Best Attack Lacrosse Heads for 2023. 7 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Attack Lacrosse Head in 2023

How to select the perfect attack lacrosse head for improved scoring. What factors to consider when buying a lacrosse head. How to optimize your lacrosse gear for maximum performance.

Table of Contents

The Evolution of Lacrosse and the Importance of Proper Equipment

The sport of lacrosse has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the past decade. With this growth comes an increased demand for high-quality equipment, particularly among attack players seeking to gain a competitive edge. The right lacrosse head can make a significant difference in an player’s performance, influencing everything from ball control to shooting accuracy.

Selecting the ideal attack lacrosse head can be a daunting task, given the wide array of brands, models, and specifications available on the market. To help players navigate this complex landscape, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide outlining the key factors to consider when choosing an attack lacrosse head.

Understanding the Unique Needs of Attack Players

Attack players have specific requirements that differ from those of midfielders or defenders. While midfielders might prioritize a wider head for improved ground ball scooping, attackmen need to focus on quick ball control and precise shooting.

Narrower Heads for Superior Control

Narrower, pinched heads offer attackmen superior command of the ball, allowing them to dodge checks more effectively and seek out scoring opportunities. Many top-tier attack heads feature an offset design, which aims to improve shooting by directing more force down the center of the head.

Transitioning from Beginner to Advanced

For those new to the sport, starting with a wider head shape can be beneficial. The increased surface area makes it easier to handle ground balls and provides a larger sweet spot for passing and catching. As skills improve, players can transition to more pinched, narrowed head profiles.

Some brands, like Maverik and STX, offer heads with adjustable sidewall designs, allowing players to fine-tune the width to their preference as they develop their skills.

The Crucial Role of Stiffness and Durability

A flimsy attack head can lead to frustratingly lazy passes and inaccurate shots. When selecting a lacrosse head, it’s essential to prioritize sturdiness and durability without sacrificing lightweight performance.

Materials Matter

Look for heads made from high-quality materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum and titanium alloys. These materials offer an excellent balance of strength and weight, ensuring your head can withstand the rigors of competitive play.

Reinforced Design

Many top brands, like Warrior, reinforce high-stress areas of their heads to increase structural integrity over time. This results in crisper catches, stronger checks, and increased shot velocity.

Longevity Considerations

Durability is key to avoiding cracks or warps that can compromise performance. Features like Spectra lacing and protective end caps help safeguard key connection points, ensuring your head performs consistently season after season.

The Lightweight Revolution in Lacrosse Head Design

Advancements in materials science have led to the development of attack heads that are both rigid and incredibly lightweight. This combination of properties can significantly enhance a player’s on-field performance.

Titanium: The Gold Standard

Titanium has emerged as a favored material for high-end lacrosse heads and shafts. Its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio allows manufacturers to create heads that are both durable and feather-light, improving players’ acceleration and cutback speed.

Composite Materials: The Future of Lacrosse?

Carbon fiber and advanced composite polymers offer another lightweight yet strong option that’s gaining popularity among elite players. These materials allow for heads weighing 185 grams or less, providing a significant advantage when facing off against larger defenders.

Navigating the Landscape of Top Brands and Models

Major athletic brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior all produce high-end attack lacrosse heads favored by top players and leagues. When selecting a head, it’s essential to compare the latest elite-level offerings from these manufacturers to find features that align with your playing style.

Feature Focus: Maverik Kinetik

The Maverik Kinetik, for example, boasts a Control Scoop and Tactik Tooth design, engineered to enhance quick cradling and ball control. These features can be particularly beneficial for attackmen who rely on rapid direction changes and precise ball handling.

Power Play: Warrior Evo 5 Pro

For players seeking maximum shot power, the Warrior Evo 5 Pro offers stiff Tri-Flex sidewalls and a 3D Cyro+ Shape. These design elements work in tandem to provide increased structural integrity and optimal energy transfer during shots.

Decoding Lacrosse Head Specifications

While aesthetics may catch your eye, it’s crucial to understand the key specifications that contribute to a lacrosse head’s performance. Factors such as pocket depth, scoop design, sidewall stiffness, and offset measurements all play a role in how the head performs on the field.

Offset: Finding Your Sweet Spot

For attackmen focused on pinpoint shooting, an offset of 3 to 4 millimeters can make a significant difference. This slight shift moves the ball toward the head’s sweet spot naturally, potentially improving shot accuracy and consistency.

Pocket Depth: Balancing Control and Release

Deeper pockets in the 5 to 10 millimeter range provide superior ball control, which can be invaluable when dodging defenders or maintaining possession in traffic. However, it’s important to balance depth with release speed to ensure quick passes and shots.

The Value of Player Reviews and Community Feedback

While manufacturer specifications and marketing materials can provide valuable information, nothing beats first-hand experience when evaluating a new piece of gear. Before making a purchase, take the time to read lacrosse head reviews from actual players to get an unbiased perspective on performance and durability.

Where to Find Reliable Reviews

Look for heads with 4+ star reviews on reputable sites like Lacrosse Unlimited and Lax.com. These platforms often feature detailed feedback from players who have used the equipment in competitive situations.

Beyond the Stars: Diving Deeper

Don’t just rely on star ratings. Check forums and YouTube for in-depth discussions where players break down the pros and cons of different heads after extended use in competitive play. These resources can provide valuable insights into how a head performs under various conditions and playing styles.

Navigating League Regulations and Legal Dimensions

When selecting an attack lacrosse head, it’s crucial to be aware of the rules and regulations governing equipment in your league. Most organizations, from high school to college level, have specific guidelines regarding legal dimensions for lacrosse heads.

Common Dimensional Requirements

Typically, regulations limit the width of lacrosse heads to between 6 and 6.5 inches. Additionally, rules often stipulate that the ball must be able to move freely within the pocket. These requirements are designed to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game.

Staying Compliant

Before purchasing a new head, consult your league guidelines and the NCAA men’s lacrosse rule book to ensure that your chosen model meets all necessary regulations. Using non-compliant equipment can result in penalties, including ejection from games, which can significantly impact both individual and team performance.

The Art and Science of Custom Stringing

While the physical properties of a lacrosse head are crucial, the way it’s strung can have an equally significant impact on its performance. The stringing that comes with a new head should be viewed as a starting point rather than the final configuration.

Tailoring Your Pocket

Consider working with your local lacrosse shop or a reputable stringing service to create a customized pocket based on your specific preferences and playing style. A skilled stringer can adjust factors like pocket depth, hold, and release to complement your strengths and mitigate any weaknesses in your game.

Investing in Quality Materials

When customizing your pocket, it’s worth investing in high-quality materials. Pro-grade mesh, shooters, and sidewall string can significantly enhance how the head performs in terms of ball movement, shooting accuracy, cradling, and ground ball handling.

The Impact of Proper Stringing

A well-strung head can make a world of difference in your on-field performance. It can improve your shot accuracy, increase your passing speed, and enhance your ability to maintain possession under pressure. Don’t underestimate the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of lacrosse head performance.

Adapting Your Equipment to Your Playing Style

As you progress in your lacrosse career, you’ll likely develop a unique playing style that suits your strengths and role within your team. Your equipment choices should evolve alongside your skills and playing style to maximize your on-field effectiveness.

Analyzing Your Game

Take the time to analyze your playing style objectively. Are you a finesse player who relies on quick cuts and precise shots? Or do you prefer a power game, using your strength to overpower defenders? Understanding your approach to the game can help guide your equipment choices.

Experimenting with Different Setups

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different head and stringing combinations. Many players find that their ideal setup changes as they develop new skills or take on different roles within their team. Be open to trying new configurations and seek feedback from coaches and teammates.

The Importance of Feel

While specifications and reviews are important, the way a lacrosse head feels in your hands is equally crucial. If possible, try out different heads before making a purchase. Many lacrosse retailers offer demo programs or have display models you can handle to get a sense of how a head might perform for you.

Maintenance and Care: Extending the Life of Your Lacrosse Head

Investing in a high-quality attack lacrosse head is only the first step. Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure that your equipment continues to perform at its best throughout its lifespan.

Regular Cleaning

After each practice or game, take the time to clean your lacrosse head thoroughly. Remove any dirt, grass, or debris that may have accumulated during play. This not only keeps your equipment looking good but also prevents potential damage from abrasive particles.

Proper Storage

Store your lacrosse stick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Extreme temperatures and UV exposure can cause the plastic to warp or become brittle over time, compromising the head’s performance and durability.

Addressing Wear and Tear

Regularly inspect your head for signs of wear, such as cracks, chips, or loosening of the pocket. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage. In some cases, re-stringing or replacing worn components can significantly extend the life of your lacrosse head.

The Future of Attack Lacrosse Head Design

As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve, so too does the technology behind the equipment used by players. Staying informed about emerging trends and innovations in lacrosse head design can help you make more informed decisions about your gear.

Advanced Materials

Manufacturers are continually experimenting with new materials and composites to create heads that offer an optimal balance of strength, weight, and performance. Keep an eye out for heads incorporating cutting-edge materials that push the boundaries of what’s possible in lacrosse equipment.

Smart Technology Integration

As wearable technology becomes more prevalent in sports, it’s possible that we’ll see lacrosse heads with integrated sensors or smart features in the future. These could provide players and coaches with valuable data on shot speed, accuracy, and other performance metrics.

Customization and 3D Printing

Advances in 3D printing technology may soon allow for fully customized lacrosse heads tailored to individual players’ specifications. This could revolutionize how players approach their equipment choices, allowing for unprecedented levels of personalization.

Choosing the right attack lacrosse head is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your performance on the field. By considering factors such as your playing style, the head’s physical properties, and the importance of proper stringing, you can select a head that complements your skills and helps you achieve your goals as an attackman. Remember to stay informed about the latest developments in lacrosse equipment and don’t be afraid to experiment with different setups to find what works best for you. With the right gear and a commitment to continuous improvement, you’ll be well-equipped to take your game to the next level.

Intro: Lacrosse is growing – more players need the right gear

The game of lacrosse has exploded in popularity over the last decade. As more and more athletes pick up their sticks, the demand for quality lacrosse gear has reached an all-time high. This is especially true for attack players looking to gain an edge over defenders with the perfect head.

Finding the right attack lacrosse head can be tricky though. With so many brands and models available, it’s tough to know where to start. Should you go pinched or wide? What specs matter most? Does stringing really affect performance?

To help cut through the clutter, I’ve put together this guide on the top things to consider when shopping for your next attack lacrosse head. Whether you’re a seasoned scorer or just picking up a stick for the first time, read on for tips that will have you putting more balls in the back of the net in no time.

Factor In Your Position

As an attack player, your needs are different than a midfielder or defender. While middies may opt for a wider head for scooping ground balls, you’ll want to focus on quick ball control and pinpoint shooting accuracy.

Narrower pinched heads give you superior command of the ball to dodge checks and look for openings. Offset designs also aim to improve your shooting by directing more force down the center of the head.

Opt For Wider Heads As A Beginner

If you’re just starting out in lacrosse, go with a wider head shape at first. The increased surface area will make it easier to corral ground balls and provide a larger sweet spot when passing and catching.

As your skills improve, you can transition to more of a pinched, narrowed head profile. Brands like Maverik and STX offer heads with adjustable sidewall designs to help you find the ideal width.

Focus On Stiffness & Durability

A flimsy attack head will lead to frustratingly lazy passes and inaccurate shots. Look for sturdy yet lightweight materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and titanium alloys.

Brands like Warrior reinforce high-stress areas to increase structural integrity over time. This results in crisp catches, stronger checks, and more velocity behind your shots.

Durability is also key to avoid cracks or warps. Spectra lacing and end caps protect key connection points so your head performs like new season after season.

Go Light For Faster Play

Advances in modern materials now allow for attack heads that are both rigid and incredibly lightweight. Shafts and heads made of titanium shave crucial ounces to improve your acceleration and cutback speed.

Carbon fiber and composite polymers offer another lightweight yet strong option popular with elite players. Heads weighing 185 grams or less make quick work of even the burliest defenders trying to contain you.

Compare Top Brands & Models

Major athletic brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior all produce high-end attack lacrosse heads favored by top players and leagues. Compare their latest elite-level heads to find features that match your playing style.

For example, the Maverik Kinetik has a Control Scoop and Tactik Tooth to help cradle quickly. The Warrior Evo 5 Pro brings the heat with its stiff Tri-Flex sidewalls and 3D Cyro+ Shape.

Dig Into The Specs

Don’t just order the coolest looking head – take time to understand the key specs that contribute to performance. Pocket depth, scoop designs, sidewall stiffness, and offset measurements all impact how the head plays.

For pinpoint shooting, an offset of 3 to 4 millimeters shifts the ball toward the sweet spot naturally. Deeper pockets in the 5 to 10 millimeter range provide superior ball control for dodging defenders.

Read Reviews Before Buying

Nothing beats first-hand experience when evaluating a new piece of gear. Read lacrosse head reviews from actual players to get the real scoop before buying.

Look for heads with 4+ star reviews on sites like Lacrosse Unlimited and Lax.com. Check forums and YouTube for players discussing pros and cons after extended use in competitive play.

Know The Rules On Head Dimensions

Most leagues from high school to college regulate legal dimensions for lacrosse heads. Common rules limit width to 6 – 6.5 inches and require the ball to move freely within the pocket.

Check your league guidelines and the NCAA men’s lacrosse rule book to ensure any new head meets regulations. Going non-compliant can lead to penalties and ejection from games.

Custom Stringing Affects Performance

Out of the box lacrosse head stringing is just a starting point. Work with your local lacrosse shop or stringing service to create a customized pocket based on your preferences.

A skilled stringing job can make a world of difference in how the head moves, shoots, cradles, and handles ground balls. Invest in pro-quality mesh, shooters, and sidewall string to take your game up a notch.

Replace Heads After Extended Use

With all the checks, slashes, passes, and ground balls, lacrosse heads take a major beating. Even the best gear wears down after a season or two of action.

Inspect your head frequently for cracks, warps, and fatigue. Once the head loses its original stiffness and shape, it’s time to replace it to avoid frustrating performance issues.

Shop End of Season Sales

The best way to save money on quality lacrosse gear is taking advantage of end of season clearance sales. Retailers like Lacrosse Unlimited and Lax.com typically run major discounts on last year’s heads.

You can score previous top-level heads for half off or more. The tech is still up to date, so grab deals while you can and stock up for future seasons.

With the passion for lacrosse at an all-time fever pitch, now is the perfect time to upgrade your attack head for maximum performance. Use these tips to zero in on the perfect head to take your scoring punch to the next level. The right stick can be the difference between a good season and a truly great one.