Choose The Best Faceoff Head For Your Lacrosse Game in 2023

Choose The Best Faceoff Head For Your Lacrosse Game in 2023

Key Factors When Buying A Faceoff Head

When looking to purchase a new faceoff lacrosse head, there are several key factors to consider before making your final decision. The head shape, stiffness, and offset are all important aspects that will impact your faceoff game.

Generally, you’ll want to look for a head with an aggressive shape and pointed scoop to give you an advantage at the ‘X’. Stiffer heads like the ECD Weapon X or Warrior Burn FO maintain their shape better on draws and provide more ball control. Offset heads like the Nike CEO or Maverik Lock provide more leverage when clamping down on ground balls.

You’ll also want to think about the materials used in the head’s construction. Manufacturers like ECD and Warrior use high grade aircraft alloy metals to create stiff yet lightweight faceoff heads. Others like STX use a flexible but durable polymer. Heads with rubberized sidewalls can dampen ball impact for improved ball control.

When it comes to pocket type, a mid to high pocket is preferable for faceoffs as it allows you to get under the ball during draws and maintain possession after clamping a ground ball. You’ll want tight channel nylon mesh like Throne, Hero, or Money Mesh for ball retention and hold. Consider wax mesh for additional grip.

Don’t forget the importance of finding the right shaft flex and length to match your head and faceoff style. Look for a lightweight shaft made from materials like Scandium titanium alloy or carbon fiber. The shaft and head combo is key, so test out different setups to find what works best for you. With the right knowledge, you’ll be ready to win those crucial faceoffs.

Top Faceoff Heads From Brands Like ECD And Weapon X

When researching the top faceoff heads in lacrosse right now, two brands stand out from the crowd – ECD and Weapon X. East Coast Dyes and Weapon X have become synonymous with elite faceoff gear designed to give players every advantage at the X.

ECD’s lineup of faceoff heads includes the Weapon X, Rebel OG, and Rebel FO. The Weapon X is their most popular head for faceoffs. It has an aggressive offset head shape with a stifftensile alloy metal frame to ensure superior ball control and scooping ability. The Weapon X combines the ball control and stiffness of a metal alloy head with the quick release of a polymer head. ECD’s Rebel OG and Rebel FO options provide players with a little more flex while still maintaining top-tier stiffness ratings.

Weapon X Lacrosse, started by faceoff legend Greg Gurenlian, offers several stand-out heads as well. The Mark 2FO is their most used for specialized faceoff middies. It has an extreme offset and stiff alloy metals for unmatched ground ball clamping. The Mark 2D is another top choice, with a narrowly designed profile and pointed scoop specifically built for draw mechanics and winning possessions. The Tank is built ultra-stiff for ground ball battles and ideal for long pole faceoff players.

Other notable brands like Nike, Maverik, STX, and Warrior also offer high quality faceoff heads. However, ECD and Weapon X have cemented themselves as leaders in the industry. Their heads are stringently tested and endorsed by professional faceoff specialists at all levels of the game. Both companies also offer a range of complementary shafts and mesh to complete your faceoff setup.

Ultimately there are many great options, but lacrosse athletes consistently rave about the performance and innovation coming from ECD and Weapon X. Be sure to demo a few different heads to find your perfect match. With the right faceoff head, you’ll gain a distinct edge when battling at the X this season.

ECD Weapon X – A Popular Hybrid Head For Faceoffs

One of the most popular faceoff heads in recent years is the ECD Weapon X. This head combines a stiff, control-focused alloy frame with ECD’s flexible and quick-release polymer sidewalls. The result is a hybrid head designed specifically to win faceoffs.

The Weapon X head is extra wide at the throat which helps when initially clamping the ball on faceoffs. It maintains its shape thanks to aircraft grade 7075 alloy metals. This keeps the scoop and sidewalls from warping or bending. An aggressive offset and pointed scoop give added leverage and control when facing off. At the same time, the polymer sidewalls allow for quick ball release when passing or shooting after possession.

ECD loaded this head with technologies geared for faceoff specialists. The SwitchTec sidewalls move independently for improved ball control. The tunable harmonic dampening system reduces ball rattle to ensure superior handling. Armored sight lines allow for accurate passing and shooting. An angled throat and ergonomic shape were engineered based on feedback from pro faceoff athletes.

The Weapon X comes strung with a mid-high pocket ideal for getting under the ball on draws. It includes ECD’s ultra-grippy mesh for unmatched ball retention. Optional UFO foam inserts allow you to fine tune the flex and stiffness. You can also customize the stringing, pocket placement, and sidewall design to match your faceoff style.

According to most reviews, the ECD Weapon X excels at ground ball scrums thanks to its sturdy head shape. The ball sticks in the pocket on clamp downs. Plus the quickwall technology makes it easy to possession and push transition. The head is also lightweight, despite its metal alloy construction. Overall, it’s become a go-to for high school and college faceoff players.

The Weapon X combines innovative technology with input from pro faceoff stars. ECD built a true hybrid head for today’s fastest paced faceoff game. If you’re looking for every edge at the X, the Weapon X deserves a long look.

Weapon X Lacrosse Heads For Aggressive Play

In the world of specialized lacrosse faceoff gear, Weapon X stands out for their ultra stiff, aggressive heads designed for winning ground balls and possessions. The company was founded by faceoff legend Greg Gurenlian and is purpose built for faceoff athletes.

Weapon X heads are made with space-grade titanium and alloy metals for maximum stiffness and strength. TheirMark 2FO is a prime example featuring an extreme offset, narrow scoop, and titanium sidewalls. It’s engineered to take abuse during ground ball scrums while still scooping and retaining possession. The Tank head uses 6-point convergence technology for added ball control and an unyielding head shape.

In addition to metals, they also utilize stiff polymers and aerospace carbon in heads like the Brute X. This creates a lightweight yet rock solid head for ground ball clamping. Across all their heads, expect ultra stiff sidewalls that withstand warping and abuse at the faceoff X.

Narrower head shapes combined with specialty faceoff stringing allows for precision control when facing off. You’ll find mid-high pockets that hug the ball on clamp downs. Thicker nylons prevent flaring on ground ball scraps. Optional foam inserts let you tune stiffness as needed. The focus is winning the ball at all costs.

Beyond heads, Weapon X offers a full lineup of shafts, gloves, arm guards, and accessories built for faceoff players. Their titanium and alloy shafts provide strength and flex options to match different head styles and player preferences. Lineup around the country use Weapon X gear because of the clear competitive edge.

In a sport where possessions are so critical, Weapon X gives you the tools to dominate faceoffs. Their heads are designed to outmuscle opponents for ground balls. If you want next level stiffness and technology built for aggressive play at the X, Weapon X is a go-to choice.

Comparing ECD’s Weapon X To Other ECD Heads

East Coast Dyes produces some of the top faceoff lacrosse heads in the game. Within their lineup, the Weapon X stands out for its hybrid alloy and polymer design specifically built for facing off.

The ECD Rebel OG and Rebel FO heads offer a similar level of stiffness thanks to aircraft grade alloy metals. However, they utilize more flexible polymer in the sidewalls. This gives them a bit more give during draws and passes. The Rebel heads have more of an oval shape versus the Weapon X’s wider, boxier geometry.

ECD’s Razer series including the Razer 2 and 2.0 have a curved head shape and softer flex designed primarily for offensive players. These all-polymer heads focus more on quick release and finesse versus brute stiffness. ECD’s lacrosse mesh and stringing complements the Razer’s slick style.

The Weapon X combines the ball control and scooping power of ECD’s alloy heads with uniquely engineered polymer sidewalls. Technologies like tunable harmonic dampening and SwitchTech quick release give it hybrid abilities. The extra wide throat and offset aggressive scoop make it more specialized for facing off compared to ECD’s other heads.

In terms of ground ball control, the Weapon X is in a class of its own within ECD’s lineup. Faceoff athletes choose it specifically for its combination of stiffness, ball retention, and ability to stand up to constant abuse at the X. The mid-high pocket and specialty mesh aid in securing clamped balls.

While ECD produces several high level heads, the Weapon X is purpose built for faceoffs. From its shape and materials to the included mesh and optional stiffening inserts, everything about it is optimized for possessions. Faceoff specialists who want the ECD name but need next level performance will find their match in the Weapon X.

Reviews Of Weapon X Lacrosse Faceoff Heads

Weapon X has earned a reputation for engineering some of the toughest and most specialized lacrosse heads designed specifically for faceoffs. But how do their different head models actually perform according to athletes using them?

The Mark 2FO earns rave reviews for its extremely stiff titanium alloy construction and aggressive offset shape. The narrow channel helps guide the ball up on faceoff draws. It also provides superior clamping power on ground ball scraps. Players love the head’s ability to maintain its pocket and scoop shape even after harsh abuse. The ultra-stiff polymer scoop helps lift ground balls with control.

Weapon X’s Tank head is built for bully ball dominance thanks to its maxed out stiffness. Some faceoff middies felt it had too much flex, but long stick players praised its stiffness for ground ball control. It excels at absorbing checks and keeping its shape in physical battles. The Tank lives up to its name according to most reviews.

The Brute X gets high marks for utilizing aerospace grade carbon rather than heavy metals. This cuts down on overall weight while still delivering an incredibly stiff, ground ball gobbling head. Its shape also helps with quick stick passes and shots after faceoff wins. Players say it combines the stiffness needed for facing off with superior ball skills.

Across the board, lacrosse athletes praise Weapon X heads for their specialty faceoff design. The offset aggressive scoops, stiff alloy and polymer construction, and mid-high pockets make them ideal for possessions at the X. They hold up well against warp and abuse too. Weapon X heads have become go-to choices for players focused on winning faceoffs.

While pricing is on the premium side, buyers say the performance justifies the cost for these specialized heads. Weapon X engineers products capable of standing up to thousands of faceoffs. Look to their lineup if you want technology and materials purpose built for dominating possession battles.

Getting The Right Pocket And Mesh For Your Faceoff Stick

Choosing the right pocket and mesh setup is just as important as picking the perfect faceoff head. The top stringing and mesh options give you maximum control and ball retention when facing off.

You’ll typically want a mid to high pocket placement for optimal draw mechanics. This allows you to get underneath the ball when facing off. A mid-high pocket also hugs the ball tightly for secure clamping on ground ball scraps. Make sure the pocket has a defined channel and pocket to cradle and control possession.

Mesh selection is crucial too. Thicker types like HeroMesh and Throne Mesh have superior ball retention thanks to their woven texture. The nylon fibers grip and hold onto ground balls once you gain possession. Wax mesh from brands like StringKing amp up the tackiness and grip even more. This prevents the ball from rattling around during physical faceoffs.

Leather and synthetic leathers mesh from companies like ECD are also ideal for faceoff sticks. The soft, flexible materials mold around the ball after clamping it. The natural grip prevents the ball from slipping out during battles or on fast break opportunities.

When stringing up a stick, focus on using thicker sidewall strings in nylons like Carolina Field Lacrosse Sidewall. This adds structure and prevents premature wearing. Interlocks and double up stringing techniques also enhance pocket stability for faceoffs. Consider adding foam or rubber inserts to fine tune flex as needed.

Investing time to dial in your mesh, pocket, and sidewalls is just as crucial as choosing the right head. Take cues from pro faceoff specialists when stringing up your stick. The materials and techniques used can give you an edge when battling at the X.

Strung ECD Weapon X Heads For Optimal Performance

Rather than stringing up a head from scratch, many faceoff specialists opt for pre-strung options like the ECD Weapon X complete stick. This allows you to get a pro-level faceoff setup without the hassle of stringing it yourself.

Pre-strung ECD Weapon X heads come with a mid-high pocket specially designed for facing off. The pocket placement and channel make it easy to direct the ball up the head on faceoff draws. It also retains possession once you’ve clamped down on a ground ball.

The Weapon X comes pre-loaded with ECD’s soft, grippy mesh options. The company offers different levels of softness, feel, and tackiness to suit individual preferences. The mesh contours to the ball on ground balls for unmatched control. It also retains shape even when hammered on by checks and slashes.

ECD experts string up the Weapon X withideal shooting and hold qualities. The pre-set whip and channel provide excellent ball control once you gain possession after faceoffs. You can tweak the pocket and sidewalls over time as you desire.

The Weapon X head itself delivers an ideal blend of stiffness, scoop angle, and offset for facing off. Combine this with pro level stringing and pocket placement and you’ve got a ready-to-go stick for dominating possessions.

While ECD lets you customize the flex and materials, the base setup is optimized for faceoffs right out of the box. The pocket shape, nylon material, and sidewall adjustments make getting to ground balls easier. Pre-strung sticks save you time and energy.

For those who want pro-level performance without the hassle of stringing, a strung Weapon X is the way to go. The head, pocket, and mesh work together to create a tool built for excelling at the X. You can always tweak small details later as you see fit.

East Coast Dyes Lacrosse Equipment Overview

When researching the top brands for lacrosse gear, East Coast Dyes (ECD) consistently ranks among the best for heads, shafts, mesh, and accessories. They’ve become a leader in the sport driven by high performance equipment.

ECD is known for heads like the Weapon X and Rebel series built with stiff yet lightweight aircraft grade alloys. These maintain their shape and offer superior ball control. ECD’s all-polymer heads like the Carbon 2.0 and Razer 2 provide excellent touch and quick release.

Their lineup of performance mesh and stringing kits are designed to match different head styles and player needs. Options like Type 1, Type 3S, and Swarm mesh use advanced materials and textures for ideal shooting, hold, and durability. Players praise the consistency and feel of ECD mesh products.

ECD produces lacrosse shafts from high grade alloys all the way to ultra lightweight carbon fiber. Shafts like the Vortex Pro and EXO Crossover balance strength, lightness, and flex. Rubberized grips and tactile sidewall textures improve overall feel and performance.

Beyond lacrosse gear, ECD offers a full range of protective equipment, bags, accessories, and apparel. Their glove and arm pad technology focuses on maximum mobility and protection. Equipment bags utilize smart organizational systems and premium materials.

According to most athletes, ECD lives up to its reputation for innovation and quality construction. Their gear holds up under frequent use and abuse. While their products lean towards the premium end for pricing, the performance and engineering is hard to match. For lacrosse players demanding the very best, ECD delivers.

How To String A Faceoff Head For Maximum Ball Control

Mastering the art of stringing a lacrosse head for faceoffs requires focus on pocket placement, shooting qualities, and materials to optimize control. Here are some top tips for stringing up the ideal faceoff head.

First, opt for a mid to high pocket placement. This allows you to get under the ball better during faceoffs and gives you more control directing possession out of the scrum. Aim for a pocket height about halfway up the head for optimal results.

Use thicker mesh products like HeroMesh or Wax Mesh that really grip and hold the ball once you gain possession. The added texture prevents rattling and slipping when facing off and allows for superior handling.

String the pocket tightly and interlock the sidewall strings to reinforce shape retention. This prevents flaring or distortion when grinding for ground balls. A restrictive channel is key for ball control and security.

Focus on a smooth release point and hold. You don’t want the ball to hang up coming out of the pocket on passes or shots. A tighter channel helps direct the ball cleanly through the top center of the head.

Consider adding foam or rubber rail inserts if you want to increase the head’s stiffness. This allows you to dampen checks, prevent warp, and maintain the head shape for better performance.

Take the time to experiment with pocket placement, shooting qualities, and sidewall design until you find the ideal setup. Pro level stringing optimizes your head’s performance and enhances ball control, especially crucial for faceoff specialists.

Faceoff Head And Shaft Combos From ECD and Weapon X

Finding the right lacrosse head and shaft combination is key for faceoff specialists. Brands like ECD and Weapon X offer pre-configured setups to take the guesswork out of the process.

For example, ECD produces the Weapon X complete stick pre-loaded with a Weapon X head, alloy shaft, and performance mesh. The setup is optimized for facing off right out of the box. The stiff alloy shaft pairs perfectly with the control-focused head for ball security.

Weapon X also offers packaged setups like the Tank or Mark 2FO bundled with a specially designed shaft. The flex profile and grip material on the shaft enhances the playability of the ultra stiff heads. The shaft length, weight, and balance improve ground ball control.

Both brands allow you to select different shaft flex options and materials to pair with the head. Choices like composite, alloy, or titanium shafts provide different feels and performance. Having the right flex and balance based on your height, position, and style is vital.

Beyond lacrosse shafts, you can choose to add on compatible gloves, arm guards, shoulder pads, and bags to complete your setup. Matching all your gear results in a unified setup built for your personal game.

While buying separate heads and shafts is always an option, combo packages simplify the process. Having gear that’s designed by engineers and pros to work together eliminates guesswork. For the best faceoff performance possible, integrated head and shaft systems are the way to go.

Choosing Between An ECD or Brine Faceoff Head

When looking for a new faceoff head, two great options to consider are ECD and Brine. Both companies make premium heads designed to excel at the X. Here’s a look at how they compare.

ECD heads like the Weapon X use stiff aircraft-grade alloys for unmatched stiffness and ball control. The hybrid construction also allows for quick release and movement post-faceoff. Brine heads utilize flexible yet strong polymers with memory for securing ground balls.

In terms of shape, Brine heads like the Clutch 3 feature defined offset and a scoop designed for getting under the ball on draws. ECD heads have wider throats and pronounced offset angles to improve clamping power at the whistle.

For weight, ECD’s Weapon X and other alloy heads are lightweight thanks to advanced metals. Brine uses injection molded polymers to reduce mass while boosting durability. Both result in heads under 5 ounces for faster movement.

When it comes to ground balls, ECD’s extra stiff construction gives you an edge in scrums. But Brine’s Memory Mesh pockets retain shape exceptionally well once you clamp down on possession. You can’t go wrong with either for securing grounders.

Ultimately ECD specializes in ultra stiff heads for unmatched ball control, while Brine focuses on flexible polymer feel and memory. Both represent the pinnacle of faceoff gear. Try them out to decide which feels best for your game and style.

Goalie Equipment Angles and Stick Specs For Faceoffs

Goalies who take faceoffs need equipment and stick features tailored specifically for draw situations. Here are some top considerations when gearing up as a goalie to take faceoffs.

First, choose a goalie head with a narrow channel and defined pocket to cleanly direct the ball upfield. Heads with more aggressive scoops like the Epoch Dragonfly help scoop and channel possession after draws.

For mesh, wax types provide tons of tackiness for securing faceoff possessions. Leathers and leathers-like materials are ideal since they conform tightly to clamped balls during scrums.

When it comes to goalie gear for faceoffs, choose helmet and chest protector combos designed for maximum mobility and visibility. Gear with fewer bulkier padding gives you more freedom of movement at the X.

Consider swapping out traditional goalie gloves for specialized faceoff gloves that provide dexterity and grip for draws. Options with fingers rather than full padding improve control during possessions.

For technique, work on angling your stick perfectly perpendicular to the ball during the faceoff draw. This lets you direct or scoop the ball cleanly depending on the whistle. Keep your dominant hand loose underneath for quick reactions.

Practice different clamping and “motor scoop” techniques to secure ground balls off the draw. The right angles and body position give you an advantage in scrums.

Overall, customized gear and specialized technique is vital for goalies taking faceoffs. The right setup improves quickness, visibility, mobility and possession-winning ability at the X.

Buying Lacrosse Gear Online vs In Stores

When it comes time to purchase new lacrosse equipment like faceoff heads, you have two main options – buy online or shop at a local store. What are the pros and cons of each approach?

Shopping online opens up a huge selection of gear not limited by what a store carries in stock. You can find the latest heads and products as soon as they release. Online retailers also frequently run sales and promos you can take advantage of.

The main downside to buying gear online is you can’t see, hold, and test products in person. Some online retailers have generous return policies to help offset this. Overall, you have less ability to inspect gear firsthand before purchasing.

Buying at a lacrosse specialty store allows you to try before you buy. You can get hands-on with different heads and shafts to find the ideal setup. In-person advice from experienced staff can help guide your buying decision.

On the flip side, local brick and mortar stores have more limited inventory. They may not carry every brand or the latest gear right when it drops. You also miss out on online sales and coupon deals shopping exclusively in-store.

Ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Try before you buy in-store or take advantage of online selection and pricing. Mixing both methods gives you the benefits of each when stocking up on new lacrosse equipment.