Which lacrosse stick material is best for your playing style. How do different head types affect performance. What are the top lacrosse stick brands in 2023. Is an offset, mid-pocket, or open sidewall head right for you. How to choose between wood, aluminum, and titanium lacrosse sticks.
Lacrosse Stick Materials: Wood vs. Aluminum vs. Titanium
When selecting a lacrosse stick, the material of the shaft plays a crucial role in performance and durability. Let’s explore the three main options:
Wooden Lacrosse Sticks
Wooden sticks, offered by brands like Bear Lacrosse and WoodLax, provide a classic feel and are often the go-to choice for youth players. They offer good all-around performance at an affordable price point. However, wood sticks have some drawbacks:
- Less durable than metal alternatives
- Prone to chipping and denting
- Performance can be affected by weather conditions
Aluminum Lacrosse Sticks
Aluminum alloy sticks gained popularity in the 1990s and remain a popular choice today. Brands like Warrior with their Scandium line and Maverik’s Hyperlite offer stiff and lightweight options. Advantages of aluminum sticks include:
- Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
- Ability to have thinner shaft walls without sacrificing durability
- Consistent performance in various weather conditions
The main drawback of aluminum is that it conducts vibration more than other materials, which some players find uncomfortable.
Titanium Lacrosse Sticks
Titanium alloys, such as Maverik’s MetaLyte, represent the latest development in lacrosse stick technology. These premium sticks offer several advantages:
- Highest strength-to-weight ratio of any material
- Exceptional durability with minimal weight
- Superior vibration dampening compared to aluminum
The primary disadvantage of titanium sticks is their premium price point, which may not be suitable for all players.
Are titanium lacrosse sticks worth the investment. For advanced players seeking the ultimate in performance and durability, titanium sticks can provide a significant edge. However, beginners and intermediate players may find that aluminum or even wooden sticks meet their needs adequately at a lower cost.
Understanding Lacrosse Stick Head Types: Offset, Mid/Low Pocket, and Open
The head of a lacrosse stick significantly impacts handling, scooping, passing, and shooting. Let’s examine the three main types of lacrosse stick heads and their characteristics:
Offset Heads
Offset heads feature a forward-angled bottom rail that shifts the pocket rearward. This design offers several benefits:
- Creates a deeper pocket for improved ball control
- Ideal for power shots
- Excellent choice for beginners learning fundamentals
However, offset heads have some limitations:
- Can restrict quick passing
- May limit field vision while cradling
Mid/Low Pocket Heads
Mid to low pocket heads feature a more centered pocket placement, offering a balance of control and quick release. Advantages include:
- Improved balance between ball control and quick passing/shooting
- Better visibility of the field while cradling
- Versatile performance for various playing styles
The main drawback of mid/low pocket heads is slightly decreased ball retention during checks compared to offset heads.
Open Sidewall Heads
Open sidewall heads feature wider lower sidewalls, optimizing for quick ball movement. Benefits of this design include:
- Enhanced handling and passing capabilities
- Fastest ball release for quick shots
- Improved feel and responsiveness
The trade-off with open sidewall heads is reduced ball control and retention compared to other head types.
Which lacrosse stick head type is best for your position. Attackmen often prefer mid/low pocket or open sidewall heads for quick release and precise shooting. Midfielders may opt for a versatile mid-pocket head. Defenders typically choose offset heads for maximum ball control during clears and checks.
Top Lacrosse Stick Brands in 2023: Features and Technologies
When selecting a lacrosse stick, it’s essential to consider the unique technologies and features offered by leading brands. Let’s explore some of the top manufacturers in the industry:
Warrior Lacrosse
Warrior is known for innovative designs and high-performance sticks. Key features include:
- TruOffset and TruMid technologies for optimized pocket placement
- Scandium shafts offering excellent strength-to-weight ratio
- The Warp head, featuring a unique molded pocket design
STX Lacrosse
STX is a long-standing leader in lacrosse equipment. Their sticks are characterized by:
- Innovative sidewall designs on popular heads like the Stallion and Surgeon
- Power rings in shafts to reduce vibrations
- The STX Hammer, showcasing their latest technologies
Maverik Lacrosse
Maverik focuses on optimizing stick performance for various playing styles. Notable features include:
- Channel technology in heads like the Optik for improved passing and shooting
- MetaLyte titanium alloy shafts for superior durability
- The Rome NXT stick, exemplifying Maverik’s commitment to innovation
Brine Lacrosse
Brine offers a range of sticks balancing performance and value. Key aspects include:
- Offset and specialized heads like the Clutch for developing players
- The King IV stick, showcasing Brine’s technologies
- Focus on durability and consistent performance
ECD Lacrosse
ECD (East Coast Dyes) is known for pushing the boundaries of lacrosse stick technology:
- Advanced carbon fiber shafts in the Carbon Pro and Rebel lines
- Lightweight, stiff sidewalls in head designs
- Array pocket placements for customized performance
How do you choose the right brand for your lacrosse stick. Consider your playing style, position, and skill level first. Then, explore the unique technologies offered by each brand to find the perfect match for your needs and budget.
Selecting the Ideal Lacrosse Stick Head: Factors to Consider
Choosing the right lacrosse stick head can significantly impact your performance on the field. Let’s delve deeper into the factors you should consider when selecting a head:
Playing Position
Your position on the field plays a crucial role in determining the ideal head type:
- Attackmen: Often prefer mid/low pocket or open sidewall heads for quick release and precise shooting
- Midfielders: May opt for versatile mid-pocket heads that balance control and quick release
- Defenders: Typically choose offset heads for maximum ball control during clears and checks
- Goalies: Require specialized wider heads designed for blocking shots
Skill Level
Your experience and skill level should influence your head choice:
- Beginners: Benefit from offset heads that provide more ball control and forgiveness
- Intermediate players: May transition to mid-pocket heads as their skills improve
- Advanced players: Often prefer specialized heads tailored to their playing style and position
League Regulations
Different leagues and levels of play have specific regulations regarding stick head dimensions and features. Ensure your chosen head complies with your league’s rules to avoid penalties.
Stringing Options
Consider the stringing options available for different head types:
- Some heads come pre-strung, which can be convenient for beginners
- Custom stringing allows for personalized pocket placement and feel
- Certain head designs may limit or enhance stringing possibilities
How does the shape of a lacrosse stick head affect performance. The shape influences ball control, release speed, and accuracy. Pinched heads offer better ball retention but may sacrifice quick release, while wider heads allow for faster passes and shots but can be less secure during checks.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick: Personalization Options
Personalizing your lacrosse stick can enhance your performance and express your individual style. Let’s explore various customization options:
Custom Stringing
Stringing your stick’s pocket is perhaps the most impactful customization:
- Experiment with different pocket depths and placements
- Try various stringing materials like traditional leathers or modern synthetics
- Adjust the number and placement of shooting strings for optimal release
Shaft Modifications
Customize your shaft for improved grip and control:
- Apply grip tape or specialized lacrosse grip products
- Add end caps for protection and personalization
- Consider shaft textures or patterns for enhanced feel
Color Customization
Many manufacturers offer color options for both heads and shafts:
- Match your team colors or create a unique color combination
- Consider dyed mesh or colored stringing for added flair
- Some brands offer custom color programs for a truly unique stick
Performance Enhancements
Explore additional modifications to boost performance:
- Add weight to the shaft for increased shot power
- Experiment with different butt-end designs for improved control
- Try specialized mesh types for varying weather conditions
Can customizing your lacrosse stick improve your game. While personalization can enhance comfort and confidence, it’s important to remember that stick customization is no substitute for proper technique and practice. Focus on developing your skills alongside finding the right stick setup for your playing style.
Maintenance and Care for Your Lacrosse Stick
Proper maintenance of your lacrosse stick is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Let’s discuss essential care tips:
Cleaning Your Stick
Regular cleaning helps maintain your stick’s condition:
- Rinse the head and strings with clean water after each use
- Use a soft brush to remove dirt and debris from the pocket
- For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals
Protecting the Head
Preserve your stick head’s shape and integrity:
- Store your stick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Use a ball in the pocket to maintain its shape when not in use
- Avoid leaving your stick in hot cars or other high-temperature environments
Shaft Care
Keep your shaft in top condition:
- Regularly inspect for dents, cracks, or other damage
- Clean the shaft with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat
- Apply grip enhancers or replace grip tape as needed
String Maintenance
Proper string care ensures consistent performance:
- Check for frayed or worn strings and replace as necessary
- Adjust pocket depth and shooting strings periodically
- Consider re-stringing your stick at least once per season
How often should you replace your lacrosse stick. The frequency of replacement depends on usage, care, and personal preference. Heads may need replacement every 1-2 seasons for heavy users, while shafts can last several seasons with proper care. Always replace any equipment showing signs of significant wear or damage to ensure safety and performance.
Advanced Lacrosse Stick Technologies: Innovations Shaping the Game
The world of lacrosse equipment is constantly evolving, with manufacturers introducing new technologies to enhance performance. Let’s explore some of the latest innovations in lacrosse stick design:
Smart Stick Technology
Some companies are integrating digital technology into lacrosse sticks:
- Sensors that track shot speed, accuracy, and other metrics
- Companion apps for data analysis and performance tracking
- Haptic feedback systems for training and skill development
Advanced Materials
Cutting-edge materials are pushing the boundaries of stick performance:
- Carbon nanotube-reinforced shafts for unprecedented strength and lightness
- Shape-memory alloys that can adapt to playing conditions
- Biocomposite materials for more environmentally friendly options
Aerodynamic Designs
Manufacturers are focusing on optimizing stick aerodynamics:
- Streamlined head shapes to reduce air resistance during shots
- Textured surfaces on shafts to improve grip and reduce drag
- Computer-modeled designs for optimal ball flight and control
Customization Platforms
Some brands are offering advanced customization options:
- 3D-printed components for truly personalized stick designs
- Online configurators for custom color schemes and graphics
- Modular systems allowing players to swap components easily
Will these advanced technologies significantly impact lacrosse performance. While innovations can provide marginal gains, the fundamental skills and athleticism of the player remain the most critical factors in on-field success. Advanced technologies may offer new training tools and personalization options, but they are not a substitute for practice and technique development.
Lacrosse Stick Materials: Wood vs Aluminum vs Titanium
When selecting a lacrosse stick, one of the first decisions is which material is best – wood, aluminum, or titanium. Wood sticks like those from Bear Lacrosse and WoodLax provide that classic feel, but can be less durable. Aluminum like Warrior’s Scandium or Maverik’s Hyperlite aluminum is stiff and lightweight. Titanium like Maverik’s MetaLyte is the newest material, offering exceptional strength-to-weight ratio for quick moves.
Most youth players start with an inexpensive wooden lacrosse stick. Wood is affordable and provides good all-around performance. The drawbacks are durability – wood sticks can chip and dent more easily. Weather also impacts wood sticks.
Aluminum alloy sticks gained popularity in the 1990s for their stiffness and lightweight feel. Metals like scandium allow thinner shaft walls without sacrificing durability. The downside is aluminum conducts vibration more, which some dislike.
Titanium alloys like Maverik’s MetaLyte are the newest development. Titanium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio, meaning exceptional durability with minimal weight. It also dampens vibration better. The one drawback is titanium sticks are premium-priced.
In summary, wood is the classic affordable choice, aluminum offers superb strength and weight, while titanium provides the latest in lightweight precision.
Lacrosse Stick Head Types: Offset vs Mid/Low Pocket vs Open
The lacrosse stick head impacts handling, scooping, passing, and shooting. There are three main types – offset, mid/low pocket, and open.
Offset heads angle the bottom rail forward, shifting the pocket rearward. This creates a deeper pocket favored for power shots. Offset provides superior ball control especially for beginners. But it can limit quick passing and restrict vision compared to other heads.
Mid to low pocket heads have a more centered pocket placement. This balances control with quicker release passing and shots. It also improves visibility to see the field while cradling. Downsides are decreased ball retention during checks compared to offsets.
Open sidewall heads widen the lower sidewalls to enhance handling and passing. These heads allow quickest ball movement and shots. But they offer less ball control and retention versus other heads.
In summary, offset heads provide superior ball control for beginners. Mid to low pockets balance control with passing. Open sidewalls optimize for the fastest handling.
Lacrosse Stick Brands: Warrior vs STX vs Maverik vs Brine vs ECD
When buying a new lacrosse stick, popular equipment brands include Warrior, STX, Maverik, Brine and ECD. Each brand offers unique technologies and head/shaft combinations.
Warrior sticks feature offset and mid-pocket heads ideal for beginners to advanced. Patented TruOffset and TruMid technologies optimize pocket placement. Scandium shafts offer excellent strength. The Warp head highlights their lineup.
STX lacrosse uses innovative sidewall designs on staple heads like the Stallion and newer heads like the Surgeon. The power rings in STX shafts reduce vibrations. The STX Hammer highlights their sticks.
Maverik sticks like the Optik emphasize optimized passing and shooting via channel technology. MetaLyte titanium alloy shafts enhance durability. The Maverik Rome NXT lacrosse stick showcases the brand’s features.
Brine sticks offer value and performance with offset and special heads like the Clutch for developing players. The Brine King IV showcases their technologies.
ECD brands like Carbon Pro and Rebel provide advanced carbon fiber shafts. ECD heads feature lightweight stiff sidewalls and array pocket placements.
With many excellent stick options, focus first on head type for your position and skill level. Then explore brands for their unique technologies and pricing.
Lacrosse Stick Head Types: Offset vs Mid/Low Pocket vs Open
When selecting a lacrosse stick head, there are three main configurations to consider – offset, mid/low pocket, and open sidewall. Each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages for ball control, passing, shooting, and visibility.
The offset head is characterized by a lower rail positioned forward from the throat, shifting the pocket backward on the head. This deeper pocket area gives superior ball control, especially for beginning players learning fundamentals. Offset heads allow players to cradle and carry the ball securely upfield through pressure. The tradeoff is offset can restrict quick stick passing and shots compared to other heads. Vision can also be more limited with the ball sitting lower in the pocket.
Mid to low pocket heads have a more centered pocket placement, closer to the throat and midline of the stick. This balanced setup enables both excellent ball retention for cradling along with quick sticks for passing and shooting. With a more centered ball position, mid to low pockets also give players better visibility upfield during play. The potential drawback is that ball security may decrease slightly during checks compared to very deep offset pockets.
Open sidewall heads feature widened lower sidewall openings and low pocket placements toward the scoop. This optimizes the head for fastest handling, passing, and release of shots via whip action. However, overall ball control and retention are reduced somewhat compared to offsets and mid pockets. There is a learning curve to mastering the quick release of open heads.
In summary, offset is ideal for beginners learning to cradle, mid to low pockets offer a versatile blend, and open sidewalls specialize in maximizing passing and shooting speed.
Lacrosse Stick Brands: Warrior vs STX vs Maverik vs Brine vs ECD
When purchasing a new lacrosse stick, key brands to evaluate include lacrosse powerhouses Warrior, STX, Maverik, Brine and ECD. Each manufacturer provides their own unique technologies and head/shaft combinations.
Warrior lacrosse sticks are known for offset and mid-pocket heads optimized for handling and control, ideal for entry level to elite players. Their patented TruOffset and TruMid technologies precisely set pocket placement and ball control. Warrior’s Scandium shafts offer excellent strength-to-weight. The Warrior Warp head highlights their consistent high performance.
STX lacrosse heads utilize specialized sidewall designs like the pinched-in Stallion and the modular Surgeon line. STX Power Ring shafts reduce vibration for improved feel. The classic STX Hammer has been a staple STX stick for generations of players.
Maverik lacrosse sticks emphasize optimized passing and shooting via channel technology in heads like the Optik. Maverik’s MetaLyte titanium alloy shafts bring top-tier durability and strength. The Maverik Rome NXT lacrosse stick demonstrates their advanced technologies.
Brine sticks blend value and performance with offset and specialized heads like the Clutch to aid developing players. Brine’s King IV combo showcases their focus on entry level fundamentals.
ECD lacrosse offers premium carbon fiber shafts from their Carbon Pro and Rebel lines. ECD heads feature ultra-stiff lightweight sidewalls and array pocket placement options.
With many great sticks available, focus first on matching head type and specs to your playing style and experience level. Then explore brands for their unique technologies, head/shaft pairing, and budget.
Lacrosse Stick Weight – Pros and Cons of Light vs Heavy Sticks
When selecting a lacrosse stick, weight is an important factor influencing handling, speed, and durability. Lacrosse sticks typically range from lightweights under 15 oz to heavier models over 17 oz strung.
Lighter lacrosse sticks allow for quicker moves and increased swing velocity on shots. Arm and hand fatigue are also reduced with lightweight construction, enabling easier carrying upfield. Drawbacks of very light sticks can be decreased durability during checks and less ball retention in the pocket.
Heavier lacrosse sticks provide more strength for passes and checks. Added weight increases ball control especially for beginners learning fundamentals. The tradeoff is heavier sticks cause more fatigue over 60 minute games, limiting quickness of shots and handling. Durability is also not necessarily improved.
Most players find a middle ground stick weight in the 15-16 oz range ideal. This balances speed with decent ball control and durability. Attackmen and midfielders often favor lighter setups for finesse, while defenders lean heavier for physical checks.
In the end, lacrosse stick weight comes down to player size, strength, position and personal preference. Try out sticks across the spectrum to see what feels best for your game before committing long term.
Lacrosse Stick Length – Finding the Right Length by Position
Lacrosse stick length is an important factor matched to a player’s position, height, and style of play. Attackmen and midfielders generally use shorter sticks, while defenders opt for longer sticks for wider checking range.
For attack players, stick lengths typically range from 40-42″. Shorter stick lengths allow for quicker stick handling, passing, and dodging in tight spaces around the crease. The tradeoff is a bit less reach on checks and shots.
Midfielders tend to add 2-4″ of length compared to attack, sticking in the 42-46″ range. This provides a balance of decent stick handling with improved reach on longer passes upfield and shooting farther from the crease.
Defenders rely on their stick’s length for poke checks, sweep checks and knocking down passes. Traditional defender stick lengths are 52-72″, though modern trend is shifting a bit shorter. Extra length aids checks but can hinder quick stick work.
Goalies also utilize very long sticks up to 72″ for maximum passing lane coverage. The drawback is limited mobility and ball handling compared to field players.
When in doubt, extend young players an extra 2″ of length to allow room to grow. Overall stick length comes down to blend of player height, position and individual style.
Lacrosse Stick Pocket Types – Traditional, Mesh, Hybrid Pockets
The lacrosse stick pocket formed by stringing is a key component affecting ball control, release, and shooting. Players can choose traditional leather and nylon strings, pre-meshed pockets, or hybrids.
Traditional pockets use leather or nylon lace strung in crisscross patterns. Benefits are fully customizable stringing and optimized break-in feel. Drawbacks are tedious stringing labor and ongoing maintenance as strings stretch.
Pre-meshed pockets offer consistent performance right off the shelf. Polyester and nylon meshes retain their shape better over time versus leathers. Downsides are less customizable stringing options and decreased ball feel versus trads.
Hybrid pockets combine traditional leathers or nylons in lacing areas like the throat, sidewalls, and midsection with pre-meshed runners shooting strings. This blends customization with improved durability of meshes.
In the end pocket preference comes down to factors like consistent mesh performance vs. custom leather feel and maintenance. Trying out different pocket types can help determine what pairs best with your playing style.
Lacrosse Stick Shooting Strings – Importance of Proper Stringing
The lacrosse stick’s shooting strings are a critical yet often overlooked factor in optimizing shot speed, accuracy, and ball control. Proper stringing can make a big difference.
Shooting strings include the V’s, U’s, and diamonds interwoven closest to the scoop. Tensioning these strings impacts hold and release. Tighter diamonds grip better but reduce whip action. Looser diamonds create more ball bounce and erratic shots.
The angle of V’s and U’s also affects trajectory. Flat shots come off centered strings while angled strings add curve. Mixing string angles caters release to different shooting scenarios.
Material matters too. Softer shooting strings like leathers increase friction, allowing players to put more spin on shots. More slippery materials like nylon cords optimize for fast breaks from a tighter channel.
While minor details, optimized shooting strings can improve a player’s passing, shot accuracy, and highlights. Take time to experiment with different shooting string placements, tensions, angles, and materials when stringing pockets.
Lacrosse Stick Flex – Variations for Power vs Control
The amount of flex in a lacrosse stick shaft impacts both shooting power and ball control. Stiff sticks provide more velocity while flexible sticks allow for better ball handling.
Stiffer lacrosse shafts translate more energy into the ball upon shooting, adding speed and power. They also give players better checking strength. The compromise is decreased feel for cradling and passing in tight spaces.
More flexible shaft options like those using titanium alloys offer enhanced close quarters stick handling. Softer shafts absorb vibrations better as well. But they can lack the ideal stiffness for ripping shots.
Most players look for a balance – enough flex for solid passing and control but not overly whippy to sap power. Attackmen may favor more bend, while defenders need extra rigidity on checks.
Testing out different lacrosse stick flexes is recommended, as preference varies. But finding the right blend of responsiveness and precision can elevate any player’s overall game.
Lacrosse Stick Shafts – Octagon vs Round for Handling
Lacrosse stick shafts come in a variety of shapes that impact overall feel and performance. Octagonal shafts are more common, while round shafts offer unique handling properties.
Octagonal shafts have become the standard in lacrosse in recent years. Their eight-sided shape provides excellent grip and handling, with defined facets for fingers and consistency in orientation. Octagonal shafts are predictable and comfortable for most players.
Round shafts are a non-traditional option utilized by some players. The circular shape can increase grip strength and wrist flexibility needed for quick repositioning. Players also cite increased sensitivity and ball feel in cradling. But round shafts may feel awkward at first to players used to octagonal sticks.
In the end it comes down to personal preference. Many sticks now allow interchangeable octagonal and round shafts with the same head. Testing out each style can help determine which feels best suited to your game before fully committing.
Lacrosse Stick Heads – Wide vs Narrow Heads for Beginners
Lacrosse stick head width is an important factor, especially for beginning players learning fundamentals. Wider heads help initially with scooping and ball retention, while narrower heads suit more advanced players.
Wide lacrosse heads ranging from 6-8 inches across provide a larger sweet spot for intercepting passes. Added width also helps keep the ball in the pocket on cradles and shots as players develop coordination. Wide heads offer very forgiving performance for lacrosse newcomers.
More narrow lacrosse heads from 4-6 inches wide optimize for skilled handling. Narrower heads concentrate weight for faster passing and shooting. But they offer less margin for error scooping and retaining possession. Narrow lacrosse heads favor experienced play.
Most youth players find a compromise head around 6 inches wide ideal for learning. Then as skills progress, transitioning to more narrow heads gains advantages in quickness. Proper head width provides the right blend of ball control versus maneuverability.
Lacrosse Stick Costs – Budget to Premium Sticks Reviewed
Lacrosse sticks range widely in cost from affordable basic sticks under $50 to premium models priced over $200. Determining budget helps narrow choices to provide good performance at a fair price.
Inexpensive lacrosse stick options under $50 are ideal for very young players and those just starting out. These economical sticks from brands like STX and Brine get the job done, though lack the sophistication of pricier models. Great values for first-timers.
Mid-range sticks from $50-$150 offer a sweet spot combining quality and value. Major brands like Warrior, Maverik, and Nike produce excellent sticks with innovative features at moderate prices for developing players.
Premium lacrosse sticks from $150-$250+ feature pro-level materials and construction unmatched in precision and durability. High-end sticks from Epoch, True, and StringKing excel for elite play but demand a substantial investment.
Setting a lacrosse stick budget beforehand based on skill level helps filter options. Players can upgrade as abilities progress. With so many choices, review brands and features at your ideal price point.
Lacrosse Stick Care – Stringing, Pocket Maintenance Tips
Taking proper care of your lacrosse stick through stringing adjustments, pocket maintenance, and weather protection will maximize performance and extend its life.
Check shooting strings and sidewall strings regularly and tighten as needed to maintain pocket shape and ball control. Be careful not to over-tighten mesh pockets, which damages shape over time. Re-wax mesh occasionally to keep it supple and responsive.
In wet conditions apply waterproofing spray to wood shafts to prevent warping. Store sticks properly upright or hanging to avoid damage from leaning and dents. Occasional shaft polishing removes buildup and keeps materials fresh.
Avoid exposing lacrosse stick heads to extreme cold or heat in cars that could weaken sidewalls. Inspect heads routinely for cracks along the scoop and sidewalls that require repair.
With basic care to retain stringing tension, maintain the head, and protect from weather, a quality lacrosse stick should deliver seasons of consistent performance before needing re-stringing.
Lacrosse Stick Rules – HS, College, Pro Stick Specs
Lacrosse leagues at the high school, college, and pro levels all have specific rules governing legal lacrosse stick dimensions for shaft length, head width, and pocket depth.
High school lacrosse sticks must be between 40-42″ for field players and up to 72″ for goalies. Heads cannot be more than 6.5″ wide. Pockets must sit within 3″ of the head sidewalls.
NCAA and college lacrosse sticks allow field sticks from 40-42″ and goalie sticks up to 72″. Head width rules max out at 10″ with pocket depths the same 3″ or under as high school.
Professional league sticks including NLL and PLL permit the widest head dimensions up to 12″ across. Pocket depth rules are more lenient, with up to 5″ allowed from the sidewalls in pros.
Checking your stick’s specs and measurements against governing body rules is important before stepping on the field. Overall, college and pro sticks allow more width and deeper pockets than youth levels.
Lacrosse Stick Drills – Wall Ball, Cradling Drills to Improve
Lacrosse stick drills like wall ball and focused cradling drills are simple ways to build key skills. Just 15-30 minutes a day can yield big improvements in handling and technique.
Wall ball drills build quickness and accuracy in passing and catching by rapidly firing against a rebound wall. Move around to mix up sidearm, overhand, and bounce pass reps.
Focus on consistent form and minimizing dropped catches. Vary speed and add dodges.
Cradling drills develop coordination and control while running. Emphasize protecting stick with lead hand, keeping elbows tight, and flexing wrists to retain possession. Change pace to handle at top speed.
Also practice switches behind the back and between hands to build dexterity. Mirror drills facing a wall helps correct form.
Repeating these drills 10-15 minutes whenever possible grooves muscle memory and confidence. Skills become second nature through diligent practice over time. Wall ball and cradling pay dividends come game time.
Choosing Your Lacrosse Stick – Tips for Attack, Midfield, Defense
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, tailoring your choice to your primary position of attack, midfield, or defense optimizes performance.
For attack, prioritize quick stick handling and passing with a light, short stick around 40-42”. Offset heads give excellent control around the crease. Focus on snap shooting strings and a smooth release.
Midfielders need a blend of finesse and power. A 42-46” stick provides added reach on passes upfield while enabling solid cradling. Mid-pocket heads balance hold with release. Consider hybrid mesh and nylon pockets for versatility.
Defense emphasizes checks and disruption over ball skills. Longer poles from 52-72” allow wider poke check range. Stiffer shafts and wider heads equip defenders to clamp down on opponents’ possessions.
Before choosing a stick, consider your position’s specialized needs. Consulting coaches and veteran teammates can help newcomers select the right stick specs to excel at your role on the field.