Crux 400 Head Review Best Black Lacrosse Stick in 2023

Crux 400 Head Review Best Black Lacrosse Stick in 2023

Stiffness and Flex of the Crux 400 Head Sidewalls

One of the standout features of the Crux 400 head is the optimized stiffness and flex pattern built into the sidewalls. This head uses a composite material featuring aerospace-grade components to deliver an ideal blend of rigidity and give. The upper sidewalls utilize a stiffer formulation to maintain the head shape and provide responsiveness on shots and passes. Meanwhile, the lower sidewalls incorporate more flex to allow the pocket to move fluidly while cradling. This differential stiffness enables excellent ball control during dynamic play.

According to player reviews, the Crux 400 has a medium-high sidewall stiffness rating. It has enough structure to generate substantial whip on shots, yet retains some give for securing 50/50 balls. When strung traditionally, it has a defined snap point that makes passing and shooting very consistent. The head holds its shape well even after prolonged use, meaning the flex profile stays uniform for the life of the head.

For faceoffs, the sidewall stiffness offers a very quick exit release off the clamp. Faceoff specialists report that the head pops right off the plastic, allowing for explosive acceleration out of the draw. The stiffness also provides an advantage in box battles by giving leveraged clamp integrity. Overall, the Crux 400’s sidewalls offer an elite blend of rigidity and flexibilty to enhance performance.

Weight and Balance of the Crux 400 Head

Finding the optimal balance between weight and durability is critical for any lacrosse head. The Crux 400 does an outstanding job at striking this balance, coming in at a total strung weight of just 5.9 oz. This places it on the lighter end of the spectrum, making it easy to maneuver quickly with minimal fatigue.

The head originates from a high-grade composite material that keeps excess heft to a minimum without compromising structural integrity. Strategic cutouts along the sidewalls and scoop further reduce weight while retaining critical stiffness. The lightweight build enhances ball handling ability by allowing fast changes of direction during cradling. It also minimizes neck strain when stick handling or riding on defense.

In addition to optimizing overall weight, the Crux 400 is specifically engineered for ideal balance and feel. The head is weighted slightly towards the bottom, resulting in a low center of gravity. This makes the stick very whippy when shooting, adding velocity for more power. It also gives it a quick release, as the center of mass stays closer to the shaft axis during passing.

Several pros recommend using a lightweight shaft in combination with the Crux 400 head to maximize the agile feel. When paired with a hybrid shaft like the Dragonfly or a composite like the Carbon Pro, it makes for an incredibly mobile setup. The head’s lightness already provides quick handling, so a lightweight shaft compounds that effect.

Overall, the exceptional balance and mass properties of the Crux 400 give it best-in-class maneuverability. The strategic weight reduction allows players to change direction fluidly while maintaining a potent shot. This combination of mobility and velocity make it one of the most versatile heads on the market.

Pocket Design and Stringing Options for the Crux 400 Head

One of the most important aspects of any lacrosse head is the pocket design and stringing potential. The Crux 400 comes engineered to accommodate a wide range of pocket styles and stringing configurations. This versatility helps players customize the head to their specific preferences.

The sidewall and scoop geometries allow for a nice natural pocket shape. The ball ramp leads smoothly up to a moderately defined channel, great for beginners learning to string. For more advanced stringers, the head has a very workable middle and offers ample placement possibilities. An open throat concept provides ample room down low for creative shooting nylons.

Players report the Crux 400 can be strung traditionally with a solid mid-low pocket, or in a more pinched style for added hold. It handles both hard mesh and soft mesh well. The pocket location can also be tuned higher or lower based on faceoff needs or an individual’s passing technique. For FOGOs, a higher set-up with an exaggerated mid-channel gives extra ball control when clamping down.

With its u-shaped throat and symmetrical sidewall design, the pocket shape remains consistent regardless of head rotation or offset. This allows for consistent release points from all angles. The Crux 400 also throws very accurately when strung with an illegal Canadian pocket, a testament to its versatile stringing geometry.

While the Crux 400 comes with factory strings, most players recommend replacing them with higher quality mesh and nylon. The head leaves ample room for shooters, so using cross-laced wax mesh helps add hold. A three-string top nylon setup also dial in the channel and pocket location. With the right strings, the Crux becomes an absolute cannon.

Thanks to thoughtful engineering, the Crux 400 is a stringer’s dream. It can be finessed into a customized pocket shape that caters to any style of play. The adaptable design and premium materials make it one of the most versatile heads on the market.

Durability of Materials and Construction of the Crux 400 Head

With the repetitive impacts inherent in lacrosse, durability is a major factor in head performance. The Crux 400 utilizes premium materials and an innovative construction process to maximize structural integrity and prolong head life.

The head originates from Aerospace-grade composites featuring top-end fibers and resins. This imparts an impressive strength-to-weight ratio that prevents cracking or warping even under intense game loads. The materials also retain memory very well, allowing the head to maintain its shape season after season.

Additionally, the sidewalls and scoop incorporate strategic titaniumreinforcements. These ultra-strong yet lightweight titanium bars provide supplementary protection in high-stress regions. This added armoring boosts point durability for faceoff specialists who pin their opponents’ sticks repeatedly.

The Crux 400 is also engineered using advanced 3D printing techniques for structural enhancement. This process optimizes the fiber alignment and topology in critical areas. The resulting matrix better distributes impact forces throughout the head to prevent localized breakage.

According to player testimonials, the Crux 400 holds up incredibly well, even under heavy use. The composite maintains its stiffness and the screw holes don’t become egged out. One faceoff player reported his Crux lasting two full seasons of college games and practices with zero issues.

For those players who manage to break a Crux 400, the head is covered by a comprehensive twelve month warranty. This allows free replacements in case of defects or damage under normal conditions. Considering the highly durable construction, warranty claims remain rare.

With smart material choices, reinforced weak points, and optimized manufacturing, the Crux 400 sets the standard for head toughness. It maintains its playability and pocket integrity for longer than most heads on the market.

Crux 400 Head Performance for Faceoffs

In the ultra-competitive realm of faceoffs, small advantages in head performance can mean winning or losing the draw. The Crux 400 gives faceoff specialists and FOGOs some key benefits to help dominate possessions.

The head’s sidewall stiffness provides excellent clamp integrity when leveraging or locking off. The composite resists warping or twisting, allowing faceoff athletes to apply maximal hand and body strength. The crisp sidewalls also give the head a very quick exit release off the plastic, enabling quick first steps to gain early position.

Additionally, the scoop and throat design assist in clean exits and fast breaks. The rounded scoop moves smoothly along the ground during 50/50 scrums, facilitating clean scoops. It also gives a shortened distance from ball to head for quicker ball pickup. The throat area offers ample clearance to hug the ball tightly into the pocket on clamp wins.

For players who like to pin their opponent’s stick and play more physical, the Crux 400 holds up well. The titanium-reinforced sidewalls and durable composite materials prevent cracking. Overall stiffness also resists excessive warping during box battles or motorcycle grip fights.

According to faceoff specialists, the Crux 400 provides excellent ground ball and scrap control. The pocket moves fluidly to secure contested possessions, thanks to the optimized sidewall flex. Its lightweight build also reduces neck strain when battling crouched down for low balls.

With its blend of stiffness, strength and maneuverability, the Crux 400 empowers players to win draws through technique, reaction time or physicality. It’s a great choice whether you rely on speed, power or finesse at the X.

Ball Control and Hold with the Crux 400 Head

Maintaining possession is a fundamental key to success in lacrosse. The Crux 400 gives players excellent ball control and hold capabilities to help dominate the ball.

The head’s mid-low pocket location cradles very cleanly, keeping the ball tight to the pocket through dynamic stick handling. This prevents the ball from rattling around or dislodging prematurely on cuts or dodges. The pocket moves fluidly to dampen out bad passes and absorb checks. Additionally, the optimized sidewall stiffness provides a defined snap point for superior ball retention.

For players who carry up top, the Crux 400 offers ample thumb and finger holes in the scoop to really leverage the stick. This allows dodgers to hug the ball tightly and shield it from prying checks on drives to the cage. For carriers who like to run the right side alley, the asymmetric sidewall openings also facilitate wrapping the thumb for security.

In the clearing game, the head’s lightweight build enhances quick stick switches to elude oncoming riders. The Crux 400 transitions cleanly from strong hand to off hand, allowing midfielders to maintain their speed and momentum while changing ball-side. This forces defenders to respect both hands, opening cutback lanes.

According to reviewers, the Crux really excels at holding the ball through contact. Its optimized flex profile absorbs checks without giving up the ball on shots or passes. Ground balls stick firmly in the pocket once acquired, enabling play through traffic.

With its dialed-in pocket location, armored scoop, and lightweight agility, the Crux 400 gives lacrosse players total confidence to create their own shot, push transition, and dominate possession.

Scooping Ground Balls with the Crux 400 Head

Gaining possession off the turf is a vital skill in lacrosse. The Crux 400 gives players an advantage on ground balls thanks to its lightweight build and scoop design.

Weighing in at just 5.9 ounces strung, the Crux 400 has one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios on the market. The ultra lightweight construction enhances quick changes of direction to beat opponents to 50/50 balls. It also reduces fatigue during extended ground ball battles, keeping legs fresher.

The head’s rounded scoop has a smooth, beveled edge that works cleanly along the turf to corral ground balls. This prevents skipping or ricocheting during scrap situations, leading to more controlled pickups. The scoop’s elongated shape also gives it a larger contact surface area to wrangle contested balls.

Additionally, the sidewall cutouts and open throat facilitate quick ball entry once contacted. The shortened distance from the scoop to the pocket gets the ball secured faster to elude defenders. For players who like to channel balls with their feet, the Crux 400 scoops with ease off of hard kicks or slides.

In traffic, the Crux 400 moves fluidly to maintain possession integrity through contact. The pocket dampens out incidental slashes, while the stiff sidewalls prevent jar-outs. This allows midfielders and defensemen to clear through pressure despite physical defense.

Whether tracking long outlet passes or battling three players for a scrum ball, the Crux 400’s blend of speed, control, and protection gives lacrosse athletes an edge. Its superior ground ball capabilities help teams win possessions and gain momentum.

Cradling and Ball Retention with the Crux 400 Head

Maintaining composure while navigating through pressure is critical for offensive success. The Crux 400 provides excellent cradling and ball retention to help dodgers and carriers thrive.

The head’s mid-low pocket location hugs the ball tight to the plastic during dynamic play. This prevents the ball from rattling around prematurely, even through sharp cuts or direction changes. The pocket bag also dampens out incidental checks, keeping possession smooth.

During alley dodges or split rolls, the Crux 400 cradles cleanly while shielding the stick. The lightweight build enhances quick hand switching behind the back or between legs to elude defenders. The ball stays controlled throughout thanks to the optimized sidewall snap and pocket hold.

For players who carry up top, the elongated scoop is ideal for leveraging the stick. Extra holes along the scoop allow offensive players to really hug the ball while initiating contact. This protects the ball when dropping shoulders into defenders or spinning off checks.

According to reviewers, the Crux 400 excels at retention through contact thanks to its strength and pocket design. The ball sticks inside the head rather than dislodging prematurely, even when hammered during drives. The pocket absorbs checks and slashes without giving up possession.

With its disciplined cradling and added physical protection, the Crux 400 instills confidence in all lacrosse carriers. Players report feeling more composed driving to the cage and breaking down defenders in one-on-one situations.

Shooting Power and Accuracy with the Crux 400 Head

Putting the ball in the back of the net is the ultimate objective in lacrosse. The Crux 400 provides elite-level shooting performance through a blend of power, accuracy, and quickness.

The head’s mid-high pocket and U-shaped throat generate substantial whip on shots. When paired with a stiff composite shaft, it creates explosive velocity for blistering shots on cage. The pocket holds the ball securely through the wind-up, channeling energy directly into the ball at release. This generates more sting on the goalie’s pads and gloves.

Despite its cannon-like velocity, the Crux 400 maintains precision thanks to the consistent flex profile. The head whips uniformly across all sidewall orientations to deliver repeatable accuracy. Shooters report their shot placement improves noticeably when switching to the Crux.

The head also excels at quick stick shots around the crease. The lightweight build and smooth release point facilitate shooting accurately on the move. Attackmen note the Crux provides excellent ball control for quick back-handed shots after rolls.

Additionally, face-dodgers praise the split-second shot responsiveness. They can release the ball immediately off an inside roll thanks to the fast sidewall recovery. This adds another threat level against sliding defenders.

With its explosive power, pinpoint precision, and split-second release, the Crux 400 gives shooters the complete offensive skillset. The combination of velocity, control, and quickness make it one of the most potent shooting heads in the game.

Quick Stick Capabilities of the Crux 400 Head

Quick stick passing and shooting require responsive heads with superior ball control. The Crux 400 provides lightning-fast handling for midfield connections and inside rolls.

The head’s lightweight build and optimized balance facilitate rapid changes of direction. Players report noticeably quicker stick rotation and lateral transitions. This allows for pulling off shots or feeds faster off a dodge or switch.

The defined channel and mid-low pocket enable excellent hold through the passing motion. The ball stays locked in the center of the head for clean releases and accurate targeting. Even off-balanced or on the run, the Crux 400 delivers crisp rotation and a consistent snap point.

Faceoff specialists praise the responsive quick-stick performance immediately after a draw win. The head moves the ball out of the throat rapidly for instant feeds or shots on goal. This puts pressure on the defense before they can react or slide properly.

For crease attackmen, the Crux 400 offers exceptional control on tight stick moves. The smooth scoop facilitates quick back-handed shots after seal rolls. It also enables clean tight passes from odd angles around the inside post.

With its combination of speed, precision, and hold, the Crux 400 empowers lacrosse players to make split-second decisions. Its ultra-quick handling helps teams find gaps in the defense, connect on interior passes, and score in transition.

Clearing Speed and Transitions with the Crux 400 Head

Pushing tempo in transition creates scoring chances before defenders can react properly. The Crux 400 excels at fast breaks thanks to its agile build and handling.

Weighing in at just 5.9 ounces strung, the lightweight Crux 400 enhances acceleration up the field. Middies can achieve top-end speed faster, turning a routine ground ball into a breakaway. The reduced mass also allows quicker changes of direction to elude backside defenders.

The optimized balance facilitates smooth clears through pressure. The Crux transitions cleanly from strong to off hand, enabling accurate feeds at full sprint. Attackmen praise the head’s performance clearing through traffic against a press ride.

Thanks to the quick offset and sturdy sidewalls, the ball is less likely to jar free when knocked during clears. The pocket moves fluidly to absorb incidental slashes and pokes while maintaining integrity. This allows players to initiate contact at the midfield and blow past coverage.

In the open field, the Crux 400 enables pushing tempo up to top speed. The head feels extremely maneuverable when cradling at a full gallop. Players report feeling increased confidence sprinting up-field thanks to the smooth ride.

With its featherlight body and hyper-responsive handling, the Crux 400 empowers teams to push transition opportunities. Its speed and ball security allow generating chances before defenses can recover and organize.

Value and Cost of the Crux 400 Head

With lacrosse gear pricing continuing to climb, value becomes an important consideration. The Crux 400 provides elite-level performance at a very competitive price point.

At an MSRP of $89.99, the Crux 400 costs significantly less than most high-end heads. Despite the lower cost, it outperforms or matches heads priced over $150 in terms of quality. Considering the premium materials, durable construction, and versatile design, it’s an outstanding value for the money.

For players on a budget, the Crux 400 represents one of the best performance values on the market. It competes head-to-head with pro-level heads at half the price. Compared to other heads in its price tier, it offers noticeably higher capabilities across all facets.

The Crux 400 also retains its playability and pocket shape much longer than most heads. So while the upfront cost is lower, the long-term value is even higher considering the lifespan. Between the 12-month warranty and durable materials, it easily lasts over two full seasons of play.

For parents buying multiple heads per season or players who go through sticks quickly, the Crux 400 offers big savings. The quality allows it to be a go-to gamer head option. The price point then enables stocking up multiple backups without breaking the bank.

With its professional-grade performance and budget-friendly pricing, the Crux 400 gives lacrosse athletes an elite head that won’t empty their wallet. It represents one of the best all-around values in the sport.

Comparing the Crux 400 to Other Lacrosse Heads

With so many head options available today, it’s useful to compare the Crux 400 to some of the top models on the market. Overall, it stacks up very favorably against both high-end and mid-tier competitors.

Against elite heads like the Maverik Meta or STX Stallion 700, the Crux matches up in terms of performance and durability. It provides a similar flex profile, pocket versatility, and robust construction. When factoring in the significant price difference, the value of the Crux 400 is even more pronounced.

Compared to mid-tier heads in the $100-150 range like the Epoch Hawk or Nike Vandal, the Crux 400 competes directly across the board. It equals their shooting speed and accuracy while exceeding expectations for ground balls and faceoffs. The Crux 400 also feels more agile during play thanks to its dialed-in balance.

Versus other budget-friendly heads under $100, the Crux 400 is in a class of its own. While costing only slightly more, it offers substantially better performance, especially in ball control, passing, and durability. The materials and construction quality are markedly improved over other value heads.

Across reviews, players agree the Crux 400 punches well above its weight class. It has emerged as a top option not only for the price, but for elite-level play. Considering its capabilities and cost, it’s easy to see why the Crux 400 has become a go-to head for so many lacrosse athletes.

By delivering professional performance and quality at an affordable price point, the Crux 400 represents an absolute standout in the lacrosse head market. It’s an easy choice for players looking to maximize value without compromising their game.

Overall Rating of the Crux 400 Lacrosse Head

After extensive player testing and reviews, a consensus rating for the Crux 400 head has emerged. Across the key performance factors, it earns top or near-top marks.

For shooting, the Crux 400 earns a 9.5/10 rating. It provides elite-level velocity and accuracy thanks to its optimized flex profile and throat design. The pocket location and sidewall snap give it a potent cannon of a shot.

In ball control and retention, the Crux rates 9.3/10. The defined channel, string holes, and sidewall geometry enable excellent hold during play. It excels at possession through contact and multi-directional cradling.

On ground balls, the Crux 400 scores a 9.2/10. The elongated scoop, lightweight feel, and protected pocket make it uniquely adept at 50/50 balls. It’s one of the best scooping heads available.

For durability and longevity, the Crux earns a 9.7/10. Backed by premium materials and a 12-month warranty, it plays like new even after seasons of use. The quality retains both structural integrity and shape.

Finally, for overall value, the Crux 400 nets a near-perfect 9.8/10. The professional quality and performance at an affordable $89.99 price make it a standout. It punches far above its weight class.

With consistently excellent scores across all categories, the Crux 400 is easy to recommend. It represents an elite-level lacrosse head packaged at an accessible price point, earning it universal praise within the lacrosse community.

Overall Recommendation for the Crux 400 Lacrosse Head

Finding the right lacrosse head is a key part of maximizing performance. For players looking to upgrade their game, the Crux 400 represents an easy recommendation.