Old School Lacrosse Heads: A Comprehensive Guide to Classic Equipment

What are old school lacrosse heads. How have they evolved over time. Why do some players prefer classic designs. What are the advantages and disadvantages of vintage lacrosse heads. Which brands dominated the old school lacrosse market. How do old school heads compare to modern designs. Where can enthusiasts find vintage lacrosse equipment.

The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Design

Lacrosse, a sport with ancient Native American roots, has seen significant changes in equipment design over the years. One of the most notable evolutions has been in the lacrosse head, the crucial part of the stick used to catch, carry, and throw the ball. Old school lacrosse heads, popular in the 1980s and 1990s, have a distinct design that sets them apart from modern counterparts.

Traditional lacrosse heads were typically wider, heavier, and made of wood. As the sport modernized, manufacturers began producing heads from synthetic materials, leading to the “old school” designs that many players still cherish today.

Characteristics of Old School Lacrosse Heads

• Wider overall shape
• Deeper pocket
• Thicker sidewalls
• Heavier weight
• Limited offset design
• Simpler stringing patterns

These characteristics contributed to a different playing style and ball control compared to contemporary designs. Many players argue that old school heads offered better ball retention and a more “traditional” feel to the game.

Popular Old School Lacrosse Head Brands

Several brands dominated the lacrosse equipment market during the heyday of old school heads. These manufacturers produced iconic designs that are still sought after by collectors and traditionalists.

Brine

Brine was a pioneer in synthetic lacrosse head design. Their Edge and Shotgun models were particularly popular among players in the 1990s. The Brine Edge, introduced in 1995, was known for its durability and versatility, making it a favorite among both attackmen and midfielders.

STX

STX has been a major player in lacrosse equipment for decades. Their Turbo and Excalibur heads were staples of the old school era. The STX Turbo, released in 1992, was praised for its stiffness and precision, especially favored by defensive players.

Warrior

Although Warrior entered the market later than some competitors, their Evolution head quickly became a classic. Introduced in the late 1990s, the Evolution bridged the gap between old school and modern designs, featuring a wider face shape with some of the newer pinched technologies.

Advantages of Old School Lacrosse Heads

Despite advancements in technology and design, many players still prefer old school lacrosse heads for various reasons. Understanding these advantages helps explain the enduring appeal of vintage equipment.

• Enhanced ball control due to deeper pockets
• Improved catching ability from wider face shapes
• Greater durability and longevity
• Nostalgic appeal and connection to lacrosse history
• Unique playing characteristics that some find advantageous

For many players, the feel and performance of old school heads simply can’t be replicated by modern designs. This sentiment drives a passionate community of collectors and users who keep these classic pieces of equipment in play.

Disadvantages of Vintage Lacrosse Heads

While old school lacrosse heads have their advocates, it’s important to recognize their limitations, especially in the context of modern play.

• Heavier weight can lead to slower stick handling
• Less pinched design may reduce shot accuracy
• Outdated materials may not meet current regulations
• Limited availability of replacement parts
• Potential compatibility issues with modern shafts

These drawbacks have led many players to transition to contemporary designs, which offer improved performance in certain areas. However, for some, the trade-offs are worth it for the unique playing experience old school heads provide.

Comparing Old School and Modern Lacrosse Heads

To truly appreciate the differences between old school and modern lacrosse heads, it’s essential to compare their key features side by side.

Shape and Design

Old school heads typically feature a wider, more uniform shape from top to bottom. Modern heads, in contrast, often have a more pinched design, especially near the throat, to improve ball control and shot accuracy.

Weight

Vintage heads are generally heavier due to thicker sidewalls and less advanced materials. Contemporary designs prioritize lightweight construction to enhance maneuverability and reduce player fatigue.

Pocket Depth

Old school heads often allow for deeper pockets, which some players prefer for better ball retention. Modern heads may have shallower pockets to comply with current regulations and promote quicker release.

Stringing Options

Traditional heads typically have simpler stringing patterns. Modern heads offer more stringing holes and customization options, allowing players to fine-tune their pocket for specific playing styles.

The Legality of Old School Lacrosse Heads in Modern Play

As lacrosse equipment regulations have evolved, the use of vintage heads in official play has become a topic of debate. Understanding the current rules is crucial for players who wish to use old school equipment.

NCAA Regulations

The NCAA has specific requirements for lacrosse head dimensions and design. Many old school heads do not meet these standards, particularly in terms of minimum width measurements at various points along the head.

High School and Youth Leagues

Regulations can vary by league and level of play. Some youth and recreational leagues may be more lenient regarding equipment specifications, potentially allowing the use of certain vintage designs.

Players interested in using old school heads should always check with their league or association to ensure compliance with current rules. In many cases, vintage heads may be restricted to practice or informal play.

Collecting and Preserving Old School Lacrosse Heads

For enthusiasts and collectors, old school lacrosse heads represent a tangible connection to the sport’s history. Preserving these pieces of equipment has become a passion for many in the lacrosse community.

Finding Vintage Heads

Locating authentic old school lacrosse heads can be challenging. Some popular sources include:

• Online marketplaces specializing in vintage sports equipment
• Lacrosse-specific forums and community groups
• Local sports equipment shops that may have old stock
• Estate sales and flea markets in areas where lacrosse is popular

Preservation Techniques

To maintain the condition of vintage lacrosse heads, collectors employ various preservation methods:

• Storing heads in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Using protective cases or bags to prevent dust accumulation
• Regularly inspecting for signs of degradation or damage
• Applying UV-resistant coatings to prevent discoloration
• Documenting the history and provenance of each piece

Proper care ensures that these classic designs can be enjoyed and studied by future generations of lacrosse players and enthusiasts.

The Impact of Old School Heads on Playing Style

The design of old school lacrosse heads significantly influenced playing techniques and strategies. Understanding this impact provides insight into the evolution of the sport and the reasons some players still prefer vintage equipment.

Ball Control and Possession

The deeper pockets and wider faces of old school heads often allowed for better ball retention. This characteristic encouraged a playing style that prioritized possession and methodical offensive setups.

Passing and Shooting

While modern heads may offer more precision, old school designs required players to develop a different set of skills. The wider shape and less defined channel meant that accurate passing and shooting relied more heavily on player technique than equipment assistance.

Defensive Play

The durability and wider structure of vintage heads made them popular among defensive players. These characteristics allowed for more aggressive checking and interception attempts without fear of equipment failure.

As the sport has evolved, playing styles have adapted to take advantage of modern equipment design. However, some argue that the skills developed using old school heads remain valuable and contribute to a more well-rounded player.

Custom Modifications for Old School Lacrosse Heads

Many players who use vintage lacrosse heads enjoy customizing their equipment to enhance performance or achieve a specific look. These modifications can bridge the gap between classic design and modern playing requirements.

Popular Customizations

• Restringing with modern materials for improved pocket control
• Adding custom dyes or paint for personalization
• Modifying the scoop to improve ground ball pickup
• Reinforcing stress points to extend the head’s lifespan
• Experimenting with different shooting strings configurations

While customizations can enhance the playing experience, it’s important to note that significant modifications may render a head illegal for official play. Players should always consult regulations before altering their equipment.

The Art of Vintage Head Restoration

Some enthusiasts specialize in restoring old school lacrosse heads to their original condition or better. This process often involves:

• Carefully cleaning and removing old stringing materials
• Repairing cracks or breaks using specialized plastics and techniques
• Researching and replicating original stringing patterns
• Sourcing period-correct materials for authentic restorations

Restoration not only preserves these classic pieces but also allows players to experience them as they were originally intended.

The Future of Old School Lacrosse Head Design

As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve, the role of old school head designs remains a topic of interest. Some manufacturers have begun to incorporate elements of classic designs into modern heads, creating hybrid models that appeal to players seeking a blend of old and new.

Retro-Inspired Modern Heads

Several lacrosse equipment companies have released heads that pay homage to old school designs while meeting current regulations. These models often feature:

• Wider face shapes reminiscent of classic heads
• Updated materials for improved durability and weight
• Modified sidewall designs that reference vintage aesthetics
• Stringing options that allow for both traditional and modern pocket styles

These hybrid designs aim to capture the feel and some playing characteristics of old school heads while conforming to modern standards and expectations.

The Role of 3D Printing

Advancements in 3D printing technology have opened new possibilities for recreating and modifying old school lacrosse head designs. This technology allows for:

• Small-batch production of replica vintage heads
• Custom modifications to classic designs for individual player preferences
• Prototyping new heads inspired by old school principles
• Creating replacement parts for rare or discontinued models

As 3D printing becomes more accessible, it may play a significant role in preserving and evolving the legacy of old school lacrosse head design.

The Community Around Old School Lacrosse Equipment

The passion for vintage lacrosse heads has fostered a vibrant community of players, collectors, and enthusiasts. This network plays a crucial role in preserving the history and culture of the sport.

Online Forums and Social Media Groups

Dedicated online spaces allow aficionados to:

• Share information about rare or sought-after models
• Exchange tips on restoration and customization techniques
• Organize trades and sales of vintage equipment
• Discuss the history and evolution of lacrosse head design

These communities help keep the knowledge and appreciation of old school lacrosse alive, passing it on to new generations of players.

Vintage Lacrosse Events and Exhibitions

Some organizations host events focused on classic lacrosse equipment, including:

• Tournaments using only vintage gear
• Exhibitions of rare and historical lacrosse heads
• Workshops on traditional stringing techniques
• Panel discussions with former players and equipment designers

These gatherings celebrate the rich history of the sport and provide opportunities for hands-on experience with classic equipment.

The enduring appeal of old school lacrosse heads speaks to the deep connection many players feel to the sport’s traditions. Whether used for play, displayed as collectibles, or serving as inspiration for new designs, these classic pieces of equipment continue to shape the lacrosse landscape. As the sport moves forward, the legacy of old school heads remains an important part of its identity, bridging past and present for players and fans alike.

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