What are the top lacrosse heads for defense players in 2023. How has lacrosse head design evolved for defenders. What features make a great defensive lacrosse head. Which brands offer the best defensive heads on the market today.

The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Design for Defenders

Over the past decade, lacrosse head technology has undergone a remarkable transformation, particularly for defensive players. As the sport has evolved into “the fastest game on two feet,” engineers and designers have focused on meeting the unique needs of defensemen with custom head shapes, stiffnesses, and features.

Gone are the days of universal lacrosse heads that were one-size-fits-all across positions. Through extensive player testing and research, companies have developed poles and heads specifically engineered for D-middies, LSMs, and close defenders. This evolution has allowed defenders to maximize their performance in key areas like ground balls, face-offs, checking, and transition play.

Key Innovations in Defensive Head Design

• Offset sidewall designs for improved ground ball scooping
• Narrowed and pinched heads for enhanced control
• Strategically placed stiffening rails and supports
• Advanced materials like aircraft-grade alloys and high-tech composites
• Optimized stiffness, durability, and weight distribution

These advancements have led to heads with superior ball control, accuracy, and checking abilities. While universal heads are still common, most elite defenders opt for position-specific heads for good reason. The handles are longer, the heads wider, and the sidewall designs focused on athletic moves like poke checks, wraps, and ground ball scooping.

The Anatomy of a Great Defensive Lacrosse Head

When searching for the ideal defensive lacrosse head, several key factors distinguish top-tier options from the rest. While universal heads can suffice, position-specific heads designed for defenders offer numerous advantages that cater to the athletic demands of the position.

Essential Features of Defensive Heads

1. Wider head shape for superior ball control and ground ball scooping
2. Offset sidewall for improved ground ball pickup
3. Pinched scoop and narrowed channel for focused control
4. Targeted stiffness in key areas like sidewalls and scoop
5. Balanced weight distribution for optimal control
6. Durable construction to withstand intense physical play

How does head width affect a defender’s performance? A wider head shape allows for better ball control, especially when carrying the ball up the field in transition. It also aids in ground ball scooping, enabling defenders to gain possession off face-offs, forced turnovers, and loose balls more effectively.

Why is stiffness crucial for defensive heads? Advanced manufacturing techniques allow engineers to create heads with stiffness focused in key areas like the sidewalls and scoop. This targeted stiffness preserves the integrity of the head when batting away passes or delivering big hits. Finding the right balance between stiffness and flexibility is essential for optimal performance.

Top Defensive Lacrosse Heads on the Market in 2023

The lacrosse equipment market has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly in the defensive sector. Major brands have brought innovation to the D pole game, providing players with high-performance heads designed specifically for defensemen. Let’s explore some of the top models available today.

Gait Recon Pro

The Gait Recon Pro is a perennial favorite among top defenders, offering a comprehensive package of features:

• Wide profile for enhanced control
• Pinched scoop for precise passing
• Targeted stiffening for superior durability
• TorqueLock system for adjusting flex and feel
• Versatility across defensive positions

How does the Gait Recon Pro cater to different defensive playing styles? Its versatile design allows players to excel in various defensive roles, from close defenders to LSMs, thanks to its balanced combination of control, stiffness, and flexibility.

Maverik Havok D Head

The Maverik Havok D Head stands out with its innovative hybrid construction:

• Combines the control of a stiff head with the ball feel of a flexible one
• Strategically stiffened sidewalls and scoop for stability during checks
• Flexible upper sidewalls for improved rebound and ball control
• Rugged design built for high-performance play

What makes the Havok D Head unique in the defensive head market? Its hybrid construction sets it apart, offering players the best of both worlds: the stability needed for aggressive checking and the flexibility required for superior ball control and feel.

Warrior Regulator D Head

For players prioritizing durability, the Warrior Regulator D Head brings advanced technology to the field:

• Injected polymer sidewalls for exceptional durability
• Designed to withstand multiple seasons of intense play
• Balanced stiffness for optimal checking and ball control
• Wide face shape for improved ground ball pickup

How does the Regulator D Head’s durability benefit defensive players? The injected polymer sidewalls can endure seasons of aggressive play, making it an excellent investment for players who prioritize longevity in their equipment.

Choosing the Right Defensive Head for Your Playing Style

Selecting the perfect defensive lacrosse head involves considering various factors that align with your individual playing style and position. Whether you’re a close defender, LSM, or defensive midfielder, finding the right head can significantly impact your performance on the field.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Defensive Head

1. Playing position (close defender, LSM, D-middie)
2. Personal preference for stiffness vs. flexibility
3. Ground ball proficiency needs
4. Checking style (poke checks, slap checks, etc.)
5. Transition play involvement
6. Budget considerations

How do different defensive positions influence head selection? Close defenders might prioritize wider, stiffer heads for aggressive checking and ground ball pickup, while LSMs may prefer a more balanced design that facilitates transition play and offensive contributions.

Is there a trade-off between stiffness and ball feel in defensive heads? Yes, generally stiffer heads provide more power for checks and passes but may sacrifice some ball feel. Conversely, more flexible heads offer better ball control but might not hold up as well to aggressive checking. Many modern heads aim to strike a balance between these qualities.

The Impact of Material Technology on Defensive Head Performance

Advancements in material science have revolutionized the manufacturing of lacrosse heads, particularly for defensive players. The use of cutting-edge materials has allowed manufacturers to optimize key performance attributes while maintaining durability and compliance with regulations.

Innovative Materials in Modern Defensive Heads

• Aircraft-grade aluminum alloys
• High-performance polymers
• Carbon fiber reinforcements
• Proprietary composite blends

How have these advanced materials improved defensive head performance? These materials enable manufacturers to create heads with precise stiffness profiles, optimal weight distribution, and enhanced durability. For example, aircraft-grade aluminum alloys offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, allowing for stiff, lightweight heads that can withstand the rigors of defensive play.

What role do composite materials play in defensive head design? Composite materials, such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, allow for fine-tuning of flex patterns and weight distribution. This enables designers to create heads that flex strategically for improved ball control while maintaining stiffness in critical areas for checking and ground ball play.

Customization and Stringing Options for Defensive Heads

The way a defensive head is strung can significantly impact its performance characteristics. Many top defensive players customize their pocket and stringing to complement their playing style and the inherent properties of their chosen head.

Popular Stringing Techniques for Defensive Heads

1. Traditional pockets
2. Mesh pockets (various types and weights)
3. Hybrid pockets (combining traditional and mesh elements)
4. Channel-focused stringing
5. High pocket setups for quicker release

How does pocket type affect a defender’s performance? The choice between traditional, mesh, or hybrid pockets can influence ball retention, release speed, and overall feel. For instance, a well-broken-in traditional pocket might offer superior hold and feel, while a mesh pocket could provide more consistency in wet conditions.

What are the benefits of a channel-focused stringing pattern for defenders? A pronounced channel can help with ball control during transitions and long passes, potentially improving clearing efficiency and reducing turnovers.

Maintenance and Care for Defensive Lacrosse Heads

Proper maintenance of defensive lacrosse heads is crucial for ensuring longevity and consistent performance. Given the physical nature of defensive play, these heads are subject to significant wear and tear, making regular care essential.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Defensive Heads

• Regular inspection for cracks or deformations
• Cleaning after each use to remove dirt and debris
• Proper storage to maintain shape and prevent warping
• Periodic re-stringing to maintain optimal pocket performance
• Avoiding extreme temperatures that could affect material integrity

How often should a defensive player inspect their head for damage? It’s recommended to perform a quick visual inspection before and after each game or practice session, with a more thorough examination at least once a week during the season.

What are the signs that a defensive head needs to be replaced? Look for visible cracks, significant warping or deformation, loosening of the screw holes where the head attaches to the shaft, or any noticeable change in performance or feel during play.

By understanding the evolution of defensive head design, the key features that make a great defensive head, and the top options available on the market, players can make informed decisions to enhance their performance on the field. As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, we can expect further innovations in defensive head technology, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this crucial aspect of the game.

The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Design for Defenders

Over the past decade, significant advancements in lacrosse head technology have completely transformed the game for defensive players. As the sport has grown into the fastest game on two feet, engineers and designers have focused their efforts on meeting the unique needs of defensemen with custom head shapes, stiffnesses, and features.

Long gone are the days of universal lacrosse heads that were one-size-fits-all across positions. Through extensive player testing and research, companies like Gait have developed poles and heads specifically engineered for D-middies, LSMs, and close defenders. This evolution has allowed defenders to maximize their performance in key areas like ground balls, face-offs, checking, and transition play.

Some key innovations include offset sidewall designs for scooping ground balls, narrowed and pinched heads for control, and strategically placed stiffening rails and supports. Advanced materials like aircraft-grade alloys and high-tech composites allow for the optimizing of stiffness, durability, and weight distribution. This leads to heads with superior ball control, accuracy, and checking abilities.

While universal heads are still common, most elite defenders opt for position-specific heads for good reason. The handles are longer, the heads wider, and the sidewall designs focused on athletic moves like poke checks, wraps, and ground ball scooping. As lacrosse continues to explode in popularity, expect even further specialization and enhancement of defensive heads.

What Makes a Great Defensive Lacrosse Head?

When looking for the ideal defensive lacrosse head, there are several key factors that separate the top heads from the rest of the pack. While universal heads can get the job done, position-specific heads designed for defenders provide a number of advantages that support the athletic demands of the position.

First and foremost, the wider head shape on defensive heads allows for superior ball control, especially when carrying the ball up the field in transition. The wider design also aids in ground ball scooping, allowing defenders to gain possession off of face-offs, forced turnovers, and loose balls. An offset sidewall helps grab ground balls, while a pinched scoop and narrowed channel focus control.

Stiffness is another vital component for defenders. Advanced manufacturing techniques allow engineers to make heads with stiffness focused in key areas like the sidewalls and scoop. This targeted stiffness preserves the integrity of the head when batting away passes or delivering big hits. Not too stiff, and not too flexible, finding the right balance is key.

Weight and balance also come into play. Defensive poles are longer, so the head must be balanced properly. Materials like lightweight metals allow for heads with superior durability and a balanced feel. Strategically placed handle geometry and sidewall designs add control for one-handed cradling and checking.

Durability is non-negotiable, as the demands of the defensive position subject heads to a tremendous amount of contact. Multi-shot molded heads with premium alloys and composites hold up season after season. Features like reinforced sidewalls, strengthened scoops, and buffered intersections at the throat maximize structural integrity.

Lacrosse is constantly evolving, and specialized defensive heads exemplify the progress. Maximizing ground balls, control, passing, durability, and ball protection give defenders a big edge over outdated universal heads. The right head provides the confidence to play fast, physical, and fearless lacrosse.

Top Defensive Lacrosse Heads on the Market Today

The lacrosse equipment market has exploded in recent years, especially on the defensive side of the field. All the major brands have brought innovation to the D pole game, providing players with high-performance heads designed specifically for defensemen. Here’s a look at some of the top models available today.

The Gait Recon Pro is a perennial favorite amongst top defenders and checks all the boxes: wide profile for control, pinched scoop for precise passing, and targeted stiffening for superior durability. It also features Gait’s TorqueLock system for adjusting flex and feel. The Recon Pro gives players versatility across defensive positions.

Maverik’s Havok D Head stands out with its hybrid construction combining the control of a stiff head with the ball feel of a flexible one. Strategically stiffened sidewalls and scoop provide stability for checking, while the upper sidewalls offer flexibility and rebound. The Havok lives up to its name as a rugged, high-performance option.

If you want supreme durability, the Warrior Regulator D Head brings some seriously tough tech. The injected polymer sidewalls can withstand seasons of abuse, and the angled sidewall and scoop design maximizes ground ball abilities. Warrior’s Regulator line has redefined stiff, strong defensive heads.

For defensive midfielders who value speed, the Nike CEO D Head delivers an athletic and lightweight build. The narrow channel improves ball control, while the molded sidewalls allow for good stiffness without adding too much weight. With the Nike CEO, D-mids can run all day long.

Those are just a few of the many excellent defensive heads available today from brands like STX, Under Armour, Epoch, and Brine. As technology progresses, engineers will continue to take defender-specific designs to new levels. The future looks bright for defensive enthusiasts!

Gait Lacrosse: A Leader in Defensive Head Innovation

When it comes to specialized lacrosse heads engineered for defense, few brands have contributed more to pushing innovation forward than Gait. For over two decades, Gait has led the way in developing defender-focused heads with advanced features and position-specific designs.

Back in the 1990s, Gait shook up the lacrosse world by creating the first offset lacrosse head, the TORQ. This groundbreaking design improved ball control and scooping capabilities, perfect for tough defenders. Since then, Gait has continued refining their offset technology and flex patterns to optimize performance.

Gait’s design team works directly with elite defenders to identify pain points and test prototypes. Insights from pro players help Gait enhance control, stiffness, balance, and durability in their D heads. Gait also utilizes cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to craft premium defensive heads.

Some examples of Gait heads engineered for defenders include the Recon Pro, the Duel, the Stealth, and the Innovator. Through innovations like Suspension Tech, TorqueLock, and C1 technology, Gait gives players the confidence to dominate between the lines. Gait heads are trusted by champions across all levels of lacrosse.

For both men’s and women’s lacrosse players, having the right head for your position makes a major impact. Gait’s defender-specific engineering and premium craftsmanship give players the perfect combination of control, feel, stiffness, and reliability. Dominate the field with Gait’s game-changing lacrosse heads.

Key Features to Look for in Your Next D Pole Head

When shopping for a new defensive lacrosse head, there are several key features and technologies to keep an eye out for. The right features can take your game to the next level, so be sure to look for the following:

Offset Sidewalls – An offset sidewall design increases scooping and picking up ground balls. By shifting the sidewall lower, offset heads give you superior ball control on ground balls critical to defenders.

Strategic Stiffening – Advanced manufacturing techniques allow engineers to stiffen key areas of the head like the scoop, sidewalls, and throat. Targeted stiffening maintains stability for checking without adding excess rigidity.

Premium Materials – Heads made with lightweight metals, high-end composites, and alloys offer best-in-class durability. Materials like titanium, scandium, and carbon fiber boost structural integrity and feel.

Reinforced Scoop – Scoops bear the brunt of ground ball abuse, so look for thickened scoops, internal buffers, and shape designs that improve longevity. The scoop must handle constant contact with the turf.

Balanced Weight Distribution – Proper weight balance for a longer defensive pole improves feel in your hands. Look for heads engineered to remove unnecessary weight while optimizing balance.

By keeping an eye out for the latest tech engineered for defenders, you’ll find heads that give you that extra edge in ground balls, control, passing, and durability. Don’t settle for middie heads – get a defender-specific head designed for your game.

Finding the Right Balance of Stiffness and Flexibility

One of the key engineering challenges in lacrosse head design is finding the optimal balance of stiffness and flexibility. Defenders need sticks that are rigid enough for checking but flexible enough for control and feel.

Advancements in head shapes, sidewall geometry, and composite materials now allow brands to build “position-tuned” heads with flex customized for defenders. By strategically stiffening high-stress areas like the scoop and sidewalls, engineers optimize stiffness where defenders need it most.

Technologies like Gait’s TorqueLock system and Maverik’s MetaFlex sidewalls allow players to adjust stiffness levels and fine-tune flex to fit their preference. The right stiffness balance improves checking power, scooping, ground ball control, and passing precision.

Heads with flexible brake shapes allow for better ball control and release. Strategic flex points at key areas of the head give players enhanced feel on cradle motions and quick sticks. This provides superior ball control during possessions.

While universal stiffness works for some, most elite defenders choose heads with defense-focused flex patterns. The days of heavy tank heads are gone. New tech lets defenders customize sticks to match their physicality and style of play. Work with your lacrosse gear experts to find your perfect balance of structure and flex for dominating the field.

Maximizing Ground Ball and Face-off Performance

Great defenders dominate ground balls and face-offs. When choosing a new lacrosse head, maximizing scooping and control performance should be a top priority.

Look for heads with lower sidewall offsets to improve ground ball pickup. Offset sidewalls shift the sweet spot lower for increased ground ball control. Strategically stiffened scoops retain shape integrity for popping balls off the turf.

Narrower heads provide accuracy for snagging grounders in traffic. A narrowed channel guides loose balls into your pocket with precision. For face-offs, a tapered throat creates an optimal point of contact.

On ground balls, quickness and control matter most. Heads with superior ball control allow you to scoop and transition in one fluid motion. Durable scoops that hold their shape mean less time realigning bent hooks after ground ball scrums.

Face-off players benefit from throat designs that balance stiffness for clamping with flexibility for ball exits. Communicate with your face-off specialist on their preferences and needs. Finding the right ground ball and face-off head can massively boost possession time.

Don’t settle for a middie head that compromises ground ball abilities. Get a defender-focused head engineered for ground ball supremacy. Dominate possessions from the face-off X to turnover situations with heads designed for today’s athletic defenders.

Consider Weight and Balance in Your Purchase

The right lacrosse head feels like an extension of your body, and weight distribution contributes greatly to this. When shopping for your next defensive head, be sure to consider balance and lightweight construction.

Since defensemen use longer poles, balance is critical for control during checks, scoops, and passing. Heads with unnecessary mass in the wrong places can feel clunky and awkward on a d-pole. Going lightweight helps, but only if balance is maintained.

Advanced manufacturing techniques let brands design durable, lightweight heads optimized for balance. Proprietary alloys like Gait’s C1 composite material shed weight while boosting structural integrity. This removes ounces without sacrificing toughness.

Strategically designed throat areas, sidewall cutouts, and shaft geometries refine balance points along the handle. Defensive heads should balance comfortably in your hands, especially when maneuvering the stick one-handed.

Don’t just look at the overall head weight – inspect where that weight is concentrated. Heads weighted and balanced specifically for d-poles give you effortless feel during pokes, wraps, and checks. Wield your long pole like it’s an extension of your arm.

The Importance of Scoop Design for Defenders

The scoop area of a lacrosse head takes a serious beating, especially for tough defenders constantly hitting the turf. Having a reinforced, durable scoop designed to endure abuse is critical.

Look for heads with thickened scoops, additional sidewall buffers next to the scoop, and extra plastic overlaps protecting scoop joints. Multi-shot molding fuses the scoop with additional protective layers of tough polymer composite.

Angled scoops with a raised lip improve longevity by deflecting wear. Some scoops feature internal metal or plastic skeletons for structural reinforcement. Replaceable scoops should also be considered for extending head life.

Scoops engineered to retain shape mean fewer frustrations from constant bending and realigning. Avoid heads where the scoop loses its hook shape quickly. Durable, stiff scoop materials reduce time wasted adjusting heads post-ground ball.

Don’t settle for flimsy scoops that degrade from ground ball wear and tear. The life of your head depends heavily on the scoop quality. Look for defender-focused heads with robust, reinforced scoops designed to handle the grind. Protect your investment with strong, resilient scoop construction.

Pocket and Channel Design Trends in Modern Heads

Advancements in lacrosse head engineering have optimized pocket and channel designs for superior ball control and release. Here’s a look at some of the latest pocket and channel trends seen in elite heads.

Many of today’s heads feature narrowed channels, especially in the throat area. Tightening the lower channel improves accuracy for balls entering the head on ground balls, passes, and shots. Widened scoops guide smooth entries.

Strategic stringing holes allow for customized pocket types, placements, and depths. Extra stringing points near the scoop support deeper pockets for holding possession after scoops. Deeper pockets improve ground ball grabs.

Offset and curved sidewall designs affect pocket shape and ball funneling. Heads with an exaggerated offset or sidewall curve concentrate pockets to the side for increased hold. This improves carrying abilities.

Flexible sidewalls and brake shapes allow for pocket movement to “cradle” balls during running. This gives players superior control of possession while on the move. Strategically placed stiffeners prevent too much flex.

As stick standards relax, expect continual pocket and channel enhancements. Advancements help defenders gain every advantage in ground ball situations while maintaining control during clears and approaches on cage.

Notable Improvements in Defensive Head Durability

With constant stick checks, pokes, and contact, a lacrosse head must be incredibly durable to withstand the demands of defense. Thankfully, Companies innovating with premium materials and construction methods have dramatically improved defensive head longevity.

New proprietary alloys like Gait’s C1 composite use aerospace-grade titanium, scandium, and other metals to optimize strength-to-weight ratios. Multi-shot molded carbon fused heads add structural reinforcement.

Strategic stiffening along stress points of the sidewalls and scoop area maintains shape integrity despite heavy contact. New polymers retain structural memory to resist warping from checks.

Inter sections prone to breakage are now reinforced with wraparound buffers and additional layers of fused composite. Some brands offer replaceable sidewalls to extend head life at lower costs.

Heads are tested to simulate an entire season’s worth of play during just a few weeks. Advanced computer modeling identifies potential weak points during prototype phases. Today’s heads need to be incredibly tough just to make it to market.

Thanks to cutting-edge materials and an intense focus on durability, defenders can now get multiple seasons out of their heads. Improved longevity means more time dominating on the field and less time shopping for replacements.

Lacrosse Head Materials: Comparing Metals and Plastics

With recent advancements in lacrosse head engineering, players now have more choices when it comes to head construction materials. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of metallic alloy versus composite polymer heads.

Metallic heads made from alloys of titanium, scandium, and other aerospace-grade metals offer superb durability and improved stiffness-to-weight ratios. Metal sidewalls maintain their structure despite heavy contact and warp less than cheaper plastics.

Composite polymer heads provide good durability with more flexibility and “give” during contact. New engineered polymers continue improving stiffness qualities while retaining some flex. Plastics allow for more intricate mold shapes at lower costs.

Metals transfer and displace energy more efficiently, providing excellent ball feel and control. High-end plastics replicate some of that stiff, responsive feel but at much cheaper price points.

In terms of weather performance, properly anodized metals resist warping or becoming brittle in temperature extremes better than composites. Metals also retain structural memory better after repetitive contact and checks.

For most defenders, composite polymer heads offer the best blend of durability, performance, and value. But as materials improve, we may see metal alloys gain greater adoption at the elite levels where budget isn’t as much of a concern.

Achieving Superior Ball Control and Passing Ability

Precise ball control and pinpoint passing are vital skills for excellent defenders. When choosing a new head, look for technologies and designs that give you an edge in possession play.

Narrowed sidewall channels in the throat improve ball control entering and exiting the head. A tightly controlled channel leaves less room for errant passes and shots.

Strategically stiffened sidewalls resist warp from checks, preserving the head shape for consistency in throws and passes. A head that holds its shape improves clearing accuracy.

Lightweight construction with optimized balance points enhances feel during cradling, allowing you to “feel” the ball in the pocket. Superior feel gives you the confidence to run at full speed.

Flexible brake shapes and sidewalls allow pockets to “hug” balls during runs and rolls, keeping possession tight to the head. This reduces chances of unforced turnovers while clearing.

Field awareness and stick skills make great defenders, but maximizing the technology in your head takes skills to the next level. Find heads engineered to improve ground balls, passing, shooting, and clears through sophisticated shapes, materials, stiffness balance, and weight placement.

Why Defensive Players Choose Wider Heads

While many offensive players opt for narrower lacrosse heads, defenders tend to prefer the control and checking advantages of wider heads. Here’s a closer look at why width matters for defense.

Wider heads provide a larger surface area for effective poke checks, slap checks, and lift checks. Extra width gives defenders more surface to make contact with during checks and steals.

The added width also makes it easier to direct checks lower on opponents’ sticks to lift near their hands. This allows defenders to dislodge balls more easily with pokes and lifts.

Wide heads grant superior ball retention during clears and approaches to cage. With a bit of width to spare, balls sit more securely in wider pockets during contact checks.

During ground balls and face-offs, width aids in quickly trapping popped-out balls before scooping. The extra room accommodates off-target balls deflecting in errant directions.

Many physical defenders also prefer the intimidation factor of wider heads around goal. Wider top rails obstruct shooting lanes and passing angles more effectively when pressuring dodgers.

For most defenders, width is their friend. While too much width leads to sluggishness, the right amount grants excellent checking, control, retention, and ground ball abilities. Find heads with width optimized specifically for defense.

Getting the Most Out of Your Lacrosse Head Investment

Today’s elite lacrosse heads represent a significant investment. Here are some tips on getting the most longevity and performance out of your defensive head purchase.

Stick to high-quality heads from leading manufacturers like Gait, Maverik, Warrior, and STX. Quality materials and construction will pay off in durability and playability.

Inspect heads thoroughly for defects or weak points before stringing. Avoid heads with uneven sidewalls, wavy scoops, or cosmetic defects out of the package.

Have a pro stringer install mesh customized for your position’s needs. Pro level mesh improves performance and lasts much longer than factory stringing.

Use head protection products to add abrasion resistance in high wear areas. Protective films, tapes, and sprays prolong head life at low cost.

Store heads properly during the offseason to avoid warping. Excess heat in cars or garages can damage heads over time. Keep sticks out of extreme cold as well.

With some preventive care and using reputable brands, today’s elite heads deliver seasons of productive play. Take time to find the perfect head, and it will reward you with enduring performance for the long haul.