An InDepth Look at 12 Diamond Goalie Meshes and How to Choose One

An InDepth Look at 12 Diamond Goalie Meshes and How to Choose One

The Potential Drawbacks and Downsides of Using a 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

Transitioning to a 12 diamond goalie mesh can be a big change for any lacrosse goalie. While there are certainly some benefits and advantages to using a 12 diamond pattern, there are also some potential cons, disadvantages, and downsides to keep in mind before switching over from a traditional 10 diamond goalie mesh. As with any major equipment change, it is wise to carefully consider both the pros and the cons when deciding if a 12 diamond goalie mesh is the right choice for your playing style and needs.

One potential drawback of 12 diamond goalie mesh is that it can take time to adjust to the new wider diamond pattern. The bigger diamonds alter the flex and feel of the mesh, changing the ball’s release and rebound properties. This means you’ll have to put in practice with the 12 diamond mesh to get a feel for shots, passes, and clears. At first, you may notice more errant rebounds and release points until you adjust your technique. The adjustment period to get fully comfortable with the 12 diamond goalie mesh could span multiple practices. Have patience and stick with it through early struggles.

Another consideration is that 12 diamond goalie mesh pockets tend to bag out faster and need more frequent adjustments to maintain your desired pocket shape. The bigger diamonds have more space between stringing points, causing the mesh to lose its form quicker. You’ll have to be diligent about checking pocket depth and ball position consistency to determine when you need to tighten or tweak stringing. Be prepared to regularly put in maintenance work on a 12 diamond goalie head.

In addition, some goalies feel like they sacrifice a bit of ball control when switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh. With wider diamonds and less stringing points, the ball can move around more in the pocket. This can make stick tricks, quick passes, and other ball handling moves more difficult. The pocket may feel a bit sloppier. Make sure to string the 12 diamond mesh tight to optimize ball control.

The altered ball release point and trajectory is another adaptation required with the 12 diamond goalie mesh. Due to the pocket shape and flex points changing, the exact place the ball comes out can be different. This may lead to throwing inaccurate outlet passes at first. You’ll need to learn the new ball flight tendencies.

Lastly, while a 12 diamond goalie mesh often improves hold, some goalies feel it reduces whip on passes and clears. The stiffer pocket can dampen snap and velocity on hard throws. For goalies that rely on crisp passes to midfielders or explosive outlet passes, this loss of whip is a tough trade-off. On the other hand, more hold improves catching, cradling, and shot stopping.

Weighing these potential downsides against the upsides of more hold and better rebound control will help you determine if making the switch to a 12 diamond goalie mesh is right for your game. Be ready to put in the work adjusting to the new pocket and stringing maintenance. But don’t be afraid to experiment to find equipment that optimizes your goalie style and strengths. With practice, the pros should outweigh the cons of utilizing a 12 diamond goalie mesh.

Examining What Makes 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh Different From Traditional Styles

When you take a look at most traditional goalie head mesh pieces, they utilize a 10 diamond pattern. This means there are 10 diamonds that run side to side along the width of the mesh. 12 diamond goalie mesh, as the name implies, instead has 12 diamonds across its width. This wider diamond pattern sets 12 diamond goalie mesh apart from more common 10 diamond goalie meshes.

The key difference comes down to the size and spacing of the diamonds in the netting. With 12 diamonds across the mesh instead of the typical 10, the individual diamonds are bigger and there is more space between each diamond. This allows the 12 diamond goalie mesh to stretch and flex more, creating a deeper pocket with more hold. The bigger diamonds also stiffen up the mesh slightly, leading to enhanced rebound control off of shots.

More hold and control are the main advantages and benefits 12 diamond goalie mesh provides compared to traditional 10 diamond styles. The deeper pocket makes it easier for the goalie to grip and hang onto shots rather then allowing rebounds to squirt out. This helps improve save percentages. The stiffer mesh also boasts improved ball control for goalies when cradling, catching, passing, and clearing.

In addition, the altered diamond size and shape on 12 diamond goalie mesh changes the release point and flex of shots. Shots come out faster and more accurately. For goalies who struggled with erratic rebounds off their current mesh, switching to a 12 diamond pattern should improve control. Rebounds come right back to the pocket instead of squirting off the mesh.

While traditional 10 diamond goalie meshes offer a nice balanced feel, the 12 diamond variety prioritizes maximizing hold through deeper pockets. This comes at the cost of some ball handling quickness and whip on passes. However, for goalies looking for better stopping power and more accurate rebounds and outlets, the benefits of switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh are enticing.

The 12 diamond goalie mesh represents an evolution in goalie head stringing and pocket design. By altering a fundamental aspect of the mesh piece itself, the diamonds, engineers created a netting with unique shape, feel, and performance. While it requires adjustments in stringing, shooting technique, and maintenance, goalies looking to up their game should strongly consider transitioning to a 12 diamond goalie mesh. The improvements in hold, control, and rebound redirection can be game-changers.

The Advantages and Pros of Using a 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

When debating whether or not to switch to a 12 diamond goalie mesh, it’s important to consider the potential benefits and pros this type of pocket offers. There are some clear advantages that 12 diamond goalie mesh provides compared to more traditional 10 diamond styles. Evaluating these upsides will help you determine if transitioning to the 12 diamond pattern is the right move for improving your goalie game.

One of the main benefits goalies will notice with a 12 diamond goalie mesh is increased hold and control. The wider diamonds allow for deeper pocket formations that really hug and grip the ball. This helps goalies securely cradle and carry the ball upfield for clears, greatly reducing turnovers. It also helps significantly with catching tough shots, allowing the ball to stick inside the pocket rather than bouncing out on saves.

This improved hold also boosts a goalie’s stopping power. Shots stick right in the pocket instead of squirting back out on rebounds. Increased hold equals more saves. The stiffer 12 diamond mesh also boasts better rebound control. By absorbing more force on shots, it allows goalies to direct rebounds where they want more consistently.

Accuracy is another advantage of switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh. The altered pocket shape changes the flex and release point of shots. With practice, goalies can learn to utilize the 12 diamond mesh to throw crisp, consistent outlet passes needed to spark transition. The pocket shape puts a nice predictable spin on overhand clears as well.

Faster release speeds are another pro of the 12 diamond goalie mesh. The ball shoots out of the pockets quicker thanks to the diamond size and stiffened channel. For goalies who felt they were getting shots off too slowly or telegraphing their passes, a 12 diamond mesh provides a snappier release.

Some goalies also prefer the feel of the thicker 12 diamond mesh. It provides a very solid, supportive overall pocket feel compared to soft 10 diamond meshes. The stiffened pocket allows for better ball handling and control.

While adjusting to the nuances of the 12 diamond goalie mesh takes some time and practice, once mastered, it offers goalies some clear performance benefits. Hold, accuracy, speed, rebound control and overall feel are all potentially improved by switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh. If you are willing to put in the work on adjusting to the new pocket style, your goalie game could take a big step forward.

Crafting the Ideal Pocket Placement and Shape for 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

One of the most important things to consider when stringing a 12 diamond goalie mesh is optimizing the pocket placement and formation. Because the wider diamonds handle differently than 10 diamond mesh, you’ll need to tweak your stringing to create the perfect pocket for maximizing the benefits of the 12 diamond pattern.

In general, the ideal pocket for a 12 diamond goalie mesh is shifted slightly lower in the head. This takes advantage of the deeper pocket bag that the wider diamonds allow. Set the pocket depth so the ball rests just above or right at the bottom rail of the head when carrying. This ensures excellent hold while still allowing quick rolls up the throat to the release point.

Pocket shape is also critical. Many goalies find a mid-low pocket works best for 12 diamond goalie mesh, with a nice rounded shape. Make sure to string the channel and diamonds tight to counteract the fast bagging out that 12 diamond mesh is prone to. Maintain a baggy, round pocket with crisp sidewalls.

Place more emphasis on pocket shape over letting the ball sit deep. Set the ball position to balance hold and release rather than maximizing depth. If the pocket is too deep, the ball can get stuck. If it’s too high, you lose hold benefits.

Achieving an optimal mid-low pocket with crisp channel definition is key with 12 diamond mesh. The stiffer mesh really allows you to mold a defined pocket shape. Take time to shape the pocket by hand after stringing and as it breaks in.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with adding more whip to a 12 diamond pocket to help with passing. An interwoven nylon shooting string can help counteract the stiffness. Use a softer mesh if you want more finesse.

Make sure to constantly check pocket depth and shape after break-in. Plenty of maintenance stringing tweaks will likely be needed as the wider diamonds bag out faster. Keeping the defined pocket shape consistent is vital for maximizing the 12 diamond goalie mesh’s performance.

Overall, favor a mid-low pocket towards the lower middle of the head with a rounded shape and tightened channel. This allows you to get the most out of the added hold and rebound control the 12 diamond goalie mesh offers while still retaining quick release and clearing ability.

Stringing Tips and Tricks for Crafting the Perfect 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh Pocket

Stringing a 12 diamond goalie mesh requires some adjustments and nuances compared to traditional 10 diamond mesh pockets. The altered diamond size changes how the pocket forms and handles. Here are some helpful stringing tips and tricks to know when crafting the perfect pocket with 12 diamond goalie mesh.

First, use thicker sidewall strings on a 12 diamond goalie mesh. This helps compensate for the wider diamonds and extra space between stringing points. A thicker sidewall string adds stability and structure. Nylon strings like 20D nylon work better than softer options like mesh or leathers for the sidewalls.

When stringing the diamonds, go with a durable material like hockey lace to resist bagging out. String the diamonds tight and compact. Each diamond should just fit the ball when strung. This tightness counteracts the tendency of bigger diamonds to bag out faster. Interlock the diamonds for added structure.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with adding more shooting strings to a 12 diamond goalie mesh pocket. An additional nylon shooting string can allow you to further define pocket shape. Place low so it pushes the ball to the sweet spot.

Consider using a specific 12 diamond goalie mesh if available from brands like StringKing. The stiffer, structured material handles best. Softer goalie mesh struggles to form defined pockets on 12 diamond heads.

Maintain channel definition by ensuring the pocket and diamonds collapse down and don’t flare out. Focus string placement on the lower middle diamonds where it counts most.

Check pocket depth frequently after stringing. Plan to do maintenance tweaks as the pocket bags and settles. Be proactive about adjusting depth before the ball starts sitting too low.

Mastering the nuances of stringing an ideal 12 diamond goalie mesh pocket takes practice. But following these tips will give you a leg up. Tight diamonds, thick sidewalls, structured mesh, and frequent tuning is key to maximizing the benefits of 12 diamond performance.

How Diamond Size on 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh Impacts Ball Control and Release

One of the biggest adjustments when switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh is getting used to how the altered diamond size changes ball control and release. The wider 12 diamond pattern has a noticeable impact on how the ball moves, sits, and shoots compared to traditional 10 diamond goalie mesh.

The main effect of the larger diamonds on 12 diamond goalie mesh is to allow for deeper pocket formations. This increased depth leads to much better overall ball control for goalies. The ball sits deeper in the mesh pocket, letting goalies easily cradle and corral ground balls. The improved hold also helps immensely when absorbing tough shots.

However, the deeper pocket can take some adjustment with ball handling and quick stick moves. The ball sits a bit “sloppier” in a baggy 12 diamond pocket at first. Goalies may need a break-in period to get comfortable with wraparounds, fakes, and rolls. Focus on tight diamond stringing to optimize control.

The wider diamond size also impacts passing. The stiffness of a 12 diamond mesh provides excellent control and hold for possession, but reduces whip on clearing throws. Shorter quicker passes feel best. Work on developing a snappy compact throwing motion.

On the positive side, the 12 diamond shape puts a very consistent release point and spin on outlet passes. Goalies can learn to leverage the pocket shape to deliver very accurate clears once adjusted to the feel.

For shooting, the 12 diamond pocket really comes into its own. The release point flexibility allows ripping shots with speed and accuracy. Rebound control is also improved as shots deflect right back to the pocket.

With practice, goalies can learn to utilize the altered release point and feel of a 12 diamond goalie mesh to their advantage. The increased hold aids cradling and stops, while pass and shot accuracy develop over time. Don’t be afraid to string the diamonds tighter to refine ball control in a deeper 12 diamond pocket.

Optimizing Rebound Control With a 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

One of the biggest perks of switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh is the potential to significantly improve rebound control. The altered diamond size and stiffer channel allow goalies to corral and direct rebounds much more consistently. With some adjustments and practice, 12 diamond goalie mesh can take your ability to smother and outlet rebounds to the next level.

The chief benefit in rebound control comes from the deeper pocket formation that 12 diamond mesh enables. The extra depth cradles the ball on saves rather than spit outs. Shots stick in the pocket, allowing goalies to clutch the rebound and look upfield to start the clear.

The stiffened channel also helps absorb more force on shots. By digging into shots, 12 diamond mesh dampens rebounds. Instead of wild skips and significant velocity, rebounds come right back to the pocket.

To maximize these rebound benefits, focus on a mid-low pocket placement to increase hold. String traditional leathers or mesh through the middle diamonds rather tightly to reinforce pocket stiffness. This retains the rigid channel needed for controlling rebounds.

Practice directing saves with your stick hand right after shots. Work on angling the head to funnel rebounds back into the pocket. You can also use your body to position behind stops.

The improved hold factor with 12 diamond mesh takes time to adjust to. Your muscle memory will be used to balls squirting free on saves initially. Stay patient and keep working on smothering rebounds.

As the pocket breaks in, keep an eye on depth. If it gets too baggy, rebounds will start spraying out. Maintain the ideal mid-low channel with crisp sidewalls by restringing periodically.

With some tweaks to pocket placement, stringing, and technique, a 12 diamond goalie mesh can make controlling rebounds look easy. The increased hold and dampened shots lead to much higher save percentages.

Achieving the Ideal Hold and Whip Balance with 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

When stringing and broken-in a 12 diamond goalie mesh pocket, finding the right balance of hold and whip is key for optimizing performance. The altered diamond size enables excellent hold for stopping shots, but can reduce the whip needed for crisp passes. Here are some tips for getting the best blend of both with a 12 diamond goalie mesh.

For maximizing hold, focus string placement on the lower middle diamonds in the channel. This is the key area to create depth for securing the ball on saves and cut downs on shots. Use a stiff nylon mesh and tightly interlock diamonds here using hockey lace.

Move up towards the scoop and higher diamonds to add more whip for passing. Utilize softer materials like leathers to allow more pocket give. Create a defined channel but let the upper mesh bag out more.

Consider adding a double low-to-high nylon shooting string setup. Have one near the bottom to reinforce hold, and another about midway up the head for added whip on shots and clears.

Pay close attention to pocket shape over trying to make the ball sit super low. A medium depth, rounded pocket with crisp sidewalls provides the best blend. Too much depth and the ball gets stuck on passes.

During break-in, keep an eye on diamonds bagging out towards the scoop and affecting whip. Do maintenance strings to tighten up the channel higher on the head as needed.

It takes experimenting with string placement, materials, and pocket depth to find the right ratio of hold and whip on a 12 diamond goalie mesh. But once dialed in, it provides excellent control on saves without sacrificing passing ability.

Choosing the Best Shooting Strings for a 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

Choosing the right shooting string setup is an important factor in optimizing the performance of a 12 diamond goalie mesh. Shooting strings control pocket shape, hold, and release speed. Here are tips on selecting ideal shooting strings for a 12 diamond goalie mesh pocket.

Look for shooting strings that provide stiffness to reinforce the already rigid 12 diamond channel. Materials like nylon and polyethylene work better than softer options like leathers or lace. They hold pocket shape longer against continual shot impact.

For the lower shooting string, go with a heavy-duty 20D nylon cord or thick polyethylene string. These add structure near the pocket base to increase hold on low shots. A rigid lower string keeps the ball from dropping through on saves.

On the mid to upper shooting string, you can get more whip with a slightly softer nylon shooter cord or thin hockey lace. This allows better feel for passing while retaining control. Some goalies skip an upper string altogether for max hold.

Make sure the shooting strings have very little give or stretch. The less they move, the better they will hold pocket shape. Stiff shooting strings are a must for disciplining 12 diamond pockets.

Place the lower shooting string fairly low in the head, just above the widest diamonds. The mid string can be positioned around where typical middle sidewall holes fall. This gives a good hold/whip balance.

Try adding a third nylon shooter if needed higher up the head. Because the pocket bags so quickly, you may need extra shooting strings to retain shape during break-in.

Premium shooter cords from brands like StringKing, ECD, and Jimalax are ideal for 12 diamond goalie heads. They provide long-lasting stiffness to support the mesh’s enhanced hold capabilities.

Choosing Durable Sidewall Strings for 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh

The sidewall stringing on a 12 diamond goalie mesh takes a beating from continual shot impacts. Choosing a durable sidewall string material is key for maximizing pocket longevity. Here are tips on selecting the ideal sidewall strings for a 12 diamond goalie mesh.

Look for a thicker, low-stretch material when stringing the sidewalls on a 12 diamond goalie head. Options like 20D nylon cord or polyethylene cords with very minimal give work best. This adds rigidity to support the wider diamond gaps.

Avoid more elastic materials prone to stretching like fishing line or thinner nylon cords for sidewalls. Stretchy strings won’t hold pocket shape and will bag out faster under shot stress.

If choosing a leather or synthetic material, go with the thicker 2mm and 3mm options, rather than 1mm sides. The additional thickness adds more structure. Waxed hockey laces also work better than normal lace.

String the sidewalls very tight, with almost no space between holes. This compensates for the added gapping in the diamond pattern. Tight sides resist bagging and help keep pocket shape.

Check side tension frequently after stringing, especially during break-in. The continual impact on the pocket can cause sidewalls to loosen quickly. Be prepared to do maintenance tightening.

For extra strength, consider double sidewall strings or an interwoven pattern. This adds even more structural support against bagging diamonds.

Premium mesh brands like StringKing and ECD apply special coatings or textures to their polyethylene sidewalls to reduce stretching. This added treatment maximizes sidewall durability.

The right sidewall string choice ensures a 12 diamond pocket holds its shape as long as possible before needing re-strings. Prioritize stiffness and thickness when selecting materials to go the distance.

Goalie Head and Throat Considerations for 12 Diamond Mesh

When stringing a 12 diamond goalie mesh, it’s important to take the properties of the head and throat into account. Certain goalie head shapes and throat styles pair best with a 12 diamond pocket pattern.

Look for heads with a wider face shape to take full advantage of the increased hold from a 12 diamond mesh. This provides more stopping surface area for controlling rebounds. Avoid narrow heads better suited for 10 diamonds.

For throat style, consider heads with a more pinched, hourglass-shaped throat. This helps lift shots cleanly from a deep 12 diamond pocket up into the throat faster for quick outlet passes.

Make sure the head has enough offset at the throat and scoop area. This allows adequately forming a rounded pocket shape high in the head for passing whip. Heads with very flat scoops struggle with defined 12 diamond pockets.

For youth goalies, avoid aggressive head geometries like extreme flare. Focus on heads promoting ball control like the STX Eclipse. Aggressive heads are harder to string 12 diamonds on.

Aim for at least a 10-inch throat length. This ensures enough room for the deeper pocket needed with 12 diamonds while still placing the ball high enough for fast releases.

For goalies who like a lot of hold, consider heads with internal silicone grips or resin coatings inside the sidewalls. This pairs great with the added hold of 12 diamonds.

Finding the right goalie head shape and throat style ensures you can maximize the benefits of switching to a 12 diamond goalie mesh. Take into account pocket placement, release, and hold when selecting a pairing head.

Finding the Right 12 Diamond Goalie Mesh for Your Playing Style

With several quality options available, it’s important to find the right 12 diamond goalie mesh that matches your playing style and needs. Factors like mesh stiffness, diamond shape, and pocket style impact performance.

Stiffer 12 diamond mesh works best for goalies focused on maximizing hold and rebound control. Brands like StringKing and ECD have rigid meshes perfect for controlling saves. Softer meshes provide more finesse for passing.

If quick sticks and outlet passes are a priority, look for 12 diamond mesh with coated sidewalls that retain definition longer. A soft mesh with baggy diamonds will move the ball slower.

For elite goalies, StringKing Type S meshes have excellent hold and rebound control properties thanks to the denser weave. It’s on the stiffer side.

Youth goalies needing versatility can look at options like the ECD Rebel that balance stiffness with some whip. It caters well to developing players.

Consider pre-formed 12 diamond goalie mesh like StringKing Ready 2 Go that comes pre-shaped. This simplifies pocket creation for beginners unfamiliar with stringing.

Goalies who like wrapping the thumb of their stick hand in the sidewall need a mesh with 1.3 mm cords like the ECD Bravo to fit comfortably.

Make sure to get the right size mesh for your head’s width. Cutting too narrow 12 diamond mesh to fit can reduce hold properties.

Finding your perfect mesh for play style, skill level, age, and stringing ability ensures you get the most out of switching to the enhanced performance of 12 diamonds.

Top Brands for Quality 12 Diamond Goalie Meshes

When shopping for a 12 diamond goalie mesh, sticking with premier lacrosse brands ensures getting a high-quality pocket piece built for peak performance. Top companies like StringKing and ECD offer excellent 12 diamond goalie mesh options.

StringKing manufactures some of the best 12 diamond goalie meshes available today. Their Type S mesh provides elite stiffness and hold for controlling rebounds thanks to the densely woven polyethylene material. It’s on the thicker side for maximum control.

For goalies needing a bit more finesse, the StringKing Type III 12 diamond mesh has a softer feel while still offering solid structure for a defined pocket. It delivers great versatility.

ECD is another leading brand in 12 diamond goalie mesh. Their Bravo line utilizes a medium-stiffness material to balance hold with throwing ability. The 1.3mm coated sidewalls fight bagging.

ECD also makes the Rebel 12 diamond mesh perfect for youth and developing goalies. It has a soft feel and breaks in quickly for new players learning pocket preferences.

For pre-formed convenience, StringKing’s Ready 2 Go goalie mesh comes pre-shaped in a 12 diamond mid pocket. Just lace in and string the sides to finish.

Gait also offers a quality 12 diamond goalie mesh with a focus on rapid break-in. Maverik’s Medic mesh is another option with enhanced hold properties.

Going with an elite brand 12 diamond mesh ensures excellent materials, construction, and performance. StringKing and ECD lead the way in 12 diamond goalie mesh innovation and quality.