will be happy to continue working here.Bullitt Radulov in overtime brought Ak Bars victory over Avangard
Ak Bars
Vanguard
For the last game of the regular season in Kazan, Avangard arrived with a super-experimental squad. Against the leader of the conference, the hawks took to the ice without all the top 6 forwards, except for Sergey Tolchinsky , without two leading defenders Damir Sharipzyanov and Alexei Bereglazov , as well as the main goalkeeper Vasily Demchenko . At the same time, the match had a direct tournament value for the Omsk team: if they won, they took second place in the East and went to the Admiral in the first round of the Gagarin Cup, the defeat sent the hawks to third position and determined Sibir as rivals.
As for Kazan, they have already booked the first place in the conference for a long time and recognized the opponent in the playoffs, but the hosts of the ice came out against Avangard with an almost optimal line-up.
This game, by the way, was notable for the fact that Roman Shchenev : the most experienced referee ended his long and eventful career as a referee with this match.
Roman Shchenyov: “It’s useless to “rock” KHL referees”
The first period was expectedly with the advantage of the hosts. Ak Bars seized the puck and the initiative from the first seconds and began to regularly check Andrey Mishurov . But the Omsk goalkeeper confidently coped with the shots performed by Dmitry Kagarlitsky , Alexander Radulov and Vyacheslav Voinov , but in general he made 11 rescues in 20 minutes, never missing.
However, Avangard did not sit on the defensive either. Guests did not let bore Timur Bilyalov , who entered the game 8 times during the period, and in addition, Omsk had the opportunity to realize the majority. But in the absence of the main leaders, the hawks spent those two minutes rather toothlessly.
The second period turned out to be much more meaningful.
It started again with the attacks of the hosts, but Mishurov acted reliably, and soon the “hawks” opened the scoring in a counterattack. Nail Yakupov and Tolchinsky masterfully took the shot on the move Alexander Dergachev, and he did not miss.
The missed puck irritated Ak Bars even more, and Kazan managed not only to break through Andrey Mishurov’s , but also turn the game around. First, Ilya Safonov punished Avangard defender Alexander Ugolnikov with a brilliant throw for a mistake when leaving the zone. And then Dmitry Kagarlitsky did a great job closing the diagonal of Nikita Lyamkin in a counterattack.
However, the teams still went to the break with an equal score. In the last minute of the segment, the main three Omsk players in this meeting played another cool combination at speed, and Nail Yakupov scored in the second match in a row, taking Sergey Tolchinsky and Dergachev as assistants .
At the beginning of the third period, Ak Bars did not convert the majority, and in equal lineups, a fairly accurate game was played, which is inherent in many third periods in hockey. The episode cheered up the meeting at the 53rd minute: Victor Svedberg started a fight with Vyacheslav Voinov , knocked down the Kazan defender on the ice with a fist, but at the same time received a large fine as an instigator. Ak Bars received a five-minute majority, but could not benefit from this, besides, after three minutes Alexander Radulov demolished Mishurov in the goalkeeper’s area and went to the penalty box himself.
As a result, the teams reached overtime, where Radulov became the main character. He earned a bullet on his own, and then converted it, bringing the Kazan team a victory and completing the Siberian derby in the first round of the Gagarin Cup.
#Gagarin Cup
- Alexander
- Dergachev
- Alexander
- Radulov
- Nail
- Yakupov
Position of teams before the game
1
Ak Bars
East
89
2
Vanguard
East
85
see full table
Position of the teams after the game
1 (0)
Ak Bars
East
91
3 (-1)
Vanguard
East
86
Mikhail Kravets, Avangard head coach:
– All with the end of the regular season.
It developed differently for both teams, but in the end, both teams took the places they deserved in the game. Today we adhered to the plan, many of the guys who played today were in the cage throughout the season, we tried to connect them. Today they showed their best side, played well and confidently against a strong team, this is very important for us. Good fight. Good speed, good goals, the fans also saw overtime. Satisfied with the match, we return home and prepare for the playoffs. How satisfied are we with the draw? We did not choose, we are happy that we got into the playoffs. We are satisfied that during the regular season we have risen from eleventh place to third, that we have such young guys. As God has given, so we will work. Demchenko? I think that he will be ready for the start of the playoffs, he is already training. How did you react to Radulov’s gesture after the goal? What does he ever do differently? Always passes by the bench. We are happy for him that he scored a goal, well done, let him score further, this is his job.
Zinetula Bilyaletdinov, Ak Bars head coach:
– The fighting game turned out, both teams tuned in to this match. The opponent created a lot of sharp moments, exposed some of our problems that we need to solve. Useful, good game. The result of the regular season? I think that since we finished it at such a level, the guys did well, withstood the stress, although there were very difficult moments. Was there a desire to save the leaders today? No, on the contrary, this match was very useful for us, it went at a good pace, in a fighting spirit. The opponent played quite aggressively, which is good for us. I don’t think we should have done differently. Someone very simply assesses the situation with the fact that we went to Neftekhimik in the first round. But I think there will be matches like today. You have to be ready with your head and body, play correctly and disciplined, convert your chances. We must not think that it is close for us to travel to Nizhnekamsk.
This is the playoffs, we must seriously prepare for the opponent.Spartak ended the season losing the Dynamo derby
Dynamo M
Spartak
If Minskers hadn’t beat Vityaz yesterday, today’s match against Dynamo Moscow would have been the most important of the season for Spartak. But now they had no chance of participating in the Gagarin Cup, and the meeting turned into a formality. It remained only to hope for the status of the derby, plus the likely desire to end the championship on at least partly positive note.
From the very beginning, it became clear that the white-and-blue guests could not count on “help” in this matter: Ivan Efremov opened the scoring already in the third minute. In the second half of the period Roman Starchenko did not treat Andrei Pribylsky like a gentleman, for which he earned a removal until the end of the match, and left his team in the minority for five minutes, and Alexander Skorenov scored the second goal.
In the first minute of the second segment Andrey Mironov brought the score to 3:0, and the intrigue seemed to have finally disappeared – especially since the game advantage was entirely on the side of the hosts. But then Alexey Potapov exactly repeated Starchenko’s misconduct, and with almost the same consequences. The only difference was that the five-minute minority of the blue and white survived, and got an own goal when the lineups had already leveled off. It was scored by Dynamo pupil Nikita Chibrikov , 12 seconds before the second break.
And the third period began with a goal Vadim Fattakhov , who, while the partners went to change, in splendid isolation went on a counterattack for four, not counting Ilya Konovalov , rivals, and from a negative angle celebrated his debut in the KHL with the first puck.
The guests perked up, but they were cooled down by Egor Zaitsev , who distinguished himself, in general, with the connivance of Spartak’s defenders.
