How to select the perfect women’s lacrosse stick. What factors to consider when buying a lacrosse stick. Which materials are best for lacrosse sticks. How to determine the ideal stick length and weight. What are the key features of a high-performance lacrosse stick.

Essential Factors in Selecting the Ideal Women’s Lacrosse Stick

Choosing the right women’s lacrosse stick can significantly impact your performance on the field. To make an informed decision, consider these crucial factors:

• Stick materials (aluminum, titanium, or composite)
• Weight and balance
• Length based on player height and position
• Head shape and pocket depth
• Flexibility and durability
• Brand reputation and warranty
• Customization options

By carefully evaluating these aspects, you’ll be able to find a lacrosse stick that complements your playing style and enhances your skills on the field.

Understanding Lacrosse Stick Materials: Aluminum vs. Titanium vs. Composite

The material of your lacrosse stick plays a crucial role in its performance, durability, and overall feel. Here’s a breakdown of the most common materials used in women’s lacrosse sticks:

Aluminum Lacrosse Sticks

Aluminum sticks are popular among beginners and budget-conscious players. They offer:

• Lightweight feel
• Good maneuverability
• Smooth surface for ball control
• Affordable price point

However, aluminum sticks are less durable and more prone to bending or denting under pressure.

Titanium Lacrosse Sticks

Titanium alloy sticks are favored by elite players for their superior properties:

• Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio
• Excellent durability
• Resistance to bending and denting
• Premium performance

The main drawback of titanium sticks is their higher cost compared to other materials.

Composite Lacrosse Sticks

Composite materials, particularly carbon fiber, have gained popularity in recent years due to their versatile properties:

• Optimal balance of strength and weight
• Customizable stiffness and flexibility
• Excellent durability
• Superior performance in various weather conditions

Composite sticks are typically more expensive than aluminum but offer better longevity and performance.

The Impact of Weight and Balance on Lacrosse Stick Performance

The weight and balance of a lacrosse stick can significantly affect your playing style and effectiveness on the field. Understanding these factors is crucial for selecting the right stick:

Stick Weight

Women’s lacrosse sticks typically weigh between 14-17 ounces, excluding the head. The weight impacts various aspects of play:

• Heavier sticks (16-17 oz): Provide more power for checks, scooping, passing, and shooting
• Lighter sticks (14-15 oz): Offer better maneuverability for quick stick work, dodging, and ball handling

For most female athletes, a stick weighing between 14.5-15.5 ounces provides an ideal balance of power and handling.

Stick Balance

Balance refers to how the stick’s weight is distributed. A well-balanced stick feels comfortable and controlled in your hands. Consider these points:

• Even weight distribution prevents the stick from feeling “head-heavy” or “shaft-heavy”
• Proper balance improves stability and control, especially when cradling the ball
• Test different sticks to find the balance that feels most natural to you

Remember, the right weight and balance can vary depending on your playing style, position, and personal preference.

Choosing the Optimal Lacrosse Stick Length for Your Position and Height

Selecting the appropriate stick length is crucial for maximizing your performance in women’s lacrosse. The ideal length depends on several factors:

Position-Specific Considerations

• Attack players: Generally prefer shorter sticks (35.5-37 inches) for better ball control and quick maneuvering
• Midfielders: Often use medium-length sticks (37-38 inches) for versatility in both offense and defense
• Defenders: Typically opt for longer sticks (38-40 inches) to increase their defensive reach and checking ability
• Goalies: Use the longest sticks allowed (40-42 inches) to maximize their reach when making saves

Height-Based Recommendations

Your height also plays a role in determining the ideal stick length:

• Players under 5’4″: 35.5-37 inches
• Players 5’4″ to 5’7″: 37-38 inches
• Players 5’8″ and taller: 38-40 inches

These are general guidelines, and personal preference should also be considered when choosing your stick length.

Decoding Lacrosse Stick Head Shapes and Pocket Depths

The head of your lacrosse stick plays a crucial role in ball control, passing, and shooting accuracy. Understanding different head shapes and pocket depths can help you choose the best stick for your playing style:

Head Shapes

• Wide heads: Offer a larger sweet spot, making it easier to catch and cradle the ball
• Narrow heads: Provide more precision for accurate passes and shots
• Pinched heads: Combine elements of wide and narrow heads for versatility

Pocket Depths

The pocket depth affects how the ball sits in the head and how quickly you can release it:

• Deep pockets: Provide better ball retention and control, ideal for defenders and midfielders
• Shallow pockets: Allow for quicker ball release, preferred by attackers for fast passes and shots
• Medium pockets: Offer a balance between control and quick release, suitable for all-around players

Consider your position and playing style when choosing the head shape and pocket depth that best suits your needs.

Evaluating Flexibility and Durability in Women’s Lacrosse Sticks

The flexibility and durability of your lacrosse stick can significantly impact your performance and the longevity of your equipment. Here’s what you need to know:

Flexibility

Stick flexibility affects how the stick responds to your movements and impacts ball control:

• Stiffer sticks: Provide more power for shots and passes but may sacrifice some feel and control
• More flexible sticks: Offer better feel and control but may lack some power in shots
• Balanced flexibility: Many players prefer a stick with moderate flexibility for a mix of power and control

Durability

A durable stick will withstand the rigors of gameplay and practice, saving you money in the long run:

• Composite materials like carbon fiber tend to be the most durable
• Titanium offers excellent durability but at a higher cost
• Aluminum is less durable but can be a good option for beginners or those on a budget

Consider your playing style, level of competition, and budget when evaluating the flexibility and durability of different lacrosse sticks.

The Role of Brand Reputation and Warranty in Lacrosse Stick Selection

When investing in a lacrosse stick, it’s important to consider the reputation of the brand and the warranty offered. These factors can provide peace of mind and ensure you’re getting a quality product:

Brand Reputation

• Research well-known lacrosse brands and read customer reviews
• Look for brands with a history of producing high-quality equipment
• Consider brands that sponsor professional players or teams

Warranty

A good warranty can protect your investment and indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product:

• Check the length of the warranty period
• Understand what is covered (e.g., manufacturing defects, normal wear and tear)
• Be aware of any conditions that might void the warranty

Remember that a reputable brand with a solid warranty may be worth the extra cost for the peace of mind and potential long-term savings it provides.

Customization Options for Women’s Lacrosse Sticks

Customizing your lacrosse stick can help you achieve the perfect feel and performance for your playing style. Here are some customization options to consider:

Shaft Customization

• Grip tape or cushioned grips for improved handling
• Custom colors or designs to express your personality
• Shaft shape modifications (e.g., octagonal vs. round)

Head Customization

• Stringing patterns to adjust pocket depth and ball control
• Mesh or traditional stringing options
• Custom colors for the head and strings

Performance Enhancements

• Weight adjustments through strategic placement of tape or grip material
• Specialized coatings for improved weather resistance or durability
• Custom-cut lengths to match your exact specifications

Before customizing your stick, make sure to check league regulations to ensure your modifications are legal for competition.

Choosing the perfect women’s lacrosse stick involves careful consideration of various factors, from materials and weight to customization options. By understanding these elements and how they relate to your playing style and position, you can select a stick that enhances your performance on the field. Remember to test different options whenever possible and consult with experienced players or coaches for additional insights. With the right stick in your hands, you’ll be well-equipped to elevate your game and enjoy the sport to its fullest.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stick

Selecting the perfect women’s lacrosse stick is a delicate balancing act. The right stick can elevate your game, while the wrong one can hinder your performance. When browsing sticks, keep these key factors in mind:

First, consider the materials. Lacrosse stick shafts are typically made from aluminum, titanium alloys, or composite materials like carbon fiber. Aluminum shafts are affordable but less durable. Titanium offers a lightweight feel and great strength, but at a higher cost. Composites like carbon fiber combine lightweight maneuverability and power in a longer-lasting package.

Weight and balance are also important. Heavier sticks provide more momentum for powerful checks and shots, but lighter sticks offer quicker handling. Balance refers to how the stick feels in your hands – you want the weight distributed so it doesn’t feel “head-heavy” or “shaft-heavy”.

Pay attention to the length based on your height and position. Attack players tend to prefer shorter sticks for better ball control, while defenders need longer sticks for a wider defensive range. Taller players may also opt for longer sticks. The best length correlates with your height and reach.

Consider the head shape as well. Wider heads have a larger sweet spot while more narrow, pointed heads offer precision. Heads with deeper pockets help cradle and control the ball, while shallow pockets provide quick ball release. Stringing patterns also affect pocket depth and ball control.

Finally, pay attention to factors like the stick’s flexibility, durability, brand reputation, and customization options. Understand warranties too in case of manufacturer defects. With the right knowledge, you’ll find a stick that perfectly suits your needs as an athlete.

Stick Materials: Aluminum, Titanium, Composite

When browsing new women’s lacrosse sticks, one of the most important considerations is the material used to construct the shaft and head. Lacrosse sticks today are typically made from aluminum, titanium alloys, or composite materials.

Aluminum is one of the most common and affordable shaft materials in lacrosse. Aluminum shafts are known for their lightweight feel and easy maneuverability. They also tend to feature a smooth surface texture for excellent ball control. However, aluminum lacks the strength and durability of other materials, so it may not hold up as well over time. Aluminum sticks will bend and dent more easily under pressure. For beginner and intermediate players on a budget though, aluminum gets the job done.

Titanium alloys represent the high-end option for shaft materials. Titanium maintains the lightweight benefits of aluminum but with substantially improved strength properties. Titanium won’t bend or dent nearly as easily as aluminum, and it better resists damage from checks and impacts. This strength comes at a price though – titanium shafts are significantly more expensive than aluminum. However, for elite players, the investment in a titanium stick is well worth it.

Composite materials like carbon fiber have surged in popularity in recent years. Composites blend lightweight maneuverability with impressive strength in a single package. By orienting woven carbon fiber sheets in specific directions, manufacturers can produce shafts and heads optimized for strength, stiffness, and flexibility. Carbon fiber won’t dent like aluminum yet remains lighter than titanium. Advanced composites do come at a premium cost, but deliver excellent performance and longevity.

When selecting a lacrosse stick based on materials, consider your skill level and budget. Beginners may want to start with an affordable aluminum stick. Intermediate and advanced players can gain an edge with composite and titanium sticks. No matter your choice, proper care and maintenance will maximize the lifespan of your equipment.

Stick Weight and Balance

When selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, two important yet often overlooked factors are the weight and balance of the stick. While most players focus on length or materials, getting the right weight and balance can make a big difference in your performance.

In general, lacrosse sticks weigh between 14-17 ounces, excluding the head. Heavier sticks around 16-17 ounces provide more power for checks, scooping, passing, and shooting. The extra weight creates momentum for more forceful play. However, quick stick work, dodging, and ball handling are often easier with a lighter stick around 14-15 ounces. Lightweight sticks are very maneuverable. For most female athletes, a stick in the 14.5-15.5 ounce range provides a nice blend of power and handling.

Balance refers to how the stick feels when holding it. You want the weight to feel evenly distributed rather than shaft-heavy or head-heavy. Proper balance keeps the stick stable and controlled in your hands, especially when cradling the ball. When testing sticks in a store, pay attention to the balance bySimulating motions like cradling and shooting to see how the weight is oriented.

Factors like materials, shaft/head design, and accessories like end caps all impact the balance. For example, adding a heavy metal cap to the end of a lightweight shaft makes the stick feel head-heavy. Finding a stick with natural even balance removes this learning curve. Don’t assume the balance will be perfect just because it’s labeled “women’s lacrosse”—always test it out!

With the right insights on weight and balance, you can find a lacrosse stick optimized for your strength, stature, and position. A balanced, lightweight women’s stick helps any player handle the ball with confidence.

Stick Length Based on Player Height

When selecting a women’s lacrosse stick, determining the right length is crucial for optimal performance. The length affects your reach, ball control, and shooting power. While position plays a role, your height is the primary factor for choosing stick length.

For youth players, stick length correlates with age. For example, U15 players would use a 35.5-36 inch stick. However, for high school, collegiate, and professional players, the length depends on height rather than age.

For field players 5’3″ and under, a 35.5-36 inch stick allows comfortable cradling and handling. At 5’3″ to 5’7″, a 36-37 inch stick provides added reach while maintaining control. For athletes 5’7″ to 5’11”, 37-38 inches gives a nice medium length with versatility for all positions.

Taller field players over 5’11” can extend their range with a 38-39 inch stick or even 39-40 inches if over 6’0″. Maximum legal length for offensive players is 42 inches. Defenders may use sticks up to 52 inches for disrupting passing lanes.

Goalies need an extra long stick of 35.5-48 inches for covering more net. Most prefer 40-44 inches. Shorter goalie sticks allow for quicker reactions while longer sticks provide more coverage.

While height sets the baseline, also consider your position and style. Attack players may opt for shorter sticks for tighter control. Defenders need maximum length for their checks and interceptions. Find the ideal length for your physique that suits your role on the field.

Stick Head Types: Wide, Narrow, Deep

Beyond shaft length, material, and weight, selecting the optimal women’s lacrosse stick head shape is crucial for maximizing your skills. Head dimensions like width, point sharpness, sidewall height, and scoop depth all affect performance.

Wider head shapes have a larger sweet spot and pocket area for easily cradling and controlling the ball. Wide heads provide confidence for players still developing their stick skills. However, wide heads are less accurate for pinpoint passing and shooting. The ball control comes at the cost of some precision.

More narrow, pointed head shapes offer that precision at the expense of some ball control. Skilled players can pass and shoot with pinpoint accuracy using a narrow head. Quick stick checks and poke checks also benefit from the sharp pointed head. The smaller sweet spot does make cradling more difficult though.

Consider head depth as well. Heads with deeper sidewalls and scoops allow for deeper pocket stringing and improved ball retention while running and dodging. Sticks with shallow pockets enable excellent ball release but don’t hold the ball as securely. Finding the right balance is key.

For beginners, wider heads are ideal for building confidence. Intermediate players can upgrade to more narrow heads to sharpen their accuracy. Experts may enjoy the increased control of a narrow, deeper head. Test out a variety of head shapes to discover your perfect fit.

Pocket Depth and Stringing Patterns

A key factor affecting ball control and handling in any women’s lacrosse stick is the pocket – both its depth and stringing pattern. While often overlooked, optimizing your pocket improves performance exponentially.

Shallow pockets release the ball quickly but make it harder to cradle securely while moving. They enable excellent passing and shooting accuracy. Deep pockets allow superior ball retention while dodging and sprinting upfield, but can slow down passing speed and precision.

Mid-depth pockets around 1.5-2 inches offer the best of both worlds. The ball sits deep enough for control during dynamic play, but not too deep to hinder passing or shooting. Work with your local lacrosse retailer to identify the ideal pocket depth for your style and position.

Pocket shape also stems from the stringing pattern. Experienced stringers can craft pockets optimized for hold, release, and shooting channel accuracy. Traditional patterns like triple threats suit most players well, but goalies and defenders may prefer modified shapes like a double wide top for blocking. Mix up stringing materials like leather, nylon, and mesh for customized performance.

Don’t settle for the factory stringing job – take time to develop the optimal pocket for your game. With the right depth and stringing pattern dialed in, your stick skills will rapidly improve across all facets – cradling, passing, catching, and shooting.

Stick Flexibility and Stiffness

Most lacrosse players focus on stick length, materials, and pocket when selecting a new women’s stick. However, the flexibility and stiffness of the shaft are also critical factors influencing performance.

More flexible shafts bend easily when cradling, catching, passing, and shooting. This flex action acts like a slingshot, adding extra speed and power to your mechanics. More flexible sticks can greatly increase ball velocity. However, too much flex can reduce precision and feel unstable.

Stiffer shafts offer that precision and consistency with less bend. The rigid construction provides excellent positional control for snapping wrists shots into tight spots. Cradling and passing feel crisp and accurate. On the downside, stiff shafts limit the potential ball speed from shaft loading and can transmit more vibrations.

Optimizing flex depends on your position and play style. Attack players tend to prefer more flexible sticks for velocity on their shots, feeds, and dodges. Defenders often choose stiff shafts for maximum control when poking and intercepting passes.

Test out a range of flex profiles to determine what feels best for you. Some athletes enjoy mid-flex options that blend accuracy, speed, and control. Don’t limit yourself – flex and stiffness impact performance in ways you may not realize until you experiment.

Stick Durability and Warranties

When selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, it’s wise to consider not just performance factors but also durability and warranty terms in case of defects or damage down the road.

The materials used in shaft and head construction play a major role in long-term durability. Composite sticks with carbon fiber shafts are exceptionally tough and resistant to cracks and dents compared to aluminum. Titanium alloys are stronger than aluminum as well. In the head, materials like high-grade nylon and polycarbonate hold up better over time versus cheaper plastics.

Beyond materials, manufacturing quality matters too. Reputable lacrosse brands engineer sticks to withstand the rigors of the sport. Seams, joints, screw holes, and layer alignments are optimized for durability. Cheap lacrosse sticks often fail quickly due to poor construction.

For peace of mind, look for generous warranty terms just in case defects arise. Many companies offer at least a 12-month warranty on stick workmanship and materials. Others extend up to 2 years or even lifetime warranties against breakage under normal play conditions.

While price factors in, don’t equate high cost with guaranteed longevity. Do your homework reading online reviews and feedback related to durability. With some savvy shopping, you can find an affordable yet long-lasting women’s lacrosse stick.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

With so many lacrosse stick brands on the market, it’s wise to consider company reputation and online reviews when selecting your next women’s stick.

Well-established brands like STX, Maverik, and Brine have earned strong reputations over decades of quality production. Their sticks are used by elite players at all levels. Startups like Epoch and StringKing offer innovation but are less proven over time.

Beyond age though, sturdy reputations stem from delivering consistent performance, durability, and playing experience over multiple product generations. Truly reputable companies stand behind their gear with strong warranties too.

Don’t simply trust the brand name itself. Dive into online reviews from athletes, coaches, and experts to gather direct feedback. What players love or hate about a particular stick provides great insight. Watch for common trends around control, consistency, comfort, and longevity.

Also consider where the stick is produced. Brands like STX engineering and produce sticks domestically to maintain tight quality oversight. Companies outsourcing production overseas tend to struggle with consistency. Made in America sticks inspire confidence.

While pricey, women’s sticks from reputable brands with great reviews justify their cost over the long haul. A top-notch stick improves skills and lasts season after season, outperforming cheap counterparts.

Stick Price and Budget

With women’s lacrosse sticks ranging from $30 up to $300, setting a budget is critical before selecting your next stick. You want to invest wisely without overspending.

Cheaper sticks under $50 use lower grade materials like aluminum and basic plastics. These sticks won’t last through years of play. In the $50 to $100 range, you gain better construction but still with budget materials. From $100 to $200 provides elite alloys and composites.

Beyond $200 you reach premium elite sticks with cutting-edge materials and engineering. While pricier, these pro-level sticks deliver unparalleled performance and longevity. Weigh costs against expected lifespan – a $280 stick that lasts years is better value than a $90 stick you replace annually.

Also consider costs of replacements like heads, meshes, end caps that add up over time. Investing more upfront means fewer replacement parts down the road. Factor in those future costs when setting your budget.

While tempting, avoid ultra-cheap sticks that seem too good to be true. Their poor construction often leads to short lifespans and wasted money. Be wary of used sticks too as their condition is uncertain.

With realistic budget expectations, you can secure an affordable high-performing stick perfect for your needs and skill level. Smart shopping pays dividends.

Stick Customization Options

Beyond factors like length, materials, and flex, consider customization potential when selecting your next women’s lacrosse stick. With custom touches, you can transform an off-the-shelf stick into your ideal performing piece of equipment.

Many lacrosse brands offer sticks with interchangeable heads where you can mix and match heads and shafts. This enables you to upgrade just the head or shaft later on instead of buying entirely new sticks. You can also easily replace just the head if it breaks.

Another customization is adjusting pocket depth and shape through stringing adjustments. While factory stringing gets the job done, optimized pockets require experienced stringers. Work with a pro shop to restring the pockets to your perfect specifications.

You may also want to customize the grip tape, end cap, shooting strings, and sidewall strings to dial in feel and function. Change the flex profile by cutting the shaft for more whip. These small tweaks make a surprising difference.

Some brands also offer full custom graphic options to design your own artwork and colors. This level of personalization allows your stick to match your style and personality.

Don’t settle for an ordinary off-the-shelf model. With the right customizations, your stick becomes an extension of your skills and identity on the field.

Sticks for Different Player Positions

Women’s lacrosse sticks come in a range of configurations tailored for specific playing positions. Understanding these specialized sticks by position allows you to select the best setup for your role on the field.

Attack sticks prioritize quick handling and tight control in traffic around the crease. These sticks feature shorter shafts for tight cradling and maneuverability. Heads are mid-width for some hold but maintain quick release. Flexible shafts generate fast shots.

Midfield sticks balance versatility up and down the field. Medium flex shafts with mid to wide heads suit transitional play. Titanium alloys offer midfield sticks a durability advantage to withstand constant activity.

Defender stick shafts are stiff for excellent positional control when poking and intercepting. Extra long shafts coupled with narrow, pointed heads provide an extended defensive range for reaching checks. Minimal flex keeps the ball in check.

Goalie sticks demand specialized oversized heads up to 12 inches wide for blocking more net. Extra stiff shafts prevent unwanted flex while extending range. Heads have flat scoops and angled sidewalls ideal for deflections.

While you can use anywomen’s stick, optimizing your gear for your role gives you an edge. Don’t try forcing a defender stick to work for attacking. Match your stick to your position and skills.

Buying New vs. Used Sticks

When shopping for your next women’s lacrosse stick, you’ll often find used and pre-owned sticks available at lower prices compared to new models. But is buying used wise?

The main benefit of used sticks is the discounted cost, often 40-60% less than new. This appeals especially to younger players still growing into the sport. However, with heavy prior use, the stick’s performance and life expectancy are uncertain.

Closely inspect all elements of a used stick before purchasing. Check for cracks, dents, bend marks, and head/shaft wear. Ensure the pocket is evenly strung without twisting or damage. Test play with balls to assess handling.

While some pre-owned sticks hold up fine, others may have hidden issues that shorten lifespan or hinder performance. Abuse and improper stringing are common problems. Always test sticks before buying.

For younger beginners, an affordable used stick enables them to grow into the sport without a huge upfront investment. But advancing players need consistent high-end sticks with life left, which used gear cannot guarantee.

Balance cost savings against risks of unreliable equipment. Some “gently used” sticks still have years of play left. But be wary of excessive wear and tear shortening a stick’s usefulness.

Properly Breaking In a New Stick

When you buy a brand new women’s lacrosse stick, a proper break-in period helps optimize performance and durability. Rushing into games without breaking in your stick can diminish its playability.

Start by loosely stringing the head pocket so it forms nice mid-depth channels but doesn’t grip the ball tightly. You want some wiggle room as you begin using it. Tight strings can tear during break-in.

Take the stick to the wall or turf and throw/catch repeatedly to shape the pocket and soften the materials. Wall work mimics the forces seen on the field. Toss the ball from different angles to evenly condition the head and strings.

Introduce ground balls to practice scooping. Use your whole body, not just arms, when scooping for maximum head flex and pocket depth development. Scoop from all angles – low, sideways, behind, over shoulders, etc.

Finally, begin shooting once the pocket takes shape. Low-to-high shots and sidearm shots force the top strings and sidewall materials to flex fully. Again vary your shooting angles and locations.

Ideally dedicate at least 2-3 sessions of 30-60 minutes over a week or two to properly break in your stick. It takes time for the materials to align and soften. But the payoff is stellar performance throughout the season.

Matching Stick to Your Playing Style

With all the factors to consider when selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, one notion ties everything together – matching the stick to your personal playing style and strengths.

Think critically about your technique. Are you a power player reliant on forceful dodges, checks, and shots? Then a stiffer, heavier stick provides that momentum. Finesse players should choose lightweight, flexible sticks for quick maneuvers.

Analyze your stick handling. If cradling and control are weaknesses, choose wider heads for confidence. Those with great hands can use narrow heads for precision passing and shooting.

Consider your athleticism too. More flexible and lighter sticks suit smaller, quicker athletes over bigger stronger players that can handle stiffer sticks. Identify attributes you want to leverage.

Being honest about your abilities, preferences and approach to the game narrows the field of ideal stick options. While gaining skills with different equipment is beneficial, excel now with a stick matching your strengths.

Before even shopping, envision your perfect stick based on how you play. With an informed idea of what works for your game, you can identify the right lacrosse stick much faster.