Best Lacrosse Sticks For Attackmen and Middies

Best Lacrosse Sticks For Attackmen and Middies

Review Top Attack and Middie Stick Brands Like STX and Maverik

When selecting an attack or midfield lacrosse stick, one of the most important considerations is choosing a top brand known for quality construction and innovative features. STX and Maverik are two of the leading manufacturers of lacrosse sticks, with Maverik focusing specifically on lacrosse equipment versus STX which produces gear across multiple sports. Both companies offer a wide range of lacrosse sticks engineered for every position and skill level.

For attack sticks, brands like STX and Maverik aim to provide several key benefits – lightweight yet durable shafts for quick, precise handling, sturdy alloy or composite heads that maintain their shape after checks, and heads designed for superior ball control and quick release. Their attack sticks also incorporate technologies like Enduraform handles on STX sticks which absorb vibrations and impact. Maverik’s Optik pocket design gives players a consistent, customized pocket structure for cleaner catches and accurate passing.

When shopping for midfield lacrosse sticks, you’ll notice the shaft is a bit longer than attack sticks and the head is mid-sized for a balance of offensive and defensive capabilities. Middies run the entire length of the field, take faceoffs, and play both sides of the ball, so their sticks are built for versatility. STX and Maverik middie sticks offer an ideal blend of lightweight maneuverability and rugged durability to withstand those all-important transitional moments. Their heads also give you a quick release and hold up well during ground ball battles.

While STX and Maverik sticks do come at a premium cost, their reputation for high-end construction and technologies that enhance handling, control, and shooting make them a top choice amongst elite high school, college, and professional players. Intermediate players can also benefit from their sticks optimized for each position. Be sure to consider your budget, skill level, and playing style as you shop top brands for your next attack or midfield stick. Consulting lacrosse experts at specialty retailers can further help you identify the best stick to match your needs and goals on the field or improve your game.

Compare Attack vs Middie Stick Features and Specs

When selecting a new lacrosse stick, one of the key considerations is determining whether you need an attack stick or a midfield stick based on the unique features and specifications required for each position. While both stick types share some common traits like offset heads and lightweight yet durable shafts, there are some important distinctions between attack and middie sticks to factor into your buying decision.

Attack sticks are engineered for offensive players who spend most of their time on the opponent’s half of the field. They typically have the shortest shafts in lacrosse, usually measuring 30-32 inches to allow for quick stick handling and tight cradling in traffic around the crease. Attack heads are smaller, narrower and more rigid to complement the shorter shaft. This compact design gives attackers superior ball control for quicker passes, precise shots on goal, and protecting the ball during dodges.

In contrast, midfield lacrosse sticks have longer shafts ranging 36-42 inches since middies cover far more ground up and down the length of the field. You’ll also notice wider heads on middie sticks that hold up better during ground ball battles, faceoffs, and exchanges of possession. While an attack stick excels at ball retention for offense, a middie stick is built to scoop tough ground balls, protect the ball in transition, and give you some added reach on defense.

When comparing sticks, you’ll also take note of specs like head shape, sidewall stiffness, pocket type, and shooting strings. Attack sticks often have narrower, more rigid heads with a flat scoop, specially designed pockets for holding and quick release, and straighter shooting strings. Middie sticks feature wider heads and a deeper pocket optimized for securing 50/50 balls. While an attack stick is tuned for pure offense, a middie stick balances both offensive and defensive capabilities.

Considering your position and how you utilize your stick is imperative when differentiating between attack vs. middie lacrosse sticks. Be sure to test out sticks to get a true feel for the handling, passing, and shooting. While middies do take some shots, attack sticks give you superior ball control and shot precision critical for offensive players. Making the right choice between attack and midfield sticks tailored to your style of play gives you the best advantage on the field.

Best Complete Sticks Ready to Use Right Out of Box

One of the biggest decisions when buying a new lacrosse stick is whether to purchase a shaft and head separately or invest in a pre-assembled complete stick ready to use right out of the box. Complete lacrosse sticks offer a convenient all-in-one solution with the shaft and head already combined and strung in a playable pocket.

For beginners or younger players purchasing their first stick, a complete is an ideal option to help learn the basics of handling, cradling, catching, and passing. Complete sticks at entry-level price points like the STX Stallion or Maverik Charger come with basic yet durable construction and basic pocket stringing perfect for new players developing fundamentals. The stick arrives game-ready so players can get acclimated right away.

Intermediate and advanced players can also benefit from mid-tier to pro-level complete sticks that combine higher-end materials like lightweight alloys or composite shafts with performance mesh pockets. The shaft and head are professionally strung by the manufacturer to provide an ideal pocket structure ready for elite-level play. Some of the most popular complete sticks include the Warrior Evo Pro, Maverik Optik, and STX Surgeon attack and midfield sticks.

Complete lacrosse sticks eliminate the guesswork involved with pairing the right shaft and head combination and stringing a quality pocket from scratch. With a complete stick from leading brands like Maverik, STX, or Warrior, you get a stick with an already optimized pocket tested for superior ball control, hold, and quick release. While some players do opt to customize their stick’s flex profile and pocket style to their preference, complete lacrosse sticks offer an out-of-box option requiring no additional time or effort to get game-ready.

Especially for newer players who haven’t developed specific pocket preferences yet, complete lacrosse sticks provide an affordable and functional stick option ready to use as soon as you unbox it. Be sure to assess your budget, skill level, and any desired customizations as you weigh complete sticks vs. buying piecemeal components. Ultimately the convenience of an optimized complete stick can be well worth the investment, especially as you focus on elevating your on-field stick skills.

Most Popular Sticks for High School and Youth Players

When shopping for a new lacrosse stick, it’s important to consider your age and skill level to select the right stick to match your needs. For high school and youth players just starting out, there are several excellent beginner stick options from top brands that combine durability with easy handling capabilities.

Two of the most popular lacrosse sticks for entry-level high school players are the STX Stallion 500 and the Maverik Charger. These sticks offer an alloy shaft paired with a synthetic head for added ruggedness to withstand checks and collisions out on the field. Both sticks also incorporate technologies like STX’s Memory Mesh pockets and Maverik’s Optimized Pocket Geometry to make throwing, catching, and scooping easier for developing players.

Youth players transitioning from starter sticks to intermediate models have several excellent options from Warrior, Maverik, and STX. The Warrior Rabil Next and STX Surgeon 10 lacrosse sticks provide lightweight yet robust shafts combined with stiff heads designed for more accurate, powerful shots. Maverik’s Optik Line of complete sticks are also very popular in youth and high school leagues, offering an approachable price point but high-end construction quality and performance.

More advanced youth and high school players looking for elite-level gear can check out pro models like the Warrior Evo Pro, Maverik Kinetik, and STX Surgeon 700. These sticks feature premium materials like carbon fiber and aircraft-grade alloys along with heads engineered for pinpoint shooting accuracy. While more expensive, these sticks offer the same technologies used by college and pro players.

Be sure to factor in your age, position, and skill progression as you shop stick options. While introductory models make the most sense for new players, investing in a higher-end stick can be worthwhile as your abilities and lacrosse IQ improves over time. Testing out sticks in person and reading reviews is key to making the right choice for your developmental stage.

Best Value Lacrosse Sticks Under $100

One of the biggest considerations when buying a new lacrosse stick is setting a budget. While pro-level sticks can run upwards of $300, there are excellent stick options under $100 that offer solid quality and performance without breaking the bank.

For attack sticks under $100, the Maverik Optik is a great choice. This complete stick provides a 30-inch alloy shaft paired with a lightweight Optik head designed for quick, accurate shots. The optimized pocket comes ready to use out of the box. Warrior also makes their popular Evo 3X attack stick available right at the $100 price point, giving you premium construction at an approachable cost.

In the midfield stick category, Maverik’s Kinetik Pro complete stick stands out as a high-value option. Players get an alloy shaft and sturdy head already strung with Maverik’s precision pocket technology all for around $80. The STX Hammer 500 midfield stick also makes a reliable, durable choice for right around $100.

While most elite sticks from STX, Maverik, and Warrior run upwards of $150 or more, these brands do offer entry-level and mid-tier sticks hitting the under $100 sweet spot. The key is finding sticks that don’t cut corners on durability while still providing decent performance capabilities. Going with last year’s stick models is another great way to score major discounts on clearance sticks.

Considering your skill level is also important when evaluating budget-friendly sticks. True beginners will benefit most from basic complete sticks like the Warrior Rabil Next or STX Stallion 500 which can both be found for $70-$80. Intermediate and advanced players can invest more in the $80-$100 range for sticks with higher-end features and materials. Test swinging sticks in person and reading reviews helps identify lower cost sticks that still deliver responsive handling, accurate passing and shooting, and rugged durability.

Stick Flex and Pocket Type for Faster Shots

When selecting a new lacrosse stick, two important factors that directly impact shooting performance are the shaft flex and pocket type. Finding the right combination of stiffness and pocket structure can help maximize both the power and precision of your shots.

Stick shafts are available across a range of flex profiles, from rigid to extra-flexible. Stiffer shafts offer more stability and consistency but reduce some of the “whip” effect on shots. More flexible shafts generate extra shaft velocity as they release, resulting in harder outside shots. Mid-range flex sticks provide a blend of stability and velocity-boosting “whip” on shots.

Pocket type also influences ball release and shot speed. Mesh pockets tend to have a quicker release for faster shots while traditional leather pockets offer superior hold and control. Hybrid pockets like those from ECD provide a composite material for both hold and quick release. The pocket weave or runner configuration along with shooting strings also impact release speed and accuracy.

Dialing in the right flex and pocket starts with your shooting style and preferences. Open field snipers benefit from more whip to crank outside shots. Crease attackmen may opt for stiffer sticks and leather pockets for cradling and quick sticks. Middies can choose a mid-range flex for all-around shooting precision. Testing different pocket styles and flexes is key to optimizing your stick for faster, more consistent shots.

While stick technology has closed the gap, attack sticks tend to offer the best combination of flex and pocket structure for pure shooting performance. Their shorter shafts generate whip while their pockets give you a quick release and accuracy. Middie sticks need to balance shooting with scooping, carrying, and passing capabilities. Working with your local lacrosse experts to identify the ideal shaft and pocket for your style of play is crucial for maximizing your shooting potential.

Lightweight Shafts for Quick Dodges and Improved Handling

The material, construction, and thickness of your lacrosse stick’s shaft have a major influence on your ability to effectively dodge defenders and handler the ball. Advances in modern lacrosse stick technology have led to exceptionally lightweight yet durable shaft materials ideal for quicker maneuvers, tighter cradling, and increased ball control.

Many elite sticks now incorporate composite materials like carbon fiber into their shafts. Brands like Warrior and Maverik use carbon components to reduce overall shaft weight without compromising strength. Lightweight alloy metals like scandium and titanium alloys are also popular shaft materials renowned for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio.

Lighter sticks translate to quicker cuts, rolls, and split dodges to evade defenders. Less mass in your hands and arms also reduces fatigue over the course of a game, keeping your stick skills sharper for longer. Thinner shaft dimensions continue this weight-reduction trend while retaining a comfortable, contoured grip.

While these ultra-light shafts optimize quickness and finesse, overweighting can reduce durability. Be sure to choose lightweight sticks from leading manufacturers that incorporate technologies to boost structural integrity. Features like STX’s EnduraForm handle and Maverik’s DuraFlex reinforce high-stress areas prone to checking damage.

Test swinging sticks in the store and pay attention to overall balance and swing speed. Lighter sticks with quality construction allow you to push the pace of play and expend less energy per dodge, cut, or re-direct. This translates into more effective and efficient offensive runs. Assessing your budget, brands offering the latest lightweight shafts, and shafts best suited for your position leads to smart investments in quick-handling sticks.

Durable Head and Shaft Materials For Withstanding Checks

The rough, physical nature of lacrosse demands sticks built from robust materials in the head and shaft engineered to take hits and hold up over time. Brands use a range of metal alloys, composite blends, and polymer compounds to optimize durability while minimizing weight.

On the shaft, most elite sticks incorporate lightweight metals like titanium, scandium, and aluminum alloys to resist dents and bending. Brands like Warrior and STX also integrate carbon fiber into shafts for added toughness and reduced weight. For the head, thicker sidewalls and scoops made from stiff composite blends or alloy metals endure checks better before deforming.

Synthetic polymers offer another lightweight yet rugged material for shafts and heads. STX uses nylon-based EnduraForm in handles to dissipate checks and vibrations. Maverik utilizes premium polymers in pockets and sidewalls to retain shape. Brands continue to innovate with new materials and composites that heighten durability.

When evaluating durability, consider your position and style of play. Defenseman and face-off specialists need the most rugged constructs to withstand relentless physicality. Goalies also choose ultra-stiff alloy heads and thick shafts to fend off close-range shots. Elite attack and midfield sticks offer a blend of toughness and finesse for balanced performance.

Be sure to read lacrosse stick reviews and get in-store advice on the most durable sticks for your needs. While ultra-light sticks optimize quickness and handles, their thinner construction sacrifices some ruggedness. Finding the right fit of materials, weight, and strength prolongs a stick’s usable life and performance after repeated checks, slashes, Scoops, and ground balls.

Importance of Proper Stringing and Break-In Time

While lacrosse stick technology has evolved tremendously, the age-old art of stringing a pocket remains crucial for optimizing performance. Taking the time to properly string your head’s mesh, leathers, or synthetic materials makes a world of difference, as does gradually breaking in your pocket’s shape and feel.

Stringing variables like pocket depth, runner configurations, diamond shapes, and shooting strings each influence key factors like hold, release speed, scooping, and ball control. Wide heads with deeper pockets help secure ground balls, while narrower heads with shallower pockets enable quicker passing and shots. Finding the right middle-ground suitable for your position and style is key.

Gradually working the pocket into its sweet spot also improves feel over time. Storage techniques like hanging sticks upright with weighted balls and frequent wall ball sessions help “break-in” strung pockets. This helps optimize the pocket shape while softening mesh and leathers. A well-strung, broken-in pocket promotes accuracy, power, and responsiveness.

While complete sticks come pre-strung from manufacturers, custom stringing remains popular. Certain players prefer personalized pocket configurations matching their preferences. Midfielders may opt for more hold, while attackmen want a quicker release. Working with experienced stringers helps translate your on-field needs into ideal stringing specs.

Proper stringing combined with diligent break-in time unlocks a pocket’s full potential over the long-run. Be sure to keep an open mind throughout the break-in process as you adjust to the nuances of the pocket’s “feel” over time. A personalized yet high-functioning pocket ultimately gives you the confidence and control needed to maximize your lacrosse performance.

Customizing Pocket Depth, Whip and Hold for Your Style

One of the best ways to optimize your lacrosse stick’s performance is customizing the pocket based on your position, style of play, and personal preferences. Adjusting pocket depth, whip, hold, and release point allows you to tailor the stick’s handling and ball control to complement your on-field strengths.

Attack players generally benefit from pockets with moderate depth, defined hold points, and quick release capabilities. This enhances their stick skills in tight quarters like wrapping, cradling, and shooting in the crease. Midfielders tend to prefer more elongated pocket shapes with deep scoops for added ball retention during transitions and checks.

Finding the right amount of whip or flex on shots comes down to feel and shooting mechanics. Outside snipers rely on whip for extra velocity while crease attackmen focus more on quick stick precision. Professional stringing using varied diamond and runner patterns allows you to control pocket flex and response.

Testing out different pocket setups and head shapes that align with your skills takes trial and error. But dialing in an ideal pocket greatly boosts handling, control, passing, catching, and shooting. The more tailored the pocket, the less you have to compensate for deficiencies during play.

While complete sticks feature pre-set pockets, don’t be afraid to customize further or have the pocket re-strung later on. As your game evolves, so do your needs regarding pocket performance. Regularly evaluating and modifying your pocket structure based on feedback and feel translates into tangible improvements over time.

How Stick Technology Has Evolved for Power and Precision

The lacrosse stick has undergone dramatic engineering advancements from early wooden sticks to modern elite performers. Brands continue to leverage technology to optimize two critical facets: shot power and precision.

Early stick innovation focused on migrating from heavy wooden to hollow steel constructions. This increased durability while reducing weight for quicker handling. Offset heads then angled the scoop backwards to facilitate cradling. Later, manufacturers utilized new lightweight alloys like titanium and scandium.

Heads evolved from simple open frames to intricate netting and synthetic weaves enabling superior ball control. Elite sticks now incorporate aerospace-grade components. Features like textured grips, tactile rails, and customizable flex profiles cater to players’ unique needs and preferences.

Today’s sticks provide unmatched responsiveness and “feel” from shaft to head. Advanced materials like carbon fiber shafts and polymer heads with optimized geometry boost both handling speed and passing/shooting accuracy. Improved manufacturing techniques like CNC machining ensure tight tolerances and consistency.

While wooden sticks possessed their own nostalgic charm, innovations in lacrosse stick engineering enable unprecedented levels of pinpoint precision and high-velocity power generation. This expands what’s possible on the field in terms of ball control, complex passing, blistering shots, and finesse stick work. The future surely holds even more revolutionary improvements in stick performance.

Veteran vs New Players: What Stick Is Right For You?

When selecting your next lacrosse stick, it’s important to factor in your experience level playing the sport. New and veteran players have different needs in terms of stick handling, durability, and performance capabilities.

For first-time youth and high school players, durable synthetic sticks like the STX Stallion and Maverik Charger make ideal starters. Their alloy/plastic composite build withstands checks and rough play while their basic stringing promotes easy throwing, catching, and scooping. New players should focus less on elite specs and more on fundamentals.

After a season or two, look to step up to intermediate sticks offering enhanced materials and improved pocket design. Many college recruits play with mid-tier sticks balancing affordability and performance. Models like the ECD Carbon Pro 2.0 and Warrior Evo 4X feature lightweight alloys, stiffer heads, and customizable pockets to start honing skills.

Veteran high school and college players looking to play at the next level invest in pro-level sticks utilizing top-grade materials and precision engineering. For example, the Maverik Kinetik and STX Surgeon 700 sticks incorporate carbon fiber, aircraft-grade metals, tactile handles, and rigid heads for elite passing, shooting, and durability.

Ultimately, your stick needs to align with your skill progression. While beginners gain little advantage from ultra high-end sticks, veterans can validate the premium investment to get every competitive edge possible. Set your budget based on where you are as a player and how much you’ll realistically benefit from pro-level sticks vs quality mid-tier options.

Finding the Right Balance of Comfort, Control and Performance

When evaluating new lacrosse sticks, it’s important to assess the overall balance of comfort, control, and high-performance features suited to your needs. Optimizing these three factors helps maximize your effectiveness on the field.

Comfort starts with finding the ideal shaft length based on your position, height, and personal preference. Attack shafts around 30 inches feel nimble yet controlled while defense and midfield sticks reach up to 42 inches for added reach. Contoured, tactile grips that contour nicely in your hands also enhance comfort.

Control comes from a head and pocket optimized for your style. Tighter heads with customizable stringing afford meticulous handlers superior command over the ball. Wider heads with deeper pockets make cradling and scooping ground balls easier. Dialing in pocket shape drastically heightens responsiveness.

Top-tier sticks boast high-grade materials like lightweight alloys and carbon fiber coupled with technologies to boost power, reduce vibrations, and quicken release speed. However, over-engineering can hinder feel and control if not aligned with your needs and skills. Find the right mix of specs based on your strengths.

Testing sticks in person and taking stock of your abilities helps identify models with an ideal equilibrium of comfort, control, and performance upside. While you want the highest-quality stick within budget, make sure its attributes complement your exact needs on the field rather than just chasing the most cutting-edge tech specs.

Recommendations for Attackmen, Middies and Beginners

With so many lacrosse stick options available, it helps to get specific recommendations based on your position and experience level to narrow down selections.

For attackmen, the Maverik Kinetik and STX Surgeon 700 provide elite shooting, passing, and handling capabilities. Their stiff alloy heads, customized pockets, and lightweight shafts make these sticks premier choices for driving offense. The Warrior Evo Pro attack stick also rates highly for its carbon fiber construction and quick release.

In the midfield category, the Maverik Optik and STX Stallion 700 stand out for their versatility and performance. Middies benefit from their durable yet quick-handling shafts, wider heads for added ball retention, and mid-depth pockets conducive to all-around play. The ECD Carbon Pro 2.0 also warrants a look from two-way middies.

For new players, Maverik’s Charger and the STX Stallion 500 remain go-to starters. Their synthetic builds make these sticks ultra-durable while their basic stringing helps develop fundamental throwing, catching, and scooping skills. After a year or two, players can upgrade to intermediate sticks with better materials and pockets to hone stick skills.

Be sure to factor in your budget when evaluating sticker price on elite sticks. While they perform at the highest levels, more affordable yet quality sticks from leading brands exist offering excellent value. Reading lacrosse stick reviews helps identify the top-rated sticks based on position and skill level.

The Evolution of Lacrosse Stick Technology

The lacrosse stick has undergone an incredible transformation over the past century, evolving from rudimentary wooden sticks to space-age performers engineered for unprecedented power and precision.

Native American sticks dating back hundreds of years consisted of hand-carved ash or hickory shafts connected to small wooden heads woven with leather lacing. While customized for excellent handling, these all-wood sticks lacked durability and weather-resistance.

Metal alloys and synthetic weaves replaced wood construction in the early 20th century, drastically improving stick strength and longevity. Offset heads angled back for superior ball control while deeper plastic scoops enabled easier ground ball pickups. Precision manufacturing methods enabled consistency.

Today’s elite lacrosse sticks utilize cutting-edge materials like lightweight titanium and scandium alloys, carbon fiber, and advanced polymer blends. Improved pocket and sidewall geometries grant players pinpoint command over ball movement and placement. Technologies like tactile handles and reduced vibrations cater to athletes’ physiology.

Continued evolution in materials science, manufacturing techniques, ergonomics and computer-aided design will further innovate stick engineering. Expect even stronger yet featherweight constructions along with heads and pockets offering unprecedented levels of finesse. The future of lacrosse stick performance looks brighter than ever.