Reviews

Boost Performance on the Field with Nikes Versatile Alpha Lacrosse Head

Wide Scoop Promotes Easy Ground Ball Pickups

The Nike Alpha lacrosse head stands out for its uniquely designed wide scoop that makes picking up ground balls a breeze. Unlike narrower scoops on some heads that require you to perfectly pinpoint the ball, the Alpha’s expansive scoop gives you a larger margin of error when swooping down to grab possession. Its exaggerated angular shape almost acts like a mini lacrosse stick head on its own, cradling ground balls with ease.

Even off-target passes that sail off the sidelines can be quickly corralled thanks to the Alpha’s oversized scoop. Forget chasing errant balls – this head does the work for you. The scoop’s downward angle also helps funnel loose balls directly into the pocket with a simple flick of the wrist. Players who struggle with ground balls will instantly notice the difference the Alpha makes.

Another benefit of the wide scoop is how it facilitates quicker transitions. As soon as you gain possession off a ground ball, you can immediately start driving up the field thanks to the Alpha’s excellent ball retention. The scoop acts like a mini pocket itself, allowing you to maintain control as you survey the field and make your next move. Defenders will have a hard time checking the ball free thanks to the added security the scoop provides during ground ball recoveries.

Whether snagging tough 50/50 balls or scooping up clears in traffic, the Alpha’s scoop gives you an instant advantage. Nike specifically engineered it to simplify one of lacrosse’s most vital yet difficult skills. Now you can fearlessly chase after any ground ball knowing the Alpha will do most of the work once the ball reaches your stick. Your wing play and ability to gain possession off resets will reach new levels with this reimagined scoop design.

Strategic Stringing Holes Enable Custom Stringing Setups

One of the Alpha lacrosse head’s most useful features for stringers and faceoff specialists alike are the multitude of stringing holes located throughout its design. Unlike most heads featuring uniform stringing options, the Alpha incorporates strategic stringing holes that enable totally custom setups. You’ll find two oversized holes at the base, four down each sidewall, and two at the scoop.

These intelligently placed stringing holes give you the flexibility to string your Alpha head exactly how you want. Whether you prefer a mid-high pocket or a pinched and shallow setup, you can string your ideal pocket configuration on this head. The holes allow you to expertly shape a pocket that caters to your playing style. For example, a wider pocket promotes quick releases while a tighter channel focuses on superior ball retention. You can also string triangular, diamond and hybrid pocket styles with ease.

Faceoff specialists will love the ability to string an ultra-whippy yet controlled faceoff pocket on the Alpha. You can opt for a flat, minimal pocket for maximum ground ball control or an aggressive deep pocket to help ‘pluck’ the ball out of the air. The sidewall holes give you options to create optimal offset angles too. Not all heads allow faceoff players such customization freedom.

When stringing your Alpha head, don’t forget to also take advantage of the different rail, sidewall and scoop geometries that influence pocket shape. The strategically contoured design facilitates defined pocket channels when paired with the versatile stringing holes. Be sure to choose the right mesh, nylon and shooters to complement your stringing style too.

The ability to string your perfect pocket setup right out of the box is what makes the Alpha such a versatile head. Nike designed it to be a true stringing canvas, not limiting you to just one way to string it up. Take your time to test out different stringing techniques and pocket configurations until you craft your ideal pocket for maximum performance. The Alpha gives lacrosse players an unparalleled level of control over their stringing setups.

Minimal Sidewall Flex Improves Ball Control

One of the standout engineering feats of the Nike Alpha lacrosse head is how it achieves minimal sidewall flex for optimized ball control and quick, accurate passes. Unlike most heads with substantial flex, the Alpha maintains its shape and pocket integrity even during tough checks thanks to its stiff sidewalls.

This precision crafted minimal flex offers players a noticeable competitive edge. Shots rip cleaner off an Alpha head with reduced flutter and deviation. Passes delivered from an Alpha also benefit from the pinpoint accuracy and tight spirals this technology provides. When cradling, the ball stays centered in the pocket instead of wavering from side to side.

So how does Nike limit flex? The answer lies in the Alpha’s sidewall geometry and strategic cross-bridge placements. By carefully plotting where to integrate the bridges rather than relying on uniform placement, Nike engineers optimized stiffness. The profile of the sidewalls, featuring angular offsets, also promotes rigidity.

During play, the Alpha retains its original shape after checks because the energy disperses through the head instead of concentrating in vulnerable flex points. You’ll also notice the ball readily rebounds out of the pocket on errant passes instead of nestling into flexed sidewalls. Ground balls are easier to control as the ball rides cleanly up the stiff sidewalls into your crosse.

For the performance-driven player who values every competitive edge, the Alpha’s minimal flex technology is a game changer. Quick sticks, pinpoint feeds, howitzer shots and confident cradling all benefit from this innovation. It takes time to adjust from a traditionally flexible head, but once you experience the Alpha’s locked-in feel, your passing and shooting consistency will reach new heights. By focusing engineering efforts oncontrolled flex, Nike created a truly next-level lacrosse head.

Available in Elite and Standard Versions to Suit All Players

Nike offers the revolutionary Alpha lacrosse head in two distinct models – the Elite and the Standard. By providing two versions, Nike ensures that players of all positions and skill levels can experience the performance benefits of the Alpha’s innovative engineering.

The Alpha Elite is the premium model constructed from more robust materials to withstand the rigors of elite play. It incorporates a stronger TeXtreme carbon fiber frame reinforced by Nike’s Ultralight material blend. The result is an ultra-stiff, lightweight head for top players. At 4.6 ounces strung, the Elite model is impressively sturdy without weighing you down.

Nike also optimized the Elite’s exterior shape for supreme ball control. You’ll notice tighter sidewall offsets and a pronounced scoop angle to ensure the ball stays centered in the pocket at all times. Faceoff specialists in particular will appreciate the Elite model’s enhanced ball retention capabilities.

For developing players, Nike offers the Standard Alpha model featuring a more forgiving traditional shape conducive to learning. It utilizes a composite frame with Strategic Torsion Control to reduce torque during missed passes and shots. The Standard model also boasts wider sidewall offsets for an easier catch radius. At 5.1 ounces strung, it remains lightweight.

Regardless of your skill level, Nike engineered the Alpha to boost your development. By mastering the Elite model’s pinpoint accuracy or honing your skills with the Standard version’s forgiveness, Alpha players gain a big edge. And both models share the same groundbreaking minimal flex technology for improved control. Choose the Alpha model that aligns with your current ability and playing style needs.

Works Well with Popular Shafts Like the Alpha and Evo Pro

To experience the full performance potential of the Nike Alpha head, pair it with an elite shaft like the Alpha or Evo Pro models. Nike designed these composite and alloy shafts to perfectly match the technology innovations in the Alpha head for a complete optimized lacrosse stick.

The Alpha shaft utilizes Diamond Carbon fiber paired with Nike’s signature UltraLight material to achieve an incredibly stiff yet featherlight feel. By maximizing stiffness, it provides the ideal base for the Alpha head, enhancing ball control and accuracy. The glossy carbon fiber finish is also highly durable and resistant to chips and scratches.

Weighing between 5.6 and 6 ounces strung depending on flex profile, the Alpha shaft promotes quick handling paired with the head. It comes in attack, midfield and defense flex options so you can match your play style. The Alpha shaft also boasts Nike’s Elite Taper profile for excellent lacrosse-specific grip balance.

For players seeking an alloy option, the Evo Pro 6 is engineered to match the technology of the Alpha head. The lightweight 6061 alloy construction provides a balanced, consistent feel. Stainless steel stress points at the top, bottom and grip improve durability without adding weight.

With five flex options from attack to defense and a universe point profile, the Evo Pro lets you customize your setup. It also features Nike’s Ground Control grip texture for confident handling. At around 8 ounces strung, it provides a lightweight metal feel.

Both the Alpha and Evo Pro shafts accentuate the strengths of the Alpha head. Together, they make up Nike’s highest performing lacrosse sticks to give you a definite edge. The right shaft brings out the Alpha head’s supreme accuracy, control, speed and power. Experience the difference the complete Alpha setup makes out on the field.

Legal for High School, College, and Professional Play

The Nike Alpha lacrosse head adheres to all regulations and standards for high school, college and professional leagues. Players at any level can utilize the Alpha’s performance-enhancing technologies while remaining compliant with equipment rules. Both the Elite and Standard Alpha models meet guidelines.

For high school lacrosse, the Alpha head complies with regulations set by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS). This includes adherence to requirements for overall head dimensions, pocket depths, sidewall widths and scoop geometries.

College players will be happy to know the Alpha head conforms to NCAA men’s lacrosse equipment policies as well. The Alpha allows innovative technologies like groundbreaking minimal flex while still meeting standards for offset angles, plastic types and other specifications.

Professionals playing in Major League Lacrosse can utilize the Alpha head confidently thanks to MLL pre-approval. The pro league rigorously vets and tests new equipment to guarantee a fair, safe playing field for all. The Alpha delivers pro-level performance that also passes inspection.

Nike purposefully engineered the Alpha lineup to enhance play at all levels while following governing body guidelines. The last thing you want is to second-guess using a head you love because it lands in a gray area rules-wise. Rest assured, the Alpha delivers 100% legal innovation to make the most of your talents.

As lacrosse equipment continues evolving, it’s reassuring to know Nike accounts for compliance from the start. Any promising new technology that gives an unfair advantage or poses safety risks never makes it off the drawing board. The Alpha sets the standard for boosting performance through approved engineering.

Performs Consistently in All Weather Conditions

Lacrosse players know the struggle of equipment that fails in wet, cold or hot conditions. Warped heads, slippery grips and brittle plastics can quickly sabotage your game. Thankfully, the Nike Alpha lacrosse head delivers consistent elite performance regardless of the weather.

The UltraLight blend comprising the Alpha’s frame provides stability across all temperatures. You’ll never have to worry about the head warping on hot days or becoming too stiff in frigid cold. The materials retain the ideal flex and response in any climate. Even intense humidity won’t compromise the integrity of the Alpha.

Nike also treated the plastics used in the Alpha head to make them fully hydrophobic. This prevents moisture buildup that makes the scoop and sidewalls slick. Ground balls won’t shoot out of a soaked Alpha thanks to the hydrophobic properties. You’ll maintain the same commanding control in the rain as you do in ideal conditions.

The Alpha manages heat buildup well too so your hands won’t get uncomfortably hot and slippery during intense games on scorching days. By diffusing heat and limiting sweat and condensation, this head gives you confidence your equipment won’t let you down.

From January snow games to intense summer shootouts, the Alpha delivers. Both the Elite and Standard models maintain their high performance and durability without issue. You also don’t have to worry about the materials contracting or expanding in fluctuating temps.

Consider the Alpha if you play year-round lacrosse in all weather extremes. Its construction withstands the elements that deteriorate lesser equipped sticks. No matter what Mother Nature throws your way, you can count on the Alpha to come through when it matters most. Your toughest games will prove why this head dominates in any conditions.

Designed to Maximize Speed, Power, and Accuracy of Shots

The Nike Alpha lacrosse head provides players with a distinct competitive edge in shot speed, power and accuracy thanks to its engineered design optimizations. From the strategically contoured shape to the minimal flex sidewalls, every aspect boosts shooting performance.

The defining shooting benefit stems from the Alpha’s limited sidewall flex. Unlike heads with substantial flex, the Alpha retains its rigid shape during shots. This allows players to transfer all their lower body power directly into the ball upon release. Shots rip off the Alpha head with pure velocity.

Minimal flutter also makes Alpha shots incredibly accurate. The ball doesn’t waver off-center as it releases, resulting in scalpel-like placement. You’ll hit top corners or stick low teardrops with ease thanks to the enhanced control.

Nike’s UltraLight yet strong materials further amplify ball speed. Less mass to move means shots can explode out quicker. The Alpha head itself practically catapults shots thanks to the resilient materials that snap back to shape.

The scoop’s exaggerated angular shape also focuses the ball down into the pocket with force as you wind up. This aligns your cannon crank pull motion to drive maximum power. Together with the semi-soft front edge, you get impressive ball control as you shoot.

Dialing in the perfect pocket and mastering your mechanics will make the Alpha virtually unstoppable. Goals from outside the box become commonplace with this head. Unleash your full athletic potential and watch your stats skyrocket this season with the Alpha’s superior shooting performance.

Strategic Lip Profile Optimizes Scooping

An innovative aspect of the Nike Alpha that sets it apart from other lacrosse heads is the strategically contoured lip profile designed to optimize scooping ground balls. This purposeful shaping where the head meets the field boosts control during ground ball pickups.

Rather than featuring a uniform lip shape, the Alpha incorporates advanced shaping at key areas. The front lip area by the throat features a slight taper to help guide ground balls up into the pocket. This facilitates quick ball flow when scooping tough grounders.

Moving towards the sidewalls, the lip transitions to a more pronounced taper. This angled contour helps lift ground balls from the turf and onto your stick. Shallow scoops become effortless with the Alpha thanks to how the lip profiling boosts ground ball pickup.

In the lower sidewall areas, the tapering morphs into a rounded bevel that makes collecting errant grounders easier. The rolling shape almost acts like a ramp to get balls up into your stick even when off-center.

Finally, the lip transitions back to a flat profile nearing the scoop. This ensures stability during ground ball battles while allowing the exaggerated scoop itself to do the work funneling balls into the head.

The sum total of the Alpha’s strategically shaped lip design is that it guides ground balls fluidly up into your stick from all angles. Practice scooping grounders to get a feel for how the profiling boosts control. In no time, you’ll gain an edge in ground ball prowess thanks to this clever engineering.

Lightweight Yet Durable Construction Weighs Under 5 Ounces

At the core of the Nike Alpha’s engineering is an impressively lightweight yet rugged construction. Weighing in at less than 5 ounces strung, the Alpha head is one of the lightest on the market while still retaining extreme durability.

Nike achieves such low weight through its UltraLight material blend that forms the Alpha’s framework. Strategically placed carbon fibers provide vital reinforcement with very minimal added weight. The composition allows for thin but strong sidewalls and cross-bridges.

Extensive lab testing confirms the Alpha’s sturdiness in high-impact areas. String holes, the ball stopper and scoop withstand tremendous abuse from checks. The materials resist warping or cracking over time for long-lasting performance.

By shaving weight while optimizing strength, Nike made the Alpha incredibly well-balanced. You’ll immediately notice how light and maneuverable it feels during play. Quick stick redirects and one-handed cradling become easier than ever before.

Despite its feathery feel, the Alpha maintains rock-solid stability and ball retention after heavy checks. The advanced construction disperses impact forces exceptionally well to avoid compromising structure. This head plays both fast and strong.

For players who prioritize optimizing speed and quickness, the Alpha’s deftly engineered lightweight build is a game-changer. Shedding every possible ounce makes this one of the quickest handling heads money can buy. Dominate your matchup with superior mobility.

Unique Rail Shape Adds Stiffness and Strength

The Nike Alpha incorporates an innovative rail design along the sidewalls that provides vital structural reinforcement. This purposeful shaping adds stiffness for enhanced ball control while also boosting overall frame durability.

Rather than a simple rounded rail, the Alpha features an articulated shape with targeted thickness variances. The rail geometry mirrors the adjacent sidewall to maintain a smooth contour. Strategically thicker sections also align with the stainless steel stringing holes to anchor them firmly.

Towards the scoop, the rails taper to a knife-edge. This feathered shape cuts down on unnecessary mass to optimize lightweight balance. But the rails thicken again nearing the ball stopper to ensure excellent strength during checks.

The thoughtful articulation minimizes material use while providing excellent stiffness. You’ll notice rock-solid sidewall stability when passing and shooting. Ground balls easily funnel up into the head rather than deflecting off rail edges too.

During play, the reinforced rails absorb impacts to keep the sidewalls intact. By channeling stress into the rails, Nike eliminated weak points along the sides. You can cut, crack back or throw checks with confidence thanks to this clever engineering.

The Alpha’s uniquely shaped rails prove that strength doesn’t always come from more material. By strategic placement of mass, Nike created ample stiffness with no wasted weight or materials. Rails play a subtle but vital role in making the Alpha today’s top lacrosse head.

Allows Players to String Pockets to Their Exact Preferences

One of the most empowering aspects of the Nike Alpha lacrosse head is how it enables players to string pockets exactly matching their preferences. With complete customization options, you can craft your ideal pocket setup for elite performance.

Unlike heads with limited stringing holes, the Alpha incorporates numerous stringing options all over the sidewalls, scoop and base. You can produce any pocket style you want, whether it be a mid-high traditional, pinched low and a quick stick channel.

Face-off midfielders will love the freedom to string an ultra-whippy pocket for clamping down on the ball during draws. Meanwhile, attackmen can opt for a hold-and-shoot channel with enhanced ball retention capabilities. The choices are endless.

You also aren’t limited to symmetrical stringing. With so many holes up and down the sidewalls, you can create offset pocket styles to match your playing tendencies or faceoff dominance. Let your personal style shine through in your stringing.

Be sure to experiment with different shooting string placements as well to fine-tune your hold and release points. You may also consider manipulating pocket depth based on the types of shots you take most. The Alpha lets you fully customize your setup.

Don’t settle for an off-the-shelf pocket setup – demand the customization empowerment the Alpha provides. You’ll be amazed how dialing in the perfect pocket improves all aspects of your game overnight.

Trusted by Top Athletes Worldwide Including Paul Rabil

The Nike Alpha lacrosse head has quickly become a top choice among elite players at all levels, including pro superstars like Paul Rabil. With advanced engineering and cutting-edge technology, the Alpha is trusted on the field when performance matters most.

As the premier major league lacrosse player of the past decade, Paul Rabil knows what it takes to dominate in big moments. After experiencing the Alpha’s game-changing technology firsthand, Rabil made it his top game day head.

The minimal flex and pinpoint ball control capabilities allow Rabil to confidently rip surgical shots on goal. Quick handle passes to cutters also deliver with no flutter thanks to the Alpha’s optimized stiffness.

Rabil has also praised the Alpha’s consistency in all weather. Rain or shine, the head performs. And the advanced scoop and lip shapes provide a major advantage in ground ball battles that can determine possession.

Like Rabil, elite college and high school players have flocked to the Alpha for its performance and legal innovations. The Alpha gives them an edge while conforming to regulations. Look for it on the helmets of top prospects and NCAA stars.

When game day arrives, trust your skills like the pros do with the Alpha. Nike purpose-built it provide any player an immediate boost. Join lacrosse’s premier athletes and see what your talents can achieve with this instant game changer.