Start with Stringing Mesh to Match Your Lacrosse Position
As any seasoned lacrosse player knows, not all mesh is created equal. The type of lacrosse mesh you choose can have a dramatic impact on your on-field performance. When selecting your lacrosse stick mesh, the position you play should be the prime determinant.
For attackmen and offensive midfielders who handle the ball frequently, a soft mesh is often preferred. The flexible nylon fibers and deep pocket of a soft mesh give you excellent feel on cradling, feeding and shooting. The deeper pocket helps keep the ball tucked in your stick, while the soft whip creates lively ball releases, adding velocity to your shots and passes. Just be aware that a too-soft pocket may lead to ball retention issues.
In contrast, defenders benefit from a stiffer mesh and mid-low pocket to enable quick stick checks and solid ball control. A medium or hard mesh prevents the ball from sitting too deep in the head, giving you more control during pokes, slaps and scoops. The added stiffness also provides a quicker release when moving the ball in transition or making outlet passes after securing a ground ball.
For face-off specialists, a super stiff mesh with a mid-high pocket is ideal. This allows you to clamp down on the ball during face-offs while giving you extra leverage to rake or pluck possession after the clamp. A touch of wax or conditioner on the mesh fibers can further enhance grip.
So while aesthetics and style certainly play a role in choosing your mesh, performance should be the primary factor. Match the mesh flexibility and pocket depth to your position and you’ll give yourself an edge out on the field. After all, lacrosse is a game of inches, and the right mesh can provide those incremental differences that lead to more wins.
Determine the Right Pocket Shape for Your Playing Style
In addition to stringing mesh stiffness, lacrosse players must dial in the optimal pocket shape for their game. Pocket shape plays a critical role in ball control, release speed and overall handling. Fortunately, players can customize pocket configuration to match their on-field needs. Here are some top considerations when finding your ideal pocket shape:
For midfielders expected to do it all, a mid to mid-high pocket depth with a moderate pocket is ideal. This balanced setup provides versatile stick skills, enabling swift catches on the run, fluid cradling in traffic, accurate feeds around defenders and sidearm rifle shots on net. The mid pocket depth helps hold the ball while running but still allows for quick releases. A traditional pocket shape with a slight mid/sidewall channel is a safe bet for comfortably executing all facets of the position.
Attackmen benefit from a little more depth to enhance ball control around the crease. A mid-high to deep pocket with heavy nylon shooting strings is excellent for absorbing checks, protecting ball possession and catching difficult passes in tight spaces. Stringing a defined channel into the pocket allows attackers to hang the ball for quick stick opportunities while also allowing room to wind up for heavy shots. Just be careful not to overdo pocket depth – catching and passing can become more difficult.
For defensemen who see less offensive action, favor shallower pocket configurations for securing ground balls and starting the clear. A mid to mid-low pocket provides excellent ball retention when scooping loose balls or intercepting passes. More importantly, the reduced depth gives defenders a quicker release to move the ball downfield by pass or clearance. Consider adding a slight channel to improve ball handling while still allowing rapid ball exits.
Face-off middies also benefit from dialing in pocket specs. Opt for a mid-high pocket to engulf possession after the clamp and gain extra leverage when raking or plucking during the face-off. A “V” shaped pocket is ideal for controlling the ball at the ‘X’ while the increased depth aids in protecting possessions off the draw.
Testing different pocket shapes during practice is the best way to find your preference. With time and tweaking, you’ll discover the ideal configuration that suits your playing style. Remember, lacrosse success is all about the inches, and a customized pocket could be the difference-maker in your game.
Choose a Soft Mesh for Excellent Ball Feel
When stringing up a new lacrosse stick, one of the biggest decisions is mesh stiffness. Soft, medium or hard – which option is best for your game? For players who value excellent ball control and a deep pocket, a soft lacrosse mesh can be a great choice.
Soft mesh is constructed from flexible nylon fibers that move and shape around the ball as you cradle and pass. This creates amazing feel as you transition downfield or dive around defenders in the box. The soft whip of the mesh also provides a smooth release when shooting, adding velocity and finesse to your shots on goal. Soft mesh pockets tend to form deeper pockets with heavier nylon shooting strings, ideal for holding possession in traffic.
While a soft mesh offers superior ball control, there are some drawbacks to consider. The flexible pocket can collapse after catches, leading to slower ball exits. Soft mesh also bags out more easily, so you’ll need to maintain the ideal pocket shape through frequent stringing adjustments. And during wet conditions, soft mesh tends to absorb more water than stiffer versions, adding extra weight.
For midfielders and attackmen who like cradling with flair and setting up around the crease, the benefits of soft mesh are hard to beat. Go with a high quality soft mesh strung to a mid-high pocket depth with baggy nylon shooting strings. This setup gives you fluid feel on controls while still allowing some whip on passes. Dialing in the right soft mesh pocket takes practice but pays big dividends in ball handling confidence.
Of course personal preference rules when choosing mesh stiffness. Some players dislike the lack of definition and slower release of a soft pocket. Trying out different mesh options during training is the best way to determine what works for your playing style. With soft mesh, focus on finding the sweet spot of supreme control plus adequate ball exit speed. When you find that balance, your field vision and stick skills will reach new levels.
Go for a Medium or Hard Mesh for Added Whip
When dialing in your lacrosse stick, one of the biggest decisions is mesh stiffness. Should you go soft for superior ball control or stiff for quick releases? For players who value speed, a medium or hard lacrosse mesh brings excellent benefits.
The tightly woven fibers of a medium or hard mesh provide more stiffness and structure than soft versions. This translates into faster ball exits, ideal for blistering shots, clearing passes and quick feeds. The added stiffness also provides more defined pocket shape and improved ball retention during pokes and checks.
A medium stiffness mesh delivers excellent all-around playability. You still get solid feel on cradling and control while gaining extra whip on passes. Hard mesh takes the speed game even further – expect lightning fast releases but a stiff feel during handling.
For midfielders looking to push transition and attackmen who like ripping outside shots, a medium or hard mesh can be a game changer. The key is finding the right pocket and shooters setup for your style. Go for a mid-low pocket depth and nylon shooting strings to get the ball out fast while retaining decent ball protection. You may need to experiment with different sidewall and runner configurations to reduce flutter while still providing defined structure.
While a stiff mesh offers quickness, the trade-off is decreased ball control, especially on off-target passes. Harder meshes also tend to lose their shape faster, so you’ll be restringing more often. And in wet conditions, the fibers absorb very little water compared to soft mesh.
For players who love the speed game, test out different medium and hard mesh options to find your balance of handle and whip. With the right pocket and shooters combo, you’ll add velocity to your game while still retaining precise control. Just be prepared for routine stringing tweaks as you pursue lacrosse greatness, one blistering shot at a time.
Opt for a Weatherproof Mesh in Wet Conditions
One of the biggest lacrosse gear dilemmas is deciding what mesh to use in wet weather. Whether it’s heavy rain during a spring game or morning dew on a fall practice field, moisture can wreak havoc on your pocket. Fortunately, weatherproof meshes provide a solution to enhance performance in damp conditions.
Traditional nylon lacrosse meshes absorb water, adding weight and sag to your pocket. This leads to slower passing, decreased ball control and even missed catches. It’s incredibly frustrating when the rain ruins your crisp handle and lightning-fast release.
Weatherproof meshes incorporate advanced polymers or coatings to provide water resistance while retaining responsiveness. They are designed to shrug off moisture from rain, snow or damp grass. This keeps your pocket light and lively even when the weather takes a turn.
When choosing a weatherproof mesh, look for versions that strike a balance between water resistance and playability. Coated meshes can maintain structure in wetness but may feel too plastic-y on cradling and passing. Quality weatherproof meshes will retain the soft feel of traditional nylon with enhanced water performance.
Consider stringing your weatherproof mesh to a mid pocket depth. This will prevent too much sagging if the pocket does get overly saturated. Use softer nylon shooting strings instead of waxed versions, which can get overly slick when wet. Stay on top of pocket adjustments as weatherproof meshes tend to bag out faster over time.
While the benefits are obvious, weatherproof meshes do have some downsides. They tend to be pricier than traditional nylon and have a shorter lifespan. The coatings also reduce natural fiber feel. But for players who compete in rain or dew regularly, the trade-offs are well worth it.
Don’t let April showers ruin your lacrosse season. Equip your stick with a quality weatherproof mesh and take control of sloppy conditions. Keep your pocket locked and loaded no matter what the weather throws your way.
Look for a Threaded Mesh for Consistent Pocket Shape
One of the perpetual challenges in lacrosse is maintaining the ideal pocket shape over time. As you play and practice, the nylon fibers in traditional meshes begin to stretch and bag out. This leads to decreased ball control and slower releases – not an ideal combo. However, threaded lacrosse meshes provide a solution for keeping your pocket crisp and defined.
Threaded meshes incorporate durable polyester or nylon threads woven vertically through the nylon fibers. This reinforces the structure, enhancing pocket stability as you play. The reduced stretch helps maintain the original shape of your lacrosse head longer through constant stringing tweaks.
Threaded meshes offer several performance benefits in addition to consistency. The added structure provides extra whip and speed, ideal for ripping shots and clearing passes. The threads also improve ball retention in your stick through pokes and checks. And when stringing, the stiffer material is easier to work with when tying knots and interlocks.
However, threaded mesh does have some drawbacks to weigh. The denser feel and increased stiffness reduces natural ball feel and control. Threaded versions also tend to be thicker and heavier. And over time, the vertical threads can loosen and fray, reducing structural integrity.
For midfielders and attackmen looking to set-it-and-forget-it with pocket shape, threaded mesh is a great option. Go for a mid-high pocket strung with nylon to get the benefits of consistency paired with decent feel. Keep an eye out for loose threads fraying over time. And realize some settling will still occur with heavy use.
While no mesh is 100% maintenance-free, threaded versions come close in terms of reliable structure. Take control of your pocket destiny this season with reinforced threaded mesh. And save your hands from constant re-stringing misery.
Consider a Fused Mesh for Minimal Break-in Time
As any seasoned lacrosse player knows, a proper mesh break-in period is essential. Those first few practices with a fresh pocket can be frustrating as you battle stiff nylon and uneven bagging. However, fused lacrosse meshes aim to eliminate this hassle through pre-treated materials designed for minimal break-in time.
Traditional nylon lacrosse meshes require significant playing and handling to achieve ideal softness and shape. The fibers start out stiff and only relax after heavy wear-in. This leads to decreased control and slower releases…not an ideal combo.
Fused lacrosse meshes incorporate proprietary treatments to the nylon fibers prior to stringing. This softens the materials and can shave weeks off the typical break-in process. The result is a mesh with enhanced pliability straight out of the package.
Look for a fused mesh made from quality nylon or blend materials. Top versions will retain the soft, natural feel of untreated mesh with accelerated break-in. Ensure the fusion process doesn’t overly reduce stiffness, as you still want some structure. And know that while minimized, some break-in will still be required to achieve your desired handling.
When stringing fused mesh, account for the accelerated bagging by starting with a slightly tighter back. You can also add a cross lace or additional shooters to reinforce pocket shape. Be prepared to tweak stringing after heavy use as the softer materials can stretch quicker.
While fused mesh won’t ever match the buttery feel of a perfectly broken-in pocket, the reduced break-in period is a huge perk. Get your stick game tuned faster this season with pre-softened fused mesh. And say goodbye to the frustration of early season practices with stiff nylon.
Select a Customizable Mesh if You Like to String Your Own
One of the coolest aspects of lacrosse is customizing your pocket through stringing. For players who love getting crafty with mesh and nylon, customizable lacrosse meshes allow for total control of your pocket setup.
Customizable mesh provides the ideal blank canvas for do-it-yourself stringers. The unshaped triangular mesh comes pre-treated but unstrung. This allows you to tie on your own sidewall, runners, and shooters to create your perfect pocket from scratch.
With a customizable mesh, the options are endless. Go for a tight back and wide front for extra hold or a baggy mid-pocket for smooth handling. Run a single runner up the center or go cross-lace crazy. String on soft shooters for unmatched feel or wax-coated cables for added durability. The choice is yours.
Keep in mind that designing your dream pocket requires practice and patience. Be prepared to cut out knots and re-string repeatedly until everything is perfectly tuned. Start simple and add complexity over time as your stringing skills advance. Don’t expect to nail the perfect setup on your first try.
While the process takes effort, the payoff of crafting your own one-of-a-kind pocket is priceless. Customizable mesh allows you to chase stringing greatness and fine-tune performance exactly how you want it. So grab your favorite needle and nylon shooter and get those stringing juices flowing. It’s time to build a masterpiece.
Try a Pre-Strung Mesh for Quick Installation
While stringing your own lacrosse mesh can be rewarding, the process is also time consuming. For players seeking quick pocket convenience, pre-strung meshes provide a quality ready-to-go option.
Pre-strung lacrosse meshes come from the factory with sidewall, runners, and shooters already attached. This allows for swift installation right out of the package. Simply anchor the fixed runners into your head and you’re ready to hit the field in minutes. The pre-set shape also delivers excellent performance immediately with minimal break-in required.
When selecting a pre-strung mesh, ensure quality materials are used by top brands. Look for softer nylons and waxed cords to maximize pliability and durability. Seek out meshes with mid-range pocket depths to complement all-around play. And pick versions with solid yet flexible shooting strings that provide both control and release.
Of course, the major downside of pre-strung mesh is lack of customization. You’re limited to the predetermined pocket shape and string placement of the manufacturer. Serious stringers may also balk at the mass-produced quality of factory pieces.
For lacrosse players seeking to shortcut pocket prep, quality pre-strung mesh delivers. Focus on your game, not hours of stringing frustration, and get ready to perform with precision right off the rack. Just ensure the pre-set shape complements your playing style. Convenience never felt – or played – so good.
Get an Authentic NCAA Mesh for Optimal Performance
When seeking the highest quality lacrosse mesh, look no further than authentic NCAA approved versions. These meshes meet exact specifications required for college and high school play, making them the top choice for optimized performance.
To earn NCAA certification, lacrosse meshes must incorporate quality materials that maximize playability. Typically, soft to medium grade nylon is used to enhance feel and control. The fibers must also retain their shape over time while providing defined structure. NCAA meshes deliver the pinnacle blend of responsiveness and durability.
In addition, NCAA meshes must adhere to strict pocket depth regulations. For middies, the pocket must sit above the ball when placed in the head. Attack meshes get more leeway but still can’t exceed a max depth. This ensures all players compete on a level field regarding ball control and release.
The downside is cost – obtaining NCAA certification increases mesh prices. But for youth players dreaming of reaching the college ranks or former NCAA athletes, authenticity matters. Investing in a certified mesh also helps support the sport through licensing fees.
While certification alone won’t transform your game, optimized materials make a difference. Gain an edge by stringing an NCAA mesh to your perfect pocket shape. The performance will be noticeably crisper right from the first pass or shot. Who knows, maybe you’ll go from pre-game warmups to starting on Saturdays thanks to your mesh.
Grab a Mesh in Your Team Colors to Stand Out
In a sport like lacrosse that relies so heavily on stick skills, it pays to stand out on the field. Beyond flashy moves and wicked shots, one easy way to get noticed is mesh color. Grab your team’s hues or go bold with a non-traditional color to turn heads this season.
Traditonal white lacrosse mesh provides a classic look but can also blend into the background, especially under bright lights at night games. Colored mesh offers easy visibility for teammates trying to locate your stick during fast breaks or on the crease.
Team colored mesh shows your pride and unity while adding flair. Picture an attack line sporting bright crimson to match jerseys or defenders rocking intimidating black mesh with yellow sidewalls. You’ll look cohesive and coordinated while achieving maximum visibility.
For players who want the ultimate custom style, colored nylon allows endless possibilities. Go for your favorite neon green or a tri-color fade combining navy, grey and white. Express your personality through the colors you choose while standing out in any situation.
Just be wary of colored meshes that seem gimmicky or affect performance. Ensure dyed versions maintain soft feel and durability. And realize excessively bright hues can distract during crucial moments. Find the ideal balance of flair versus function through smart color choices.
Look for a Mesh with Memory for Consistent Pocket Feel
One of the perpetual challenges in lacrosse is maintaining ideal pocket feel as meshes break down. No matter how perfectly you string your mesh initially, the nylon fibers gradually lose structure and pliability over time. However, newer tech meshes with memory prevent this demise by retaining original shape and softness.
Traditional nylon meshes slowly degrade through constant use. The individual fibers lose tension, reducing responsiveness. The pocket shape also morphs from defined to sloppy and undefined. This leads to decreased performance as passing and shooting precision fade.
Memory meshes incorporate advanced polymer materials that “remember” their initial shape and feel, even after heavy wear-in. The innovative fibers provide consistent flexibility and pocket definition regardless of age. It’s like stringing a fresh mesh every practice, all season long.
When selecting a memory mesh, ensure the smart materials don’t overly stiffen the pocket or reduce natural feel. High-end versions will retain that supple, perfectly broken-in character you love with enhanced durability. Be prepared to pay a premium for these advanced tech meshes.
While no mesh beats Father Time forever, memory polymers come close to stopping natural breakdown. Maintain the handling and performance you love all season, even as mesh miles pile up. Your sticks skills will thank you.
Choose a Mesh with Hold for Excellent Ball Control
Master ball control is crucial for lacrosse excellence regardless of position. But keeping possession against prying checks, errant passes and tenacious defenders is a constant challenge. Fortunately, newer lacrosse meshes feature advanced coatings that enhance grip and ball hold through all conditions.
Traditional nylon lacrosse meshes provide decent control thanks to soft feel on cradling. But when faced with moisture, friction or contact, maintaining possession becomes difficult as the ball is easily dislodged. This forces players to clamp down during handling, reducing fluidity and response.
Coated and textured hold meshes aim to rectify this issue. Proprietary treatments are applied to the nylon fibers, creating friction that helps grab and hold the ball, even through checks and wet weather. This enables superior control without squeezing the head during play.
When selecting a hold mesh, target versions that strike the right balance of grip and pliability. Aggressive coatings can feel sticky and inhibit smooth releases. The key is enhanced hold without affecting feel or ball exit speed. High-end meshes master this combo.
While no mesh transforms you into a ball handling wizard, advanced hold materials provide an edge. Take command of possession through all field conditions this season. With locked down control, your confidence and scoring will rise.
Get a Colored Sidewall Mesh for Style Points
In a sport centered around stick skills and ball handling, lacrosse mesh matters. Beyond affecting performance, your mesh and stringing make a style statement every time you hit the field. For players seeking fresh looks, colored sidewall mesh offers easy customization and flair.
Traditional white lacrosse mesh provides a classic, clean appearance but lacks individuality. Take your pocket style to the next level with vibrant dyed sidewalls that complement your team colors or express personal flair.
Colored sidewalls allow limitless possibilities for pocket style. Channel team spirit with crimson and grey walls on white mesh or go full maverick with lizard green sides. Use colors to highlight shooting strings or make the whole pocket pop. Sidewall shades can match uniforms, favorite colors or lucky hues.
Just be wary of gimmicky colored meshes that sacrifice quality. Ensure dyed nylons provide good feel with durable construction. And don’t let flashy hues distract you in crucial game moments. Remember, performance comes first.
Own your style with customized sidewalls this season. Turn heads without sacrificing playability through smart color choices. Let your mesh make a bold statement every time you take the field.
Ensure Your Mesh is Legal for Game Regulations
With lacrosse mesh being such a crucial gear component, governing bodies like the NCAA and NFHS regulate pocket specs to ensure fairness and safety. As players strive for the perfect pocket through advanced stringing, following mesh rules is essential to stay on the field.
For midfielders, mesh regulations focus on limiting extreme pocket depths that provide exaggerated ball control. Mesh must be strung so a ball placed in the pocket sits above the head’s lower rim. Shooting strings should sit no more than 1.5 inches from the base of the sidewall.
Attack players get more leeway but still can’t exceed key measurements. Balls must sit above the head’s midpoint and shooting strings can’t be over 4 inches down the sidewall. Goalies also have specialized stringing allowances to boost protection.
NCAA and NFHS officials rigorously check pockets and will remove players if regulations aren’t followed. Re-stringing during games is also prohibited. While deep pockets improve performance, ensure your mesh meets guidelines.
Pocket regulations preserve integrity and prevent unsafe play. Master precision stringing to maximize pocket feel and release speed within the rules. Seek guidance from referees if needed and keep an approved backup stick handy. Uphold the spirit of competition through legal mesh.