Craft Your Dream Lacrosse Stick with a Custom Stringing Kit

Craft Your Dream Lacrosse Stick with a Custom Stringing Kit

Customize Your Lacrosse Stick with Mesh Stringing Kits

One of the best ways to craft your dream lacrosse stick is to use a mesh stringing kit. These kits provide all the essential supplies you need to restring your lacrosse head from scratch. The main component is the lacrosse mesh. Mesh comes in a variety of materials like nylon, leather, and wax that are designed to optimize ball control. The best mesh for you depends on your position and playing style. For example, a looser pocket with more whip is ideal for offensive players who want extra power on shots. Meanwhile, tighter channeling provides superior ball retention for midfielders and defenders. Other vital kit components are sidewall string, shooting strings, and stringing accessories like kites and crimpers. Top brands renowned by players and stringers alike are StringKing, ECD, Throne, and East Coast Dyes. Their pre-assembled mesh kits take the guesswork out of finding complementary stringing supplies. Consider your skill level when deciding between a DIY kit or a pre-strung option. Complete beginners may want an easier all-in-one package, while experienced stringers will enjoy customizing their diamond, triangle, or traditional pocket pattern. Watch online tutorials for guidance on stringing basics. Don’t be afraid to experiment with things like unique sidewall lace designs as you develop your stringing style. Properly stringing your own stick offers many benefits compared to factory options. You can continually tweak the pocket shape, shooting strings, and sidewalls until you achieve your ideal ball release, hold, and handling. Maintaining and adjusting your own mesh also saves on restringing costs in the long run. Most importantly, you can shape your pocket to perfectly match your on-field technique. Upgrade from a generic stick to a custom strung lacrosse weapon this season!

Top Brands for Lacrosse Stringing Kits

When shopping for your custom lacrosse stringing kit, you’ll want to look for top quality supplies from the leading brands in the sport. Companies like StringKing, ECD, Throne, and East Coast Dyes have earned the trust of players andstringers for their premium mesh, shooting strings, sidewall, and stringing tools. StringKing is one of the most popular options for complete stringing kits. They offer an array of versatile nylon, soft mesh, and hard mesh options perfect for matching different player styles and positions. The MonoMesh and MaeStro mesh are ultra consistent pocket options built for optimal ball control. StringKing’s pre-assembled Stringkits take the guesswork out of finding complementary shooting strings, sidewalls, and lace. Throne Mesh is another go-to brand amongst professional stringers.They are especially known for durable wax mesh that maintains its shape through countless practices and games. The Freak Kit provides an easy all-in-one package with Freak Wax mesh, Freakshow shooting strings, and sidewall. Or you can combine the wax mesh with StringKing accessories for a hybrid kit. ECD is synonymous with traditional nylon lacrosse mesh. Their Bravo and Mirage meshes offer consistent traditional pocket feels with different diamond sizes. East Coast Dyes has stepped up their stringing supplies game recently with high quality waxed hockey laces for sidewalls and custom dyed leathers. Building a custom stringing kit with mesh and components from multiple top brands lets you take advantage of each company’s specialties. Don’t be afraid to mix and match products to create your dream pocket and sidewall setup. Then you can restring sticks for your teammates once you become a mesh stringing expert!

Mesh Stringing Kits For Optimal Ball Control

One of the most important custom stringing kit components is your choice of lacrosse mesh. The mesh greatly impacts the overall pocket feel, ball control, and shooting performance. After the head itself, mesh is the biggest factor affecting the ball’s release, hold, and handling. Thus it’s crucial to pick mesh suited for your position and playing style. For example, offensive players often prefer soft mesh for extra whip on hard shots. The flexibility helps generate more ball speed. Soft meshes like StringKing Type 3 are also very customizable, as you can tweak the pocket channel width, diamond shape, and shooting strings until you achieve your desired level of hold. StringKing MonoMesh is another smart choice for face-off specialists and attackmen seeking consistency and quick breaks after faceoff wins.

On the other hand, stiffer hard mesh kits provide the superior ball retention needed by defenders and midfielders. StringKing’s Carbon Pro pocket is a top choice, featuring a composite material that keeps its shape through contact. StringKing claims it’s up to 5 times more durable than soft mesh. Waxed mesh like Throne Mesh takes stiffness a step further by waterproofing the pockets. This prevents bagging out over time for ultimate pocket consistency. The wax coating also repels mud and dirt. While you’ll still need to occasionally reset the pocket, waxed mesh holds its shape much longer than traditional soft mesh. If you’re still unsure what mesh suits your game, try talking to teammates or browsing lacrosse forums for guidance. With the right mesh kit and proper stringing technique, you’ll notice much better command over possession and passing. Don’t settle for lackluster ball control this season.

Complete Kits With All Stringing Essentials

Rather than piecing together stringing supplies from multiple sources, complete kits offer a convenient all-in-one solution. These kits provide all the essentials like mesh, sidewalls, shooting strings, and tools to restring your lacrosse stick from scratch. Complete mesh stringing kits eliminate the guesswork of finding complementary products that work well together. They ensure you have everything you need for DIY pocket stringing without any trips back to the lacrosse store.

Many top brands like StringKing, ECD, and Throne offer pre-assembled mesh kits to make your stringing job easier. StringKing’s StringKits include premium MonoMesh or MaeStro mesh cut to size along with coated sidewall, shooting cords, and wooden kite stringing tools. The Throne Mesh Complete Kit provides high quality Throne Mesh with strong Freakshow shooters and wax-coated sidewalls. For a basic starter kit, you can find inexpensive nylon mesh options from brands like ECD and Main Street Lacrosse Supply. Or take your stringing fully custom by buying a la carte mesh, strings, leathers, and accessories. This lets you tailor your kit to your perfect pocket and sidewall pattern.

While complete kits offer convenience, they do limit your options compared to building your own custom bundle. Consider your skill level and how much you want to customize when choosing between an all-in-one kit or individual supplies. No matter what you choose, follow online stringing tutorials and keep tweaking your pattern until you master your ideal pocket. Then your custom strung stick will give you a major edge over players using generic factory strings.

Kits Designed for Each Playing Position

Lacrosse stringing kits are now designed to match the unique needs of each playing position. Attack kits offer more whip and increased ball speed for powerful shots on cage. Midfield kits focus on overall consistency and durability to maintain possession during transitions. Meanwhile, defensive kits emphasize superior ball retention and quick sticks to facilitate checking and outlets. Even goalies can now find specialty mesh and shooter kits to restring the pockets on their sticks.

For attackmen, StringKing Type 3F meshes give you extra power and control for burying shots top cheddar. Offset shooting strings amplified whip while wider diamonds add hold. Goalie mesh and hard mesh options work for more defensive minded midfielders hustling up and down the field. The stiffer materials maintain their shape better through contact for reliable passes and clears. Waxed mesh kits from Throne provide waterproof stiffness to outlast extreme midfield wear and tear.

Defenders need tight channeling and strong sidewalls for securing 50/50 ground balls against pressure. East Coast Dyes and StringKing reinforced leathers make ideal sidewalls to box in narrower pockets. For goalies, oversized mesh provides extra blocking surface to turn away high shot attempts. Custom shooter set ups on the scoop help punch clear attempts down field. Whether you take face-offs, stop high heaters, or grind it out at LSM, stringing your stick catered to your position gives you an edge. The right pocket can elevate every part of your game.

Choose Pre-Assembled Kits or Custom Bundles

When shopping for DIY lacrosse stringing kits, you’ll need to decide between complete pre-assembled kits or building your own custom bundle. Pre-assembled kits from brands like StringKing, ECD, and Throne provide all the essentials in one convenient package. The mesh, sidewalls, shooting strings, and tools are all cut to size and ready to string. These all-in-one options get you stringing faster without worrying about compatibility. They also provide guidance for beginners on complementary products.

On the other hand, buying supplies a la carte lets you completely customize your stringing kit. Mix and match your favorite mesh, leathers, and shooter options from multiple top brands. Tailor the diamond size, materials, and colors to your preferences. This approach takes more research and trial-and-error to find your ideal pocket pattern. But the end result is a lacrosse stick strung exactly how you want it.

Consider your mesh stringing skill level when choosing between pre-assembled convenience or total customization. Novice stringers may want an all-inclusive starter kit for their first restringing project. Watch online videos to learn proper stringing techniques. Once you have the basics down, you can start blending different sidewall materials and shooter setups. Veteran stringers may enjoy the creative freedom of crafting a kit from scratch. Whichever option you choose, take the time to get the pockets and channels exactly how you like them. Your personalized pocket could bring your game to the next level.

Tips for Finding the Right Pocket Setup

One of the trickiest parts of DIY lacrosse stringing is figuring out the ideal pocket and channel setup. The pocket shape impacts crucial aspects like ball retention, release, and handling. Offensive players generally prefer more whip and quicker releases for faster shots. Meanwhile, defenders need superior ball control for protecting possessions. Here are some tips for finding your perfect pocket channel:

• Loosen pockets to increase whip and hold. Widen diamonds, shift shooters lower, and use mesh with more give.
• Tighten pockets to restrict whip, quicken release, and protect ball. Tighten diamonds, raise shooters, and use stiff mesh.
• Match pocket to your stick head, arm strength, and shooting mechanics. Wider heads pair well with looser pockets.
• Watch YouTube stringing tutorials and study pockets on teammates’ sticks. Mimic patterns that match your style.
• Start with a mid/mid-low pocket and adjust from there. You can always increase or decrease whip.
• Use a lacrosse ball and scale to continually measure pocket depth and sweet spot as you string.
• Playwall with different setups to test ball feel before cutting excess mesh.

Don’t be overwhelmed. Start with a basic mid pocket and make minor tweaks until you achieve the perfect release, hold, and handling combination. Your ideal pocket could be just a few diamonds or shooter adjustments away.

Adding Personalized Shooting Strings and Sidewalls

An easy way to make your custom strung pocket unique is to get creative with shooting strings and sidewall patterns. While mesh and pocket shape heavily influence performance, adding personalized shooter and sidewall styles allows you to put your own stamp on the stick. Shooting strings not only adjust pocket feel, they also let you express yourself through different lace styles and colors. Skip boring nylon shooters and try wax-coated options, leathers, or brightly colored cords. You can string double straight shooters for consistency or get fancy with Vs, chevrons, or special stringking techniques like the Evo X. On old school traditional pockets, checkerboard and triple X shooting string patterns are back in style.

Custom sidewall stringing also enables tons of creativity. Standard plastic or nylon lacrosse sidewalls get the job done, but liven things up with colored leathers, sci-ti dyed laces, or alternating materials. Unique sidewall patterns like corkscrew, sawtooth, and staircase laces make your stick stand out. Pro stringers use distinct sidewall and shooter styles as their signature. As you develop your stringing skills, try new lace techniques until you craft your personal style. Then switch up your designs each time you restring a stick. With the right shooting strings and sidewalls, your pocket will be a true custom work of art.

Alternate Mesh Materials For Unique Pockets

When choosing your stringing kit mesh, don’t limit yourself to traditional nylon. Lacrosse pockets now come in a range of unique materials that affect performance. Alternatives like wax mesh, tennis racket mesh, and composite materials each have distinct strengths. Wax mesh from Throne provides waterproof stiffness and durability for maximum consistency. The wax coating helps the pockets retain shape and repels moisture. Tennis racket mesh offers similar properties but with thinner profile diamonds more suited for tight channeling. StringKing’s Carbon Pro hard mesh uses advanced composite materials for the ultimate in shape retention and abrasion resistance.

For added grip and quick break-in, leather meshes like StringKing Classic offer unmatched traditional feels. Or go completely old school with authentic gut mesh pockets. Looking to add swag? StringKing and Wolf Athletics meter mesh incorporates colorful logos and designs within the woven pockets. Other niche mesh options include UV resistant neon nylon from Jimalax and glow in the dark mesh from Firefly.

Don’t just default to plain white nylon mesh. Exploring different materials and woven patterns allows you to find the perfect match for your game. Seek out mesh with specific properties like added stiffness, grip, flexibility, or unique visuals. Watch review videos to understand the performance benefits of each material. With endless mesh options now available, you can craft a truly one-of-a-kind pocket. Your custom kit is the perfect chance to try an advanced mesh material and make your stick stand out.

Ensure Optimal Whip, Hold, and Release

The main goal when stringing your own pocket is dialing in the ideal whip, hold, and release. Offensive players want more dramatic whip for increased shot speed, along with mid-range hold to protect the ball on drives. Defensive long poles need superior hold during checks but quick releases when moving the ball in transition. Here are some tips for getting your preferred pocket performance:

• Increase whip with wide diamonds and low pocket placement. Use soft mesh or mesh with added give.
• Quicken release by raising bottom shooters, tightening diamonds, and stiffening the channel.
• Improve hold by widening diamonds, lowering shooters, and knotting the ends of shooting strings.
• Adjust pocket depth so the ball sits just above the bottom plastic when cradling.
• For midfielders, find a middle ground between whip and release. Consider semi-soft mesh options.
• Defenders need rigid pockets that retain shape even when checked. Use stiff materials like Throne wax mesh.
• Use a lacrosse ball and pocket pounder tool to continually measure sweet spot depth as you string.

By starting mid-range and making incremental adjustments, you can achieve your ideal extremes of whip, hold, or quick release. Pay attention to how mesh stiffness also impacts the pocket feel. With practice, you’ll be able to finesse the perfect pocket performance for your style of play.

Benefits of DIY Stringing vs Pro-Strung Sticks

Stringing your own stick offers many advantages compared to buying pre-strung factory options. With DIY stringing you can:

• Customize pocket shape, depth, width, and materials perfectly for your preferences. Tweak until you achieve your ideal whip, hold, and release.
• Adjust pocket and shooters over time as mesh bags out from use. Keep the same consistent feel.
• Personalize by adding unique shooting strings, sidewall lace patterns, and dye colors.
• Save money by restringing your stick multiple times versus paying for pro stringing each time.
• Learn useful stringing skills and impress teammates by restringing their sticks.
• Tailor pockets precisely for your stick head width, flex, and scoop shape.
• Create different pockets for practice vs game use.

Of course, DIY stringing has a learning curve. But with practice and by studying stringing tutorials, you can master restringing your sticks. Once you learn basic techniques like interlocks, knots, and shooters, you can continually refine your pattern. The ability to customize your pocket on an ongoing basis gives you a huge advantage. As mesh bags with use, you can restore the original shape and feel versus having to get a whole new string job. Take your game into your own hands this season with DIY mesh stringing kits.

Easy Step-By-Step Instructions for Restringing

Even if you’ve never strung a stick before, it’s easy to pick up the basics with simple step-by-step instructions. Here’s an overview of the DIY stringing process:

First, prep the head by disassembling any existing strings and removing debris inside the scoop. Use pliers to take out end caps if necessary.

Next, measure and cut your mesh to roughly match the entire width and length of the head. Leave several extra diamonds on each end to allow for adjustments.

Line up the midpoint of the mesh with the midpoint of the head. Start interlocking the first few diamonds to the sidewall holes using a kite stringing tool.

Continue stringing diamonds moving outwards from the center until you reach the scoop. Use single or double interlock knots.

Once the mesh is attached, install the shooting strings. Start with nylons across the throat, then add Vs, straights, or other patterns in the pocket.

Tie off and trim excess mesh and shooting strings. Use a ball and ruler to check pocket depth and make adjustments.

Finish by installing sidewalls. Lace sidewall string from hole to hole using various patterns like traditional, chevron,sawtooth, or staircase.

Throughout the process, continually check pocket depth and make minor adjustments until you achieve your ideal shape. Don’t worry about perfection on your first try! Just focus on learning the fundamentals first.

With a basic starter kit, online tutorial, and a few attempts, you’ll be on your way to mastering DIY lacrosse stringing. Soon you’ll be restringing sticks for the whole team!

Mesh and Pocket Maintenance Tips

One advantage of stringing your own stick is being able to properly maintain the mesh and pocket. With DIY stringing knowledge, you can keep your pockets crisp longer before needing a full restring. Here are some key maintenance tips:

• Periodically check pocket depth and shooting strings. Adjust as needed to maintain the original shape.
• Use a pocket pounder tool to compress and reshape distorted diamonds after heavy use.
• Wash mesh and shooting strings with mild detergent and water to remove built up dirt and debris.
• For wax mesh, re-apply wax coating once it starts wearing thin to maintain waterproofing.
• Store sticks with a lacrosse ball inside the pocket to help retain shape. Don’t cram it tightly in a bag.
• Replace old shooting strings once fraying occurs. You can refresh shooters without fully restringing.
• Reset the original pocket shape after heavy use by adjusting diamonds, shooters, and sidewalls.
• Know when to restring completely – usually when mesh loses its original structure and hold.
• Consider carrying a backup stick strung for practice so you don’t wear out your gamer prematurely.

With proper care, you can prolong the life of your custom pocket. Take advantage of your DIY skills to keep your pockets fresh all season long. Then when it finally is time to restring, you’ll know exactly how to duplicate your perfect pocket pattern.

Where to Buy Custom Stringing Supplies Online

Thanks to online retailers, finding quality DIY lacrosse stringing supplies is easier than ever. Here are some top ecommerce shops for buying mesh, shooting strings, sidewalls, and tools:

LacrosseMonkey.com – One of the largest online lacrosse stores with a huge selection of stringing kits and individual components. Browse mesh and leathers from all the top brands.

StringKing.com – Direct from the source, StringKing’s site lets you design custom mesh kits using their premium Stringking Mesh, shooters, and sidewalls.

ThroneOfString.com – Throne is the go-to for high quality waxed mesh. Their site offers pre-cut kits or build your own custom wax mesh and accessories bundle.

MaverikLacrosse.com – Maverik-owned retailer carries a variety of meshes, nylons, and leathers to complete your kit.

EastCoastDyes.com – Known for craft waxed hockey laces and leathers, ECD offers colorful customizable sidewall options.

Amazon.com – Search Amazon for bargain deals on basic mesh kits, tools, and shooting strings for beginners.

LacrosseBallStop.com – Specialty retailer providing lacrosse ball sets for pocket and depth testing when stringing.

In addition to the major online shops, many smaller specialty stringing sites offer unique niche products. Browse lacrosse forums and YouTube channels to discover new custom gear. With so many ecommerce options today, you can easily find quality supplies for your custom stringing kit. Happy stringing!

How a Custom Strung Stick Can Improve Your Game

Switching to a lacrosse stick you’ve strung yourself with a personalized pocket can provide a real in-game advantage. Here are some of the biggest benefits of using a custom strung stick:

• Optimized ball control, hold, release, and shot speed tailored exactly for your style of play.
• Ability to adjust the pocket shape over time as mesh breaks in to maintain feel.
• Added whip or quick release precisely tuned for your position, head width, and arm strength.
• Extra confidence in your possession skills knowing the pocket is dialed in just right.
• Unique shooting strings, sidewalls, and designs to intimidate opponents.
• Correct pocket placement matched to your specific scoop shape and sweet spot preference.
• Practice sticks with shallower pockets to improve fundamentals, paired with deeper gamer pockets.
• New level of command over every pass, catch, and shot thanks to the personalized pocket.

While it takes practice to master stringing, the payoff of improved performance is well worth the effort. Don’t settle for generic factory stringing. Take matters into your own hands this season with custom DIY mesh kits. Gain an instant edge over your matchup with the confidence of knowing every inch of your head is optimized for you. Bring your game to the next level with the unmatched feel of a pocket you’ve strung yourself.