How do different types of lacrosse heads impact player performance. What are the key features of traditional, mesh, and hybrid lacrosse pockets. Which stringing techniques are most effective for various playing positions.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Design: From Traditional to Modern
Lacrosse head design has come a long way since the sport’s inception. Originally crafted from wood, modern lacrosse heads are now made from high-performance plastics and composites. This evolution has significantly impacted player performance and game dynamics.
Why have lacrosse heads changed so dramatically over time? The primary driving factors have been:
- Improved materials technology
- Enhanced understanding of biomechanics
- Rule changes in the sport
- Player demand for specialized equipment
Today’s lacrosse heads are designed to optimize specific aspects of play, such as ball control, shooting accuracy, and checking ability. Let’s explore how different head designs cater to various playing positions and styles.
Understanding the Mark 2 Family of Lacrosse Heads
The Mark 2 family represents a pinnacle in lacrosse head design, offering specialized options for every position on the field. What makes these heads stand out from the competition?
Each Mark 2 head is engineered to enhance the specific skills required for different positions:
- Mark 2A: Optimized for attackmen, focusing on quick release and accurate shots
- Mark 2V: Versatile design for midfielders, balancing offense and defense
- Mark 2T: Tailored for transition players, emphasizing speed and control
- Mark 2D: Reinforced for defensive players, maximizing checking power and ground ball pickup
- Mark 2F: Designed for face-off specialists, with a flexible yet durable construction
- Mark 2G: Crafted for goalies, featuring an enlarged face and stiff frame for quicker saves
How do these specialized designs translate to on-field performance? Players report improved ball retention, more accurate passing and shooting, and enhanced overall control when using a head tailored to their position.
Traditional vs. Mesh Pockets: Pros and Cons for Player Performance
The debate between traditional and mesh pockets has been ongoing in the lacrosse community for years. Each style offers unique advantages and challenges for players.
Traditional Pockets
Traditional pockets are crafted using leather or nylon strings woven in intricate patterns. What are the benefits of this time-honored design?
- Superior ball feel and control
- Customizable pocket depth and shape
- Excellent hold on the ball
- Unique aesthetic appeal
However, traditional pockets also come with some drawbacks:
- Require more maintenance and adjustment
- Can be affected by weather conditions
- Take longer to break in
Mesh Pockets
Mesh pockets, made from woven synthetic materials, have gained popularity due to their consistency and ease of use. What advantages do mesh pockets offer?
- Low maintenance and weather-resistant
- Consistent performance in various conditions
- Quicker break-in period
- Easier for beginners to use
Despite these benefits, mesh pockets have some limitations:
- Less customizable than traditional pockets
- May offer less precise ball control
- Can wear out more quickly with heavy use
Hybrid Pockets: The Best of Both Worlds?
Hybrid pockets aim to combine the strengths of both traditional and mesh designs. How do these innovative pockets work, and what benefits do they offer players?
Hybrid pockets typically feature a combination of mesh and traditional materials, such as:
- Mesh base with leather or nylon shooters
- Traditional sidewall strings with a mesh pocket
- Mesh pocket with traditional-style ball stops
The advantages of hybrid pockets include:
- Improved ball feel compared to pure mesh
- More consistent performance than traditional pockets
- Easier maintenance than full traditional stringing
- Customizable elements for fine-tuning performance
Are hybrid pockets the future of lacrosse stringing? While they offer an attractive middle ground, many players still prefer either traditional or mesh pockets based on personal preference and playing style.
Advanced Stringing Techniques for Optimal Performance
Mastering advanced stringing techniques can significantly enhance a player’s performance on the field. What are some of the most effective stringing methods used by top players and stringers?
The Pita Pocket
The Pita Pocket is a popular traditional stringing style known for its excellent ball control and hold. How is this pocket created?
- Start with a traditional triangle top string
- Use four leather runners instead of the typical three
- Incorporate a “U” shaped channel in the middle of the pocket
- Finish with carefully placed shooters for optimal release
The Pita Pocket offers superior ball retention and a quick, accurate release, making it popular among attackmen and midfielders.
The Corner Pocket
The Corner Pocket is a specialized stringing technique designed to create a deeper pocket towards one side of the head. How does this unconventional design benefit players?
- Improved one-handed cradling
- Enhanced shot accuracy from certain angles
- Unique feel that some players prefer
While the Corner Pocket can offer advantages, it’s important to note that it may not be legal in all leagues and levels of play.
The Revolving Doerr Pocket
Created by a Johns Hopkins defenseman in the 1990s, the Revolving Doerr Pocket is designed specifically for defensive players. What makes this pocket unique?
- Uses a combination of leather and nylon strings
- Features a deep pocket for improved ball control during checks
- Incorporates a unique “revolving” string pattern for consistent performance
The Revolving Doerr Pocket allows defenders to maintain possession after checks and improve their clearing abilities.
Maintaining and Adjusting Your Lacrosse Pocket
Proper maintenance and adjustment of your lacrosse pocket are crucial for consistent performance. How can players ensure their pockets remain in top condition throughout the season?
Breaking In a New Pocket
Breaking in a new pocket, especially a traditional one, requires patience and consistent effort. What steps should players follow?
- Wall ball practice: Spend time throwing against a wall to soften the strings
- Pocket pounding: Gently pound the pocket with your fist or a ball to shape it
- Gradual adjustments: Fine-tune the pocket as it breaks in, adjusting knots and tension
- Weather exposure: Allow the pocket to experience different weather conditions (within reason)
Remember, breaking in a pocket is a gradual process that can take several weeks of consistent play.
Regular Maintenance
Once your pocket is broken in, regular maintenance is key to preserving its performance. What should players do to keep their pockets in top shape?
- Check for loose strings or knots before and after each use
- Clean the pocket regularly, especially after playing in muddy conditions
- Store the stick properly, avoiding extreme temperatures and humidity
- Periodically re-adjust the pocket to maintain optimal depth and shape
By following these maintenance tips, players can ensure their pockets perform consistently throughout the season.
Choosing the Right Lacrosse Head and Pocket for Your Playing Style
Selecting the appropriate lacrosse head and pocket combination is crucial for maximizing your performance on the field. How can players make informed decisions when choosing their equipment?
Consider Your Position
Different positions require different head and pocket characteristics. What should players look for based on their role?
- Attackmen: Narrower heads with mid to low pockets for quick release and accuracy
- Midfielders: Versatile heads with mid pockets for all-around performance
- Defenders: Wider heads with higher pockets for improved checking and ground ball pickup
- Goalies: Large, stiff heads with shallow pockets for quick saves and outlet passes
Evaluate Your Skill Level
A player’s skill level should also influence their equipment choices. How do beginners’ needs differ from those of advanced players?
- Beginners: More forgiving heads with wider faces and mesh pockets for easier catching and throwing
- Intermediate: Balanced heads that allow for skill development in multiple areas
- Advanced: Specialized heads and custom pockets tailored to individual playing styles and preferences
Consider League Regulations
It’s essential to ensure that your chosen head and pocket conform to the rules of your league or level of play. What are some common regulations to keep in mind?
- Minimum head width requirements
- Maximum pocket depth restrictions
- Specific stringing pattern limitations
Always check with your league or governing body for the most up-to-date equipment regulations.
The Future of Lacrosse Head and Pocket Technology
As lacrosse continues to evolve, so too does the technology behind the equipment. What innovations can players expect to see in the coming years?
Advanced Materials
New materials are constantly being developed to improve the performance and durability of lacrosse heads and pockets. What are some promising advancements?
- Carbon fiber reinforced plastics for lighter, stronger heads
- Self-adjusting strings that maintain consistent pocket shape
- Weather-resistant materials that perform consistently in all conditions
Smart Technology Integration
The integration of smart technology into lacrosse equipment is on the horizon. How might this change the game?
- Sensors embedded in heads to provide data on shot speed and accuracy
- Augmented reality displays on stick shafts for real-time performance feedback
- AI-assisted stringing tools for creating perfectly customized pockets
While some of these technologies may seem far-fetched, the rapid pace of innovation in sports equipment suggests that they could become reality sooner than we think.
Sustainability Initiatives
As environmental concerns become more pressing, lacrosse equipment manufacturers are likely to focus on sustainability. What eco-friendly innovations might we see?
- Biodegradable plastics for head construction
- Recycled materials used in pocket stringing
- Longer-lasting equipment to reduce waste
These sustainability efforts could not only benefit the environment but also lead to improved performance and durability for players.
As we look to the future of lacrosse head and pocket technology, it’s clear that innovation will continue to drive the sport forward. Players at all levels can look forward to equipment that not only enhances their performance but also aligns with broader societal goals of sustainability and technological integration.
Men’s Lacrosse Heads for Attack, Middie, Defense & Goalie
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Men’s Lacrosse Heads for Sale
The best array of lacrosse heads for sale anywhere. We don’t do cool lacrosse heads with fancy names. We don’t think flashy colors make lax heads any better. We believe that quality, consistent performance is the number one priority on the field. That’s why all our lacrosse heads deliver elite performance with an option that’ll suit every age and style of player.
Mark 2 Family
The best lacrosse heads we offer are the Mark 2 family of heads. Each head is uniquely and specifically designed to offer different performance to a more specialized player. There is a Mark 2 lacrosse head for attack, midfield, faceoff, LSM, defense, and goalie. Every head is available in strung and unstrung versions. Click the links below to learn more.
Mark 2A
Built for attack. These attack lacrosse heads give offensive players exceptional control, quick hands, and accurate shots.
Shop Mark 2A Attack
Mark 2V
Built for versatility. Our middie lacrosse heads deliver a balance of strength, control, and accuracy to the midfielder or all-around player.
Shop Mark 2V Middie
Mark 2T
Built for transition. The number one lacrosse stick head designed specifically for transition-pushing defender or defensive midfielder.
Shop Mark 2T Middie
Mark 2D
Built for defense. In lacrosse defense heads need to be tough. The Mark 2D is made to deliver punishing checks and dominate loose balls.
Shop Mark 2D Defense
Mark 2F
Built for faceoffs. The perfect balance of flexibility, durability, and strength help you win the draw and perform on the field.
Shop Mark 2F Faceoff
Mark 2F Stiff
Built Stiffer. An updated version of our Mark 2F, made with a stiffer material to help you dominate those 50/50 battles at the stripe.
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Mark 2G
Built for goalies. The Mark 2G features an ultra-stiff construction, light-weight design, and optimized face shape.
Get faster hands and more saves.
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Mark 2 HEADStrong
Improving lives affected by cancer. Proceeds from every purchase of these limited-edition, lime green men’s lacrosse heads will help support the HEADstrong Foundation.
Mark 2 HEADStrong
Unbeatable Value
Don’t need a lacrosse head quite as advanced as a Mark 2? Don’t worry, we’ve still got you covered with versatile, reliable, and affordable lax heads for any player. Ever since we were designing our first Mark 1 head, we’ve always believed that simple and reliable is better than loud and flashy. Explore below to learn more about our affordable lacrosse heads for sale.
Legend
Legendary performance. An updated version of our classic Mark 1. Delivering consistent, all-around performance at an unbeatable value.
Legend Senior Head
Legend Int.
Best for ages 10-14. The light and stiff Legend Intermediate lacrosse head provides all-around performance and consistent execution at a legendary price.
Legend Int. Head
Mark 1
Simple. Strong. Of every part of a lacrosse stick, heads might be the most important. Our original offering incorporates the best features of our favorite heads to create a versatile and consistent work horse.
Mark 1 Lacrosse Head
Traditional – Lacrosse All Stars
Have you ever wondered how to string traditional pockets? Now is the perfect time to learn! Enjoy our collection of video tutorials for traditional pockets below: Traditional with Multiple Strings Double Traditional Six Shooter Two Leather Pita Pocket
This week we’re going to revisit the STX Stallion Omega I strung up here. Here the focus is on adjusting the pocket as it breaks in. This is Part 2 of breaking-in a traditional pocket. Breaking-In A Traditional Pocket, Part 2 Alright, here’s what you need: A strung traditional pocket Patience…. So, let’s take a […]
This week we’re going to look into how I break in a traditional pocket. Note, how I do this may be different from others, there’s no “right” way.
It’s important to remember that breaking in a traditional pocket is a gradual process, it’s not something you can do over night. However, once broken in and […]
This week we’re taking a stab at the Revolving Doerr Pocket. It’s mainly a defensive pocket. It was created by a Johns Hopkins defenseman back in the 90s.
How do I follow up on last week’s edition of #TheGopherProject of the spotlight on Max McCool? Easy! Here’s my take on the Corner Pocket.
This week on #TheGopherProject we grab our Hogwarts robes and head to platform 9 3/4! I know what you’re thinking “Kevin, this is a lacrosse article, why did you go dork it up?” Well, for one, I am a dork so this is pretty natural. Two, we are taking a trip to see stringing wizardry. […]
It’s May! Time for another mailbag on #TheGopherProject! This time, we’ll break these questions into four sections (stringing, heads, dyes and summer!). Stringing Do you prefer SI (Special Interlock) or KSI (Knotted Special Interlock)? I prefer the KSI since I like how it locks the mesh and knot in place.
If done correctly, it won’t […]
This week, I lost my sanity stringing up my version of the Space Commander for today’s installment of #TheGopherProject. While there are several challenging string-ups in the community, the Space Commander is at the top of the hill. Not only is it a lot of time to string (you’ll see below), it’s a giant pain […]
This week we’re going old — I’m stringing up a vintage lacrosse head. That’s right, the STX Barney. Let’s take a quick recap of the Barney. This head was released in the late 1970s and was off the market by 1983 (or around that time). This was primarily a defensive head where the SAM was […]
For the first #TheGopherProject spotlight, how could I not pick someone who I consider the queen of stringers? I do not think there is anything Robin cannot do. Dye a head? Check. String a phenomenal traditional women’s pocket? Check. String mesh in any stick? Check. Since my traditional tutorial was geared towards the men, it’s […]
Welcome to the newest monthly feature (well, I guess everything is new at this point, but you get my drift) on #TheGopherProject, the Monthly Mailbag.
