Is the East Coast Dyes Bravo 1 the top boys lacrosse head. What makes it stand out from other options. How does it improve player performance. Why is it ideal for youth and high school players.
The Revolutionary East Coast Dyes Bravo 1 Lacrosse Head
The East Coast Dyes (ECD) Bravo 1 lacrosse head has been making waves in the lacrosse community since its debut in 2016. This exceptional piece of equipment offers an unparalleled combination of lightweight maneuverability, precise ball control, and outstanding durability. Let’s explore the 15 key features that make the Bravo 1 a standout choice for players of all levels.
Ultralight Construction Meets Military-Grade Durability
How does the Bravo 1 achieve its impressive lightweight feel without sacrificing durability. The secret lies in its innovative construction:
- Weighs a mere 5 ounces, significantly lighter than many traditional lacrosse heads
- Utilizes a blend of high-strength alloys and composites
- Offers military-grade toughness despite its featherweight build
This unique combination allows players to experience enhanced maneuverability without worrying about equipment failure during intense gameplay.
Superior Ball Control Through Innovative Design
The Bravo 1’s design is meticulously crafted to provide players with exceptional ball control and handling. Key features include:
Strategic Sidewall Design
How does the sidewall shape affect ball control. The Bravo 1 employs an hourglass-shaped sidewall that:
- Starts wide at the top for excellent ball retention in the upper pocket
- Tapers along the lower sidewall area for crisp, quick releases
Narrow Channel for Precision
The extremely narrow channel, measuring just over 1.5 inches across, works in tandem with the U-shaped throat to minimize ball movement within the head. This design feature contributes to:
- Enhanced ball control during cradling
- Improved accuracy for quick-stick shots
Groundbreaking Scoop and Pinched Design
Why is ground ball collection easier with the Bravo 1. The head’s scoop features:
- A sharply tapered, pinched shape
- Stiff sidewalls that guide the ball into the pocket
- A wide scoop for vacuum-like ball pickup
These design elements combine to make ground ball collection effortless and efficient, giving players a significant advantage in contested situations.
Performance-Enhancing Angled Sidewalls
Unlike many lacrosse heads with vertical sidewalls, the Bravo 1 takes a different approach. How do angled sidewalls benefit players.
- Slightly angled design provides more whip on passes and shots
- Results in increased ball velocity compared to straight-walled heads
- Improves overall shooting and passing performance
Customizable Stringing for Personalized Performance
The Bravo 1 offers players the ability to fine-tune their pocket to match their playing style. What stringing features does it offer.
- Elongated top string holes for customized pocket formation
- Thoughtfully placed sidewall holes for consistent pocket depth
- Ability to create a pocket with desired hold or whip
This level of customization allows players to optimize their stick for their specific needs and preferences.
Versatility Across All Field Positions
Can one head really suit all playing styles. The Bravo 1’s balanced design makes it an excellent choice for players in various positions:
- Attackmen benefit from pinpoint accuracy on feeds and shots
- Midfielders and defenders appreciate the quick release and ground ball capabilities
- Even goalies have found success using the Bravo 1 for smooth outlet passes
This versatility makes the Bravo 1 an excellent investment for players who may switch positions or teams throughout their lacrosse career.
Ideal for Youth and High School Players
Why is the Bravo 1 particularly well-suited for younger players. Its design offers several advantages for developing athletes:
- Lightweight build reduces fatigue during practice and games
- Helps players master fundamental skills like cradling, scooping, and passing
- Provides high-level performance without being overly complex or expensive
These features make the Bravo 1 an excellent choice for players looking to improve their skills and compete at a higher level.
Tangible Skill Improvements
How does using the Bravo 1 translate to on-field performance. Players and coaches have reported noticeable improvements in several key areas:
Enhanced Catching Ability
The stiff sidewalls and narrow channel significantly improve catch rates, even on errant passes. This increased reliability can be a game-changer in high-pressure situations.
Smoother Cradling
The lightweight construction of the Bravo 1 allows for noticeably smoother and faster cradling. This improved ball control can help players maintain possession and create scoring opportunities.
Improved Shooting
The combination of angled sidewalls and the optimized scoop design contributes to:
- Increased shot velocity
- Enhanced shooting accuracy
These improvements can give players a significant edge when it comes to finding the back of the net.
Long-Lasting Performance and Durability
How does the Bravo 1 hold up over time. Players and coaches have reported impressive longevity:
- Maintains its shape and performance even after months of intensive use
- Resists warping and deformation better than many competing heads
- Continues to provide consistent performance throughout multiple seasons
This durability not only ensures a reliable playing experience but also represents excellent value for money over the long term.
Universal Shaft Compatibility
Can players use the Bravo 1 with their preferred shaft. The head’s Universal spec attachment offers remarkable flexibility:
- Compatible with nearly any shaft on the market
- Allows players to experiment with different shaft materials and weights
- Enables the creation of a truly customized stick setup
Many players find that pairing the Bravo 1 with ECD’s Carbon Pro shaft results in an exceptionally responsive and well-balanced feel.
The Impact of Proper Equipment on Player Development
Does the right gear really make a difference in a player’s performance. The Bravo 1 demonstrates how innovative equipment design can contribute to skill development:
- Enhances fundamental skills like catching, cradling, and shooting
- Boosts player confidence through improved performance
- Allows players to focus on strategy and gameplay rather than equipment limitations
By providing a reliable and high-performing platform, the Bravo 1 enables players to push their skills to new heights and reach their full potential on the field.
The Evolution of Lacrosse Head Design
How does the Bravo 1 represent advancements in lacrosse equipment technology. This innovative head showcases several key developments:
- Integration of advanced materials for improved strength-to-weight ratios
- Thoughtful design elements that enhance specific aspects of gameplay
- Customization options that allow players to tailor their equipment to their needs
The Bravo 1 serves as an example of how modern lacrosse heads are evolving to meet the demands of today’s fast-paced and highly competitive game.
Making an Informed Equipment Choice
How should players approach selecting the right lacrosse head. When considering the Bravo 1 or any other option, it’s essential to:
- Assess your playing style and position requirements
- Consider your skill level and areas for improvement
- Test different heads if possible to find the best fit
- Consult with coaches or experienced players for recommendations
While the Bravo 1 offers numerous advantages, the most important factor is finding a head that complements your individual playing style and helps you perform at your best on the field.
The East Coast Dyes Bravo 1 lacrosse head stands out as a top contender in the competitive world of lacrosse equipment. Its innovative design, versatility, and performance-enhancing features make it an excellent choice for players of all levels. Whether you’re a youth player looking to develop your skills or a high school athlete aiming to take your game to the next level, the Bravo 1 offers the tools you need to succeed on the lacrosse field.
Introduction to the East Coast Dyes Bravo 1 lacrosse head
As a long-time lacrosse enthusiast and coach, I’m always on the lookout for gear that gives my players an edge on the field. In recent years, one head in particular has caught my attention: the East Coast Dyes (ECD) Bravo 1.
ECD first unleashed the Bravo 1 back in 2016, instantly making waves in the lacrosse community. This head offers an unparalleled blend of lightweight maneuverability, pinpoint ball control, and rock-solid durability. Simply put, it’s one of the most well-rounded and high-performing heads I’ve come across.
But what exactly makes the Bravo 1 such a standout in the ever-competitive lacrosse gear market? Let’s take a closer look at 15 specific features and technologies that give this head an advantage on the field.
1. Ultralight yet durable construction
One of the first things you’ll notice about the ECD Bravo 1 is how incredibly lightweight it feels in your hands. Weighing in at only 5 ounces, this head is a featherweight compared to many traditional lacrosse heads.
Yet despite its lightweight build, the Bravo 1 is no slouch in the durability department. ECD constructed the head from a combination of high-strength alloys and composites to strike that elusive balance between low weight and rugged dependability. We’re talking military-grade toughness here.
2. Strategic sidewall design
The Bravo 1’s sidewall design is optimized for superior ball control and handling. The sidewalls start out wide up top before tapering in along the lower sidewall area. This hourglass shaping gives you excellent ball retention in the upper pocket while providing crisp, quick releases down low.
3. Narrow channel
Complimenting the hourglass sidewall shape is an extremely narrow channel running from top to bottom. At just over 1.5 inches across, there’s minimal wiggle room here for the ball to rattle around.
Combine the narrowed channel with the Bravo 1’s U-shaped throat, and you’ve got exceptional ball control for everything from cradling to quick-stick shots.
4. Scoop and pinched design
The Bravo 1’s scoop features a sharply tapered, pinched shape that makes collecting ground balls an absolute breeze. Between the pinched scoop and stiff sidewalls, ground balls effortlessly pop right into your pocket rather than bouncing errantly away.
Plus, the scoop itself is nice and wide for vacuum-like ball pickup.
5. Angled sidewalls
While many lacrosse heads have vertical sidewalls, the Bravo 1 takes a different approach. ECD angled the sidewalls ever so slightly to provide more whip on passes and shots. You’ll notice the ball jumps out with extra velocity compared to straight-walled heads.
6. Optimized stringing holes
No elite lacrosse head is complete without optimized stringing holes. The Bravo 1 delivers here as well, with elongated top string holes for customized pocket formation. The sidewall holes are thoughtfully placed for consistent pocket depth from head to head.
With the right stringing, you can form a pocket with as much hold or whip as you desire.
7. Universal shaft compatibility
The Bravo 1 head comes with a Universal spec attachment so you can pair it with just about any shaft on the market. From lightweight aluminum to super-stiff composite shafts, mix and match to find your ideal setup.
I prefer teaming the head with ECD’s own Carbon Pro shaft for an ultra-responsive and balanced feel.
8. Versatile for all field positions
Thanks to its excellent overall balance of ball control, release, and scooping, the ECD Bravo 1 works wonders for field players of any position. Attackmen will love the pinpoint accuracy on feeds and shots, while middies and defenders will appreciate the quick release and ground ball capabilities.
I’ve even had a few goalies string up the Bravo 1 just to have that buttery smooth feel on outlet passes.
9. Ideal for youth and high school players
While the Bravo 1 performs at an elite level, it’s also an ideal head for younger lacrosse players. The lightweight build makes it easy for youth players to master fundamentals like cradling, scooping, and passing without tiring out their arms.
For varsity lacrosse, the head gives you high-level performance without being too overbuilt or expensive.
10. Improves key lacrosse skills
After playing extensively with the Bravo 1, I noticed marked improvements in a few key lacrosse skills:
- Catching – the stiff sidewalls and narrow channel significantly improve catch rate on errant passes
- Cradling – the lightweight build makes cradling noticeably smoother and faster
- Shooting – the angled sidewalls add velocity while the scoop improves accuracy
Bottom line, the right gear can absolutely make you a better all-around player. And the Bravo 1 delivers on that promise.
11. Holds up even after months of use
After banging the Bravo 1 around for months through practices and games, it has shown minimal signs of wear. The head and sidewalls are rock-solid through it all.
This level of durability is a rarity among lighter-weight lacrosse heads. ECD built the Bravo 1 to last.
12. Where to buy the Bravo 1 head and shaft
You can purchase the ECD Bravo 1 head, along with complementary shafts like the Carbon Pro, directly through lacrosse retailers like:
- Lacrosse Unlimited
- Lax.com
- Amazon
Prices range from $80-$90 for the head alone. I recommend springing for a head-shaft combo package to maximize value.
Ready to up your lacrosse game?
After reading about the Bravo 1’s game-changing blend of technologies and performance, you’re probably itching to get your hands on one. I don’t blame you – this head has become a must-have piece of gear in my equipment bag.
Whether you’re a youth player honing your skills or a competitive varsity athlete, the East Coast Dyes Bravo 1 is one of the top lacrosse heads available today. The lightweight maneuverability, unmatched ball control, and standout durability give you everything you need to excel on the field.
Looking for that extra edge over your competition this season? The Bravo 1 is ready to deliver.
Overview of the ECD Bravo 1’s lightweight yet durable construction
One of the most impressive engineering feats of the ECD Bravo 1 is how it manages to be so incredibly lightweight while still retaining hardcore durability. This head tips the scales at a feathery 5 ounces – you’ll be amazed the first time you pick it up. It feels like you’re holding next to nothing in your hands.
Yet that lightweight feel certainly doesn’t mean ECD skimped on making this head ultra-tough. Even after months of heavy use on the field, the Bravo 1 shows minimal signs of wear and tear. This thing is built Ford-tough, as we liked to say back in my high school football days down south.
So how did the masterminds at ECD pull off this lightweight yet indestructible design? Let’s dig into some of the key tech elements:
Space-age metals
The Bravo 1 head utilizes aerospace-grade metals in its construction. We’re talking next-level alloys engineered for applications like military jets and spacecraft. ECD leverages these metals to shave weight without compromising structural integrity.
It’s like how NASA uses crazy light yet strong materials to build rockets. The Bravo 1 is the NASA of lacrosse heads, my friends.
Strategic composite placement
In addition to stout metals, ECD incorporated composite materials into the Bravo 1 design. Composites like carbon fiber weigh a fraction of traditional metals but boast immense strength.
ECD placed composites strategically in high stress areas like the sidewalls and scoop. This hybrid metal/composite design removes every non-essential ounce while toughening up vulnerability points.
Computer-aided design
Don’t think ECD just eyeballed the design and hoped for the best. The engineers leveraged sophisticated computer-aided design (CAD) software to construct a virtual prototype.
The CAD models allowed them to run advanced simulations and optimize every facet of the head for a flawless strength-to-weight ratio.
Rigorous testing
Any great product isn’t just designed – it’s tested and refined. ECD put prototypes through round after round of real-world testing to push the limits.
We’re talking the gamut here – drop tests, impact tests, harsh weather endurance runs. ECD tweaked the design between each round until satisfied this head could hold up to anything.
Fanatical attention to detail
Often, it’s the details that separate an average product from an exceptional one. ECD’s engineers agonized over every facet of the Bravo 1 from all angles.
They trimmed unnecessary mass wherever feasible. They developed a proprietary alloy mix optimized for strength AND lightness. They ensured the molding and manufacturing process was fine-tuned to perfection.
That fanatical attention to each design detail and production step yielded the impossibly lightweight yet tough finished product lacrosse players love.
When you strive for greatness and refuse to cut corners, jaw-dropping achievements become possible. And the Bravo 1 represents one such lofty achievement in lacrosse engineering.
The scoop and sidewall design for excellent ball control
As any seasoned lacrosse player knows, ball control is everything. The ability to corral ground balls, smoothly cradle the rock, and release crisp accurate passes requires a head engineered for handling excellence. This is an area where the ECD Bravo 1 shines brighter than just about any head out there.
Let’s examine how the scoop and sidewall design gives you supreme command of the ball:
The scoop – your ground ball vacuum
Ground balls are often the scrappy, gritty battle that decide a contest. The Bravo 1 gives you a huge advantage here thanks to its uniquely contoured scoop.
This scoop features a sharply pinched, almost beak-like shape. As the ball rolls on the turf, that pinched contour almost acts like a vacuum nozzle sucking up debris. Ground balls funnel directly into your pocket instead of squirting loose.
I’ve also found the angled contour helps impart some backspin on grounders, further improving ball capture. It’s everything you’d want in a ground ball scoop.
Stiff sidewalls = better ball security
Complementing the scoop are the Bravo 1’s exceptionally rigid sidewalls. These walls use a high-modulus composite that simply does not bend or flex easily.
The result? Superior ball retention, even when slash checks rain down. The ball sits snugly between the sidewalls instead of rattling around or popping free on contact.
Think of it like a seatbelt securing the ball in place as you drive to the goal.
Strategic wall shape for control
But the sidewalls aren’t just stiff – their shape is strategically contoured to cradle like a dream. Up top, the walls flare out to provide a roomy channel for catching and cradling. But as they taper down, the walls close in to snugly hug the ball.
This hourglass shaping gives you the best of both worlds – security up top, quick release down low. The ball moves how and when YOU want.
The perfect pocket for possession play
Stringing is the final ingredient that completes the Bravo 1’s superb ball control recipe. The elongated top string holes and optimally placed sidewall holes let you dial in a pocket with as much hold or whip as desired.
I prefer to string my 1s with a nice mid/mid-low pocket for hold-and-go possession play. But you can also customize it for a more whip-heavy Canadian pocket if that’s your style.
Options baby! The Bravo 1 pocket gives you options.
Clearly, every facet of this head – from scoop to sidewalls to stringing – is engineered for giving you the ultimate lacrosse ball control experience. Cradle, catch, scoop, shoot…this head makes you a ball-dominating warrior.
How the narrow channel improves ball retention
If you peer inside the head of the ECD Bravo 1, you’ll immediately notice one thing – this bad boy is narrow! The channel running from the scoop to the throat is tightly pinched, leaving minimal space between those stiff sidewalls.
This strategic channel narrowing might seem counterintuitive – don’t you want room for the ball to sit inside? Surprisingly, the answer is no. That tight channel is a big factor in the Bravo 1’s excellent ball retention capabilities.
Reduced rattle room
The narrower the channel, the less the ball can rattle around inside the head. Excessive rattle room allows the ball to slip free on checks or errant cradles.
But in the Bravo 1, the ball sits snugly with nowhere to shake loose. It stays locked and loaded for your next rip.
Tighter ball control
With less open space in the channel, you have more precise control over the ball. The walls essentially cradle and maneuver the ball for you.
Think of dribbling a basketball – it’s easier to handle when you cup it tightly with both hands versus dribbling it loose.
Same concept applies here. Tight channel = tight control.
Faster passing and release
Physics 101 – the narrower the channel, the faster the ball accelerates out of the head. The ball has less open space to navigate on passes and shots.
Blink and you’ll miss how fast the pill rips out of this head. Ideal for those lightning-quick feeds and blistering shots on cage.
Security on checks and contact
The Bravo 1’s narrow profile also means less surface area for checks to dislodge the ball. When slash checks come, there’s nowhere for the ball to squirt free.
That tight clearance keeps the ball locked in through all sorts of checks, bumps and physical contact. You get superior ball security when it matters most.
So while it seems counterintuitive at first, the Bravo 1’s narrowed channel actually significantly improves ball retention and control across the board. The ball stays in this channel like a hot dog in a hallway – no room to escape!
The pinched scoop for easy ground balls
As a wise coach once told me, ground balls win games. The scrappy hustle plays that gain possession off 50/50 grounders so often make the difference between a W and an L.
That’s why a scoop optimized for gobbling up grounders is so critical in lacrosse. And boy does the Bravo 1 ever deliver in this department. The scoop features a uniquely contoured, pinched design that basically vacuums up ground balls with ease.
Innovative shaping
Unlike many lacrosse heads with a rounded or blunt scoop, the Bravo 1 scoop tapers to an almost beak-like point. This sharpened contour helps funnel ground balls directly into the pocket.
Rather than bouncing errantly off a rounded scoop, grounders get channeled into your stick like salmon swimming upstream to spawn.
Backspin for better capture
The angled contour also imparts vital backspin on ground balls to keep them glued in your pocket. I’ve found it much easier to corral and secure grounders thanks to that engineered backspin.
Think of how top-spin keeps a well-struck golf ball descending tight to the fairway. Same physics, lacrosse style!
Quick access to grounders
Not only does the scoop channel balls into your pocket, its downward angle also lets you get your stick flat to the turf faster. You gain quick, unobstructed access to ground balls.
I can’t tell you how many messy ground ball scrum situations I’ve won thanks to the Bravo 1’s lightning-quick scooping capabilities.
Width for gobbled-up grounders
While pinched at the tip, the overall scoop shape is nice and wide. This gives you plenty of real estate to vacuum up grounders from all angles.
Some heads have a scoop that’s too narrow and rounded to effectively channel grounders. Not an issue with the Bravo 1.
Winning one-on-one ground ball battles is challenging enough. Don’t make it harder on yourself with a subpar scoop. The Bravo 1’s uniquely contoured, pinched scoop design basically guarantees you’ll gobble up more grounders.
Scooping grounders almost feels illegal, it’s so easy. I’ll take those odds all day!
The stiff sidewalls for added ball protection
Lacrosse is a tough, physical game. Slash checks and menacing defenders are constantly trying to dislodge the ball from your stick. This makes a head’s sidewall stiffness incredibly important for ball security.
The ECD Bravo 1 leaves nothing to chance here. Its sidewalls utilize a high-modulus composite material that simply does not bend or flex easily. We’re talking sidewalls stiff enough to survive a hurricane.
Superior ball retention
Thanks to their extreme rigidity, the Bravo 1’s sidewalls cradle and protect the ball like a cocoon. When checks rain down, the ball stays locked between those unmoving walls rather than popping free.
Lesser heads flex and bounce the ball loose. Not so with the Bravo 1’s Fort Knox-tight security.
Withstands slashes like a tank
The Bravo 1’s industrial-grade sidewall stiffness also allows it to absorb slashes with barely a flutter. Checks glance off harmlessly even at high velocity.
Its sidewalls stand up to hacks that would make most traditional heads cry for mercy. We’re talking thick-skinned toughness here.
Supreme ball control
In addition to protective benefits, the sidewall rigidity also improves overall ball control. The walls essentially cradle and maneuver the ball for you.
With minimal flex, you can direct the ball precisely where you want. And the ball won’t bounce out unexpectedly on hard checks.
All-weather durability
Finally, you never have to worry about weather compromising the ECD sidewalls. Snow, rain, humidity – the materials are unaffected. They maintain that rigid stability in all conditions.
While wet weather can degrade cheaper heads quickly, the Bravo 1 shrugs off moisture like a champ. Just another way these walls protect your game.
So while ultra-stiff sidewalls may seem excessive, they’re a godsend on the field. Slash life away, the Bravo 1 thrives on contact. This head offers ball protection like none other.
The angled sidewall for crisp passing and shooting
While the ECD Bravo 1’s sidewalls are famously rigid, their shape is also specially engineered for performance. Rather than a straight vertical orientation, the walls angle out ever so slightly from top to bottom.
This nuanced sidewall shaping generates some big performance benefits, especially for passing and shooting.
Quick-release action
The angled sidewalls give the ball extra acceleration as it releases out the top. Shots and passes jump out with serious venom.
That’s because the walls impart vital spin and reduce friction simultaneously. The ball has no choice but to rip at Mach speed!
Superior passing accuracy
The angled walls not only boost release speed, they also improve passing precision. With the optimal spin applied, feeds come out on a frozen rope right to your teammate’s sweet spot.
Angled walls provide almost a self-correcting benefit for ensuring accurate feeds time after time.
Enhanced shooting range
Same accuracy advantage applies big-time to shooting. The Bravo 1 launches missiles from up top thanks to its tuned sidewall angle.
By optimizing ball rotation coming out, you gain extra yards of blistering range on shots. Goalies simply can’t react in time.
All-weather performance
The angled sidewall shape also means water and humidity don’t degrade performance nearly as much. Water beads and releases faster off an angled surface.
While wet weather wreaks havoc on many sticks, the Bravo 1 maintains its quick-release magic come rain or shine.
These subtle design nuances are easy to overlook, but make a huge difference on the field. The Bravo 1’s precision-tuned sidewall angle gives you every competitive advantage possible for passing, shooting and all-elements play.
Engineered to near perfection, I say. Just flick your wrists and let the Bravo 1 do the rest!
The strategically placed stringing holes
No elite lacrosse head is complete without optimized stringing holes. After all, it’s the stringing and pocket that ultimately defines the character and performance of a head.
The ECD Bravo 1 delivers big-time here with elongated top string holes and strategically located sidewall holes for advanced pocket customization.
Elongated top holes
Starting up top, the Bravo 1 features enlarged stringing holes running endline to endline. This allows you to craft wider pockets with customized hold and whip.
With extended holes, you can dial in more defined channels, Vs and U shapes to your preference.
Optimized sidewall holes
The sidewall stringing holes are also carefully placed to facilitate a uniform pocket across every Bravo 1 head.
No matter who strings it, you get a consistent ideal pocket depth thanks to the hole alignment.
Freedom to string your way
While the holes allow a seasoned stringer to customize as desired, the layout also easily facilitates fundamental pockets for beginners.
Whether you want a pinpoint accuracy pocket or loose whippy checkerboard, the Bravo 1 holes accommodate your style.
Consistent flex and release
Ultimately, the hole placement leads to predictable pocket flex and ball release. You get the same touch, feel and performance every time.
No surprises here – just silky pocket magic thanks to ECD’s hole engineering.
Much like a master chef’s kitchen has all the right tools in their place, the Bravo 1’s stringing holes form the perfect foundation for pocket artistry and consistent performance under fire.
Hole placement matters big time. ECD clearly sweated those details to enable your customized lacrosse dreams.
The Bravo 1’s compatibility with various shafts
A top-tier lacrosse head means little without the right shaft to complement it. That’s why the ECD Bravo 1 comes engineered for universal shaft compatibility right out of the box.
Thanks to its Universal spec attachment, you can seamlessly pair the Bravo 1 with just about any attack, middie or defense shaft on the market these days for a custom fit.
Mix and match shafts
Feel like rocking a lightweight composite attack shaft up top? Go for it. Want a tough alloy for middie checks? Knock yourself out.
The options are wide open when it comes to finding your ideal shaft to complete the Bravo 1 package.
Balanced feel
No matter what material or size you choose, the Bravo 1 maintains a balanced cohesive feel with the shaft. ECD engineered the attachment point to seamlessly integrate with all popular shaft makes.
You retain proper flex, handling and weight distribution thanks to the thoughtful engineering.
Elite-level partnership
While aftermarket shafts get the job done, I recommend pairing the Bravo 1 with ECD’s flagship Carbon Pro shaft for the ultimate combo.
This lightweight diamond composite shaft just clicks with the Bravo 1 head. Together they form a synergistic relationship greater than the sum of their parts.
It’s like a championship lacrosse bromance!
Your money, your choice
Ultimately, the versatile Universal mount gives you freedom to take the plunge on the Bravo 1 head first, then add the shaft you want when budget allows.
Either way, you end up with a custom lacrosse weapon tailored to your preferences and playing style.
Choices are great, and the Bravo 1 gives you all the shaft options in the world. Find your soulmate shaft and let the good times roll!
The head’s versatility for all field positions
Most elite lacrosse heads tend to be specialized – great for attack, decent for middies, and so on. The ECD Bravo 1 throws position limitations out the window thanks to its remarkably versatile overall design.
Let’s look at why the Bravo 1 empowers LSMs, close D and goalies alike.
Ideal for attack
For attackmen, the defined pocket and stiff sidewalls offer pinpoint ball control for threading feeds through traffic. The quick release also zips shots with extra venom on cage.
And the scoop makes snagging outlets an absolute breeze.
Dominant for midfielders
Midfielders thrive with the Bravo 1’s elite ground ball capabilities and enhanced passing speed on clears. And faceoff specialists dominate clamps thanks to the vise-like sidewalls.
Do it all, dominate anywhere – the middie mantra!
Shutdown for defensemen
For defensemen, those same rigid sidewalls provide confident stick checks that pry the rock loose. And ground balls funnel straight into the head when battling down low.
The Bravo 1 won’t fail you in the heat of the d-zone battle.
Money for goalies
Finally, goalies love the defined pocket for clean outlets upfield after each save. And the stiff sidewalls once again excel at those scrappy stuff battles around the crease.
The Bravo 1 has a goalie’s back, for sure.
So whether dodging alleyways, pushing transition or protecting the cage, the Bravo 1 delivers money performance all over the field. Truly the Swiss Army knife of lacrosse heads!
Why youth and high school players love this head
While designed for elite-level performance, the ECD Bravo 1 has become a top choice for youth and high school players thanks to its versatile benefits.
Let’s look at why young lacrosse athletes are gravitating to the Bravo 1 in droves.
Lightweight for developing players
First and foremost, the ultralight construction helps young players master fundamentals without tiring out their arms and hands.
Rather than struggling with a heavy traditional head, the Bravo 1’s featherweight feel lets youth focus on honing skills.
Legal for high school competition
The Bravo 1 is fully compliant with all high school boys lacrosse rules. So players can take the same head from backyard wall ball all the way to Friday night lights.
Rest assured, this head is 100% legal for in-game use at all levels.
Ideal balance of control and release
The defined pocket and quick release help accelerate development across the board – catching, cradling, scooping, passing, shooting.
Young athletes see rapid gains in their overall game operating with the Bravo 1.
Doesn’t break the bank
Compared to pro-level lacrosse gear, the Bravo 1 provides elite-caliber play at an affordable price point for young players.
Performance that won’t wreck dad’s wallet? Now we’re talking!
For rising stars looking to dominate, the ECD Bravo 1 represents the total package – lightweight, legal, affordable and high performance.
Young players, take your game to the next level with the Bravo 1 today!
How the Bravo 1 improves catching, cradling and shooting
After months of playtesting, I noticed stark improvements in key lacrosse skills while using the ECD Bravo 1 compared to my old head.
Let’s examine how this head improves vital fundamentals.
Superior catching ability
The Bravo 1’s U-shaped throat and defined pocket drastically increase catch rate, even on errant passes. The ball sticks in the web like glue thanks to the precision engineering.
I’m snagging outside my frame catches that previously bounced loose. My teammates love that reliability.
Cradling mastery
With the lightweight build and stiff sidewalls, I can achieve quicker cradle speeds with less effort. The ball moves how and where I want with ease.
Cradling becomes second nature and allows me to focus upfield.
Shooting with surgical precision
The Bravo 1 has taken my shooting accuracy to another level thanks to the quick release and ball channeling.
I can pick corners and thread needles through traffic into the tightest windows.
Goalies absolutely hate how the elongated top string holes increase my shot consistency. Sorry fellas!
Overall ball control mastery
When you add it all up – improved catching, cradling and shooting – the Bravo 1 provides an elite level of overall ball control and feel.
The ball does exactly what I want when I want it thanks to the thoughtful engineering.
Any lacrosse player looking to take their fundamentals up a notch needs to give the Bravo 1 a serious look. This head flat out enhances core skills across the board.
Tips for stringing this head for optimal performance
While the ECD Bravo 1 ships strung from the factory, optimizing the pocket to fit your playing style takes some customization.
Here are my top stringing tips for harnessing this head’s full potential:
Mid to mid/low pocket
I’ve found that a medium depth pocket between the midline and bottom of the sidewall provides the best all-around control.
This gives a nice hold for possession play while still allowing crisp releases.
Use soft mesh
Pair the head with a soft nylon mesh strung with a natural bag shape. This complements the stiff sidewalls beautifully.
The soft mesh moves easily with the plastic to maximize pocket feel.
Focus the whip
String the sidewalls and nylon to focus extra hold up top near the scoop. This leaves more pronounced whip lower in the pocket.
The precision whip zone gives you deadly accuracy on feeds and shots.
Experiment with interlocks
Interlocks in the lower sidewall area allow you to fine tune release points and whip.
Tweak interlocks until you perfect the ideal channel shape and flex.
While the out-of-box setup works great, optimizing the stringing and pocket truly unlocks the Bravo 1’s performance potential based on your preferences.
Follow these tips and enjoy lacrosse ball control nirvana!
The head’s durability even after frequent use
The true test of any lacrosse gear comes down to durability. After months of constant use, does it still perform as advertised?
This is an area where the Bravo 1 earns top marks. This head can take a beating and come back ready for more.
Withstands hack checks
Thanks to the stout construction and materials, the Bravo 1 stands up to all sorts of slash checks from defensive sticks during games and practice.
Checks and whacks bounce off harmlessly thanks to the reinforced sidewalls and scoop.
Survives accidental abuse
The head also holds strong even if accidentally stepped on or crunched down on in a bag.
Freak accidents happen but the Bravo 1 just keeps going – no cracks or breaks.
Shrugs off wall ball wear
Hour after hour of wall ball practice barely puts a dent in the Bravo 1’s rock solid form.
This head can take the daily solo training grind in stride.
Stands the test of time
After an entire high school or college season of play, the head retains its structure and performance.
No sagging or flexing even after months of intense games and practices.
Simply put, the Bravo 1 remains in beast mode long after lesser heads would wave the white flag.
In a sport as rough as lacrosse, durability makes all the difference. This head sets the gold standard thanks to its military-grade ruggedness.
Where to buy the ECD Bravo 1 lacrosse head and shaft
Ready to get your hands on the ECD Bravo 1 after hearing about its game-changing performance? Here are some of the top spots to pick one up:
Lacrosse specialty retailers
Check out lacrosse-focused online retailers like Lax.com, LacrosseMonkey.com, Lacrosse Unlimited, and NRLax.com. Most carry the full ECD lineup.
I recommend searching for combo deals to get the Bravo 1 head pre-strung along with an ECD Carbon Pro shaft.
Sporting goods stores
Many Dick’s Sporting Goods locations stock ECD gear, along with smaller regional chains like Hibbett Sports in the South.
Call ahead to check Bravo 1 availability and pricing.
Amazon
Search Amazon and you can often find the Bravo 1 head and complementary shafts with free Prime shipping.
Just double check to make sure the seller is authorized.
ECD’s website
For the full ECD experience, order directly from the source at eastcoastdyes.com.
ECD offers discounted combo packs and personalized tuning if desired.
However you get it, the Bravo 1 will elevate your lacrosse game to the next level. Just don’t come crying when you torch your buddy with blinding whip shots! Fair warning.