How to choose the right materials for stringing a lacrosse head. What are the essential steps in preparing a lacrosse head for stringing. How to properly string the top, sidewalls, and bottom of a lacrosse head. What are the best techniques for creating a custom pocket. How to test and adjust your newly strung lacrosse head.
Essential Materials for Stringing a Lacrosse Head
Before diving into the intricate process of stringing a lacrosse head, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary materials. This preparation ensures a smooth and efficient stringing experience.
Selecting the Perfect Stringing Kit
For beginners, a comprehensive stringing kit is an excellent starting point. These kits typically include:
- Mesh
- Various strings (top string, sidewall strings, shooting strings)
- A stringing manual or guide
Opting for a kit simplifies the process and ensures you have all the essential components at hand.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Head
The type of lacrosse head you select can significantly impact your performance on the field. Different positions require specific head designs:
- Attackmen: Narrower heads for better ball control
- Midfielders: Versatile heads balancing control and catching ability
- Defensemen: Wider heads for easier checks and interceptions
Consider your playing style and position when selecting a head to maximize your effectiveness on the field.
Selecting Appropriate Mesh and Strings
The choice of mesh and strings can greatly affect your stick’s performance. Mesh options include:
- Nylon: Durable and weather-resistant
- Polyester: Offers better feel and consistency
- Wax mesh: Provides excellent hold in wet conditions
String selection is equally important:
- Thicker strings: Offer better grip
- Thinner strings: Provide improved ball control
Tailor your mesh and string choices to your position and playing conditions for optimal performance.
Preparing Your Lacrosse Head for Stringing
Proper preparation of your lacrosse head is crucial for achieving the best results. This process involves several key steps to ensure your head is ready for stringing.
Removing Old Strings
If you’re working with a used head, the first step is to remove all existing strings. This includes:
- Top string
- Sidewall strings
- Shooting strings
Use scissors or a specialized stringing tool to carefully cut away all old strings, ensuring a clean slate for your new stringing job.
Thorough Cleaning of the Head
A clean head is essential for optimal stringing. Follow these steps:
- Dampen a cloth or sponge with warm water
- Wipe down the entire head, removing dirt and debris
- For stubborn spots, use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush
- Dry the head thoroughly before proceeding
This cleaning process not only improves the appearance of your head but also ensures better adhesion of your new strings.
Prepping the String Holes
Properly prepped string holes make the stringing process smoother and more efficient. To prep the holes:
- Use a drill bit or stringing tool
- Gently widen each hole by inserting the tool and twisting
- Be cautious not to over-widen, as this can weaken the plastic
Well-prepped holes allow for easier threading and can help prevent string damage during the stringing process.
Mastering the Top String Technique
The top string is the foundation of your lacrosse head stringing. It plays a crucial role in shaping the pocket and overall performance of your stick.
Initiating the Top String
To begin the top string process:
- Tie a secure knot at the end of your chosen string
- Thread the string through the uppermost hole in the sidewall
- Loop the string around the top of the head
- Thread it back through the same sidewall hole
This initial loop creates the anchor for your top string, ensuring stability throughout the stringing process.
Continuing the Top String Pattern
After securing the initial loop, continue the top string pattern:
- Move to the second hole in the sidewall
- Repeat the looping process
- Continue this pattern down the length of the head
- Maintain consistent tension throughout
The key to a well-strung top string is maintaining even tension across all loops. This consistency contributes to the overall shape and performance of your pocket.
Perfecting Sidewall Stringing Techniques
Sidewall stringing is crucial for defining the shape and characteristics of your lacrosse head’s pocket. Mastering this technique allows for customization to suit your playing style.
Starting the Sidewall String
To begin stringing the sidewalls:
- Thread your string through the first hole in the mesh
- Pass it through the corresponding hole in the sidewall
- Loop the string around the outside of the sidewall
- Pull tight to secure
This initial knot sets the foundation for your sidewall pattern and helps determine the overall pocket depth.
Creating Sidewall Patterns
Different sidewall patterns can dramatically affect your stick’s performance. Some popular patterns include:
- 1-i: Provides a deep pocket with good hold
- 2-i: Offers a balanced pocket with moderate hold and release
- 3-i: Creates a shallower pocket for quicker release
Experiment with various patterns to find the one that best suits your playing style and position.
Bottom String Techniques for Optimal Performance
The bottom string, often overlooked, plays a vital role in completing your lacrosse head’s pocket and affecting ball release.
Attaching the Bottom String
To properly attach the bottom string:
- Start at one corner of the head’s bottom
- Thread the string through the bottom hole and corresponding mesh hole
- Create a secure knot
- Continue across the bottom, threading through each hole
Maintain consistent tension to ensure even performance across the entire bottom of the pocket.
Adjusting Bottom String Tension
The tension of your bottom string can significantly impact your stick’s performance:
- Tighter tension: Quicker release, less hold
- Looser tension: More hold, potentially slower release
Experiment with different tensions to find the perfect balance for your playing style.
Creating a Custom Pocket for Your Playing Style
A custom pocket can significantly enhance your lacrosse performance, tailoring your stick to your specific needs and playing style.
Understanding Pocket Depths
Different pocket depths serve various purposes:
- Deep pocket: Offers more ball control and hold, ideal for attackmen
- Medium pocket: Provides a balance of control and quick release, suitable for midfielders
- Shallow pocket: Enables fast release, often preferred by defensemen
Consider your position and playing style when determining your ideal pocket depth.
Implementing Shooting Strings
Shooting strings fine-tune your pocket’s performance. Here’s how to implement them:
- Determine the number of shooting strings (typically 1-3)
- Thread each string through the desired row of mesh
- Adjust tension to achieve the desired whip and hold
Experiment with different shooting string configurations to optimize your stick’s throwing and shooting characteristics.
Testing and Adjusting Your Newly Strung Lacrosse Head
After completing the stringing process, it’s crucial to test and adjust your lacrosse head to ensure optimal performance on the field.
Conducting a Wall Ball Session
A wall ball session is an excellent way to test your newly strung head:
- Throw the ball against a wall repeatedly
- Practice catching and throwing with both hands
- Pay attention to how the ball releases from the pocket
- Note any inconsistencies in ball flight or pocket hold
This practice allows you to identify any areas that may need adjustment.
Making Final Adjustments
Based on your wall ball session, make necessary adjustments:
- Tighten or loosen sidewall strings to adjust pocket depth
- Modify shooting string placement for desired whip
- Adjust bottom string tension for optimal ball release
Remember, achieving the perfect pocket often requires patience and multiple adjustments. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the ideal configuration for your playing style.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to string a lacrosse head that enhances your performance on the field. Remember that stringing is both an art and a science – while these techniques provide a solid foundation, don’t hesitate to experiment and develop your own unique stringing style as you gain experience. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll soon be stringing lacrosse heads like a pro, customizing your stick to perfectly complement your playing style and position.
How to String a Lacrosse Head: The Ultimate Guide!
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Are you new to lacrosse and wondering how to string a lacrosse head? Or maybe you’re a seasoned player looking to improve your game with a custom-strung stick. Either way, stringing a lacrosse head is an essential skill for any player. By customizing your stick to your playing style, you can improve your accuracy, control, and overall performance on the field.
Stringing may initially seem intimidating, but it can be a fun and rewarding experience with the right tools and techniques. There are many ways to string a lacrosse head, and each player may have unique preferences. However, there are some basic steps that every player should follow to ensure that their stick is legal and performs well on the field. In this article, we will guide you through the process of stringing a lacrosse head, from choosing the right materials to tying off the final knot.
Table of Contents
How to String a Lacrosse Head: Gathering Materials
Before stringing your lacrosse head, you must gather the necessary materials. Here are the things you need to consider:
Selecting a Stringing Kit
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to purchase a stringing kit that includes everything you need to string your lacrosse head. These kits usually come with mesh, strings, and shooting strings. Some kits even include a stringing manual to help you get started.
Choosing a Lacrosse Head
Next, you need to consider the type of lacrosse head you want to use. There are different types of lacrosse heads, each with its unique features. Some are designed for attackmen, while others are for midfielders or defensemen. Make sure you choose a head appropriate for your position and playing style.
Selecting Mesh and Strings
Once you have your lacrosse head, select the mesh and strings you want to use. Mesh comes in different materials, such as nylon and polyester. Make sure you choose the one that fits your playing style. Strings come in various thicknesses and materials as well.
Some players prefer thicker strings for better grip, while others prefer thinner ones for better ball control.
When selecting your mesh and strings, make sure you choose ones that are appropriate for your position and playing style. For example, if you’re an attackman, you may want a mesh with a lot of hold and a shooting string that provides a lot of whip. If you’re a defenseman, a mesh with less hold and a shooting string offers more accuracy.
In summary, follow well the guide above, you have your very first steps to learn how to string a lacrosse head.
Preparing the Head
To string your lacrosse head, you also need to prepare it properly. This task involves removing the old strings, cleaning the head, and prepping the holes. Here’s how to do it:
Removing Old Strings
If you buy a new lacrosse head, you can skip this step. But if you have an old one, you must remove any old strings. To do it, use scissors or a stringing tool to cut them away carefully.
Be sure to remove all the strings, including the shooting, sidewall, and top ones.
Cleaning the Head
Once you have removed the old strings, it’s time to clean the head. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the entire head, removing any dirt or debris. If there are any stubborn spots, you can use a toothbrush or soft-bristled brush to scrub them away. Dry the head thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Prepping the Holes
The final step in preparing your lacrosse head is to prep the holes. This involves widening the holes slightly to make it easier to string the head. To do this, you can use a drill bit or a stringing tool. Simply insert the tool into each hole and twist it gently to widen the hole. Be careful not to widen the holes too much, as this can weaken the plastic and make the head less durable.
Stringing the Head
In this section, we’ll break down the steps to learn how to string a lacrosse head with three sub-sections: Starting the Top String, Stringing the Sidewalls, and Attaching the Bottom String.
Starting the Top String
The top string is the first string you’ll attach to your lacrosse head. It’s crucial to start with a good knot to secure your stringing. To start:
- Tie a knot at the end of your string and thread it through the top hole in the sidewall.
- Loop the string around the top of the head, and thread it back through the same hole in the sidewall.
- Repeat this process for the second hole in the sidewall, and continue down the head until you reach the bottom.
Stringing the Sidewalls
The sidewalls are the strings running down the lacrosse head’s sides. They help to hold the mesh in place and make the shape of the head. To string the sidewalls, start by threading your string through the first hole in the mesh, then through the first hole in the sidewall. Then, loop the string around the outside of the sidewall, and thread it back through the same hole in the mesh. Repeat this process for each hole in the mesh, make sure to keep the string tight as you go.
Attaching the Bottom String
The bottom string is the last string you’ll attach to your lacrosse head. It helps to hold the mesh in place, and gives the head its depth. To attach the bottom string, tie a knot at the end of your string, and thread it through the bottom hole in the sidewall. Then, thread the string through the bottom row of diamonds in the mesh and keep the string tight. Once you’ve threaded the string through all of the diamonds, tie a knot at the end of the string to secure it in place.
By following these steps, you can string your lacrosse head easily. Remember to take your time and keep your strings tight, and you’ll have a head that’s ready to take on the field.
Finishing Touches
You may be satisfied to learn how to string a lacrosse head, now it’s time to make some finishing touches to ensure your pocket is just right. Here are a few sub-sections to help you make those final adjustments.
Adjusting the String Tension
The tension of your strings is crucial to the performance of your pocket.
If it is too loose, your ball may bounce around too much, making it difficult to catch and throw accurately. If the tension is too tight, your ball may get stuck in the pocket, making it challenging to release quickly.
To adjust the tension:
- Use your fingers to pull the strings at different points along the pocket. If you notice any slack, tighten the strings by pulling them tighter.
- If you notice too-tight areas, loosen the strings by pulling them looser.
- Keep adjusting until the tension feels just right.
Trimming Excess String
Once you’ve adjusted the tension of your strings, you may notice some excess string hanging off your head. This extra string can get in the way during play, so it’s important to trim it.
Use scissors to trim any excess string carefully. Ensure not to cut any important strings. It’s better to trim too little than too much, so take your time and trim slowly.
Breaking in the Pocket
Before you hit the field, it’s important to break in your pocket.
This will help ensure that your pocket performs at its best during play.
Use a ball to repeatedly throw and catch with your head to break in your pocket. This will help mold it to the shape of the ball, making it easier to catch and throw accurately.
By making these finishing touches, you can fine-tune your pocket to perform at its best.
You can refer this video to learn more about how to string a lacrosse head:
How to String a Lacrosse Goalie Head
There are differences when stringing a lacrosse goalie head. The main thing is that a goalie head has a wider face and a deeper pocket than regular ones. This allows the goalie to catch and save the ball more easily.
Additionally, goalie heads have more sidewall holes and different stringing patterns than regular heads. The goalie head also requires specific knots and stringing techniques to create a pocket suitable for the goalie’s playing style. Therefore, it is important to follow specific instructions when stringing a goalie head.
This video may help you:
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to string a lacrosse head. With your newly strung head, you are ready to take on the field and dominate the game. Remember, proper stringing is essential for optimal performance, so take the time to perfect your skills.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Experiment with different stringing techniques to find what works best for you.
- Keep your head clean and debris-free to prevent damage to the strings.
- Practice regularly to maintain your stringing skills.
With these tips and the knowledge you have gained, you are well on your way to becoming a lacrosse-stringing master. Good luck, and have fun out there on the field!
Saturday Stringing 101: Basic Topstring Tutorial – Mesh Wizard
So stringing is a dark art for you is it? It’s a thing for those insane guys that love the smell of burnt nylon and such. The Wizards of the Dark Art of Stringing. Almost necromancers bringing heads back to life with their #stringmagic. The truth is, you have what it takes to learn the art of stringing, period. The more you know, the more you string, the more confident you will become in stringing and in your knowledge of lacrosse. You’re already playing lacrosse you’ve put in a lot of effort to learn to play, well stringing is just another side of the coin. While becoming a great lacrosse player begins in the gym, at the wall, and in your head, stringing will take you so much further.
And it’s quite relaxing once you get the basics down. So what’s still stopping you? You can do it!
Welcome to Saturday Stringing 101. In the first part of our series we’ll be covering the first basic aspect of stringing. The topstring is where it all starts. There are so many ways to string a topstring, but keeping it simple is a great way to learn and teaches the fundamentals of symmetry and tension. On to our Basic Topstring Tutorial
Mesh Wizard’s Tools
The Mesh Wizard’s toolbox usually contains a lighter, scissors and possibly a pair of needle nose pliers. To string the topstring 90cm of sidewall string or topstring is generally more than enough. If you use 100cm you can easily use the leftover piece to string a bottomstring later on. Make sure the ends of the string are nicely burnt and tipped.
Prepare the Mesh
You’ll also need a piece of mesh. We’re using 20mm 10 diamond Semi Soft Mesh on a Maverik Vision. First and foremost ALWAYS stretch your mesh.
Be a man, use considerable force. You want this thing catching your buddies 100kmph passes. Treat it like you mean it from the start all the way up and down.
You will notice the mesh will naturally want to roll up after stretched. Since we now need to fold a row of diamonds, fold it as the mesh rolls, not against the curve. We’re folding over a 9 diamond row, this allows for more durability thanks to the double layer of material.
See if it matches up. Some heads are just so wide, or so curved at the scoop that a 10 diamond row up top would be beneficial. If so, fold over another half row or see if the other end of the mesh doesn’t have a 10 diamond row.
Tie a double knot
Tie a double knot at one end of your string. That’s right, once
then a second time
and tighten
The loop
This is a favorite technique of mine. I use this practically everywhere, top to bottom. Thread the string through the first sidewall hole and through the first diamond from under the mesh.
Now do it again! From the outside into the same sidewall hole, and the same mesh diamond, thus forming a loop
Pull it tight. I mean put your arm into it, this isn’t knitting class.
Basic Topstring Tutorial
This is the standard way I do it. This is not by any means THE way to do it. The head I’m using has a lot of topstring holes. There are four that are larger than the others and are placed evenly apart. They are the ones you should most likely be using. Since the head is laying face down, I’m looking at the BACK of the head with the folded part of the mesh facing me. The FRONT of the head is facing the table.
Thread the string through the back of the first topstring hole.
Next through the front of the second diamond (both layers of the fold) and under the string.
Pull it tight and push the mesh to the front of the head.
Go back through the same mesh diamond and leave a small loop.
Thread through the front of the first topstring hole and through the small loop you left.
Tighten and push the string forward to push the mesh to the front of the scoop.
Skip the third diamond, and repeat the same process on the second topstring hole and the fourth diamond. Then the third topstring hole and the sixth diamond. Then the fourth topstring hole and the eight diamond. You should now look like this.
Remember, symmetry is ke, tightness is key. If you can grab the piece of string between the topstring holes and move it around considerably, it’s probably not tight enough. Slack makes for inconsistent action.
Finish off
I finish like I start, with a loop. Go through the last diamond (number 9) and out the first sidewall hole.
Then again through the ningth diamond and through the same topstring hole.
Tighten and tie a knot. Then I usually tie another knot between the first and the plastic to remove any remaining slack.
That’s it!
Back
Front
Good job!
See, it’s not hard at all! You can do this so many different ways, the possibilities for a basic topstring are many.
Try it the other way around with the front of the head facing you, that’ll give you something completely different and just as useful. Find what works best for you.
The guidelines
In order to get a good topstring follow a few simple guidelines:
Get it symmetrical. If you’re not sure how, start from the center and work your way outwards. Put the mesh down on top of the head and imagine how the string is going to go.
Get it tight. Use that triceps and pull the string tight. Nylon likes to let go after a while. You can also string with wet string, it’ll contract as it dries.
Push it forward. Why do we want the mesh at the front of the scoop anyway? To reduce bagging and lip. Personally I don’t like the ball hitting the scoop on it’s way out, just feels wrong and inconsistent.
Final words
Now that you’re on the right track to learning the Not So Dark Arts of Stick Stringing, how do you feel? Are you getting a better understanding of what was going on in your stick? I sure hope so.
