Introduction to East Coast Dyes Hero Strings
As a lacrosse player, having the right stringing setup can make all the difference in your game. This is where East Coast Dyes Hero strings come into play. ECD Hero is one of the most popular types of lacrosse stringing on the market today, offering a number of advantages for players of all positions and skill levels.
So what exactly are Hero strings? Developed and manufactured by East Coast Dyes, Hero is a wax-coated lacrosse string that provides excellent ball control, durability, and consistency. The proprietary wax coating gives Hero strings a unique feel and improved performance. Hero comes in a variety of colors and designs, so you can customize the look of your head.
When it comes to stringing a lacrosse head, Hero strings have some definite perks. The wax coating results in very little fraying, so the strings maintain their structure and shape. This gives you a pocket that breaks in evenly and retains the desired pocket shape. The strings also have virtually no change in tension after stringing, leading to increased consistency. Additionally, the soft feel of Hero lets you cradle and pass smoothly.
ECD Hero models are available for all playing positions – attack, midfield, and defense. Attack players can benefit from a quick release and hold from a Hero pocket. Middies will appreciate the control for handling and passing at full speed. Defenders can utilize a Hero pocket to protect the ball while clearing. No matter your position on the field, Hero gives you an optimized setup.
When stringing your head with Hero, you can achieve various pocket styles like mid-lows, mid-pockets, baggy mid-highs, and more. The consistency of Hero strings translates to reliable pocket construction. By combining different stringing techniques, you can dial in the exact pocket shape you want.
As you can see, East Coast Dyes Hero offers lacrosse players many advantages that can elevate their game. From customizable looks to optimized performance, Hero is a top choice for stringing up a new stick. If you’re looking to take your lacrosse setup to the next level, Hero strings are worth exploring.
ECD Hero Models for Attack, Midfield, Defense
One of the great things about East Coast Dyes Hero lacrosse stringing is that they offer optimized models for each playing position. Whether you are an attackman looking for quick releases, a middie who needs superior ball control, or a defender seeking a pocket for protection, ECD has you covered with Hero.
For attack players, the Hero setup brings several major benefits. The Hero wax coating reduces friction on the strings, resulting in very smooth releases when shooting. The decreased drag as the ball rolls off the pocket gives attackmen faster, more accurate shots on cage. An attack pocket strung with Hero can also provide excellent hold, letting players cradle the ball securely as they drive to the goal.
ECD utilizes a special process on their Hero attack strings to remove wax coating from certain areas. This strategic wax removal gives the ball extra grab in the pocket, preventing gravitational drops while dodging and cutting. A properly strung Hero attack pocket will have a nice channel and mid-low pocket to optimize the quick-stick release. Popular mesh patterns like the Hero Mark 2V give attack players even more ball control and hold on their sticks.
For midfielders, the priorities are ball control and handling ability at full sprint. Hero strings offer middies a few key advantages to improve their play. The soft Hero wax coating provides superior control as players cradle across the field or switch hands on drives. Middies can also execute quicker passes thanks to decreased friction from the wax coat. With little pocket bounce, Hero gives midfielders a very responsive setup for maintaining possession in transition.
Hero midfield pockets are generally strung a bit higher to allow for more ball retention during contact and checks. Popular mesh patterns like the Hero Mark 1 help facilitate smooth handling and accurate feeding with Hero. The uniform nature of Hero stringing leads to even break-in across the midpoint and sidewalls. This consistency helps midfielders master the feel of their stick faster.
Defensemen have different needs from their pockets, namely ball protection during clears and checks. Hero strings can be strung to form more of a “U” pocket shape, allowing defenders to shield the ball along the sidewalls. This makes it much harder for attackmen to dislodge the ball with pokes and slaps. The softness of Hero also cushions the ball on checks, keeping possession after contact.
By stringing a mid-high pocket with a defined channel, defenders can feel confident carrying the ball up the field. Popular mesh patterns like the Hero Mark 1.5 help provide ball retention and control. The uniform wax coating of Hero keeps the pocket from drastically changing shape after break-in. This consistency allows defenders to clear confidently knowing exactly how their pockets will perform.
As we can see, ECD Hero models provide optimized stringing for each position’s needs. Hero allows players to get the ball control, release speed, and protection required for their role on the team. That’s what makes it one of the most trusted lacrosse stringing types available today.
String Properties – Wax Coating, Durability
When it comes to lacrosse stringing, one of the standout features of East Coast Dyes Hero is its specialized wax coating. This proprietary coating gives Hero strings unique properties and advantages compared to traditional lacrosse stringing.
The wax applied to Hero strings has a few major benefits. First, it reduces friction between the strings as the ball rolls around the pocket. This allows for much smoother releases and passing. The wax makes it easier for the ball to transfer from the pocket to the head on shots as well.
Additionally, Hero’s wax coating minimizes string fraying and loosening over time. There is very little unraveling or breakdown of the sidewalls and cross-lacing. This keeps the pocket shape consistent even after heavy use. Players can count on the same pocket feel with minimal restringing needed.
The wax also softens the feel of the stringing greatly. Hero has a smooth, almost slick texture that cushions ball contact. This enables superior ball control for players as they cradle and change direction. The softened feel provides a very natural, responsive release when passing and shooting as well.
In terms of weather conditions, the Hero wax holds up extremely well regardless of heat or moisture. The coat prevents the strings from absorbing water, which helps maintain the original structure. Hero pockets retain their shape and performance even in wet or humid conditions that can impact other materials.
The overall durability of Hero over a season is another major advantage. Due to waxing, Hero strings resist fraying and breakdown very well. Sidewalls maintain tension and structure for much longer compared to uncoated strings. Players can count on consistent pocket performance all season long with minimal restringing.
Hero is also quite stable in cold weather. The wax prevent the strings from hardening up or becoming stiff. This results in reliable performance even in frigid early-season games. While the feel may be slightly different, the pocket continues to function smoothly.
It’s clear that the specialized wax coating sets Hero apart from traditional lacrosse stringing. From improving ball control to boosting durability, this proprietary coating gives Hero strings unique properties optimized for lacrosse play. The minimized weather effects and fraying lead to unparalleled consistency and pocket performance.
Pocket Styles Achievable with Hero Strings
One of the most appealing aspects of stringing with East Coast Dyes Hero is the diverse range of pocket styles players can create. Thanks to the uniform nature of Hero stringing, you can dial in everything from loose shooting pockets to tight channel pockets. This versatility lets players customize their sticks perfectly for their position and playing style.
With Hero strings, achieving a nice mid-low pocket is very achievable for attackmen looking for quick releases. By interlocking the sidewalls and using a three-shooter setup, you can form a smooth mid-low suitable for ripping shots. The wax coating allows the ball to easily drop into the pocket’s sweet spot after feeding passes.
Using a single shooter configuration, you can also create a medium-depth pocket with Hero. The uniformly applied wax helps the pocket retain this defined mid shape even after heavy use. Middies often prefer this style of pocket for carrying the ball and passing on the run.
For players who like a little more depth, Hero strings can be used to string up a nice baggy mid-pocket as well. Utilizing lock-down sidewall strings helps enlarge the pocket opening while keeping a smooth, gradual ramp down to the bottom. The Hero wax limits sidewall and cross lace movement for a consistent baggy shape.
Hero is the go-to choice for defensemen who want more ball retention on checks and ground balls. By using a U-shooter setup, you can form more of a defined channel down the middle of the head. This helps shield the ball while also giving some hold on clears.
No matter if you like a loose, medium or tight pocket feel, the right Hero setup brings out the best performance. And thanks to Hero’s weather-resistant wax properties, you can ensure your pocket keeps its shape over time. Even if you switch head models, you can recreate your favorite pocket style each time using the trusted consistency of Hero stringing.
While traditional leathers and synthetics can be difficult to control, Hero’s precision performance removes the guesswork from pocket construction. Attacking players can maintain quick releases all season. Middies get the control to run at full speed. Defensemen protect the ball confidently. With so many high-level styles achievable, it’s easy to see why Hero is elite lacrosse stringing.
Colors and Design Options
Along with optimized performance, one of the cool things about East Coast Dyes Hero lacrosse stringing is the wide range of color and design choices. Players can customize the look of their sticks with vibrant colors and unique stringing patterns only available with Hero.
ECD produces Hero stringing in a huge array of hues perfect for matching team colors or showing off your personal style. The available color palette covers all the basics like classic white and black. But you can also choose vibrant shades like Carolina Blue, Blaze Orange, and Neon Lime to make your pocket pop.
Beyond solids, Hero offers eye-catching patterns and fades too. Styles like DigiCam give your pocket a camo look that can complement darker colored heads. Or you can go with the vibrant tie-dye colors of the Dye package. This makes it simple to get creative with the aesthetics of your stringing.
In addition to colors, ECD has exclusive stringing styles only possible with Hero wax coating. For example, the Splatter pattern gives your sidewalls an unique speckled look. Hero is also available in fade patterns, shifting from one color at the top of the head to another at the bottom.
There are unlimited ways to combine colored shooting strings, lace and sidewall strings to get the exact style you want. You can string your shooters across your favorite team colors for a custom look. Or go for a clean two-tone style with black sidewalls and white laces across the middie.
Because Hero retains its color and integrity even after heavy use, your pocket style will remain vibrant all season. The colors won’t bleed or fade in the rain either. This durability empowers you to string bold, expressive styles that maintain their look over time.
Between the array of color options and customizable stringing patterns, Hero gives you complete creative freedom. Match your fingerprints, showcase your hobbies or repp your school colors – the only limit is your imagination. Hero enables lacrosse players to make an artistic statement and express themselves on the field.
Comparison to Traditional Lacrosse Stringing
When choosing lacrosse stringing, players today have options between traditional leathers/synthetics and advanced strings like East Coast Dyes Hero. In many ways, Hero represents a major evolution beyond traditional materials in terms of performance, consistency and durability.
The main difference players will notice is the soft, waxed feel of Hero. Traditional leather and synthetic strings have more friction and “grabbiness” when handling and shooting. Hero’s slick wax coating gives a buttery smooth feel that improves control. The decreased friction also leads to very crisp, quick releases.
Over time, untreated leather and synthetic strings tend to loosen and fray as the head breaks in. This leads to gradual changes and warping in pocket shape. In contrast, Hero maintains its structure and shape consistently thanks to the wax properties. Sidewalls and laces stay uniformly intact for far longer.
From game to game, Hero delivers reliable performance and minimizes unwanted variance. Even through inclement weather, Hero retains its smooth feel and pocket shape. On traditional materials, moisture can make strings swell and pockets perform inconsistently.
When stringing a traditional pocket, it takes lots of pre-stretching and shaping to get the desired look. Hero’s precision performance removes much of the labor and guesswork involved in breaking in a stick. The wax properties give you more control over the end result.
Hero also holds up far better to heavy use compared to untreated traditional strings. The wax coating greatly reduces fraying while strengthening the sidewalls and laces. Players can go longer between restringing thanks to this durability.
While advanced materials like Hero carry a higher upfront cost, they end up being more cost-effective over a whole season by boosting longevity. In the end, the precision consistency and buttery feel of Hero delivers a superior overall playing experience compared to traditional lacrosse stringing.
Where to Buy Genuine East Coast Dyes Products
Once you’re ready to try out East Coast Dyes Hero stringing for your stick, you’ll want to make sure you purchase authentic Hero products. There are a few reputable vendors to buy from online and in stores.
For the largest Hero selection, check out the East Coast Dyes website direct. They offer the full range of colors, patterns, and stringing options. You can buy Hero in a few different spool sizes to suit your needs. The ECD site also has all the latest styles as soon as they are released.
Popular online lacrosse retailers like Lax.com, LacrosseMonkey, and SportStop also typically carry a strong lineup of Hero stringing options. You may pay slightly higher prices than direct from the ECD site, but these retailers offer great customer service and fast shipping.
Your local lacrosse specialty store is another good option for getting authentic Hero in person. Longstanding retailers like Lax World often have knowledgeable stringers on staff who can help guide your purchase. This route lets you avoid shipping costs and inspect the stringing firsthand.
When browsing for the best Hero deals online, be wary of Amazon or eBay sellers offering prices that seem too good to be true. This could be counterfeit stringing masquerading as Hero. Make sure to read seller reviews carefully before purchasing.
Knock-off wax mesh claiming to be Hero will have performance and durability issues. It may seem like Hero initially but will break down much quicker. Only authentic ECD Hero delivers the elite quality and playability that lacrosse players demand.
Do some research to find the most reputable dealer for your Hero stringing purchase. Prioritize trusted retailers and the ECD site itself over deals from random sellers. While it may require a slightly higher upfront investment, genuine Hero will pay off with seasons of elite performance and consistency.
Maintaining and Caring for Hero Strings
To get the most out of your East Coast Dyes Hero stringing, it’s important to properly maintain and care for the wax-coated pocket. With some basic habits, you can extend the playability and consistency of your Hero setup.
The main maintenance need for Hero is keeping the strings free of dirt, grime and crusted-on mud. Following wet or muddy games, gently rinse your head and Hero pocket under running water. Try to avoid blasting the strings directly with high-pressure spray, as this can push wax deeper into the pocket.
About once a month, give your Hero pocket a deeper clean. Mix up a solution of warm water and mild laundry detergent – avoid harsh cleaners. Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub the pocket and loosen any built-up dirt. Rinse thoroughly afterwards and let your stick dry completely before stringing back up.
It’s also a good idea to occasionally apply a fresh wax coating to your Hero sidewalls, laces, and shooters. Use a specific mesh wax like ECD’s own Wax Mesh Treatment. Apply a light, even coat and let it fully dry before playing. This will maintain the smooth Hero feel and minimize friction between strings.
When not in use, be sure to store your stick in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. The UV rays can gradually break down the wax coating and cause the strings to become brittle and faded. Storing properly ensures your Hero maintains integrity.
Avoid leaving your stick sitting in extreme hot or cold temperatures whenever possible. Allow the pocket to return to normal conditions before playing, as drastic temp changes can make the wax coating chip and flake off prematurely.
With Hero’s unmatched durability, you’ll likely restring your head before needing to replace the actual pocket. But when it does come time for new stringing, go with fresh authentic Hero rather than trying to salvage old strings. This will give you that crisp, new Hero performance.
With the proper care, you can get multiple seasons out of quality Hero stringing. Keep the pocket clean, reapply wax occasionally, and store in proper conditions. Just a little regular maintenance will maintain the elite playability of your East Coast Dyes Hero setup over the long haul.
Experiences and Reviews from Lacrosse Players
When researching the performance of East Coast Dyes Hero stringing, it’s helpful to hear first-hand reviews from players who have used it. Overall, the consensus on Hero is overwhelmingly positive thanks to its consistency, playability, and durability.
Most players immediately notice the smooth, slick feel of Hero’s proprietary wax coating. Attackmen mention the noticeable improvement in quickness and accuracy on their shots coming off a Hero pocket. The decreased friction lets the ball release with less drag and resistance compared to a traditional pocket.
Middies praise how the Hero wax softens the pocket for incredible control cradling and switching hands at full sprint. The uniform nature of Hero stringing gives midfielders confidence that their pockets will perform reliably every time down the field.
Defensemen who have strung up Hero point to the enhanced ball retention on checks, especially when using a mid-high channel setup. The wax allows for great cushion without sacrificing ball security during clears and contact.
Across positions, players say that Hero breaks in evenly and retains its shape far longer than untreated mesh and leathers. Sidewalls and shooting strings show minimal fraying or loosening over time. Players report going multiple seasons without needing to restring thanks to Hero’s longevity.
The high-end feel and performance does come at a higher cost. But most say the value is well worth it considering Hero outlasts cheaper traditional stringing options. Hero’s weather resistance in rain, heat, and humidity is also a major plus.
When it comes to the one downside, some mention the sticky feel of brand new Hero right out of the package. The wax takes a bit to soften up and achieve full flexibility. But after a few practices, it breaks in beautifully.
For players wanting to take their stringing game to the elite level, Hero earns rave reviews. The precision consistency and buttery release it provides lead to high praise from players across positions. Given Hero’s reputation, it’s no wonder you see it in the sticks of so many top NCAA and pro players.
Using Hero Strings for Faceoffs
In the specialized role of facing off, having optimized stringing can give you a real advantage at the X. That’s why many top faceoff specialists today choose East Coast Dyes Hero for its unique benefits at the dot.
The smooth wax coating of Hero allows faceoff heads to glide and scrape cleanly on draws. There is less “stickiness” that can lead to uneven ground ball pops. The decreased friction helps win clean clampdowns and directs ground balls right into your stick.
Hero also gives superior ball control once possessed after the draw. Thanks to the softened pocket feel, you can cradle away or immediately outlet passes without losing possession. The uniformly waxed strings provide excellent hold even through checks and contact at the X.
When pinching the ball on draws, Hero’s flexibility and grip help you squeeze and maintain control. The malleable wax pocket allows for ideal pinch strength without allowing the ball to slip free. This results in more clean outright wins rather than scrambles.
The weather-resistant properties of Hero play a factor as well. In wet or muddy conditions that can negatively impact untreated mesh, Hero retains its smooth consistency. Your sticks will perform reliably even when the elements are far from ideal.
By stringing with a mesh pattern like the Hero Faceoff, you can optimize your setup specifically for facing off. A semi-soft pocket provides superior clamping ability and ball control off the line. Stiffer sidewalls aid in directing ground balls right into your head.
As a faceoff specialist, you put immense stress on your stringing over the course of a game and season. Hero is designed to withstand abuse, maintaining its structure for longer than untreated strings. Less restringing means more time mastering your draw game.
Given the unique demands of the position, it’s no surprise that savvy faceoff middies turn to Hero stringing for a competitive edge. The specialized wax coating delivers elite performance all the way from the initial draw to transitions up the field.
Achieving Consistent Throws with Hero Strings
Lacrosse players know that accuracy and consistency on passes and shots is critical. This is an area where stringing with East Coast Dyes Hero really shines thanks to its specialized wax coating properties.
The smoothness of Hero removes extra friction, allowing the ball to transfer from pocket to head with less disruption. On passes, shots, and clears, the ball simply rolls off the pocket precisely with tighter spin and more control.
The uniform nature of Hero wax coating also enhances consistency. There are no uneven string surfaces causing the ball to release erratically. Every throw comes off clean for accuracy game after game.
Attackmen can achieve lightning quick releases from a Hero pocket. The minimized drag gives shooters more control over shot placement. Feeders also get crisper touch on look-off passes to cutters from a Hero setup.
For midfielders, Hero provides superb consistency carrying the ball in transition and moving it in settled situations. The pocket retains its shape better than untreated mesh, delivering familiar release points for feeds up the field.
Thanks to the soft feel on catches, Hero also improves passing reception across the field. The wax coating cushions passes perfectly into a teammate’s stick, cutting down on errant bounces and drops.
Goalies benefit from Hero’s consistency too by practicing outlet passes with the same pocket players use. The uniform release point alignment helps connections up the field.
In wet weather, Hero retains its smooth release while lesser treated pockets become inconsistent. This reliability means you can trust your throws in any conditions.
While fundamentals are still key, Hero optimizes sticks to boost passing and shooting consistency. The revolutionary wax coating provides players an advantage in developing touch, accuracy, and control over their full range of throws on the field.
Improving Ball Control and Cradling with Hero Strings
lacrosse players know that having complete command of the ball is crucial when dodging, maneuvering, and operating in traffic. This is an area where stringing with East Coast Dyes Hero offers a real advantage through optimized ball control and cradling.
The proprietary wax coating on Hero has a softened feel that conforms perfectly to the ball during cradling. The mesh gently grips but still releases smoothly, allowing you to cradle confidently in tight spaces.
Hero’s uniform wax properties also mean the pocket retains its ideal shape longer. This consistency enables you to develop muscle memory for cradling over time without adjusting to pocket changes.
Thanks to decreased friction from waxing, it’s easier to switch hands on cradles at full speed with Hero. Middies can maintain ball control and possession even when checked on drives up-field.
The weatherproof nature of Hero also boosts ball control when the elements impact grip. Cold and moisture that makes untreated mesh unpredictable has minimal effect on Hero’s cradling feel.
In close quarters play, Hero affords you superior command of the ball to keep it protected. The pocket hugs the ball from all sides with the ideal tension. This allows you to cradle out of packs and safely exit traffic.
During ground ball scrums, Hero’s soft pocket feel lets you securely scoop and cradle away in one motion. The wax coating provides just the right amount of tackiness to gain possession and smoothly transition up the field.
For developing the cradle fundamentals needed at higher levels, Hero is an excellent training tool. You can hone technique knowing the pocket will perform consistently every time. The elite control Hero provides can help elevate any player’s command of the ball.
Ideal Stringing Setups for Hero Pockets
One of the keys to unlocking the full potential of East Coast Dyes Hero stringing is choosing the right mesh pattern and stringing setup. The ideal configuration depends on your position and playing style preferences.
For attackmen, the Hero Mark 2V is a great option, offering a defined mid-low pocket for quick releases. Pair with a three-straight shooter setup using softer nylon shooters to maximize hold. This gives you control while still allowing crisp shots.
Middies tend to favor the Hero Mark 1 pattern for its slightly wider channel and mid-pocket shape, perfect for carrying up the field. A single straight shooter setup maintains structure. Semi-soft nylon shooters improve ball control on passes.
Defensemen looking for enhanced protection on checks will like the Hero Mark 1.5’s mid-high pocket style. Pair it with a U-shooter setup using 2 straighter nylons up top for ball retention and hold through contact.
Faceoff specialists need optimized clamping strength, making the Hero Faceoff a great choice. Use sting King mesh for the sidewalls to help direct ground balls. A semi-soft shooter setup gives just enough grab to win draws.
No matter your mesh and stringing style, choose a head with a flexible scoop and rounded, pinched sidewall holes. This amplifies Hero’s ball control. Tighter sidewall stringing aligns with the uniform nature of Hero for a defined channel and pocket.
Take the time to string and restring with different Hero setups to find your ideal configuration. The beauty of Hero is that it allows for customization while still delivering consistent performance. Dial in the exact pocket feel that suits your game.
With the right Hero stringing components and techniques, you can maximize the elite playability it offers. Finding your ideal setup will help you elevate your game and cut down on restringing time so you can spend more time on the field.
Custom Stringing Hero in Different Head Models
One excellent quality of East Coast Dyes Hero stringing is how well it adapts to being strung across different head models. Thanks to the uniform nature of Hero, players can recreate their favorite pocket feel even when switching heads.
For example, an attackman who upgrades from a larger high school head to a narrower college head can still dial in their ideal mid-low pocket using Hero stringing. The wax coating properties provide consistency even as dimensions change.
Hero gives you precision control over pocket shape that is harder to achieve with traditional untreated mesh. No matter the scoop angle or sidewall hole pattern, you can string a defined channel setup by manipulating Hero’s malleability.
The key is taking into account the unique structure of each head during the pattern stringing process. For wider heads, use less of a channel and more defined sidewall ridges with Hero to optimize ball control. Go for a more pronounced channel in narrower heads to increase hold.
You may need to adjust shooting string angles to control release points as head shapes vary. But Hero’s minimized friction will keep the ball coming off the pocket clean regardless of configuration.
Don’t be afraid to experiment stringing Hero into non-traditional head models too. For example, stringing a smooth Hero pocket into a titanium shaft head can create an ultra-lightweight setup perfect for faceoffs and transitional play.
No matter what head style or size you prefer, Hero allows you to recreate a consistent pocket feel. Dialing in your perfect channel, taper, and shooting strings is achievable across different heads when using high-quality Hero stringing.
Are Hero Strings Right for Your Playing Style?
With so many varieties of lacrosse stringing available today, it’s important to consider if high-performance mesh like East Coast Dyes Hero aligns with your playing style and needs.
For elite players who prioritize optimizing their pocket feel and performance, Hero is an excellent option. The ultra-consistent release points, control, and durability Hero provides justifies the higher cost for serious players.
Those who play year-round in all weather conditions will also appreciate Hero’s sturdy waterproof and temperature-resistant properties. This allows for reliable performance even in wet spring conditions that can impact traditional pockets.
Due to the sophisticated wax coating, Hero does require a more meticulous break-in process compared to mesh alternatives. Casual players may not want to invest the time into properly breaking in Hero to achieve ideal flexibility.
Players on a tight budget may be better off with a quality yet affordable nylon mesh option. While not at Hero’s level, these get the job done at a lower price point.
For middies and attackmen who prefer a super soft, deep pocket feel, traditional leathers may make sense over the firmer Hero wax coating. It all comes down to personal preference.
Those new to stringing their own sticks should start with a more forgiving material while developing skills. Hero demands precision stringing to get the full benefits.
In the end, there are no wrong options when it comes to lacrosse stringing. But for players wanting to take their game to the next level, few can match the elite consistency, control and durability that East Coast Dyes Hero provides.