Choose the Perfect Lacrosse Stick for Your Game in 2023Choose the Perfect Lacrosse Stick for Your Game in 2023
Compare Top Lacrosse Stick Brands for Durable Construction
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, one of the most important considerations is the brand. Top manufacturers like STX, Maverik, Warrior, Brine, and Nike produce pro-level sticks known for exceptional quality and performance. Carefully inspecting the materials and construction used by different brands can help determine which sticks will be most durable and withstand the rigors of competitive play.
For example, sticks made with composite materials like carbon fiber are incredibly strong yet lightweight. Brands integrating carbon fiber into the shaft and head maintain their structure and flexibility better than cheap plastic sticks. Premium alloys and aircraft-grade metals also lend added toughness without excess weight.
Leading brands also employ advanced engineering techniques to distribute weight, balance, and flex characteristics optimally across the head and shaft. This produces a “feel” that suits players’ individual styles and positions. Advanced lacrosse sticks have come a long way from wooden versions of the past. Leveraging composite materials and precision manufacturing allows today’s sticks to perform at a higher level.
Consider Stick Weight and Balance for Faster Handling
One of the most important aspects of any lacrosse stick is its overall weight and balance. Heavier sticks with uneven weight distribution can cause player fatigue, especially for longer games. Newer composite sticks are designed to be exceptionally lightweight yet still rigid and durable.
Balance is also crucial, as improperly balanced sticks are difficult to cradle and maneuver quickly. Advanced engineering goes into optimizing weight distribution so the shaft and head feel natural as you pass, catch, and shoot. Having a stick that almost feels like an extension of your arm makes it easier to develop skills and take your game to the next level.
During the selection process, be sure to test different stick weights and balance points until you find the right fit. While personal preference varies by position and playing style, newer composite lacrosse sticks offer improved performance through engineering
Determine Ideal Lacrosse Stick Length Based on Playing Position
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, determining the ideal length is one of the most important considerations. Stick length can significantly impact performance based on the player’s position and role on the field.
For example, attack players who maneuver in tight spaces need a shorter stick, typically 40-42 inches. This allows them to cradle and stickhandle in close quarters near the goal crease. Midfielders who transition up and down the field often prefer sticks from 42-44 inches for a balance of control and reach.
Defenders who check opponents and intercept passes require a longer stick, usually 52-72 inches. This extra length enables them to poke check from farther away and prevent offensive players from getting close to the goal. Goalies also use very long sticks, up to 72 inches, to maximize their range when blocking shots.
Consider your position and how you move on the field. Test different stick lengths to find the ideal size that lets you scoop, pass, catch and shoot most efficiently. The optimal lacrosse stick length can make a big difference in your level of control, accuracy and overall ability.
Pick Proper Head Shape and Pocket Type
Beyond materials, top brands employ sophisticated engineering techniques to optimize weight distribution, balance, and flex characteristics across the entire stick. This meticulous attention to detail produces a “feel” that can be tailored to individual playing styles and positions.
Key Features of Top Lacrosse Stick Brands:
- Use of composite materials like carbon fiber
- Integration of premium alloys and aircraft-grade metals
- Advanced engineering for optimal weight distribution
- Customizable “feel” for different playing styles
Can the choice of brand really impact your game? Absolutely. The right brand can provide a stick that feels like an extension of your arm, allowing for more intuitive play and potentially elevating your performance on the field.
The Impact of Stick Weight and Balance on Performance
In the world of lacrosse, the weight and balance of your stick can make or break your game. Lighter sticks with even weight distribution can significantly reduce player fatigue, especially during longer matches. But how light is too light, and how do you find the perfect balance?
Modern composite sticks are engineered to be incredibly lightweight without sacrificing rigidity or durability. This delicate balance is achieved through precise weight distribution, ensuring that the shaft and head feel natural during all aspects of play – from passing and catching to shooting.
Importance of Proper Weight Distribution:
- Reduces player fatigue
- Improves stick handling and maneuverability
- Enhances overall performance and skill development
Is there a one-size-fits-all approach to stick weight and balance? Not quite. Personal preference varies based on position and playing style. The key is to test different options until you find a stick that feels like a natural extension of your arm.
Selecting the Ideal Lacrosse Stick Length for Your Position
Stick length is a critical factor in lacrosse performance, with different positions requiring varying lengths for optimal play. But how do you determine the right length for your role on the field?
Attack players, who often operate in tight spaces near the goal, typically prefer shorter sticks ranging from 40-42 inches. This compact length allows for superior ball control and maneuverability in close quarters.
Midfielders, responsible for transitioning up and down the field, often opt for sticks between 42-44 inches. This middle-ground length provides a balance of control and reach, suitable for their versatile role.
Defenders and goalies require significantly longer sticks, usually between 52-72 inches. This extended reach enables defenders to effectively check opponents and intercept passes from a distance, while goalies can maximize their shot-blocking range.
Recommended Stick Lengths by Position:
- Attack: 40-42 inches
- Midfield: 42-44 inches
- Defense: 52-72 inches
- Goalie: Up to 72 inches
How crucial is it to choose the correct stick length? The right length can dramatically improve your control, accuracy, and overall ability on the field. It’s worth taking the time to test different lengths and find the one that best complements your playing style and position.
Optimizing Performance with the Right Head Shape and Pocket Type
The head shape and pocket type of a lacrosse stick play pivotal roles in determining its performance characteristics. But how do these elements impact your game, and how can you choose the right combination?
Head shapes vary widely, each designed for specific playing styles and positions. Narrower heads with deeper pockets are ideal for offensive players who prioritize ball control. In contrast, wider heads with shallower pockets optimize passing and catching abilities, making them suitable for defensive players or midfielders.
The sidewall geometry of the head also significantly affects handling and shot speed. Precision-engineered sidewalls can enhance ball retention during cradling and provide added power when shooting.
Factors to Consider in Head Shape and Pocket Type:
- Width of the head
- Depth of the pocket
- Sidewall geometry
- Scoop design
Does the perfect head shape and pocket type exist? While there’s no universal solution, finding the right combination for your position and playing style can give you a significant edge on the field. It’s worth experimenting with different configurations to discover what works best for you.
Understanding Stick Flex Ratings and Their Impact on Performance
Stick flex rating is an often overlooked yet crucial factor in choosing the right lacrosse stick. But what exactly is flex rating, and how does it affect your game?
Flex rating refers to the stiffness or flexibility of the stick’s shaft. A higher flex rating indicates a stiffer shaft, while a lower rating means more flexibility. The optimal flex rating varies depending on a player’s skill level and playing style.
Newer players generally benefit from sticks with higher flex ratings (stiffer shafts). The added rigidity helps maintain proper form and mechanics during the learning phase. As players advance, they may prefer sticks with lower flex ratings, which provide more “whip” for increased shot speed and accuracy.
Recommended Flex Ratings by Skill Level:
- Beginners: High flex rating (stiff shaft)
- Intermediate: Moderate flex rating
- Advanced/Elite: Low flex rating (flexible shaft)
How significant is the impact of flex rating on performance? For elite players, the right flex can make the difference between a good shot and a great one. It’s an aspect of stick selection that becomes increasingly important as you advance in skill level.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Stick Technology: From Wood to Composite
The journey of lacrosse stick technology from traditional wooden designs to modern composite materials is a testament to the sport’s evolution. But how have these advancements impacted the game, and what benefits do they offer players?
Traditional wooden sticks, while iconic, had limitations in terms of weight, durability, and consistency. The introduction of synthetic materials marked a significant turning point, allowing for lighter, stronger, and more precisely engineered sticks.
Today’s composite sticks, crafted from materials like carbon fiber and advanced alloys, offer a level of performance that was unimaginable just a few decades ago. These materials allow for incredibly precise weight distribution, optimized flex patterns, and enhanced durability.
Key Advancements in Lacrosse Stick Technology:
- Transition from wood to synthetic materials
- Introduction of carbon fiber and advanced alloys
- Precision engineering for optimal weight distribution
- Enhanced durability and consistency
Have these technological advancements truly improved the game? Without a doubt. Modern sticks allow players to achieve levels of speed, accuracy, and control that were previously unattainable, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in lacrosse.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick for Peak Performance
While choosing the right lacrosse stick is crucial, customizing it to suit your unique playing style can take your game to the next level. But what aspects of a stick can be customized, and how do these modifications impact performance?
One of the most common customizations is adjusting the pocket. By tweaking the depth and tension of the pocket, players can fine-tune their stick’s ball control, release point, and overall feel. This can be achieved through careful restringing or by using different types of mesh or traditional materials.
Grip modifications are another popular customization. Adding grip tape or using specialized grip-enhancing products can improve handling, especially in wet conditions. Some players even customize the shape of their stick’s butt end for better control during cradling and shooting.
Popular Lacrosse Stick Customizations:
- Pocket depth and tension adjustments
- Grip modifications
- Butt end customization
- Weight distribution tweaks
Is customization necessary for every player? While not essential, customizing your stick can help you develop a deeper connection with your equipment and potentially enhance your performance. It’s a process of experimentation and fine-tuning that many players find rewarding.
As we delve deeper into the world of lacrosse stick selection and customization, it becomes clear that the right equipment can significantly impact a player’s performance and enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to refine your gear, understanding these aspects of lacrosse sticks can help you make informed decisions and potentially elevate your game to new heights.
Compare Top Lacrosse Stick Brands for Durable Construction
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, one of the most important considerations is the brand. Top manufacturers like STX, Maverik, Warrior, Brine, and Nike produce pro-level sticks known for exceptional quality and performance. Carefully inspecting the materials and construction used by different brands can help determine which sticks will be most durable and withstand the rigors of competitive play.
For example, sticks made with composite materials like carbon fiber are incredibly strong yet lightweight. Brands integrating carbon fiber into the shaft and head maintain their structure and flexibility better than cheap plastic sticks. Premium alloys and aircraft-grade metals also lend added toughness without excess weight.
Leading brands also employ advanced engineering techniques to distribute weight, balance, and flex characteristics optimally across the head and shaft. This produces a “feel” that suits players’ individual styles and positions. Advanced lacrosse sticks have come a long way from wooden versions of the past. Leveraging composite materials and precision manufacturing allows today’s sticks to perform at a higher level.
Consider Stick Weight and Balance for Faster Handling
One of the most important aspects of any lacrosse stick is its overall weight and balance. Heavier sticks with uneven weight distribution can cause player fatigue, especially for longer games. Newer composite sticks are designed to be exceptionally lightweight yet still rigid and durable.
Balance is also crucial, as improperly balanced sticks are difficult to cradle and maneuver quickly. Advanced engineering goes into optimizing weight distribution so the shaft and head feel natural as you pass, catch, and shoot. Having a stick that almost feels like an extension of your arm makes it easier to develop skills and take your game to the next level.
During the selection process, be sure to test different stick weights and balance points until you find the right fit. While personal preference varies by position and playing style, newer composite lacrosse sticks offer improved performance through engineering
Determine Ideal Lacrosse Stick Length Based on Playing Position
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, determining the ideal length is one of the most important considerations. Stick length can significantly impact performance based on the player’s position and role on the field.
For example, attack players who maneuver in tight spaces need a shorter stick, typically 40-42 inches. This allows them to cradle and stickhandle in close quarters near the goal crease. Midfielders who transition up and down the field often prefer sticks from 42-44 inches for a balance of control and reach.
Defenders who check opponents and intercept passes require a longer stick, usually 52-72 inches. This extra length enables them to poke check from farther away and prevent offensive players from getting close to the goal. Goalies also use very long sticks, up to 72 inches, to maximize their range when blocking shots.
Consider your position and how you move on the field. Test different stick lengths to find the ideal size that lets you scoop, pass, catch and shoot most efficiently. The optimal lacrosse stick length can make a big difference in your level of control, accuracy and overall ability.
Pick Proper Head Shape and Pocket Type
In addition to length, choosing the best lacrosse stick head shape and pocket type is crucial for optimal performance. Different head shapes excel at specialized roles based on their profile and scoop design.
For example, narrower heads with a deeper pocket are ideal for offensive players that require more ball control, while wider heads with a shallow pocket optimize passing and catching. Precision engineered sidewall geometry also affects handling and shot speed.
Testing stick heads with different sidewall angles and pocket types is recommended to find the best configuration for your position and playing style. Dialing in these finer details provides an edge on the field and can elevate your skills over time.
Select Proper Stick Flex Rating Based on Skill Level
One key but often overlooked factor when choosing a lacrosse stick is the flex rating. This refers to how stiff or flexible the shaft is constructed. Selecting the right flex can make a major difference in your handling, passing, and shooting performance.
For newer players, a stick with a higher flex rating (stiff shaft) is recommended. The added rigidity helps maintain structure while learning proper form and mechanics. Intermediate players benefit from a moderate flex rating as they focus on developing skills.
Advanced and elite players require more whip on shots, so a low flex rating maximizes ball speed and accuracy. Professionals often use the lowest flex sticks for their position. Testing different flex ratings is advisable to find your optimal balance of control and power based on skill level.
Choose Customizable Stick for Adjustable Pocket Style
One innovative feature available on some newer lacrosse sticks is adjustability. Brands like Maverik and STX now offer heads with changeable sidewall stringing holes. This allows players to customize pocket style, depth, and channel configuration.
Being able to tweak these finer details lets you continually refine your stick’s performance. As your skills progress, you can alter the pocket to keep improving handling, scooping, passing, catching, and shooting. Adjustable heads with customizable stringing deliver an added level of high performance personalization.
Check Lacrosse Stick Price Range to Fit Your Budget
With so many lacrosse stick options available, it’s important to consider price when making your purchasing decision. Lacrosse sticks can range drastically in cost from under $50 for basic entry-level sticks up to $300+ for elite models used by top professionals.
For beginners or younger players just starting out, inexpensive sticks in the $30 to $100 range allow you to get started affordably. These basic sticks from brands like STX and Brine still offer decent quality and performance to learn with.
Intermediate players looking to take their skills up a notch may want to spend $100 to $200 for sticks with more advanced features. This price tier includes models with higher grade materials, customizable heads, and improved handling.
For committed high school, college, and pro players, lacrosse sticks in the $200 to $300+ range deliver elite performance. Top composite construction, precision engineering, and customizable adjustment options help maximize skills at the highest levels.
Look for Sticks With Excellent Grip and Control
Beyond the head and pocket area, an important but overlooked part of a lacrosse stick is the grip and handle. Having proper grip on the shaft is crucial for ball control, secure cradling, and accuracy on passes, shots, and checks.
Many sticks now incorporate tactile grip patterns and textures on the lower handle that keep your top hand from slipping. Contoured grip shapes that better fit your fingers also enhance control. Some handles even have moisture-wicking properties to stay drier and lighter.
Select Intermediate Stick as a Beginner or Returning Player
When getting back into lacrosse after years away from the game or just starting out as a new player, choosing the right stick is crucial. While basic entry-level sticks may seem appealing for their lower cost, an intermediate stick is often a better choice.
Intermediate sticks provide improved performance and durability over basic sticks without the high price tag of pro models. The materials, construction quality, and engineering tend to be superior. This helps enhance handling, passing, catching, and shooting as you develop fundamental techniques.
Many intermediate sticks also offer some level of customization not found at the entry level. Adjustable stringing systems and customizable sidewall patterns let you tweak the pocket style as your skills progress. Going with an intermediate stick helps optimize performance at an affordable price point for newer players.
Find Durable Stick Materials for Long-Term Use
For lacrosse sticks to maintain their playability and integrity over time, having solid construction and durability is a must. Advanced composite materials on higher-end sticks provide the ideal blend of strength, stiffness, and light weight.
Carbon fiber, for example, adds stiffness without excess ounces. Multiple composite layers are engineered to distribute flex and improve performance life. Alloy metals in the shaft boost structural stability even under rough play. Durable leathers, nylons, and polyesters make stick heads more abrasion and weather resistant.
Prioritizing stick durability ensures you get the most value for your investment. Advanced lacrosse sticks made to withstand seasons of use deliver better performance and longevity.
Select Stick With Accurate Passing and Catching
A top priority for any lacrosse stick is its ability to pass and catch consistently and accurately. Having excellent ball control improves fundamentals like scooping, cradling, and shooting as well.
Sticks engineered for optimized passing have pocket and sidewall designs that center the ball perfectly. This ensures secure catches without bobbling and tight spirals on passes. Weight balancing also enhances quick transfers and directional aiming.
Testing a stick’s passing and catching should involve trying different types of throws like quick sticks, over the shoulder, behind the back, and outlet passes on the run. Dialing in pocket depth, whip, hold, and channel size can further refine performance.
Read Lacrosse Stick Reviews Before Buying
With so many lacrosse stick options on the market, researching brands, models, materials, and technologies beforehand is advised. Reading reviews from other players can provide helpful details and insights into stick performance and quality.
Look for in-depth reviews that evaluate key categories like durability, handling, passing/catching, value, and customer satisfaction. This provides a balanced assessment of a stick’s real-world strengths and weaknesses. Focus on reviews by verified owners after extended use.
Checking lacrosse forums and communities for stick recommendations and feedback can further narrow choices. Taking time to research sticks helps ensure you select equipment that optimizes your skills and budget.
Consider Stick for Specific Type of Lacrosse Play
Lacrosse sticks are designed and engineered for optimal performance based on the type of play. The main variants are field lacrosse, box lacrosse, women’s lacrosse, and intramural lacrosse.
For field lacrosse, longer stick lengths, deeper pockets, and more flexible handles aid in scooping ground balls and accurate passing. Box lacrosse requires shorter, more rigid sticks for stickhandling in tight spaces. Women’s lacrosse has shallower pockets and unique head shapes to meet specialized rules.
Even casual intramural league players benefit from sticks built for sturdiness, with reinforced materials and entry-level pricing. Choosing a stick purpose-built for your type of lacrosse ensures the right performance characteristics and features.
Pick Top Rated Lacrosse Sticks for Quality
One effective way to identify the best performing and most durable lacrosse sticks is to look at top rated models. Through extensive player testing and reviews, certain brands and models rise to the top for their quality.
Highly rated sticks tend to come from leading manufacturers like Warrior, Maverik, and Brine that engineer sticks for optimized handling and ball control. They utilize premium materials like lightweight alloys and carbon fiber composites.
Sorting lacrosse sticks by top rated or best selling helps filter the selection to proven sticks favored by consumers time after time.
Choose Strung Stick for Ease of Use Right Away
For newer lacrosse players still learning proper stringing techniques, starting out with a pre-strung stick can make the process easier. Strung lacrosse sticks come ready to use right out of the box.
Reputable sporting goods brands string sticks to exacting specifications for optimized ball control and handling. The pockets are professionally engineered for accurate passing and catching. Precise stringing also improves ball retention while scooping ground balls.
With a pre-strung stick, beginners can spend more time developing fundamental stick skills rather than struggling with intricate stringing. As you improve and want to customize stringing, you can restring the pockets yourself or with a coach’s guidance.
Determine if Stick Meets Official Lacrosse Rules
All lacrosse sticks must adhere to stringent rules and requirements set by governing bodies like the NCAA and NFHS. Ensuring your stick is regulation-compliant is important before purchasing.
Key dimensions like overall length, head width, and pocket depth must meet standards for your player age group and league. Proper stick construction, pocket materials, and stringing methods are also mandated.
Reputable lacrosse brands design sticks specifically for compliance levels. Carefully confirm required parameters before buying to avoid penalties or rejected equipment during games.
Look for Sticks With Excellent Reviews and Ratings
One of the best ways to evaluate different lacrosse sticks is by reading through customer reviews and product ratings. Quality sticks that optimize performance and durability will have excellent reviews overall.
Sort and filter sticks by 4-star+ average customer rating and read the most helpful reviews. Look for consistent feedback on aspects like comfortable grip, solid construction, accurate passing/catching, and good value.
Also check review distribution – quality sticks should have mostly 5, 4 or 3 star ratings from the majority of customers. Avoid models with high percentages of mediocre or negative reviews, which indicate quality control issues.
Pick Proper Head Shape and Pocket Type
In addition to length, choosing the best lacrosse stick head shape and pocket configuration is key for your position and playing style. Attack players benefit from narrower heads that retain ball control, while wider heads are better for field players that need increased catching area.
Precision scoop bottom shapes make picking up ground balls easier as well. Considering pocket type is also important, as deeper pockets improve ball retention while shallow pockets enhance quick releases and passes.
Testing different head and pocket styles is the best way to determine what works for your specific needs on the field or in the box. The right combination gives you an advantage out there.
Select Stick Based on Your Skill Level and Needs
Lacrosse sticks come in a wide range of types designed for players at different skill levels and positions. Carefully considering your needs and abilities will help narrow down the selection.
For example, new players require an entry-level stick focused on durability and ease of use until fundamentals are developed. Intermediate players need sticks with better materials and customizable pockets to refine skills.
Advanced midfielders need quick handles and pinpoint passing accuracy, while defenders require extra long sticks for checking. Goalies need rigid shafts and oversized heads. Identifying criteria important for your level and position makes finding the right stick much easier.
Find Good Lacrosse Stick Brands Known for Quality
In the market for lacrosse sticks, certain brands stand out for their consistent quality and performance year after year. Companies like Warrior, Brine, and Maverik engineer sticks utilizing top grade materials and precision manufacturing.
They incorporate strength-boosting alloys, lightweight composite laminates, and aerospace carbon fibers absent from generic sticks. Advanced molding and stringing technologies optimize shape, balance, and pocket function as well.
Spending a little more for sticks from reputable athletic brands results in enhanced durability, handling, and accuracy across the board.
Check Stick Weight to Aid Quick Handling
The overall weight of a lacrosse stick impacts how quickly and easily you can maneuver it. Excess weight from cheaper plastic materials and poorly balanced construction hampers handling.
Newer composite sticks utilize ultra-light alloys and advanced polymers to remain durable yet shave off ounces. Weight is also strategically distributed so the shaft and head feel balanced in your hands.
Testing stick weights and balance points is advised, as heavy sticks cause fatigue while extremely lightweight ones may feel odd at first. Finding the sweet spot results in lightning-quick sticks that move seamlessly as extensions of your hands.
Choose Strung Stick for Ease of Use Right Away
For newer lacrosse players still learning proper stringing techniques, starting out with a pre-strung stick can make the process easier. Strung lacrosse sticks come ready to use right out of the box.
Reputable sporting goods brands string sticks to exacting specifications for optimized ball control and handling. The pockets are professionally engineered for accurate passing and catching. Precise stringing also improves ball retention while scooping ground balls.
With a pre-strung stick, beginners can spend more time developing fundamental stick skills rather than struggling with intricate stringing. As you improve and want to customize stringing, you can restring the pockets yourself or with a coach’s guidance.
Select a Stick Within Your Budget Range
With lacrosse sticks ranging from under $50 up to $300 and beyond, setting a budget helps narrow the selection. Less expensive sticks may lack some durability but get the job done, while pricier ones provide high-end performance for competitive players.
For youth or occasional use, budget-friendly sticks under $100 are a smart option. Intermediate players looking to improve their game can expect to spend $100-$200 for quality sticks with better materials and features.
College level and up players require pro sticks $200+ that withstand heavy use and provide the responsiveness, handling, and durability needed for high intensity play. Set your budget then look for the best stick possible within that price tier.
Consider Stick Flex Rating Based on Position
A lacrosse stick’s flex rating indicates how stiff or whippy the shaft is, which affects passing, shooting, and checks. Stick flex is an important but often overlooked factor during selection.
For example, defensive players need more rigid, higher flex sticks for poke checks. Midfielders and attackers require moderate flex for quick releases and shots on goal. Goalies need very stiff shafts to support blocking saves.
Testing different flex ratings is key to optimizing your performance based on playing style and position on the field or in the box.
Look for Lightweight Sticks for Quick Handling
One of the key traits of high-performance lacrosse sticks is an overall lightweight feel. Excess weight from cheaper components hinders quick stickhandling and precision.
Leading brands utilize advanced composite materials like carbon fiber and alloys to eliminate unnecessary heft while boosting durability. Weight is also optimized through engineering so the head and shaft are well-balanced.
Testing stick weight is important during selection to find the right fit. Extremely heavy sticks cause fatigue over time, while too light of a stick may feel odd initially. The ideal balance improves handling speed and control noticeably.
Choose an Adjustable Pocket for Customization
Many newer lacrosse sticks offer adjustable stringing systems that let you customize the pocket style as you improve. Being able to tweak pocket depth, width, and shooting channel provides an edge.
For example, you can dial in a deeper pocket for more ball control as your handling gets better. Sidewall stringing holes can be tightened down or opened up to refine pocket mechanics even further.
The ability to keep optimizing your stick’s performance through adjustable stringing is a valuable feature to consider during selection for intermediate and advanced players alike.
Choose a Stick Suited for Your Type of Lacrosse
Lacrosse sticks are designed for optimal performance based on the version of the sport, whether field lacrosse, box lacrosse, women’s lacrosse or intramural leagues.
For example, field lacrosse requires longer sticks with more flexible shafts for scooping up ground balls and passing on the run. Box lacrosse sticks are shorter for better control in tight spaces.
Women’s lacrosse sticks have shallower pockets and unique head shapes to align with specialized rules. Recreational leagues do well with durable sticks with reinforced materials. Choose a stick matched to your specific lacrosse needs.
Ensure Stick Meets Size and Construction Rules
All lacrosse sticks must adhere to strict regulations for size, construction materials, and pocket depth. Confirm your stick meets the required specifications outlined by governing bodies like the NCAA.
For example, high school boy’s sticks cannot exceed 42 inches for field players or 72 inches for goalies. Proper stringing techniques, pocket materials, and sidewall dimensions must also be followed.
Reputable brands design sticks specifically to be regulation compliant. Carefully check mandated parameters before purchasing to ensure approval for organized league play.
