Essential Lacrosse Sidewall Stringing Techniques for Maximum Performance
Essential Lacrosse Sidewall Stringing Techniques for Maximum Performance
Proper Sidewall String Tension Prevents Deformation and Maximizes Lacrosse Stick Performance
Selecting the ideal sidewall string tension is perhaps the most critical yet overlooked factor when stringing a lacrosse stick. Most players simply crank their sidewalls as tight as possible thinking more tension equals better performance. However, too much tension can actually deform the sidewall, reducing pocket consistency. On the other hand, sidewalls wound too loosely around the spool slacken over time, compromising ball control. Finding the optimal string tension sweet spot takes experimentation, patience and an understanding of the fundamentals.
Ultimately, the goal is winding sidewalls taut enough to create defined ridges without stretching the material so thin it cuts into itself. Sidewalls over-tensioned beyond their elastic limits will either snap immediately or develop micro-abrasions that later rupture under stress. Gradually increase winding pressure while regularly stopping to examine the spool’s surface texture. Quality sidewalls will retain a smooth, consistent grain when tensioned correctly. Any indentation, rippling or flattening indicates excessive tension that must be reduced.
The ideal tension also depends on the sidewall material composition. Synthetic sidewalls made from nylon blends can withstand higher tension than natural leather or linen threads. Start with lower tension settings for natural materials, incrementally increasing tension while ensuring the fibers remain smooth and resilient. Rigid composite sidewalls are the most tension-tolerant but lackadjustability once strung, making precise initial stringing critical.
Tension requirements also fluctuate based on pocket style and desired ball control properties. Tighter tension gives more defined ridges and channels conducive to quick accurate passes. Loosen tension slightly for softer pockets optimized for cradling and scooping ground balls. Position players prefer medium high tension for versatility while attackmen favor slightly looser pockets for catching bad passes. Goalies need the most rigid sidewalls to withstand high velocity shots. Incorporate any special stringing considerations into initial sidewall tension settings, adjusting as needed during stringing.
Carefully monitor sidewall tension when weaving through the mesh to form diamond ridges. Uneven winding pressure from pulling the spool tighter in some spots than others creates an inconsistent pocket prone to quick degradation. Maintain steady tension throughout the sidewall stringing process. Securely anchor knots at both spool ends to prevent loosening over time.
While most players set sidewall tension once and leave it static, selectively altering tension in strategic diamond rows adds next-level finesse. Slightly increasing tension on the first few lower diamonds ramps up ball control down low for scooping ground balls. Easing tension on the upper diamonds softens the pocket for catching high passes and shots. Gradually transition tension settings between upper and lower pocket areas for optimized performance across all ball locations.
In summary, proper sidewall string tension is a delicate balancing act requiring precision stringing techniques. Master lacrosse stick engineers continually fine-tune tension settings through extensive testing until reaching the optimal level for each pocket style and application. By taking the time to experiment with various tension configurations, players can discover the ideal settings to maximize their individual playing style and abilities. With the right know-how and patience, you can transform the sidewalls from an overlooked stringing element into an invaluable performance enhancement tool.
Choosing Durable Lacrosse Sidewall Materials Increases Pocket Life and Performance Longevity

The sidewall material directly impacts a lacrosse stick pocket’s durability and usable lifespan. While many players simply use the default sidewalls included with a new stick, upgrading to higher quality materials can extend pocket life considerably. The ideal sidewall blend maximizes strength, abrasion resistance and weatherproofing while minimizing stretch, creep and environmental degradation. By selecting the optimal composition for their playing style and conditions, players can string pockets with unparalleled longevity and consistent performance season after season.
For most applications, advanced synthetic blends offer the best blend of durability and performance. Brands like Rabil use high-grade ballistic nylon cords with proprietary coatings to create exceptionally rugged sidewalls. The nylon provides tremendous tensile strength to withstand high stringing forces while resisting moisture, UV rays and abrasion. Polyurethane coatings further boost weatherproofing and longevity. These materials retain the precise pocket shape through months of hardcore use in all conditions. The ultra-stiff texture also transmits energy directly into the ball for deadly accurate passes and shots.
While synthetics dominate for performance, traditional materials still offer unique advantages. Genuine rawhide leather provides unparalleled classic feel coveted by some players. Leather knots tighter than synthetic threads, allowing very rigid yet responsive pockets. The natural hide material also gradually molds to a player’s style over time. However, leather requires extensive weatherproofing and maintenance to prevent cracking or rotting. For historical charm with more durability, manila and linen sidewalls provide a middle ground. Though not as durable as synthetics, these natural fibers resist degradation better than leather while providing a smoother, more well-worn pocket feel right off the bat.
Innovative composite sidewall technologies offer a cutting-edge alternative, but lack adjustability. Brands like StringKing and Epoch integrate the sidewalls directly into the head via injection molding with advanced polymers like nylon-carbon fiber blends. This creates a seamless pocket structure and precise string spacing. However, pocket adjustments require a whole new head rather than simple re-stringing. Composites can also dent if hit directly against a hard surface. For most players, the total lack of adjustability outweighs any minor durability gains over synthetic sidewalls.
Regardless of base material, sidewall coatings provide a simple and effective way to boost durability. Wax infused cords reduce friction and screening, minimizing abrasions that shorten sidewall life. Silicone-based finishes better retain factory string tension and weatherproofing compared to uncoated options. Proprietary chemical coatings like StringKing’s IsoTherm harden the cords for enhanced rigidity without brittleness. Reapply coatings periodically as needed to maintain protection.
Proper stringing technique also maximizes lifespan by avoiding unnecessary stress. Ensure knots are snug but not over-tightened. Weave sidewalls smoothly through the mesh without causing them to pinch or bunch. Space diamonds evenly with consistent tension throughout the head. Starting with high-quality materials and strings them properly will enable your pocket to maintain its shape and performance far longer before needing replacement. Consider keeping an extra set of sidewalls on hand for quick re-stringing rather than waiting until the current set breaks.
While tempting to save money on basic sidewalls, proven premium lacrosse-specific materials pay for themselves over time by maintaining top performance for multiple seasons of play. Combine advanced sidewall technology with proper stringing and maintenance techniques for the perfect formula to get the most out of your lacrosse stick year after year. Don’t settle for temporary pockets – choose durable sidewall materials for lifelong consistency.
Winding Lacrosse Sidewalls Evenly Around the Spool Avoids Channeling and Inconsistencies

Properly winding sidewalls around the spool when stringing a lacrosse head requires patience and precision. Rushing through the process leads to uneven winding tension, resulting in a misshapen pocket prone to channeling balls. By carefully controlling spool rotation speed and sidewall tension, players can achieve flawlessly smooth, consistent windings for optimal performance. Follow a deliberate process each time to eliminate winding inconsistencies.
Start by anchoring the sidewall end knot in the spool’s center groove before winding outward in a spiral pattern. Turn the spool slowly and steadily with one hand while maintaining light tension on the free sidewall end with the other hand. Work at a controlled pace instead of hurriedly cranking the spool. Allow the sidewall to retain a smooth, flat surface free of bunching or rippling, adjusting tension accordingly.
Mark equidistant alignment dots around the spool’s outer edge to track winding progress. Aim to evenly distribute windings by progressing the sidewall tip a consistent distance between each dot during each full rotation. Count spool rotations to ensure symmetrical winding layers on both sides. Plan the number of desired windings in advance based on the stringing pattern and pocket style. For example, wide shallow pockets utilize more windings spaced farther apart versus narrower, deeper pocket styles.
Avoid uneven winding pressure that squeezes some sidewall sections thinner or stretches others wider. Inconsistent winding tension leads to loose sections that encourage channeling. The sidewall must maintain uniform thickness and rigidity across the entire spool surface. Carefully monitor tension adjustments as you progress outwards to compensate for the increasing spool diameter.
Be mindful of your hand positioning as well during winding. Wrapping at sharp sideways angles risks angling the sidewall askew or overlapping unevenly. Rotate the spool as upright and flat as possible for proper alignment. Use finger guides to precisely track sidewall placement rather than winding haphazardly. Maintaining tidy, orderly windings requires patience but enables much more consistent performance.
For easier winding, consider investing in a dedicated stringing jig that securely holds the head and spool in place. Quality jigs position the spool horizontally and allow smooth rotation via a hand crank or motor. This frees both hands to evenly guide the sidewall and provides a stable base to avoid bumps or shifts during winding. Many jigs also incorporate a tensioning system ranging from simple friction clamps to adjustable string guides.
Take the time to inspect each winding layer before moving outward. Count the rotations per layer and verify even sidewall spacing. Rewind any questionable sections before the pocket is fully strung. It is much easier to correct winding errors earlier rather than after fully threading the sidewalls through the mesh. Meticulous precision winding may take longer initially but delivers vastly improved consistency compared to rushed, haphazard winding.
Proper sidewall winding sets the foundation for the entire pocket shape and performance. Players who value craftsmanship and consistency cannot afford subpar winding technique. By honing your process with the right tools, every pocket will string up smoothly with flawless sidewall integration. Make winding mastery an integral part of your stringing skillset.