How does the StringKing Mark 2G Lacrosse Goalie Head compare to other models. What are the key steps in stringing a goalie lacrosse stick. Which mesh type is best for goalies – hard, soft, or dura. How can goalies optimize their stick for maximum performance.
Understanding the StringKing Mark 2G Lacrosse Goalie Head
The StringKing Mark 2G Lacrosse Goalie Head is a popular choice among lacrosse goalkeepers at various levels of play. This head is designed to provide goalies with optimal performance, combining durability, stiffness, and a wide face shape to enhance save potential.
Key features of the StringKing Mark 2G include:
- Reinforced scoop for improved groundball pickup
- Strategically placed stringing holes for customizable pocket options
- Stiff construction to maintain shape during high-impact saves
- Wide face design to increase the blocking surface area
Is the Mark 2G suitable for all skill levels? While professional and collegiate goalies often favor this head, its design also benefits developing players. The forgiving nature of its wide face can help boost confidence in younger or less experienced goalkeepers.
Selecting the Right Shaft for Your Goalie Stick
Pairing the StringKing Mark 2G with an appropriate shaft is crucial for creating a well-balanced goalie stick. The ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft is an excellent option to consider.
ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft Features
This shaft offers several advantages for goalies:
- Kevlar reinforcement for increased durability
- Raised texture for maximum control
- Mid Kick Point with FLEX8 profile for effortless and accurate outlets
- Sliding End Cap for customization
How does the Carbon Pro 3.0 enhance a goalie’s performance? The combination of durability and flex allows goalies to make quick, accurate clears while withstanding the impact of powerful shots. The raised texture ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
Choosing the Right Mesh for Your Goalie Stick
Selecting the appropriate mesh type is a crucial decision for goalies. The three main options are hard mesh, soft mesh, and dura mesh. Each has its own set of pros and cons that can significantly impact a goalie’s performance.
Hard Mesh for Goalies
Hard mesh is a popular choice among experienced goalies due to its consistency and durability.
Pros of hard mesh for goalies:
- Maintains pocket shape in various weather conditions
- Provides consistent rebound control
- Requires less frequent adjustments
Cons of hard mesh for goalies:
- Longer break-in period
- Can be less forgiving for beginners
Soft Mesh for Goalies
Soft mesh offers a different set of advantages, particularly for developing players.
Pros of soft mesh for goalies:
- Shorter break-in period
- Provides better “feel” for the ball in the pocket
- Can be more forgiving for beginners
Cons of soft mesh for goalies:
- More susceptible to weather-related changes
- May require more frequent adjustments
- Can produce more unpredictable rebounds
Dura Mesh: A Hybrid Option
Dura mesh is a compromise between hard and soft mesh, offering a balance of their characteristics. It’s typically recommended for intermediate to advanced players who want the benefits of both mesh types.
Which mesh type is best for goalies? The answer depends on the individual player’s experience level, playing style, and personal preference. Many goalies experiment with different mesh types throughout their careers to find the perfect balance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stringing a Goalie Lacrosse Stick
Stringing a goalie lacrosse stick can seem daunting, but with patience and practice, it becomes a rewarding skill. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
- Gather your materials: Mesh, strings (top string, sidewall strings, bottom string), shooting strings, scissors, and a lighter.
- Start with the top string, threading it through the top row of holes in the head and mesh.
- Work your way down the sidewalls, using knots to create the desired pocket depth and shape.
- Secure the bottom string, ensuring the pocket has the appropriate depth for a goalie stick.
- Add shooting strings to fine-tune the release and channel of the pocket.
- Adjust and test the pocket until you achieve the desired feel and performance.
What’s the ideal pocket depth for a goalie stick? Generally, goalie pockets are deeper than those on field player sticks. A depth of about 3-4 inches from the plastic of the head to the deepest part of the pocket is common, but personal preference plays a role.
Optimizing Your Goalie Stick for Maximum Performance
Once you’ve strung your goalie stick, there are several ways to optimize its performance:
Pocket Placement
The location of the pocket in a goalie stick can significantly impact performance. Many goalies prefer a mid to low pocket, which helps with ball control and quick outlets.
Channel Width
Creating a defined channel in the pocket can improve accuracy on outlet passes. Experiment with different channel widths to find what works best for your style of play.
Shooting String Configuration
While goalies don’t shoot often, shooting strings can affect how the ball sits in the pocket and releases on clears. Try different configurations to optimize your stick’s performance.
Regular Maintenance
Consistent stick checks and adjustments are crucial for maintaining optimal performance. Regularly inspect your pocket for wear and tear, and make necessary adjustments to maintain your desired pocket shape and depth.
How often should a goalie restring their stick? This depends on usage and care, but many goalies restring every few months or at the start of each season to ensure peak performance.
Advanced Techniques for Experienced Goalies
As goalies progress in their careers, they often develop preferences for specific stringing techniques and stick setups. Here are some advanced considerations:
Custom Knots and Patterns
Experienced stringers often use specialized knots and patterns to create unique pocket characteristics. These can include variations on traditional knots like the box knot or custom sidewall patterns.
Hybrid Mesh Options
Some goalies experiment with combining different mesh types in a single pocket. For example, using hard mesh for the main pocket area and soft mesh for the shooting strings can provide a unique feel and performance.
Weight Distribution
Advanced players may fine-tune the weight distribution of their stick by adjusting the amount and placement of tape on the shaft or by using specialized end caps.
Can customizing your goalie stick really improve your game? While personal skill and practice are paramount, a well-tuned stick that fits your playing style can certainly enhance your performance and confidence on the field.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Stringing a Goalie Stick
Even experienced players can make errors when stringing a goalie stick. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Inconsistent sidewall tension, leading to an uneven pocket
- Overly tight or loose pocket, affecting ball control and quick releases
- Neglecting to create a defined channel, which can impact accuracy
- Using too many or too few shooting strings, affecting the stick’s overall performance
- Failing to properly break in the pocket before game use
How can you avoid these mistakes? Take your time during the stringing process, continually check your work, and don’t hesitate to make adjustments. Remember, perfecting your stringing technique is an ongoing process that improves with experience.
The Impact of Rule Changes on Goalie Stick Stringing
Lacrosse rules regarding stick specifications can change over time, potentially affecting how goalies string and use their sticks. It’s crucial for players and coaches to stay informed about current regulations.
Recent Rule Changes
In recent years, some notable rule changes have impacted goalie sticks:
- Restrictions on shooting string placement
- Specifications for minimum pocket depth
- Guidelines for stick and head dimensions
Adapting to New Rules
When rule changes occur, goalies may need to adjust their stringing techniques or even replace equipment to remain compliant. This can involve:
- Modifying pocket depth
- Adjusting shooting string configurations
- Ensuring stick measurements meet current standards
How do rule changes affect goalie performance? While adapting to new regulations can be challenging, they often aim to maintain fair play and may ultimately benefit the sport. Goalies who quickly adapt to changes can gain a competitive edge.
In conclusion, mastering the art of stringing a goalie lacrosse stick is a journey that combines technical knowledge, personal preference, and ongoing experimentation. Whether you’re working with a StringKing Mark 2G head or another model, understanding the nuances of different mesh types, stringing techniques, and optimization strategies can significantly enhance your performance on the field. Remember to stay informed about current regulations and be willing to adapt your approach as you grow as a player. With dedication and practice, you can create a goalie stick that feels like a natural extension of yourself, helping you make those game-changing saves with confidence and skill.
ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft
ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft
$159.99
ColorWhiteBlack
Quantity
TECH SPECS
WARANTY
REVIEWS
AVAILABLE 10AM 9.29.22
From its humble beginnings, the Carbon family of shafts has relied on technology to drive performance and build trust. Now, the Carbon Pro 3.0 is here to carry on a proud legacy of elite performance.
Crafted for elite play makers, every Carbon Pro 3.0 is reinforced with Kevlar to give you the feel you want with the durability you need. Each shaft features a specific shape, flex profile, Kick Point, and redesigned raised texture tailored for specific playing styles. So, while you’re landing kayak checks, throwing no-look passes, and firing blistering shots you can trust that your shaft has your back.
KEY POINTS
Kevlar reinforcement for increased durability.
Raised texture for maximum control.
Mid Kick Point paired with a FLEX8 profile for effortless and accurate outlets.
Sliding End Cap for your customization.
Our ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft Review
Top Strings Take:
ECD Lacrosse is back at it again! After three and half years after releasing the ECD Carbon Pro 2.0 shafts, which became one of the most popular lacrosse shaft lines in the game’s history, ECD Lacrosse just dropped the ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 lacrosse shaft line! In the typical line of the ECD Lacrosse philosophy of not releasing products unless there’s either a need or a way to improve upon a previous model, the ECD Carbon Pro 3.
0 line is far from a new coat of paint and slapping the following number in the line on the side. With upgraded materials, textures, and shapes, the ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 lacrosse shafts will not only live up to the name but push the popular lacrosse shaft line even further in popularity!
.
The entire Carbon Pro 3.0 Lacrosse Shaft line consists of the: ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Speed Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft, the ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Power Composite Attack Lacrosse Shaft, the ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Defense Lacrosse Shaft, and the ECD Carbon Pro 3.0 Composite Goalie Lacrosse Shaft.
For more information regarding individual manufacturer warranty policies please click, HERE
You can write your custom liquid / html / javascript code here.
Hard Mesh Vs Soft Mesh: Pros & Cons Of Both
It’s time to choose the mesh of your lacrosse head – which do you pick? Is it hard mesh or soft mesh? When you’re just beginning to love lacrosse and it’s your first time to get your own lacrosse stick, questions like these are great to help you figure out how to build your own stick.
And if you didn’t know it yet, you can customize and personalize your lacrosse stick.
The Basics of the Mesh
There are two things that you need to know when it comes to your lacrosse mesh – the types and how to string one. While stringing is a skill that you learn over time, it’s secondary to knowing what mesh you should get.
There are three kinds of mesh – hard, soft, and dura. The more common types are the hard mesh and soft mesh. If you’re a beginner, the dura mesh won’t easily be your choice because it’s best for intermediate or advanced players. Before you even make use of a dura mesh, you have to be able to practice with either a hard or a soft mesh.
If you force using a dura mesh while still learning, you won’t be able to identify which works better for your game. Besides, you have lots to learn with the other mesh types before you go to a more advanced one.
| Aspect | Hard Mesh | Soft Mesh |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Stiffer, more rigid nylon or polyester fibers. | Softer, more flexible nylon or polyester fibers. |
| Break-in Time | Longer break-in period, requires more effort to shape. | Shorter break-in period, easier to shape initially. |
| Hold/Feel | Offers a more consistent pocket shape with less shifting. | Provides better hold due to increased softness, but the pocket may shift more. |
| Ball Control | Better for experienced players who prefer a consistent pocket. | Easier for beginners to catch and handle the ball due to increased grip. |
| Weather Resistance | Less affected by weather conditions, maintains pocket shape and tension in rain or cold. | More susceptible to changes in pocket shape and tension in rain or cold. |
| Shooting/Passing Accuracy | More consistent and accurate due to the rigid pocket. | May be less accurate due to the shifting pocket. |
| Maintenance | Requires less frequent adjustments to maintain pocket shape. | Requires more frequent adjustments to maintain pocket shape. |
| Rebound Control (Goalies) | Reduced rebound potential due to a more rigid pocket. | Higher rebound potential due to a softer pocket. |
Hard Mesh and Soft Mesh: What’s the Difference?
Soft Mesh
What’s the best mesh for beginners? There are varying opinions on this but if you want to focus on practicing your shots and being able to “feel” where the ball is in the pocket, it’s a soft mesh.
A soft mesh is made from nylon interwoven with each other to create a net-like appearance. The holes are quite big, but not big enough for the ball to fall out. Judging by the name “soft mesh”, you already know that the nylon used is not hard. Rather, it’s soft and easy to string. If you’re not fond of strings, this is the easiest mesh you can string to the frame.
Another thing you should know about the soft mesh is that it’s not that durable. Sure, it’s soft enough so you can feel the ball in the pocket, but the downside of that is that it can’t last on a rainy day.
In fact, you’re not supposed to use it when it’s rainy outside. The pocket will just fill with water and it will ruin your game. Plus, there’s a chance that it will snap easily when you use it too often.
Nonetheless, soft meshes aren’t that bad especially when you’re after the feel of the ball in the pocket. It’s also ideal for practicing your throws and catches with the ball in the pocket.
Hard Mesh
If the soft mesh is for beginners, then does that mean that the hard mesh isn’t? Not entirely. A hard mesh is also great for beginners especially when you want to learn the hard way. And for some coaches and players, that’s the best way to go.
A hard mesh is also made up of nylon, though it uses a harder version of it creating a harder, but not necessarily thicker, mesh. Of course, with a harder mesh comes a more durable string that will last for a long time. You don’t have to worry about changing your strings every now and then. A hard mesh also withstands rain.
So why is it better? Because the mesh is harder, it’s more difficult to “feel” the ball when you’re running.
On the other hand, others take it as training for when they’re cradling the ball. How? If the mesh is hard, you’ll be forced to be more mindful of how you cradle the ball especially when it’s not easy to sense if it’s still there.
Pros and Cons
What should you get? Is it a soft mesh since it’s beginner-friendly or is the hard mesh because it’s more effective in training you at cradling? There are no right and wrong answers here because it all comes down to preference. To help you decide, here is a pros and cons list of using a soft mesh or a hard mesh.
Hard Mesh: Pros and Cons
Pros
1. The ball sits in one spot.
Are you trying to master cradling but having a hard time keeping the ball inside the pocket? This is where the hard mesh will come handy. The hard mesh is thick and sturdy to help keep the ball in place. While it’s not a guarantee that it will not fall off, it will help you run with more ease than when you’re using a soft mesh.
2.
It is more durable.
For obvious reasons, a thicker and stronger mesh will be more durable than those that are less thick. If you don’t want to spend a lot by replacing your broken soft mesh, then the hard mesh is a great option for you. It’s going to be slightly more expensive, but at least you don’t have to buy another set every few weeks.
3. You can play in the rain.
Do you know the best advantage of a hard mesh? You can play lacrosse in the rain! Because it’s strong enough to withstand water, you don’t have to worry about it bagging out and getting heavy when you’re carrying the ball. If you love lacrosse so much and you don’t want the rain stopping you, then this is what you need.
Cons
1. It’s hard to string.
One of the downsides of a hard mesh is that it’s hard to string. To keep the mesh in place, you’ll have to string and knot four nylon strings as thick as the mesh. For most people, this will be an inconvenience because it’s time-consuming.
2. You can barely feel the ball when you cradle.
Another disadvantage of using a hard mesh is that you barely feel the ball when you cradle it. The thickness of the mess hinders the stick to be “sensitive” to the ball’s movement in the pocket. For some people, this is good practice to be able to cradle without feeling the ball, but for some, it can be hard to play.
3. It has a longer break-in time.
Similar to boots, the thicker and harder the mesh, the more time you need to break it in. This means that you have to constantly use it for it to reach the ideal size, depth, and “softness”. Wait, softness? Does that mean that the mesh will go soft after several uses? It’s a yes and a no. It will not get soft significantly, but it will soften just a bit after cradling the ball for a lot of times. However, it’s not going to get soft to the point that it’s as soft as the soft mesh.
Soft Mesh: Pros and Cons
Pros
1. You can easily feel the ball when you cradle.
As a beginner, your common concern would be not knowing if the ball has left the pocked and had fallen out. If you’re using a soft mesh, it’s going to be easier for you to know if the mesh still has the ball. This will help you notice it’s there and adjust your play and movement to keep it in there.
2. Easy to string.
Hate stringing? Then you better get the soft mesh. You don’t have to spend a long time to string it together with the frame. Plus, it’s just easier in general to assemble than when you use a hard mesh. If you haven’t mastered the art of stringing a lacrosse mesh, then you can use this to start with.
3. There’s no need to break in the mesh.
Because the soft mesh is soft enough to easily adapt to your game, you don’t need to break it in. That means, the moment you string it, you can immediately play lacrosse out in the field. Excited to play? Then this is the type of mesh you need.
Cons
1. The ball moves around the pocket.
While you can feel the ball in the pocket easily, there’s a downside to it – the ball can easily fall from the pocket.
This is because the mesh is not sturdy enough to not move while you run. Picture the ball moving around the pocket because the soft mesh doesn’t “hold” the ball down. In effect, even if you can feel the ball in the pocket, it doesn’t stop it from easily falling out.
2. It gets loose and damaged easily.
Another downside to a soft mesh is that it breaks easily. It’s not that fragile, but it’s also not that durable to last for a few weeks especially when it got rained on. This means that you have to replace it for more times than you would with a hard mesh.
Conclusion
Both the hard mesh and the soft mesh have their own pros and cons. If you want a more durable mesh, then the hard mesh is the best option for you. However, if you prefer a mesh that you can easily feel the ball when you cradle, then the soft mesh is the best.
Sharing is caring!
82
shares
Why Trust Us?
At HobbyKraze, we’re passionate about helping you have the best hobby experience possible.
