Find The Lightest Lacrosse Shafts and Heads Available NowFind The Lightest Lacrosse Shafts and Heads Available Now
Select Lightweight Materials Like Carbon Fiber and Scandium
When looking to drop ounces from your lacrosse stick, one of the most impactful steps is choosing heads, shafts, and other components constructed from lightweight materials. Brands now offer gear made from advanced composites like carbon fiber which provide excellent strength-to-weight ratios. The stiffer properties of carbon fiber shafts combined with lighter overall weight can give players increased control and quicker shots. Scandium alloy is another material gaining popularity for its feather-like heft. The ultra-lightweight metal allows for thinner shaft walls without sacrificing durability. Titanium alloys offer a blend of strength, flex, and minimized mass. But don’t just chase lab testing numbers – be sure to evaluate how any gear feels in your hands before committing to new materials. Ultimately finding the optimal balance of light weight and playability for your game is key. Don’t sacrifice enough weight to severely impact passing, shooting, and ball control. Drilling extra holes may drop grams but consider if it reduces stability too far. Work with coaches to determine appropriate limits based on your height, position, needs, and level of play. While space-age shafts and exotic alloys grab headlines, sometimes a simple switch to a lighter polymer, wood, or composite lacrosse head like those from Epoch or Maverik is an easy first step. Compare head weights as dropping just a few ounces here helps offset and balance heavier shafts. Don’t forget about sockets, end caps, gloves, pads, and other gear too. Shaving weight across your entire setup adds up. And take time to get accustomed to major lightweight changes through training, practice, and adjustment periods. Incremental common sense reductions paired with dedication to skills and conditioning will serve you better than fixating on simply wielding the lightest lacrosse stick humanly possible.
Consider Head and Shaft Length to Reduce Weight

One strategy to lighten up your lacrosse stick is carefully considering length when selecting a new head and shaft. Keep in mind that shorter gear requires less raw material, so opting for a shorter stick can directly reduce weight. For heads, brands usually offer multiple width options nowadays. Narrower head designs from companies like Nike, Maverik, and STX range from 6 to 9 inches wide, while wider heads are typically 10+ inches. A smaller head not only weighs less, but also balances and handles quicker. Just ensure your head is legal for your level of play – for example high school boys must use heads 6 to 10 inches wide. For shafts, 30 to 32 inches are common youth lengths, 34 to 42 inches for women, and 40 to 72 inches for men depending on position and preference. Goalies tend to use longer shafts, whereas attacks often favor shorter sticks for increased maneuverability. Compare weights between shaft lengths, as the difference of even 4 to 6 inches can impact heft noticeably. Some players also cut down full length shafts to their ideal custom length. This removes extra material and unnecessary weight, but make sure to tape over new end caps and follow any warranty guidelines.
Beyond raw weight, consider balance and feel too when sizing your stick. Smaller heads paired with longer shafts can make sticks handle slowly and feel “top heavy”. Complement a lighter head with an appropriately sized shaft for optimal overall weight distribution and control. Trying out different gear at lacrosse shops and camps is the best way to test what lengths suit your physique and position the best. Don’t sacrifice too much length that it impacts reach and ability to protect your stick during play. Work within league rules and guidelines, as safety is still paramount. For example, extremely short shafts may not offer enough space for legal cradling at all levels and could also increase risk of contact injuries in the men’s game. Take time to adjust to any gear changes, especially altered stick lengths. Significant adjustments require relearning proper form, technique, shooting mechanics, and more. But dialing in the ideal head and shaft lengths for your body and needs can ultimately shave ounces off total stick weight.
Favor Youth and Women’s Gear for Lighter Weight

One easy way to find lacrosse gear with reduced weight is to look at equipment designed for youth and women’s leagues. Brands naturally engineer sticks for younger players with lighter materials and smaller sizing, shedding unnecessary heft. Many youth shafts from Maverik, STX, and Brine are made of softer alloys or composite blends with more flex and far less mass than stiff adult shafts. Heads marketed for youth also utilize more plastic versus heavier metals, bringing head weights down into the 4 to 5 ounce range. Women’s lacrosse gear is regulated to be lighter too, with mandated limits on overall stick weights. Women’s sticks cannot exceed 775 grams or about 1.7 pounds fully strung – much lighter than men’s sticks. This encourages brands to construct women’s gear from light alloys like scandium or titanium versus heavier alloys used in traditional men’s sticks. To take advantage of these weight capped products, male players can use “women’s” shafts which often weigh under 100 grams in some cases. Just ensure your high school or college league allows this, as some governing bodies prohibit gear crossing gender lines or limit alloy types permitted.
The key is looking past gender marketing terms, and instead comparing hard specs like exact weights. While categorized for female athletes, many women’s shafts and heads are unisex in fit and function. Sourcing gear from multiple categories opens up more lightweight options, as long as styles align with your play type and league rules. Younger players can also benefit from trying out adult gear later on, but sized down proportionally. For example, a lightweight women’s shaft with a shallow youth pocket allows for superior ball control. Just take time to adjust to any sizing shifts in gear. An adult women’s shaft on a youth stick may handle drastically different. Consult coaches when experimenting across age and gender equipment divides. While lighter materials aid performance, proper development at younger ages involves building skills with appropriately sized gear. But branching out beyond traditional “mens” lacrosse products can unlock new lightweight pieces from across the sport.
Compare Weights Between Brands and Models
Are carbon fiber shafts worth the investment? For players seeking the ultimate in lightweight performance, absolutely. The reduced weight can lead to faster shots, improved ball control, and decreased fatigue during long games or practice sessions.
Scandium and Titanium Alloys: Metals of the Future
Scandium alloy is gaining traction in the lacrosse world due to its incredibly low density. This rare earth metal allows for ultra-thin shaft walls that maintain strength while shedding grams. Similarly, titanium alloys offer an excellent balance of weight reduction, flexibility, and durability.
- Scandium shafts can be up to 30% lighter than traditional aluminum options
- Titanium alloys provide natural flex, enhancing shot power and accuracy
- Both metals resist denting and bending, increasing the lifespan of your stick
Optimizing Head and Shaft Dimensions for Minimal Weight
While material selection is crucial, the dimensions of your lacrosse stick components play a significant role in overall weight. Carefully considering the length and width of both your shaft and head can lead to substantial weight savings without sacrificing performance.
Head Width: Finding the Sweet Spot
Lacrosse head width varies significantly, typically ranging from 6 to 10+ inches. Narrower heads not only weigh less but also offer improved ball control and quicker handling. However, it’s essential to balance weight reduction with legal requirements and playing style.
Which brands offer the lightest lacrosse heads? Companies like Nike, Maverik, and STX lead the pack with ultralight head designs. These manufacturers utilize advanced polymers and strategic material removal to create heads that often weigh less than 5 ounces.
Shaft Length: Tailoring to Your Position
Shaft length directly impacts overall stick weight. Shorter shafts require less material, naturally resulting in a lighter stick. However, optimal length varies based on player position, league regulations, and personal preference.
- Youth players: 30-32 inches
- Women’s game: 34-42 inches
- Men’s game: 40-72 inches (position dependent)
Can you customize shaft length for weight reduction? Many players opt to cut down full-length shafts to their ideal size, removing excess material and unnecessary weight. Just be sure to follow manufacturer guidelines and league regulations when modifying your equipment.
Exploring Youth and Women’s Gear for Lightweight Options
An often-overlooked strategy for finding ultralight lacrosse equipment is to explore gear designed for youth and women’s leagues. These product lines naturally prioritize reduced weight to accommodate smaller players and different game regulations.
Youth Equipment: Engineered for Lightness
Youth lacrosse gear is specifically designed with weight reduction in mind. Manufacturers use softer alloys, composite blends, and increased plastic content to create sticks that are significantly lighter than their adult counterparts.
How much lighter is youth lacrosse equipment? Youth shafts can weigh up to 40% less than standard adult options, while heads often fall in the 4-5 ounce range – a substantial reduction from heavier adult models.
Women’s Lacrosse Gear: Regulated for Reduced Weight
The women’s game has specific equipment regulations that mandate lighter gear. This has led to the development of ultralight sticks and heads that adult male players can also benefit from when seeking weight reduction.
- Women’s shafts are typically shorter and made from lighter materials
- Heads designed for the women’s game often feature more plastic and less metal
- Overall stick weight is generally 30-40% less than men’s equipment
Balancing Weight Reduction with Performance and Safety
While the pursuit of the lightest lacrosse gear is admirable, it’s crucial to strike a balance between weight reduction and maintaining optimal performance and safety. Extreme weight-cutting measures can sometimes lead to unintended consequences on the field.
The Performance Equation: Light vs. Right
Excessive weight reduction can negatively impact stick control, shot power, and overall durability. It’s essential to find the sweet spot where weight savings enhance your game without compromising fundamental skills.
How light is too light for a lacrosse stick? This varies by player, but generally, when weight reduction begins to noticeably affect your passing accuracy, shot consistency, or ability to maintain possession during checks, you’ve likely gone too far.
Safety Considerations in Lightweight Design
Ultra-lightweight equipment may not always provide adequate protection or meet league safety standards. It’s crucial to ensure that any weight-saving measures don’t compromise the structural integrity of your stick or increase injury risk.
- Check that lightweight shafts meet minimum wall thickness requirements
- Ensure heads can withstand the impact of regular play and checking
- Verify that all equipment meets or exceeds league safety regulations
Innovative Brands Leading the Lightweight Lacrosse Revolution
Several manufacturers are at the forefront of developing ultralight lacrosse equipment. These brands consistently push the boundaries of material science and design to create gear that maximizes performance while minimizing weight.
Epoch Lacrosse: Pioneers in Carbon Fiber Technology
Epoch has made a name for itself with its cutting-edge carbon fiber shafts and heads. Their Dragonfly line of shafts is renowned for its incredibly low weight and superior strength-to-weight ratio.
What makes Epoch’s carbon fiber technology unique? Their proprietary layup process and resin systems result in shafts that are not only lightweight but also offer tailored flex profiles for different playing styles.
StringKing: Innovative Head Design for Weight Reduction
StringKing has revolutionized head design with its Mark 2 series, featuring strategically placed cutouts and reinforcements to minimize weight without sacrificing durability or performance.
- The Mark 2V, designed for versatility, weighs just 4.7 ounces
- Their composite shafts complement the lightweight heads for a balanced feel
- StringKing’s focus on data-driven design has led to some of the lightest complete sticks on the market
Customization and Maintenance for Long-Term Weight Optimization
Achieving and maintaining the lightest possible lacrosse setup goes beyond initial equipment selection. Customization options and proper maintenance play crucial roles in keeping your gear as light as the day you bought it.
Strategic Customization for Weight Reduction
Many players opt to customize their sticks further to shave off additional weight. This can involve carefully planned modifications that don’t compromise the integrity of the equipment.
How can you safely customize your lacrosse stick for weight reduction? Consider these options:
- Drilling small ventilation holes in non-critical areas of the shaft
- Replacing metal screws with lighter nylon alternatives
- Using minimal stringing materials without sacrificing pocket performance
- Opting for lighter end caps or removing them entirely (if allowed by regulations)
Remember to consult with experienced players or coaches before making any significant modifications to ensure you’re not compromising your stick’s performance or legality.
Maintenance Practices to Preserve Lightweight Properties
Proper care and maintenance of your lacrosse equipment are essential for preserving its lightweight characteristics over time. Neglect can lead to unnecessary weight gain and decreased performance.
What maintenance steps help keep lacrosse gear light? Follow these best practices:
- Regularly clean your stick to prevent dirt and debris buildup
- Store equipment in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture absorption
- Periodically check and tighten screws to prevent rattling and maintain structural integrity
- Replace worn strings and mesh promptly to avoid water retention
- Inspect shafts and heads for damage that could affect weight distribution
By incorporating these maintenance habits into your routine, you’ll ensure that your carefully selected lightweight gear remains as efficient as possible throughout its lifespan.
The Future of Lightweight Lacrosse Equipment: Emerging Technologies
As the demand for lighter lacrosse gear continues to grow, manufacturers are investing in cutting-edge technologies to push the boundaries of weight reduction even further. These innovations promise to revolutionize the sport and provide players with unprecedented performance advantages.
Nanotechnology in Material Development
Researchers are exploring the use of nanomaterials to create lacrosse equipment with exceptional strength-to-weight ratios. These materials could lead to shafts and heads that are significantly lighter than current options while maintaining or even improving durability.
How might nanotechnology impact lacrosse gear? Potential applications include:
- Carbon nanotube-reinforced polymers for ultra-lightweight heads
- Graphene-infused shafts offering unparalleled strength at minimal weight
- Nanocoatings to reduce friction and improve ball control
3D Printing and Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
Additive manufacturing technologies are opening new possibilities for creating complex, lightweight structures that were previously impossible to produce. 3D printing allows for precise material placement, optimizing weight distribution without sacrificing structural integrity.
What advantages does 3D printing offer for lacrosse equipment? Consider these potential benefits:
- Customized heads with variable wall thicknesses for optimal weight reduction
- Shafts with internal lattice structures to minimize material use
- Rapid prototyping and testing of new lightweight designs
- On-demand production of personalized, weight-optimized gear
As these technologies mature, players can expect to see increasingly sophisticated and ultralight lacrosse equipment hitting the market in the coming years.
Smart Materials and Adaptive Gear
The integration of smart materials and electronics into lacrosse equipment could lead to adaptive gear that optimizes weight and performance in real-time. While still in the early stages of development, these innovations have the potential to redefine how players interact with their equipment.
What possibilities do smart materials offer for lightweight lacrosse gear? Imagine these futuristic concepts:
- Shape-memory alloys that adjust shaft stiffness based on playing conditions
- Piezoelectric materials that convert shot energy into power for embedded sensors
- Heads with variable flexibility zones that adapt to different game situations
While some of these ideas may seem like science fiction today, the rapid pace of technological advancement suggests that smart, ultralight lacrosse gear could become a reality sooner than we think.
Training and Conditioning for Lightweight Equipment Adaptation
Transitioning to significantly lighter lacrosse gear requires more than just equipment changes. Players must adapt their technique and conditioning to fully capitalize on the benefits of reduced weight while mitigating any potential drawbacks.
Refining Technique for Ultralight Sticks
Lighter sticks can dramatically change the feel and responsiveness of your play. It’s crucial to adjust your technique to maintain control and accuracy with the new equipment.
How can players adapt to lightweight lacrosse gear? Focus on these key areas:
- Ball control drills to acclimate to the reduced inertia of lighter sticks
- Shooting practice to recalibrate power and accuracy with less mass behind shots
- Cradling exercises to master the altered balance and momentum of lightweight equipment
- Passing drills to adjust to the changed flex and responsiveness of ultralight shafts
Strength and Conditioning for Optimal Performance
While lighter equipment can reduce fatigue, it’s still essential to maintain and even increase your physical conditioning. A strong, well-conditioned body will help you maximize the advantages of lightweight gear.
What training should accompany the switch to ultralight lacrosse equipment? Consider incorporating these elements into your routine:
- Wrist and forearm strengthening exercises to maintain control with lighter sticks
- Core stability work to support proper form with reduced equipment weight
- Plyometric training to enhance explosiveness and capitalize on the speed advantages of lighter gear
- Endurance conditioning to fully leverage the reduced fatigue of lightweight equipment in long games
By combining thoughtful equipment selection with targeted training and technique refinement, players can fully harness the potential of ultralight lacrosse gear to elevate their game to new heights.
Select Lightweight Materials Like Carbon Fiber and Scandium
When looking to drop ounces from your lacrosse stick, one of the most impactful steps is choosing heads, shafts, and other components constructed from lightweight materials. Brands now offer gear made from advanced composites like carbon fiber which provide excellent strength-to-weight ratios. The stiffer properties of carbon fiber shafts combined with lighter overall weight can give players increased control and quicker shots. Scandium alloy is another material gaining popularity for its feather-like heft. The ultra-lightweight metal allows for thinner shaft walls without sacrificing durability. Titanium alloys offer a blend of strength, flex, and minimized mass. But don’t just chase lab testing numbers – be sure to evaluate how any gear feels in your hands before committing to new materials. Ultimately finding the optimal balance of light weight and playability for your game is key. Don’t sacrifice enough weight to severely impact passing, shooting, and ball control. Drilling extra holes may drop grams but consider if it reduces stability too far. Work with coaches to determine appropriate limits based on your height, position, needs, and level of play. While space-age shafts and exotic alloys grab headlines, sometimes a simple switch to a lighter polymer, wood, or composite lacrosse head like those from Epoch or Maverik is an easy first step. Compare head weights as dropping just a few ounces here helps offset and balance heavier shafts. Don’t forget about sockets, end caps, gloves, pads, and other gear too. Shaving weight across your entire setup adds up. And take time to get accustomed to major lightweight changes through training, practice, and adjustment periods. Incremental common sense reductions paired with dedication to skills and conditioning will serve you better than fixating on simply wielding the lightest lacrosse stick humanly possible.
Consider Head and Shaft Length to Reduce Weight
One strategy to lighten up your lacrosse stick is carefully considering length when selecting a new head and shaft. Keep in mind that shorter gear requires less raw material, so opting for a shorter stick can directly reduce weight. For heads, brands usually offer multiple width options nowadays. Narrower head designs from companies like Nike, Maverik, and STX range from 6 to 9 inches wide, while wider heads are typically 10+ inches. A smaller head not only weighs less, but also balances and handles quicker. Just ensure your head is legal for your level of play – for example high school boys must use heads 6 to 10 inches wide. For shafts, 30 to 32 inches are common youth lengths, 34 to 42 inches for women, and 40 to 72 inches for men depending on position and preference. Goalies tend to use longer shafts, whereas attacks often favor shorter sticks for increased maneuverability. Compare weights between shaft lengths, as the difference of even 4 to 6 inches can impact heft noticeably. Some players also cut down full length shafts to their ideal custom length. This removes extra material and unnecessary weight, but make sure to tape over new end caps and follow any warranty guidelines.
Beyond raw weight, consider balance and feel too when sizing your stick. Smaller heads paired with longer shafts can make sticks handle slowly and feel “top heavy”. Complement a lighter head with an appropriately sized shaft for optimal overall weight distribution and control. Trying out different gear at lacrosse shops and camps is the best way to test what lengths suit your physique and position the best. Don’t sacrifice too much length that it impacts reach and ability to protect your stick during play. Work within league rules and guidelines, as safety is still paramount. For example, extremely short shafts may not offer enough space for legal cradling at all levels and could also increase risk of contact injuries in the men’s game. Take time to adjust to any gear changes, especially altered stick lengths. Significant adjustments require relearning proper form, technique, shooting mechanics, and more. But dialing in the ideal head and shaft lengths for your body and needs can ultimately shave ounces off total stick weight.
Favor Youth and Women’s Gear for Lighter Weight
One easy way to find lacrosse gear with reduced weight is to look at equipment designed for youth and women’s leagues. Brands naturally engineer sticks for younger players with lighter materials and smaller sizing, shedding unnecessary heft. Many youth shafts from Maverik, STX, and Brine are made of softer alloys or composite blends with more flex and far less mass than stiff adult shafts. Heads marketed for youth also utilize more plastic versus heavier metals, bringing head weights down into the 4 to 5 ounce range. Women’s lacrosse gear is regulated to be lighter too, with mandated limits on overall stick weights. Women’s sticks cannot exceed 775 grams or about 1.7 pounds fully strung – much lighter than men’s sticks. This encourages brands to construct women’s gear from light alloys like scandium or titanium versus heavier alloys used in traditional men’s sticks. To take advantage of these weight capped products, male players can use “women’s” shafts which often weigh under 100 grams in some cases. Just ensure your high school or college league allows this, as some governing bodies prohibit gear crossing gender lines or limit alloy types permitted.
The key is looking past gender marketing terms, and instead comparing hard specs like exact weights. While categorized for female athletes, many women’s shafts and heads are unisex in fit and function. Sourcing gear from multiple categories opens up more lightweight options, as long as styles align with your play type and league rules. Younger players can also benefit from trying out adult gear later on, but sized down proportionally. For example, a lightweight women’s shaft with a shallow youth pocket allows for superior ball control. Just take time to adjust to any sizing shifts in gear. An adult women’s shaft on a youth stick may handle drastically different. Consult coaches when experimenting across age and gender equipment divides. While lighter materials aid performance, proper development at younger ages involves building skills with appropriately sized gear. But branching out beyond traditional “mens” lacrosse products can unlock new lightweight pieces from across the sport.
Compare Weights Between Brands and Models
With so many lacrosse gear options now available, one of the best ways to find lighter products is simply comparing weights directly between different brands and models. Luckily most manufacturers print or advertise total weights for sticks, shafts, and heads these days. Compare these published specs when browsing online retailers, brand websites, catalogs, and stores. Make note of weights for various materials and alloys too – such as scandium or titanium versus traditional aluminum or alloy shafts. Weights not only differ between companies, but often vary within a single brand’s own lineup. For example, Maverik’s “Tank” shaft is over 180 grams while their “Wonderboy” is just 125 grams. STX’s power focused “K18” series is heavier than their “Knot” shafts engineered for quickness. Even different length options within the same shaft model can have slightly different weights. Measure weights entirely strung versus shaft-only too. A lightweight shaft may balance out a heavier head when fully assembled and pocketed.
Don’t forget to account for end caps, tape, strings, and other extras you’ll add – it all contributes to overall heft. Weighing items yourself on a small scale can provide the most accurate readings if catalog listings seem unreliable or inconsistent. When possible, test weighing demo gear in person at stores and camps is ideal before buying. Beyond just sticks, comparing weights holds true for pads, helmets, gloves and more. Newer materials like foams, plastics and knits have allowed protective gear to slim down over the decades as well. Don’t assume looks alone, as sleeker designs can disguise hidden heft. Titles with words like “Ultralight”, “Featherweight”, and “Superlight” are also good starting points when browsing, but confirm precise specs as marketing terms can overhype gear. With so many products now vying to be the lightest, taking time to research and compare hard weights gives you the knowledge to find truly featherweight lacrosse gear.
Evaluate Pocket Depth to Avoid Unnecessary Stringing
One often overlooked area when reducing lacrosse stick weight is evaluating pocket depth and stringing. Many players simply string a deep pocket by default for increased ball control and holding. However, deeper pockets require substantially more stringing material, adding excess weight at the base of your stick’s head. Shallow pockets with less mesh, fewer sidewalls, and minimal shooters will lighten up your setup considerably. As a bonus, shallow pockets also offer quicker release speeds, improved accuracy, and faster handling. But you must commit to developing the skills and technique to operate a shallow pocket effectively first.
When stringing a new head, start by analyzing the deepest pocket allowed by league rules for your age and level. Most organizations mandate pockets cannot be excessively deep to prevent holding the ball and slow play. For example, men’s sticks must allow the ball to roll out of an inverted head under its own weight. Use these guidelines as inspiration to string pockets at minimum depths, not maximums. Tight top strings and simple sidewall patterns with 1 to 2 shooters are all you need. Skip additional weight from thick latex, kangaroo, hockey, and other collector leathers too. If your current stick has an unnecessarily deep pocket, try tightening the channel and removing stringing instead of starting from scratch. You can also replace heavier multi-material meshes with lightweight nylons to drop weight without totally altering depth. Just remember to practice extensively with any pocket adjustments, as improving touch and feel takes time when shrinking depth.
Evaluate if your play style truly benefits from a deep pocket versus simply being habitual. Face-off specialists may rely on over-the-top holds for clan wins, but many offensive and defensive players gain speed from shallower channels. Consult your coaches as well for best pocket depths by age and position. While instilling proper fundamentals should come first, youth players may also improve skills quicker with shallow pockets versus overly deep pre-strung beginner meshes. Consider lighter strings, simple sidewalls, and tight channels as an easy opportunity to remove unnecessary ounces from your growing lacrosse game.
Use String Kits Optimized for Lightweight Gear
When piecing together the lightest possible lacrosse stick, looking at stringing supplies is key too. Pre-packaged stringing kits from most major brands come with ample shooting strings, sidewall, and mesh to string deep pockets with plenty of hold. However, these packs contain much more stringing material than necessary for lightweight setups. Consider sourcing specialty meshes, strings, and sidewalls optimized for shallow pockets instead.
Companies like StringKing, ECD, and Throne offer custom lightweight kits for stringing quick pockets. These include thinner one-piece meshes made from performance nylons, not heavyweight blended materials prone to bagging. Reduced sidewall material focuses on lockdown over excess hold. Shoelaces or parachute cord for shooters reduce bulk while still providing adjustable finesse. Piecing together your own custom stringing supplies allows buying exactly what you need for a fast, slick pocket in lighter amounts. Or remove excess stringing from a standard kit and save leftovers for future projects. Don’t forget to factor in head and sidewall Hole Counts too when optimizing weight. Heads like the StringKing Mark 2F have reduced drilling for fewer threaded sidewalls needed in shallow pockets. Discuss best pocket styles for lighter heads with experienced stringers in person or online to learn techniques. While multifilament nylons are ideal for lightweight stringing, also consider weather conditions. Monofilament shooter strings or nylons may need backup supplies in wet weather. But dialing in a tailored kit designed for thin, quick pockets removes yet another easy opportunity for unnecessary heft.
Check NCAA and League Rules on Allowable Weights
When sourcing the lightest lacrosse gear, it’s important to keep Specific NCAA and league rules in mind regarding legal equipment weights. Both college and youth leagues regulate maximum stick weights and construction methods to uphold standards and safety. For NCAA men’s lacrosse, overall stick weight cannot exceed 42 inches, with a minimum 20 inch shaft. The Native American pocket, popular for increased ball control, is also banned. This prompts players to pursue quicker release pockets. For NCAA women, sticks must remain below 775 grams or 1.7 lbs, influencing lightweight materials. Youth leagues typically mandate lighter head and pocket styles too, varying by age. While these rules intend to improve play, they can provide guidance on ideal weight targets and features to look for when selecting gear.
Beyond sticks, some organizations regulate helmet weights, pads, and other protective gear as well. For example, all NOCSAE certified lacrosse helmets must weigh below 5 pounds. Chest pads cannot measure over certain thicknesses, prompting breathable and lightweight foam or plastic builds. Understanding all equipment guidelines by league helps narrow the search for legal sticks meeting weight restrictions. High school and college players looking for ultralight gear can review NCAA manuals for inspiration on exactly how light is possible within the rules. Youth players can gain insight on appropriate weights by age from US Lacrosse and other governing documents too. While pushing limits, always value safety first beyond just reducing ounces. Ensure any lightweight gear still provides necessary protection. Consider running ultralight choices by officials or coaches when concerned. With knowledge of league standards, players can confidently identify precise weight targets and innovative gear truly designed for speed and agility within the rules of play.
Maintain Equipment to Prevent Adding Weight Over Time
When actively trying to minimize lacrosse stick weight, proper maintenance is key as well. Even the lightest gears adds heft over time without care. For shafts, periodically inspect for dents and bends which increase mass and throw off handling. Use protective end caps, don’t let sticks rattle around loosely in bags, and consider lightweight covers to prevent shaft damage. Repair any impacts with reputable shops to keep integrity intact. Re-tap stripped sidewall holes on heads to avoid adding extra screws or plastic anchors when re-stringing. Check for cracks too, as epoxy or glue repairs add useless grams. When screws loosen from grommets, replace them immediately to avoid entanglements in pocket mesh down the road.
Don’t neglect stringing maintenance either. Gummed up shooters or sidewalls soaked in dirt and sweat will gain weight over time. Re-wax mesh regularly, and avoid letting sticks sit uncared for in hot bags or cars between uses. Replace faded mesh prone to bagging for fresh lightweight nylon. Consider re-stringing heads multiple times per season as needed to keep pockets crisp, versus just once annually. Remove any loose whip strings, frays, or unused shooting strings when inspecting pockets before games. Take time to regularly clean sticks of built up residue too. Simple green or other all-purpose cleaners lift surprising dirt when scrubbed with soft brushes. Letting any gear get filthy only makes your stick heavier each outing. Make weigh-ins and cleaning part of your pre-game ritual. With vigilant care, your featherlight lacrosse setup will maintain peak lightweight performance all season long.