Picking the Right Length Lacrosse Goalie Stick
When selecting a lacrosse goalie stick, one of the most important factors to consider is the length. The ideal length can vary depending on your height, position in the crease, and personal preference. Generally, goalie sticks range from 40 to 72 inches long. Taller goalies often opt for longer sticks around 70+ inches to maximize their reach and coverage of the net. Shorter goalies may find sticks in the 50-60 inch range allow them to maneuver the stick head more quickly. Testing out different lengths to see what feels best for your stance and range of motion is recommended.
For youth players, stick length is tied to age and size. US Lacrosse rules dictate stick lengths by age group, like 44-54 inches for U11 and 50-62 inches for U13. Youth goalies should use the longest length allowed to aid in stopping shots. As you progress in the sport, continuing to use a stick on the longer end of approved lengths helps fill more of the goal space and prevent goals. An extra couple inches can make a big difference in lacrosse!
Goalie sticks have specified measurements for the overall length but also the individual shaft and head lengths. US Lacrosse and NCAA rules state that the head has to be between 6 to 12 inches while the shaft length ranges from 30 to 72 inches. Having a longer shaft lets you guide and control the head better for blocks, checks, and clears. But the ratio of shaft to head size also impacts feel and performance. Some goalies like a longer shaft with a shorter head for quick movements while others prefer a more balanced ratio.
Considering your personal playing style, position in the crease, and level of play will help determine the ideal total length and shaft/head ratio for your lacrosse goalie stick. Testing out different lengths and ratios is the best way to find the stick measurements that maximize your reach and range of motion. With the right length stick, you can better fill the goal space and give your team the best chance to prevent scoring opportunities.
Determining Your Budget for a Lacrosse Goalie Stick
When looking to purchase a new lacrosse goalie stick, setting a budget is an important early step. Goalie sticks can range greatly in price from under $50 up to $300+ for elite models. Determining how much you are willing to spend will help narrow down the selection.
For youth players just starting out, an entry-level stick in the $30-60 range allows you to get acclimated to the position without a huge investment. These budget-friendly options from brands like STX and Maverik offer decent quality with basic features. As you improve and want to upgrade equipment, you can spend more for sticks with advanced materials and technologies.
Mid-range goalie sticks from $80-150 provide better performance and durability. This middle price point is a good sweet spot for high school players looking for better quality without breaking the bank. Sticks in this range incorporate stronger shafts, more customizable heads, and improved stringing options. Brands like Warrior and Brine have many sticks offering premium features at moderate prices.
For elite college, post-collegiate, and professional goalies, spending $200+ on a high-end stick is worth the investment. Top sticks from companies like Epoch and StringKing use innovative materials like carbon fiber shafts and Endura resin heads to maximize durability and responsiveness. The heads also incorporate advanced sidewall, scoop, and rail designs to up your save game. While the price tags are steep, these pro-level sticks deliver uncompromising performance.
Determining how much use you plan to get out of a new goalie stick can also help guide budget. If you play lacrosse year-round and want a stick to last multiple seasons of heavy use, investing more upfront in a durable, high-end model can be worthwhile. For those who just play LAX recreationally, an affordable stick may suffice since you won’t be counting on it to withstand constant wear and tear.
Setting a budget for your new lacrosse goalie stick ensures you get a stick with quality, features, and durability that align with your needs and playing level. Prioritizing performance and value within your budget allows you to maximize your investment in a new piece of equipment that will help elevate your game in goal.
Picking the Right Length for Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
Choosing the ideal length is one of the most critical factors when selecting a new lacrosse goalie stick. Length can impact your ability to effectively move the stick, fill space in the goal, and make saves. Goalie sticks typically range from 40 to 72 inches long, with most youth and high school players using sticks from 50 to 62 inches.
Taller goalies often prefer longer sticks around 70+ inches, which allow them to block more of the net. The extra length helps compensate for being deeper in the crease and gives more reach on high shots. Shorter goalies can benefit from more maneuverable sticks in the 50-60 inch range. Testing different lengths is recommended to find what works best for your stance, coverage, and mobility.
Youth goalie stick length is determined by age and size guidelines. For example, U11 players use sticks from 44-54 inches, while U13 goalies need sticks from 50-62 inches per US Lacrosse rules. Using the maximum length allowed can help young goalies be more successful. As you progress in the sport, sticking with longer lengths within regulations aids in filling the cage and making saves.
In addition to overall stick length, the lengths of the shaft and head are factors. Lacrosse rules mandate heads be 6-12 inches, with shafts 30-72 inches. Longer shafts provide greater control and accuracy directing the head for blocks, pokes, and clears. But the ratio of shaft to head length also impacts feel and performance. Some goalies prefer a shorter head for quick movements, while others like a more balanced ratio.
Considering your individual style, position in the crease, and level of play will help determine the best overall length and shaft/head ratio. Testing different configurations to find what maximizes your range of motion and coverage is ideal. With the right length stick, you can better fill the cage and prevent opponents from finding openings to shoot at.
Selecting the Ideal Head Shape for Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
When shopping for a new lacrosse goalie stick, evaluating the head shape is an important consideration. The design and dimensions of the head impact how the ball releases off shots, as well as the stick’s handling and control. Narrower head shapes provide more accuracy for outlet passes, while wider heads can help improve blockability.
Wider goalie heads in the 6 to 7-inch range allow for more surface area to get in front of shots. The added width aids in stopping high velocity shots and covering more of the net when facing shooters at extreme angles. Brands like Nike, Maverik, and STX offer wider, paddle-shaped heads to maximize blocking ability.
For goalies who like to distribute the ball after saves and value precision outlet passes, narrower head widths from 3.5 to 5 inches are ideal. The tighter channel and scoop shape give more accuracy clearing downfield or passing to defenders. Companies like Epoch and StringKing design heads with a narrower profile focused on ball control and quick sticks.
Many elite goalies choose head widths in the middle around 5.5 inches. This provides a blend of decent blocking ability along with improved ball handling. Warrior, Gait, and Brine have sticks with mid-range head sizes to give goalies the best of both worlds.
The orientation of the head can also vary, from a straighter horizontal design to one with more of an angled bend. Heads with some offset allow for scooping ground balls easier. Testing out different head shapes and angles can help determine which gives you the best feel based on your catching and passing preferences.
Considering how often you need to make outlet passes versus just clearing the ball safely will guide ideal lacrosse goalie head shape choices. Wider heads provide better blocking ability, while narrower heads deliver more accuracy. Finding the right balance of width and dimensions for your game through testing sticks is key to goalie success.
Finding the Right Pocket Depth for Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
The depth of the pocket on a lacrosse goalie stick head plays an integral role in ball control and clearance ability. Shallower pockets allow for quicker releases and passing, while deeper pockets help securely cradle shots and absorb impact. Determining ideal pocket depth is an important consideration when selecting a new goalie head.
For goalies concerned with quickly moving the ball after saves, shallower pockets around 1 to 2 inches deep are ideal. This improves ball handling for faster outlet passes, especially on clears from behind the net. Sticks with pre-strung shallow pockets from brands like Maverik and STX prioritize quick ball movement.
Deeper pockets in the 3 to 4 inch range provide superior ball retention, allowing goalies to better cradle hard shots. The deeper channel helps “trap” saves and cushion the impact from high-velocity shots. Companies like Brine and Warrior focus on deeper pockets to lock down possession after saves.
Many elite goalies opt for more moderate pocket depths between 2 to 3 inches. This balance helps securely cradle shots while still allowing for decent ball control on outlets. Brands like Epoch and StringKing optimize pockets for both save ability and clearance precision.
Considering the level and speed of shot you face will guide ideal pocket depth. Youth and beginner goalies can benefit from deeper pockets to help trap and control saves. As you face faster shots, shifting to a moderate depth improves stick skills. Testing pockets of different depths directly is the best way to find your optimal configuration.
Dialing in the right pocket depth on your lacrosse goalie head is critical for maximizing save ability as well as quick outlet passes. While deeper pockets improve cradling, shallower setups allow for better ball control. Finding the right balance starts with understanding your needs and testing different pocket depths.
Choosing a Durable Shaft Material for Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
The material used for the shaft on a lacrosse goalie stick greatly impacts its durability and performance. Shafts take a beating from constant hard checks, so finding a sturdy material is crucial. Popular options include alloy, composite, and titanium shafts, each providing distinct benefits.
Alloy shafts made from aluminum or scandium alloys offer a time-tested, affordable option. Brands like STX and Maverik use alloy to make their entry-level goalie shafts, providing decent durability at lower price points. Alloy shafts are also lightweight while still maintaining good stiffness.
Composite shafts constructed from materials like carbon fiber deliver premium durability and responsive feel. Carbon increases stiffness while remaining lightweight, making these shafts popular for elite-level sticks. Brands like Epoch and StringKing pioneered carbon composite shafts that have become gold standards at the pro level.
Titanium alloys like 6061 provide a high-end alloy option combining strength and lightweight design. Titanium shafts offer vibration dampening and dent resistance closer to composites but at more affordable prices. Warrior and Brine leverage titanium in their shafts to optimize durability and performance.
The bend profile of the shaft also varies, from a uniform flex design to specialized flex points near the head. Strategic flex positioning allows for better ball control and shot absorption. Testing different bend profiles and flex points can help optimize feel and performance based on your catching style.
Considering your budget, playing level, and usage intensity will determine ideal goalie shaft material. While carbon delivers premium durability, alloy provides a more affordable option for younger players. The right shaft improves saves, outlet passing, and stick checks needed to dominate between the pipes.
Comparing Head Styles for Lacrosse Goalie Sticks
Lacrosse goalie heads come in a variety of styles that perform differently in terms of ball control, releases, and durability. Brands design heads to optimize certain aspects of goalie play, from outlet passing to high-impact saves. Evaluating head styles helps narrow choices to best suit your needs.
Pinch-and-shoot style heads have narrower channels for accuracy outlet passes with tight releases. Epoch and StringKing are known for pinched heads providing excellent ball control. These heads hold their shape well but lack the blocking surface of other styles.
Flared or scoop style heads widen in the throat area for greater ball retention on saves. STX, Maverik, and Warrior design flared heads to help “trap” shots and cushion impact. The wider scoops also facilitate ground ball pickups.
Aggressive fish hook heads incorporate wider, angular rails for increased blocking ability. Brands like Brine and Gait shape heads to get more surface in front of shots from extreme angles. Wider faces can distort and lose shape over time, however.
Helmet-style heads offer additional protection with extra thick sidewalls and greater height. Designed to withstand heavy use, these rugged heads from companies like Nike sacrifice some precision for maximum durability.
Considering how often you outlet pass versus cradle hard saves will help determine ideal head shape. Pinch styles excel in passing while flare heads trap shots better. Testing different head styles directly gives first-hand experience of how they perform for you in game situations.
Looking at Stringing Options for Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
The stringing of a lacrosse goalie head impacts pocket depth, ball control, and release speed. As you shop for a new stick, evaluating stringing options ranging from pre-set to customizable allows you to optimize performance. Advanced stringing technologies also continue expanding capabilities.
Many goalie sticks, especially beginner models, come pre-strung with a fixed pocket configuration. This allows for quick setup but less customization. Brands like STX and Maverik use basic stringing in their entry-level sticks for affordability and playability right out of the box.
Intermediate lacrosse sticks offer adjustable stringing systems with options like interchangeable sidewall strings or different shooting lace placements to tweak pocket depth. Brands like Warrior and Brine incorporate tunable stringing for more customization as skills improve.
High-end goalie sticks provide fully customizable stringing options with choices of mesh, leathers, strings, and lacing patterns. This allows elite players to dictate the exact pocket shape, depth, and performance. Epoch and StringKing sticks cater to pros with fully modifiable stringing capabilities.
New materials like Dyneema mesh increase durability and weather-resistance over traditional nylon options. Manufacturers also leverage shooting string technologies like Rotor Cables for fine-tuning release points and hold. Testing stringing setups optimized for your playing style is key.
Dialing in your lacrosse goalie stick’s stringing and pocket is crucial for customizing performance. While pre-set stringing provides simplicity for beginners, adjustable and customizable stringing allows experienced goalies to optimize ball control and release precision to elevate their game.
Prioritizing Comfort When Selecting Your Lacrosse Goalie Stick
Finding a lacrosse goalie stick that feels comfortable is a key factor many players overlook. Considering comfort helps improve performance and prevent injury. Stick elements like shaft material, head shape, weight, and balance impact comfort during play.
Shaft materials like composite and titanium provide a better feel in your hands than basic alloys. Brands like Epoch and StringKing use carbon for superior comfort while still retaining stiffness and strength. Materials dampen vibration and reduce fatigue from constant impact.
Head shapes with contouring match natural hand closure for improved comfort gripping the stick. Flared scoops and rounded sidewalls from brands like STX and Maverik give better ergonomics over basic geometric shapes when cradling.
Lighter goalie sticks reduce fatigue from constant motion anticipating shots. New technologies like carbon fibers and alloy mixes allow for weights under 2 lbs without sacrificing durability. Brands like Warrior leverage lightweight materials so comfort doesn’t lag as the game wears on.
Proper balance where the head and shaft weight is distributed can bolster comfort, especially for outlet passing. Optimized balance helps shots release cleanly and facilitates quicker sticks. Testing balance by holding sticks along the midpoint of the shaft determines optimal weight distribution.
Prioritizing comfort may mean spending more for high-end materials and technologies, but the investment pays off in improved performance. Considering often overlooked factors like weight, balance, and feel ensures you pick the right lacrosse goalie stick that performs best.
Shopping Smart for Lacrosse Goalie Stick Sales
With lacrosse goalie sticks ranging from $50 up to $300, finding ways to save money without sacrificing quality is key. Taking advantage of sales throughout the year, buying last year’s models, and shopping used gear can yield big savings.
Watching for end of season clearance sales in summer allows you to score discounts on current gear as brands empty inventory. Major brands like STX, Maverik, and Warrior often run site-wide sales offering 25% off or more on all items including goalie sticks.
Buying previous year models when new gear gets released in fall/winter is another way to get quality sticks for less. Older designs go on sale as companies promote their latest models. You can find last year’s pro-level sticks marked down significantly.
Shopping used goalie sticks through online markets and local shops gives access to premium gear for a fraction of retail prices. Gently used sticks from sites like SidelineSwap and Play It Again Sports offer huge savings off new prices.
Considering bargain options like joining a team buyer’s group or buying in bulk with other goalies can also net discounts buying direct from brands. The more volume ordered, the better deal companies will provide. Splitting shipping costs also saves money.
With some strategic shopping, you can find high-quality lacrosse goalie sticks for under $100 rather than $200+. Taking advantage of sales schedules, prior years’ gear, and used equipment provides access to premium sticks without breaking your budget.
Reading Reviews Before Buying a Lacrosse Goalie Stick
With so many lacrosse goalie stick options available, reading reviews of specific sticks can provide valuable insights before purchasing. Looking at first-hand feedback helps you understand real-world performance to make an informed decision.
Focusing on reviews of a particular stick model rather than brand generalizations gives a better sense of specifics. Look for reviews highlighting feature sets like shaft material, head shape, pocket type, and overall weight/balance for details relevant to goalie play.
Seeking out goalie-specific reviews is better than general stick feedback, since goalies have different needs around stopping shots versus quick releases. Goalies drill on aspects like control cradling shots and clearing outlet passes reviewers may not focus on.
For the best assessments, read reviews from verified buyers who purchased the stick, rather than general product descriptions from retailers. User submitted reviews on sites like Lacrosse Monkey and Lax.com provide first-hand testimonials of real gameplay use.
Look for Consistency across multiple reviews pointing out the same pros and cons rather than relying on a single source. Common praises or complaints carry more validity than one off observations.
Reading lacrosse goalie stick reviews before buying provides valuable guidance from those who’ve tested equipment in real game situations. Focusing on goalie-specific feedback helps you gain key insights into a stick’s strengths and weaknesses before investing your money.
Testing Lacrosse Goalie Sticks Before Deciding
Taking the time to test out different lacrosse goalie sticks before purchasing is the best way to determine what works for your unique style and needs. Hands-on testing provides insights that reading specs and reviews simply can’t replicate.
Trying sticks from friends and teammates with similar sizing and playing level gives you the chance to experience different brands and models in action. Focus on comfort in your hands, weight distribution, and overall feel as you move and cradle the stick.
Demos offered by many lacrosse retailers allow you to try out sticks for a practice or two before committing to buy. This is especially helpful for understanding key differences like shaft materials, head shapes, balance points and pocket configurations.
Testing sticks at sport facilities like box stores and lacrosse shops provides additional hands-on experience. Feeling subtle variations in elements like flex profiles across sticks standing in the store narrows selection.
If possible, leveraging return policies to try out gear in your actual position for a game or two and then exchange gives the best sense of performance. Game simulations confirm what aspects you like or dislike.