How to choose the best women’s lacrosse stick for your position. What factors to consider when selecting an attack stick. How to pick the ideal midfield lacrosse stick. What features to look for in a defensive lacrosse stick. How to determine the right draw weight for your skill level. Why is finding the perfect balance point crucial for your lacrosse stick. How does pocket placement and depth affect stick performance.

Selecting the Perfect Attack Lacrosse Stick

Attack players in women’s lacrosse require a stick that offers excellent ball control and passing ability. When choosing an attack stick, consider the following key features:

• Medium to deep pocket for superior cradling
• Narrower channel and scoop to enhance accuracy
• Offset or curved handle for increased wrist motion
• Lightweight design (115-135g) to reduce arm fatigue
• Well-balanced head for improved draw control

The pocket depth is crucial for attack players. A deeper pocket allows for better ball retention during intense offensive maneuvers. However, be cautious not to choose a pocket that’s too deep, as it may hinder quick ball release.

Offset or curved handles are particularly beneficial for attackers. These designs facilitate a quicker release on shots, giving you an edge over defenders. When testing attack sticks, pay close attention to how the handle feels during shooting motions.

Optimizing Draw Control for Attack Players

Draw control is vital for attack players, as it can lead to crucial possessions. When selecting an attack stick, evaluate its performance during draw motions. Look for a head that provides good balance and leverage during the draw. This balance will help you maintain control and increase your chances of winning possession.

Choosing the Ideal Midfield Lacrosse Stick

Midfielders need a versatile stick that excels in both offensive and defensive situations. Here are the key features to look for in a midfield lacrosse stick:

• Medium pocket depth for balanced control and release
• Straighter handle to aid passing and shooting accuracy
• Lightweight yet durable materials (preferably carbon fiber composite)
• Open sidewall design for improved cradling and ground ball pickup
• Well-balanced head for optimal draw control

The versatility of a midfield stick is paramount. You’ll want a stick that allows for smooth transitions between defense and offense. A medium pocket depth strikes the perfect balance between ball control and quick release, essential for the dynamic role of a midfielder.

Carbon fiber composite materials are ideal for midfield sticks. They offer the perfect combination of lightweight design and durability, crucial for players covering extensive ground during a game.

Enhancing Ground Ball Skills for Midfielders

Ground ball pickup is a critical skill for midfielders. An open sidewall design facilitates easier scooping of ground balls, especially at high speeds. When testing midfield sticks, practice quick ground ball pickups to ensure the head design suits your playing style.

Features to Look for in a Defensive Lacrosse Stick

Defensive players require a stick that prioritizes control, durability, and checking ability. Consider these features when selecting a defensive lacrosse stick:

• Wider head with an open sidewall design
• Wider scoop and channel for improved checking accuracy
• Shallow pocket for quicker ball release
• Durable construction with reinforced sidewall connections
• Offset or curved handle for enhanced checking leverage
• Lightweight design (under 135g) for improved speed

The wider head and open sidewall design are crucial for defensive players. These features make it easier to scoop up ground balls and intercept passes. When choosing a defensive stick, practice ground ball pickups and interceptions to ensure the head design suits your needs.

Checking accuracy is another vital aspect of defensive play. A wider scoop and channel contribute to more precise checks, allowing you to disrupt opponents’ possessions effectively.

Balancing Pocket Depth for Defensive Sticks

While pocket depth is largely a matter of personal preference, many defensive players opt for a shallower pocket. This design allows for quicker ball release, which is essential when clearing the ball after a successful defensive play. However, ensure that the pocket isn’t so shallow that it compromises ball control during crucial moments.

Understanding Draw Weight and Its Impact on Performance

Draw weight refers to the tension required to pull the stick head open during a draw. This factor significantly influences draw success and overall stick performance. Here’s a breakdown of draw weights suitable for different skill levels:

• Youth players (beginners): Under 70lbs
• High school athletes: 70-85lbs
• College and elite players: Up to 105lbs (maximum legal draw weight)

Choosing the right draw weight is crucial for optimal performance. A draw weight that’s too high can lead to poor control and fatigue, while one that’s too low may not provide enough power for successful draws.

Matching Draw Weight to Player Physique

Your height and strength should influence your choice of draw weight. Shorter or less physically strong players often perform better with a medium draw weight around 75lbs. This provides a good balance of power and control without overstraining the player.

When testing sticks, pay close attention to your ability to consistently pull the head open and control it with good form. If you’re struggling to maintain proper form or experiencing quick fatigue, consider a lower draw weight.

Finding the Optimal Balance Point for Your Lacrosse Stick

The balance point of a lacrosse stick is where the head balances on your fingers when you pinch the top of the stick parallel to the ground. This factor significantly influences stick feel and performance across various aspects of the game.

How Balance Point Affects Different Playing Styles

Different playing positions often benefit from varying balance points:

• Attack players: Generally prefer lower balance points for increased wrist control
• Defenders: Typically need a higher balance point for improved checking leverage
• Midfielders: May opt for a middle ground, balancing control and leverage

To find your ideal balance point, hold various sticks in your draw grip and position. If the head drops down, you might benefit from a model with a higher balance point. Conversely, if the head lifts up, a lower balance point could be more suitable.

Remember, the right balance helps the stick naturally rest in your strongest draw position without requiring you to overcompensate. This can lead to improved performance and reduced fatigue during extended play.

The Role of Pocket Placement and Depth in Stick Performance

Pocket placement and depth are crucial factors in customizing your lacrosse stick’s performance. These elements significantly impact ball retention, release speed, and overall control.

Pocket Characteristics for Different Positions

Different playing positions often benefit from varying pocket configurations:

• Midfielders and attackers: Often prefer deeper pockets centered closer to the scoop for superior ball retention when cradling
• Defenders: Typically opt for shallower pockets to facilitate quicker ball release

When selecting a stick, consider how the pocket depth and placement align with your playing style and position requirements. A pocket that’s too deep may hinder quick passes and shots, while one that’s too shallow might compromise ball control during cradling and dodging.

Fine-tuning Your Pocket for Optimal Performance

Many players choose to customize their pocket after purchasing a stick. This process involves adjusting the strings and meshwork to achieve the desired depth and placement. When fine-tuning your pocket, consider these factors:

• Ball retention during high-speed movements
• Ease of catching passes
• Speed of ball release for passes and shots
• Overall feel during cradling and stick handling

Remember, finding the perfect pocket configuration often requires experimentation and adjustment over time. Don’t be afraid to make small tweaks as you become more familiar with your stick and playing style.

Material Considerations for Women’s Lacrosse Sticks

The materials used in lacrosse sticks significantly impact their performance, durability, and feel. Understanding these materials can help you make an informed decision when selecting your stick.

Head Materials: Durability vs. Flexibility

Lacrosse stick heads are typically made from various types of plastic or composite materials. Each material offers different benefits:

• Nylon/Plastic: Offers good flexibility and is often more affordable
• Composite materials: Provide excellent durability and stiffness, but may be more expensive
• Hybrid materials: Combine the benefits of both plastic and composite for a balance of flexibility and durability

When choosing a head material, consider your playing style and position. Defenders might prefer stiffer, more durable materials for checking, while attackers might opt for more flexible options for improved ball control.

Shaft Materials: Weight vs. Strength

The shaft of your lacrosse stick plays a crucial role in overall performance. Common shaft materials include:

• Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable, but may dent or bend under heavy impact
• Carbon fiber: Extremely lightweight and strong, but typically more expensive
• Composite blends: Offer a balance of weight, strength, and cost
• Scandium: A premium material known for its strength-to-weight ratio

Your choice of shaft material should align with your playing style, position, and budget. Midfielders covering extensive ground might prioritize lightweight materials, while defenders might opt for stronger options to withstand frequent checking.

Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick for Peak Performance

While choosing the right stick is crucial, customizing it can take your game to the next level. Many players modify their sticks to suit their unique playing style and preferences.

Stringing Techniques for Improved Control

The way your stick is strung significantly impacts its performance. Different stringing patterns can affect ball control, pocket depth, and release speed. Some popular stringing techniques include:

• Traditional: Offers excellent feel and control, but requires more maintenance
• Mesh: Provides consistency and low maintenance, popular among many players
• Hybrid: Combines elements of traditional and mesh for a unique feel

Experimenting with different stringing patterns can help you find the perfect setup for your playing style. Many players learn to string their own sticks, allowing for ongoing customization and adjustment.

Grip Modifications for Enhanced Comfort

The grip of your lacrosse stick can significantly impact your control and comfort during play. Consider these grip modification options:

• Tape wrapping: Provides additional grip and can absorb sweat
• Rubber grips: Offer excellent traction and durability
• Customized grip patterns: Some players create unique grip patterns using combinations of tape or grip enhancers

Remember, grip preference is highly personal. Experiment with different options to find what feels most comfortable and provides the best control for your playing style.

How to Choose the Best Women’s Lacrosse Stick for Your Position

As any lacrosse player knows, having the right stick for your position and skill level is crucial for success on the field. Women’s lacrosse heads and handles come in a wide variety of shapes, weights, and materials to suit players of different ages, sizes, and abilities.

When shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick, there are several key factors to consider based on what position you play:

Attack Sticks

Attack players need excellent ball control and passing ability, so you’ll want a stick with a medium to deep pocket that cradles well. Look for heads with a narrower channel and scoop to improve accuracy. Offset or curved handles give you more wrist motion for quicker release on shots. The draw is also important for possessions, so choose an attack stick with a head that gives you good balance and leverage on the draw. A lightweight stick around 115-135g can help reduce arm fatigue during intense offensive drives.

Midfield Sticks

As a midfielder, you need a versatile stick that transitions smoothly from defense to offense. A medium pocket depth and a straighter handle aid passing and shooting accuracy. Since you cover lots of ground, a lightweight yet durable head and shaft are key, carbon fiber composite materials are ideal. Look for a head with an open sidewall design to facilitate cradling and scooping up ground balls at high speeds. The draw is critical at the midfield, so test stick balance and positioning of your lower hand on the plastic during the draw motion.

Defense Sticks

Defense requires excellent checking, intercepting, and ground ball skills, so you need a stick optimized for control and durability. Look for a wider head with an open sidewall design to easily scoop up ground balls. A wider scoop and channel also help with checking accuracy. While pocket depth is a personal preference, a shallow pocket allows for quicker ball release. For improved durability, look for sticks featuring new technologies like the gait torque lock system to strengthen sidewall connections. An offset or curved handle allows better wrist motion and leverage for poke checks. Lastly, look for a lightweight construction under 135g for speed.

In addition to your position, personal attributes like height, experience level, age, and strength should factor into your women’s lacrosse stick choice. For example, a shorter beginner athlete would benefit from a lighter stick around 100-115g for maneuverability. An open sidewall head with a wider scoop also helps with ground balls when you’re just learning. Ultimately finding the right balance and feel comes down to testing different sticks to see what works best for your physique and skills.

Choosing an Ideal Draw Weight

The draw weight, or tension required to pull the stickhead open, greatly impacts draw success. Heads with higher draw weights offer more power but require strength to control. Lightweight draws under 70lbs are best for newer youth players developing skills. High school athletes should look for draw weights from 70-85lbs to balance power with control. In college and women’s elite leagues, sticks feature the maximum legal draw weight of 105lbs for the most draw power possible.

It’s also important to choose an appropriate draw weight based on your height and strength. Shorter or weaker players will excel with a medium draw weight around 75lbs with good leverage, rather than going for maximum draw tension. Test out the draw action to ensure you can consistently pull the head open and control it with good form.

Finding Your Ideal Balance Point

The balance point is where the head balances on your fingers when pinching the top of the stick parallel to the ground. Optimal balance depends on your draw stance and mechanics. Hold sticks in your draw grip and position to test what feels comfortable. If the head drops down, choose a model with a higher balance point. If the head lifts up, go for a lower balance point. The right balance helps the stick naturally rest in your strongest draw position without overcompensating.

Balance also impacts the feel during cradling, passing, and shooting. Attack players tend to prefer lower balance points for increased wrist control. Defenders need a higher balance for checking leverage down the length of the stick. Take time to test the different balance points of various heads to determine what works best for your playing style and position.

Pocket Placement and Depth

The placement and depth of the pocket is another way to customize your stick’s performance. For midfielders and attackers, a deeper pocket centered closer to the scoop provides superior ball retention when cradling. Shallower pockets give quicker ball release but less control, ideal for defenders. Consider adjusting pocket depth based on your stick skills – beginning players often prefer a deeper pocket to build confidence cradling, while experience gives you more control with a shallow pocket for faster passing and shots.

You can also customize pocket placement by shifting top nylon stringing placements. Centered pocket placements offer a nice balance. But shifting the pocket higher helps lift the ball for quicker passing, while dropping the pocket lower cradles the ball lower in the head.

Choosing a Head and Handle Material

Women’s lacrosse stick technology has rapidly evolved in recent years with new materials that boost durability, handling, and lightness. Today, most sticks feature alloy or composite metal handles for an optimal strength-to-weight ratio. Common handle materials like Scandium-Titanium alloy offer good flex and vibration dampening. Composite materials with carbon fiber like gait’s Censor U handle allow thin, lightweight handles without sacrificing durability.

Head materials have advanced as well, with durable synthetics replacing wood and plastic. Favorites include gait’s compression molded resin and StringKing’s Minimus composite heads, offering responsive handling in lightweight designs. Mesh and soft-feel materials are also popular for increased ball control and command. Testing different head materials can help you find the ideal blend of lightness, responsiveness, and durability.

Looking at Durability and Value

With lacrosse sticks ranging widely in price from $50 to $300, it’s wise to balance performance needs with budget considerations. Completely customizing an elite head with top-end mesh and strings gets costly. But a molded head with an alloy handle can offer excellent performance at an affordable price point for developing players. Look for heads and handles offering technologies like gait’s torque lock system for increased structural integrity and longevity.

It’s also smart to consider warranty protection. Brands like StringKing and Epoch offer generous 1-year warranties against breakage, while gait backs their sticks for up to 6 months of play. Better warranties provide peace of mind that your stick investment is protected, even under intense game play pressure.

Trying Before You Buy

While manufacturer specs and details are helpful, nothing beats directly testing different lacrosse sticks yourself. If possible, try out teammates’ sticks to get a feel for different shapes, weights, and draw tensions. Local lacrosse shops also offer product demos and guidance to find the right stick before buying. Be sure to mimic motions like cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting to determine what works best.

Taking time to experiment with different gear helps ensure you get the ideal stick to unlock your full lacrosse potential this season. With the right women’s lacrosse stick suited for your position and skills, you gain the confidence and control needed to excel on the field. Trust your instincts and search for a stick that feels like an extension of your arm, potentially giving you an edge over the competition.

Attack Sticks Have Specific Draw Weights and Balance Points

When selecting an attack stick, dialing in the ideal draw weight and balance point is key for maximizing your possessions and scoring opportunities.

As an attacker, possessing the ball is priority number one. So having a stick engineered for draw success should be your first consideration. Look for attack heads with draw weights on the higher end of the 70-85lb range. While lightweight draws have their place, the extra power of a stiff high-tension head gives you an advantage on draws against defenders.

But don’t sacrifice control for pure power. Make sure to test the draw tension to ensure you can handle the torque required to flex the head open smoothly. Your lower hand should grip the plastic with a locked wrist, using core rotation to pull the top of the stick and snap the head open for maximum draw speed.

Balance also makes a big difference in the feel and control on the draw. Attack sticks typically feature lower balance points around 4.5-5.5 inches from the scoop. This lets you choke up higher on the stick for more wrist snap and control during the draw motion. Just don’t go too low, or the head will feel too top-heavy and unwieldy.

A lower balance point also gives you superior cradling control in traffic when driving to the cage. The ball sits lower in the head, letting you shield defenders with your body while keeping the stick protected. Deepening the pocket towards the scoop enhances this low-cradle ball security.

But a lower balance has trade-offs for passing and shooting accuracy. To improve aim, try shifting your lower hand towards the butt end on shots to increase leverage. And use more wrist and arm motion to elevate your angles on crisp passes.

While top collegiate and professional players use highly customized sticks, most high school attackers thrive with a slightly higher balance point around 5-6 inches. This provides a bit more passing and shooting leverage while still allowing excellent draw control.

No matter your level, experiment with the balance point by sliding your lower grip up and down the handle to see what suits your playing style. Dialing in draw weight and balance gives you the perfect attack stick to dominate possessions and fill up the net.

With the right women’s lacrosse stick optimized for your position as an elite attacker, you have the tools to become a dangerous offensive threat this season. Mastering the specialized attack stick draw weight, balance, and handling technique elevates your game to the next level.

Middies Need Sticks With Versatile Draw and Throwing Ability

As a midfielder, having a stick that transitions smoothly between offense and defense is imperative. So versatility in both draw power and throwing capability should drive your women’s lacrosse stick selection.

Since you shuttle up and down the field, endurance is crucial. Look for super lightweight sticks using advanced materials like gait’s Censor U composite or Epoch’s Dragonfly handles paired with lightweight alloy or carbon heads. Durability also matters since your stick takes a beating in transition play.

When it comes to draw capability, midfield is the most active position. Having a head with enough draw tension to gain possession, yet balanced for quick transitions is ideal. Search for middie sticks with draw weights around 75-85 lbs to provide strength without sacrificing ball control.

Test the head’s balance point by mimicking your draw mechanics. Generally, a mid to high balance around 5.5-6.5 inches suits most midfielders. This lets you drive hard from the lower hand during the draw, then choke up for quick passing on the break.

Pocket placement also affects transitions. A mid-pocket towards the upper third of the head gives you good cradling control, yet allows fast feeding to attackers on outlet passes. Dialing in the right depth comes down to preference and experience level – just ensure you get adequate retention when sprinting downfield.

Having a stick handle with some flex improves throwing velocity for clearing long passes. But go for more stiffness if you value precision above power -ocarbon composite handles like Easton’s ultralight shaft offer a nice compromise. An open sidewall head also expands your throwing vision on the run.

With versatility paramount, test out sticks focused on transition speed like the StringKing Complete 2 or Epoch Integra. Finding the right blend of durability, draw power, and throwing capability gives you an edge all over the field as a dominant two-way midfielder.

Your midfield stick serves as a true extension of your body while covering expansive ground. Choosing a women’s lacrosse stick optimized for handling, balance, speed, and control transforms you into a transition superstar this season.

Defense Sticks Focus on Checking and Ground Ball Control

For defenders, a stick optimized for checking, intercepting passes, and scooping ground balls is mandatory. Control and durability take priority over ball finesse in a strong defensive stick.

An open sidewall head gives you better checking accuracy and visibility on cage. Look for wide heads with a stiff scoop like the Epoch Integra Defense or STX Exult 300. The extra width knocks away shots and passes, while the scoop easily digs out tough ground balls.

While a shallow pocket improves ground ball control, consider adjusting depth based on experience level. Youth players often benefit from more defined pocket “sweet spots” to build confidence cradling and carrying the ball downfield. Just ensure the pocket doesn’t get too deep to hinder quick stick checks and releases.

When it comes to draw weight, don’t sacrifice control by going ultra-high tension. Look for defense stick draw weights in the 70-80lb range with a balance point around 5.5-6.5 inches. This combination provides ample control to draw quickly then transition into coverage.

Durability also matters more for defenders due to physical play. Multi-material handles like the STX Exult 600 combine composite and alloy for increased stiffness and abrasion resistance. Protecting your stick ensures longevity over a long season of aggressive defensive play.

For improved poke check leverage, an offset or curved handle like Warrior’s Apex bent shape allows better wrist positioning and motion. Porting on the handle also enhances grip security when slapping checks. Consider taping high on the handle for extra grip during physical play.

With defense focused first and foremost on preventing goals, choose a stick providing maximum checking reach and ground ball capabilities. Dominating all loose ball situations gives your team an advantage while demoralizing opposing offenses.

Owning the critical defensive space around the crease starts with a formidable women’s lacrosse stick. Let your defense stick act as an extension of your body to deny scoring threats this season.

What Draw Weight is Best For You as a Beginner or Experienced Player

When selecting a women’s lacrosse stick, one of the most important factors is choosing the right draw weight for your skill level and strength. The ideal draw tension balances power with control and quickness.

For beginners and younger players, look for heads with draw weights in the 60-75lb range. While these lighter tensions don’t maximize power, they allow developing athletes to learn proper draw mechanics with more forgiveness. Focus on rotating from your core and getting full extension with the top hand during the draw motion.

Intermediate youth and high school players should opt for mid-range draw weights from 70-85lbs. Look for sticks offering adjustable tensions like the STX Crux 600, tightening the screws as your technique and strength improve. By high school, aim for the 70-80lb range to balance speed and control as the pace quickens.

In college and elite leagues, legal stick regulations allow for max draw weights up to 105lbs. While ultra-high tensions provide raw power, make sure to match the draw weight to your physique. Shorter or weaker athletes will lose control and leverage with an over-tensioned head. Target the 80-95lb range for the best blend of speed and force.

No matter your level, focus on proper draw mechanics and strength training for your lacrosse core muscles. With the right draw weight paired with excellent technique, you gain a vital advantage at the draw circle crucial for possessions and scoring chances.

Remember that draw weight requirements vary by position – a lighter draw in the 75lb range benefits smaller defenders, while attack and midfield players gain an edge with 85lb+ tensions. Find your ideal balance of power and control with the perfect draw weight this season.

The Draw: How Stick Balance and Stringing Impact Success

For women’s lacrosse players, having the right stick is crucial for success on the draw. The draw involves placing the ball between two opponents’ sticks and drawing it up to gain possession. A perfectly balanced stick with optimal stringing allows players to cleanly scoop, cradle, and pass the ball after winning the draw.

When selecting a stick for draw control, pay close attention to the head shape, pocket depth, shooting strings, and overall weight distribution. Optimal draw heads are wider at the top to allow for clean catches on the rise. Pockets should be mid to mid-low depth for ideal ball retention. Shooting strings, especially the V-shaped nylon ones, help grab ground balls. As for balance, the head should not feel too head-heavy or end-loaded.

Here are some top draw stick considerations when shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick:

Gait Torque

With its flared scoop and stiff sidewalls, the Gait Torque is regarded as one of the best heads for draw control. The head has a nice mid-low pocket, while the top-loaded weight balance aids in clean catches and quick stick work. While excellent for draws, some find the Torque lacks hold and can be prone to sidewall breaks. Still, it’s a top choice for draw specialists.

STX Crux 500

The STX Crux 500 combines the pinched head shape of the original Crux with a flexible sidewall for increased durability. This results in a head with great ball retention but enough stiffness up top for winning draws. With its mid-low pocket and lightweight balanced feel, the Crux 500 gives players an excellent all-around option. The head also pairs nicely with the STX steel handles known for their comfortable grips.

Maverik Centrik

Maverik’s Centrik head has become popular for its hybrid design combining the ball control of a mid-low pocket with the stiffer scoop of a mid-high. This gives players the best of both worlds – hold down low and rigidity up top for draws. The Centrik also has an hourglass shape at the throat that tapers moving down. This flared throat helps funnel ground balls into the pocket.

Stringing for Optimal Draw Control

While head design plays a big role, optimal stringing takes a stick’s draw game to the next level. Focus stringing on giving the head rigidity up top while maintaining hold down low. Some key stringing tips include:

• Using a double runner along the entire top sidewall for stiffness up top
• Incorporating mesh and nylon shooting strings in a V-shape to enhance hold
• Adding another nylon across the middle for extra ball control
• Using a U-shaped base string to define the pocket
• Rolling the shooting strings on the sidewall for a channel to guide in ground balls

With the right head shape, pocket, and stringing adjustments, women’s lacrosse players can optimize their sticks for draw control and domination. While personal preference always plays a role, understanding what elite draw sticks have in common is key. Ultimately, the perfect balance of stiffness, hold, and overall feel gives you the best shot at gaining possession off the draw.

When looking for a new stick this season, be sure to consider how factors like scoop, pocket, weight balance, and stringing impact a head’s draw ability. Don’t just choose a stick because it looks cool or your favorite player endorses it. Finding optimal draw control takes research, testing out various heads and pockets, and dialing in stringing techniques. But with the right stick, winning those crucial draw battles becomes much simpler.

Dominating draws requires meticulous inspection of your pocket’s depth, hold, and ball control. Master draw specialists fine-tune their stringing to maximize stiffness up top for clean catches while maintaining a deep pocket down low for superior cradling. Achieving the optimal balance between hold and release takes experimentation with shooting string placement, sidewall stringing, and pocket materials. Don’t settle for an average stick – take the time to customize your perfect draw weapon this season.

Heads With Wide Scoops Help Beginning Players Pick Up Ground Balls

If you’re looking to buy the best women’s lacrosse stick in 2023, you’ll want to pay special attention to the head and draw of the stick. The head refers to the netted portion at the top of the stick that is used to catch, carry and pass the ball. The draw refers to the interwoven strings inside the head that provide structure, adjust the pocket depth and help secure the ball within the head. When shopping for a women’s lacrosse stick, opting for a head with a wide scoop and proper draw can make a world of difference, especially for beginning players learning to pick up ground balls.

For starters, a stick head with a wide scoop or flare at the top helps immensely when trying to scoop up ground balls. The flared scoop gives the head a “fish net” type of shape, allowing for a larger opening to trap loose balls on the run. Narrower or pointed scoops can be much harder to dig under a rolling ball. So if your daughter or female player is just learning the game, be sure to look for heads labeled “beginner” or “intermediate” that feature wide scoops to aid ground ball pickup.

Additionally, proper stringing in the draw area can make ground ball pickup easier. Intermediate and advanced sticks allow you to customize the draw length and adjust pocket depth. But for beginners, a “fixed” draw with factory stringing in a mid to shallow pocket depth is ideal. Mid to shallow pockets let the ball sit higher in the head, while deeper pockets tend to swallow up the ball. With the ball sitting higher, it takes less effort to clamp down and trap it during ground ball battles.

So when comparing women’s lacrosse heads, look for the following beginner-friendly features:

• Wide flare or scoop shape
• Pre-strung, fixed draw length
• Mid to shallow pocket depth

Brands like STX, Gait, and Brine all make exceptional women’s lacrosse stick heads catered to different skill levels. The STX Crux and Gait Torque are great intermediate options, while STX Exult draws rave reviews for wide scoops and easy ground ball pickup.

Balance Handle Length and Weight For Optimal Control

Along with dialing in the perfect head, new players should look for a balanced, lightweight handle when selecting a complete lacrosse stick. Women’s handles are sized down from the typical men’s handle, better suiting female arm length and strength. Handles range from 30 to 35 inches, with 30-31.5 inches being common for high school and youth players. Shorter handles allow for quick stick movements and greater control.

It’s also key to find a lightweight handle constructed from materials like aluminum or composite alloys. The handle connects to the head using a screw-in cap, so you’ll want something durable yet featherlight. Excess handle weight leads to slower passes and shots, so opt for ultra-light sticks weighing 18 oz. or less. For example, the STX Exult 600 handle weighs in at a mere 5.5 oz. giving players effortless movement and control.

Take into account your player’s age, size and skill level when deciding on the best handle length and weight. The right balance results in maximum ball control for passing, catching and shooting on goal.

Consider Pocket Style Based on Position

Women’s lacrosse heads feature either a traditional “V” shaped pocket or a newer “U” or “Y” shaped pocket. Each gives players distinct advantages based on position and skill level:

• V Pockets – Best for beginners. Easier to string consistently. Smooth release when throwing.
• U Pockets – More ball control while cradling. Easier to shoot side arm. Popular with attackers.
• Y Pockets – Deeper pocket. Excellent ball retention. Ideal for midfielders.

Make sure to get the right pocket shape for your player’s position and style of play. Attacker’s benefit most from U or Y pockets for keeping the ball secure while driving to the goal. Midfielders also favor a Y pocket to protect ball possession when carrying upfield. Meanwhile, V pockets allow for quick passing and smooth releases from all angles.

Choose Colorway Based on Visibility Needs

Most lacrosse heads and shafts come in a variety of color combinations, and bright contrasting colors can enhance visibility and ball tracking while playing. For youth and high school players still honing their skills, a neon yellow or orange head paired with a dark handle offers excellent contrast for following ball movement.

Stick regulations mandate that the pocket must remain light in color, so any colored logos or accents on the head must avoid that center pocket area. But creativity is encouraged, and players can express themselves by choosing school colors, neon patterns, galaxy prints or tie-dye fades. Brighter finishes not only look awesome, they help athletes track the ball better during cradling, passing and shooting.

With the right head shape, pocket, handle length and colors, shopping for the perfect women’s lacrosse stick is easy. Be sure to involve your player in the selection process and choose options suited for their age, skill and position. With the top sticks on the market featuring advanced yet beginner-friendly designs, any female athlete can excel on the field with a properly strung lacrosse stick this season.

Offset or Curved Handles Aid Wrist Motion and Power on Checks

When purchasing the best women’s lacrosse stick for 2023, evaluating the shape and design of the handle is just as crucial as finding the perfect head. While traditional handles feature a straight shaft, offset and curved handle options better promote proper wrist motion for more powerful checking. If quick stick skills like cradling, passing and shooting come naturally to your female player, it may be time to upgrade to an offset or curved handle to take her defense to the next level.

Offset handles offer an angled bend near the bottom of the shaft before straightening near the top. This angle allows a player’s bottom hand to grip the handle while keeping the wrist cocked back in the ideal checking position. The offset shape essentially locks the wrist at an optimal angle so players don’t have to consciously keep it cocked. This gives checks more power while reducing strain on the wrist joints.

Similarly, curved handles promote excellent wrist alignment by contouring to the natural shape of a closed fist. The curved oval shaft fits snugly into the palm, with the angle of the throat sitting perfectly perpendicular to the wrist. Again, this anatomical alignment generates tremendous power from the forearms and wrists when executing checks. Less effort goes into consciously positioning the hands.

So while straight handles provide the most balanced feel and aid accuracy on passes, the offset and curved handles give female defenders a real advantage. By keeping the wrists “preset” in the ideal angle, players can unleash lightning-quick checks without sacrificing power or control. Brands like Maverik, STX and Brine all offer offset and curved women’s handles to amplify checking abilities.

Consider Weight To Lessen Fatigue

When comparing offset and curved handles, be sure to take weight into account as well. Oftentimes, non-straight handles contain extra ridges, contours and bulges that can add unwanted weight. Since female athletes typically have smaller statures and rely on speed of play, choosing ultra-lightweight handles is key.

Top-end handles made from composite alloys or aircraft-grade aluminum provide exceptional strength and durability while remaining featherlight. Look for handle weights between 5 to 7 ounces to minimize fatigue over the course of a game. Extra handle weight leads to slower passing and shooting as well as difficult poke check recovery. So opt for advanced ultra-light materials to get the power benefits of an offset handle without sacrificing quickness.

Add Features Like Textured Grips

When selecting an offset or curved women’s lacrosse handle, players can also benefit from ergonomic enhancements. Many modern handles now incorporate tactile features to improve overall grip and control:

• Textured surfaces – provide extra friction and a non-slip grip, even when wet
• Contoured ridges – designed to fit perfectly in the hand for comfort and control
• Tapered ends – thinner handle sizes enhance wrapping the thumb and pinky fingers around

These ergonomic add-ons combined with an offset shape give female players unprecedented command over their sticks. Features like textured coverings allow for confident checking and one-handed cradle moves, knowing the stick will remain firmly gripped. The contoured and tapered handles combat fatigue as well, requiring less overall effort to wield the stick precisely.

Match Length to Player’s Size and Position

When looking at complete offset lacrosse sticks, one final aspect to consider is the overall handle length. For the women’s game, typical shaft lengths range from 30 to 35 inches. Smaller players usually favor shorter 30-31.5 inch handles, which allow for quicker transitions from cradling to passing or shooting. Shorter handles are ideal for diminutive attackers and midfielders focused on stick agility.

However, taller players may opt for extended handles up to 34 or 35 inches for greater checking reach. Those extra few inches provide some advantage when poke checking on defense. But a balance must be struck between length and maneuverability, so choose the shortest workable length for each player’s size and position.

With offset and curved handles offering better mechanics for checking, shopping for women’s lacrosse sticks this year means looking beyond just the head. Seek out handles promoting natural wrist alignment and lightning-quick motions. When combined with advanced grips and ultra-lightweight construction, today’s offset handles give developing female players a true competitive edge on the field.

Popular Brands Known for Durable Yet Lightweight Women’s Sticks

With so many factors to weigh when shopping for the best women’s lacrosse stick, it helps to look at proven brands with a reputation for quality and performance. Several top manufacturers consistently produce lightweight yet durable sticks perfectly tailored to female athletes. By sticking with trusted brands like STX, Maverik, Brine and Gait, you can feel confident you’re investing in a well-constructed, beginner-friendly women’s lacrosse stick for 2023.

STX dominates the women’s lacrosse scene, offering sticks engineered specifically for elite female players. Their Exult line provides excellent balance between light weight and sturdiness. For example, the Exult 300 handle uses carbon composite construction to achieve 6.9 oz. weights while remaining practically indestructible. Couple a lightweight Exult handle with a stick head like the Crux 600, and developing players get high performance catered to their abilities.

Maverik also crafts women’s sticks understanding the importance of lightweight handles for quick stick work. Their Optic and Momentum handles use aircraft-grade aluminum alloys to produce ultra-responsive performance at half the weight of traditional metal handles. For powerful yet featherlight sticks, Maverik provides quality across their women’s lines.

Long-trusted brand Brine offers the Dynasty line for beginners looking for confidence-inspiring sticks. The Dynasty feature fixed universal pocket heads with excellent ball control traits combined with durable composite or aluminum handles. Brine optimizes these sticks for easy ground ball pickup thanks to wider scoops and mid-depth pockets.

And relative newcomer Gait continues to make a name for itself in women’s lacrosse gear. Their Torque and Supernatural lines provide versatile heads and lightweight handles suited for all field positions. The Torque in particular has become popular thanks to its smooth sidewall design and accurately-strung custom pocket options.

While each brand offers unique technologies and innovations, they all share a common commitment to crafting lightweight yet durable women’s lacrosse sticks. Advanced alloys and composite materials allow for featherlight handles under 7 ounces. They also engineer heads to balance ball control with quick release passing and shooting. Trusted brands eliminate the guesswork when buying girls’ and women’s sticks for the first time.

Consider Budget When Selecting Brands

One other factor to weigh when picking top lacrosse stick brands is your budget. Superior performance comes at a price, and elite sticks run upwards of $150 or more. While these pro-level sticks offer the pinnacle of quality, beginners can gain confidence with mid-range sticks between $50 to $100.

For example, the STX Exult 300 handle paired with a Crux 500 head provides a reasonably priced stick with excellent playability. Maverik Optic handles also give burgeoning players lightweight responsiveness for under $100 when combined with their Vision head. Even Gait offers their adjustable Supernatural line starting around $70 for a great attack stick.

Of course, buyers wanting the highest performance sticks can invest $150 or more for pro-quality gear. But rest assured, the top brands’ mid-range sticks still pack in technologies making the game easier for aspiring female players. Don’t break the bank chasing elite sticks until players develop their skills and preferences.

Read Reviews to Gauge Quality and Reputation

Lastly, be sure to read online reviews of the major lacrosse brands when choosing which sticks to purchase. Site like Lacrosse Monkey provide helpful feedback from parents, coaches and players regarding the quality and durability of various manufacturers. This gives you insight into the reputation of each brand.

Look for consistent feedback around lightweight handles, ease of stringing heads, and ease of ground ball pickup. Positive reviews back up the engineering claims made by companies about the performance of their lines. Users also report how well sticks hold up over time, ensuring your investment lasts through seasons of youth and high school play.

While brand names provide a general sense of consistency and quality, taking time to research reviews ensures you pick the best women’s sticks for your player’s needs. Reviewers help narrow the field so you can confidently select lightweight yet rugged sticks from only the most trusted brands this season and beyond.

Customizing Pocket Depth and Sidewall Stringing Based on Position

When selecting the ideal women’s lacrosse stick for 2023, pay close attention to how the head is strung. The pocket depth and sidewall stringing pattern significantly impact ball control, release speed and shooting mechanics. While pre-strung sticks work great for beginners, intermediate and advanced players benefit from customizing pocket depth and sidewalls to match their position and style of play.

For attackers driving to goal, a deeper pocket helps cradling and retention while maneuvering through traffic. The deeper “Y” or “U” shaped pockets wrap more mesh around the ball, absorbing checks while maintaining control. A quick wrist or sweep shot then easily dislodges the ball from the pocket for shots on goal. Meanwhile, shallow pockets set midfielders up for success at the draw and provide excellent passing accuracy across the field.

Sidewall stringing also varies by position, allowing midfielders to carry the ball securely upfield before passing ahead to cutters in the attacking end. More traditional sidewall stringing uses interwoven anchors or locks between the pocket nylon to secure side to side. Newer styles utilize more dynamic strings that “give” a bit more on checks, maintaining pocket integrity.

So while new players benefit from fixed universal pockets, take time to customize depth and sidewalls as skills progress. Consider the following based on your athlete’s position and playing style:

Attackers

• Deeper “U” or “Y” pocket for cradling through pressure
• Quick release shooting strings to launch from a deep pocket
• Traditional locked sidewalls for ball security driving to goal

Midfielders

• Mid-depth “V” pocket for all-around control
• Paracord shooters for smoothing passing across the field
• Dynamic sidewalls to maintain pocket integrity through checks

Defenders

• Shallower pocket for quick ground ball pickup
• Mesh and nylon shooters for clearing speed
• Locked sidewalls for securing checked balls

While these recommendations provide guidelines, elite players may tweak pocket and sidewalls based on their individual style. The key is understanding how stringing impacts passing, catching and shooting. Over time, players discover the custom stringing allowing them to play their best.

Consider Adjustable Heads to Allow Experimentation

To make pocket and sidewall customization easier, some brands offer adjustable or universal lacrosse heads. These heads allow players to tweak stringing depths and patterns without fully restringing. For example, Gait heads utilize adjustable sidewalls while StringKing offers “it” technology for simple pocket adjustments.

Adjustable heads are perfect for younger players still honing their skills before committing to a preferred pocket and sidewall setup. Coaches can also quickly tweak depth and shooting strings between games to match opponents or enhance areas needing improvement. The ability to refine stringing over a season helps accelerate development.

Work with Experts to Test Stringing Options

Finally, don’t hesitate to lean on the expertise of sporting goods retailers when looking to customize women’s lacrosse stringing. Stores like Lacrosse Unlimited, Lacrosse Monkey and more employ specialists dedicated to goalie, men’s and women’s stringing. They can advise on optimal pocket depths, shooting string placement and sidewall options based on your athlete’s needs.

With the right pocket depth and sidewall stringing, female athletes can gain an edge tailored specifically to their position and style of play. While beginners benefit from fixed universal pockets, developing players should start customizing their lacrosse heads for even greater confidence and control on the field.

How Stick Materials Like Carbon Fiber Boost Durability and Performance

When researching the best women’s lacrosse sticks for 2023, pay attention to the materials used in engineering the handles and heads. Advanced composites like carbon fiber are revolutionizing the game by producing incredibly lightweight yet durable sticks. The right high-tech materials create effortless quickness and ball control for developing female players.

Carbon fiber has become a go-to shaft material thanks to its combination of strength and flexibility. The ultra-stiff woven carbon fiber allows engineers to design incredibly thin yet rigid handles. This maximizes responsiveness while keeping weight under 6 ounces. Brands like Maverik and STX now leverage carbon fiber composite in their women’s sticks for unprecedented durability and precision.

Manufacturers also use aircraft-grade aluminum alloys to craft sturdy yet featherlight handles. The aluminum provides professional-grade stiffness, while advances in structural design remove unnecessary weight. Cutting holes or optimizing shape reduces mass without compromising rigidity. For example, aluminum alloy handles from Brine easily achieve 5 ounce weights.

Head materials see innovation as well, with brands like Gait using proprietary alloys in their Torque line. The metal alloy delivers exceptional stiffness across the entire head frame. This retains pocket shape while providing excellent ball damping and quick release. Advanced alloys optimize both durability and performance.

Lighter Materials Prevent Fatigue

The key benefit of advanced lacrosse stick materials is reducing fatigue over the course of a full game. New ultra-light handles allow developing players to cradle, pass and shoot without tiring. Less effort is wasted fighting extra mass, keeping players fresher in the game’s final moments.

Lighter materials also translate into quicker sticks overall. Less handle weight means faster movements transitioning between offense and defense. Quicker shooting rotations and tighter cradling help athletes play at full speed more comfortably. Lightweight excellence simply enhances overall stick performance.

Strong Yet Flexible for Great Touch and Feel

What sets today’s elite materials apart is optimizing both strength and flex. Maximum stiffness provides excellent pocket and head stability, while engineered flex or “give” fine tunes ball feel and control. For example, carbon fiber handles offer precision thanks to stiffness butabsorb checks better than metal thanks to some flex.

In the head, optimized flex helps grab errant passes while still offer smooth release when shooting. Brands balance flex and stability to give players ultimate command over ball control and retention through the full stick. Advanced materials bring out the best touch and responsiveness.

Temperature Resistant for All-Weather Play

Finally, today’s space-age lacrosse stick materials hold up against temperature swings and moisture. Where old wooden handles might chip, swell or crack, carbon fiber and aluminum handles withstand all-weather play. Cold, heat and dampness do not degrade elite materials.

That means developing players can compete full-throttle no matter the conditions. Inclement weather doesn’t sap stick performance when temperature resistant materials are leveraged in engineering. Pair high-tech shafts with heads featuring durable alloy sidewalls and frames, and female athletes gain an all-weather edge.

Thanks to major leaps in lacrosse stick engineering, breakthrough materials are making the game faster, stronger and more exciting. Players gain confidence in equipment built to withstand seasons of youth and high school competition. By selecting elite sticks featuring cutting-edge materials, take your athlete’s game to the next level in 2023.

Care Tips to Extend the Life of Your Investment in a Quality Stick

After selecting the perfect women’s lacrosse stick for 2023, proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your investment. While today’s elite sticks feature durable space-age materials, taking time for preventive care ensures seasons of consistent performance from your stick.

First and foremost, be sure to check all screws before and after each game to ensure a tight fit. Loose screws negatively impact passing and shooting power. Occasionally remove the head and apply a thread-locking solution to prevent screws from vibrating loose over time.

Also wipe down sticks after each use to prevent dirt buildup in the top edges of the head. Use a damp cloth to gently cleanse the scoop and sidewall areas where debris collects. This improves pocket life and prevents premature fraying.

When storing sticks between games, avoid excess moisture and heat whenever possible. Store sticks in a climate controlled space rather than a hot garage or damp basement. Extreme hot or cold temperatures speed the breakdown of handle and head materials.

During seasonal breaks, consider disassembling sticks to extend pocket and sidewall life. Gently remove mesh and nylon to relieve tension rather than leaving strings stretched for months. Pockets and sidewalls last longer when given breaks between intense use.

Youth players quickly outgrow their sticks, so maximize value by caring for sticks properly and passing them down to younger siblings or teammates when upgrading. With extra TLC, even mid-range sticks provide seasons of play before replacement becomes necessary.

Routinely Check for Signs of Wear

Make it a habit to thoroughly inspect your stick before each practice or game. Check for any cracks in the handle, head or sidewalls. Cracks indicate materials are breaking down, requiring immediate replacement to prevent further damage.

Also watch for significant fraying or over-stretching of shooting strings and sidewall nylon. Re-stringing small areas extends the life of the head much better than waiting for complete restringing. Address minor issues early.

Consider Re-Stringing Heads Annually

As a good rule of thumb, most women’s lacrosse heads benefit from complete re-stringing annually. This allows you to restore the pocket shape, adjust depth/width and replace any worn nylon. Optimal pocket performance requires fresh strings each season.

Don’t wait until strings are fully broken down before re-stringing. Gradual fraying negatively impacts passing, catching and shooting mechanics. Get heads re-strung over the off-season to start each spring with a fresh high-performance pocket.

Protect Sticks During Transport and Storage

Finally, take steps to protect sticks when not in use. Use a padded stick bag for transporting gear to help prevent damage. Store sticks safely in a rack rather than piling loosely with other equipment. And never transport sticks in the bed of pickup trucks unrestrained.

With extra care and maintenance, you can protect the substantial investment made in elite lacrosse sticks. While sturdy and weather resistant, proper preventive care keeps sticks performing at their peak. Develop good habits early and any quality women’s stick can last seasons in the hands of developing young players.

Upgrading From a Complete Stick to a Custom Strung and Pocketed Head

When first learning women’s lacrosse, complete factory strung sticks provide an affordable and balanced option. But as players grow and develop their skills, upgrading to a customized pocket and head offers next-level performance. Taking time to find your ideal head shape, pocket depth, shooting strings and handle gives elite players an edge over beginners with universal sticks.

Complete sticks feature fixed pockets with generic mid-range depth and basic sidewall stringing. This allows new players to focus on fundamentals without fussing over equipment. But that one-size-fits-all pocket may not match a player’s style or excel in certain field positions.

With a custom pocket, athletes can select an optimal depth and shape for their position. Attackers gain better ball security in traffic with deeper pockets, while midfielders and defenders often prefer more shallow set-ups for quick passing and ground balls. Custom stringing also enhances grip and shot precision.

When ready to upgrade, start by selecting a head shape complementing playing style – curved for excellent ball control or angled for quicker passes and shots. Many heads now offer adjustable sidewalls to easily tweak pocket depth as skills progress. Then work with a specialist to string the perfect custom pocket optimized for cradling, scooping and shooting.

Consider Your Main Position and Skill Level

When selecting a head to upgrade from a complete stick, think about your athlete’s main position and current abilities. For example:

• Attackers benefit from deeper pockets optimized for driving to goal and quick release shooting
• Midfielders need flexibility to transition from offense to defense, so mid-depth pockets work best
• Defenders rely on shallow pockets for quick ground ball pickup and outlet passing

Be realistic about skill level as well. Advanced players can handle more “break in” with deeper pockets, while newer athletes will see benefits with mid-depth starting points until skills improve.

Work With Specialists for the Perfect String and Pocket

Rather than restringing heads yourself, leverage the expertise of lacrosse specialists at local sporting goods stores. The right stringing makes all the difference, so invest in a pro pocket optimized for your player’s needs. Many stores even offer adjustment periods in case the initial stringing doesn’t maximize performance.

Explain whether you need more hold and control or quick release on passes when dropping off heads for stringing. Specialists can tweak pocket depth, nylon types, shooters and sidewall style to match your preferences. With the right custom pocket, developing players gain confidence controlling play.

Upgrade Handles Once Skills Improve

Start with basic yet durable handles when first upgrading to custom heads in order to allocate budget toward pro stringing services. As skills progress, upgrade handles to pro-grade lightweight carbon fiber or ultra-strong alloys.

Advanced handles paired with custom heads create a truly elite stick tailored specifically for each athlete. Seek out specialists offering removable end caps to swap handles without having to uninstall heads. This allows adjusting sticks in real-time to match your developing player’s needs.

The right lacrosse stick provides an advantage, so take time to find your ideal setup. With the perfect head shape, custom pocket and high-performance handle selected based on your position and skills, upgrading from a factory stick helps developing athletes reach new heights on the field.

Review the Latest Stick Technology Released This Year

Women’s lacrosse has seen significant advances in stick technology over the past few years, with new innovations aimed at improving performance and playability. As the 2023 season approaches, it’s a great time to review some of the latest lacrosse sticks and features hitting the market this year.

Lighter and Stronger Materials

One of the biggest trends is the use of newer, engineered materials to create lighter yet stronger lacrosse sticks. Many top brands like STX, Maverik, and Epoch are using alloys, composites, and polymers to reduce overall weight while maintaining durability. For example, carbon fiber shafts, once seen only at the elite college level, are now common in sticks at every price point. These ultra-light shafts combine carbon fibers with resins to maximize strength and minimize weight.

Heads are also utilizing more alloy metals, like those seen in Maverik’s MetaLite head series. By strategically placing stronger alloys in high stress areas, these heads can retain their shape and performance over time while dropping excess weight.

Improved Balance and Feel

Advancements in lacrosse head design are leading to more balanced heads with better overall feel. Scoop designs now feature more pronounced lateral flare to help guide ground balls into the pocket with less effort. Many heads also utilize a lower sidewall design, dropping catch/throw margins closer to the shaft axis to optimize feel on passes and shots.

Pocket design is also evolving, with many heads featuring pre-set pocket styles that provide an ideal mid- to high-pocket right out of the box. Pockets are shifting away from traditional four-nylon designs, instead using mixes of nylon, leather, and rubberized lace to fine-tune pocket feel and improve ball control.

Tuned Flex Profiles

Recent engineering advances are allowing brands to tune flex profiles with greater precision. For example, Epoch introduces “Flexion Geometry” in its Dragonfly sticks, which uses strategically-placed stiff and flex zones to provide targeted flex. This improves handling while adding velocity on passes and shots.

On the defensive side, sticks like the Maverik Tank emphasize stiffness and stability for checking, protecting the ball, and quick transitions. With defense-specific flex profiles, these sticks maintain your hand position and withstand checks. Brands continue optimizing flex profiles for specialized player positions and styles.

Bottom Line

Today’s lacrosse sticks represent an unprecedented level of engineering sophistication. With continued innovations in materials, balance, feel, and tuned flex profiles, the latest sticks provide noticeable improvements in performance for all field players. As you look for a new stick this season, be sure to demo the latest models – you may be surprised at how much the technology has advanced in just the past year. The right lacrosse stick can be a game-changer, so take time to explore your options and find the stick that optimizes your play.

Take Your Game to The Next Level With the Ideal Women’s Lacrosse Stick

Looking to buy the best women’s lacrosse stick in 2023? You’ve come to the right place. As an experienced player and coach, I’ve tested countless lacrosse sticks over the years. The right stick can be a game-changer, allowing you to cradle, scoop, catch, pass, and shoot with more control, speed, and power. In this article, I’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a stick and provide my top recommendations for the best draws and handles on the market today.

First things first – make sure your stick meets regulation requirements set by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) or your local high school or rec league. For NCAA sticks, the head must be between 7 to 9 inches wide and the pocket depth can’t exceed 5 inches. The handle can range from 35 to 43 inches. Keep these measurements in mind as we explore the ideal features below.

The Importance of the Head and Pocket

The head is one of the most critical components of your lacrosse stick. Wider heads like those around 9 inches give you a larger sweet spot for catching and increased ball control. However, narrower heads around 7 inches are quicker and easier to handle. Whichever width you prefer, look for an offset design with a flatter scoop to make ground balls easier to pick up. I’d recommend mesh pockets rather than traditional leathers. Mesh gives you more whip on shots, better ball control, and unmatched pocket feel once broken in. You can also customize the pocket to your exact specifications.

Finding the Right Handle for You

Don’t underestimate the importance of the right handle! Look for a lightweight composite or alloy handle around 30 inches. The increased length gives you better reach and more leverage for powerful checks and shots. A textured grip boosts control. Some players love tapered handles that get progressively thinner from top to bottom, while others prefer consistent thickness throughout. Go with what feels best in your hands. I’d also recommend an adjustable length handle that allows you to add or remove inches as you get stronger and grow as a player over time.

My Top Women’s Lacrosse Stick Recommendations

Ready to find your perfect match? Here are my top recommendations for women’s lacrosse sticks in 2023:

• Best Overall: Gait Draw Stick – This stick has it all. The Draw models feature a specialized scoop for unmatched control on draws and quick ground ball pickup. The head is a perfect mid-range width for versatility. Throw in a soft mesh pocket and lightweight composite handle and you’ve got a stick that can elevate every aspect of your game.
• Best for Beginners: Gait Women’s Lacrosse Stick – With a wider head and deeper pocket, this stick makes catching, cradling, and scooping a breeze for beginners. The alloy handle keeps it affordable and durable. As your skills progress, you can swap out mesh pockets to increase whip and precision.
• Best for Defense: Gait Lax Sticks – The narrower head on these sticks provides unmatched ball control for defensive players who need to protect their feet and check effectively. The stiff construction makes these ideal for withstanding checks too. Pair it with a composite handle for an unbeatable defense stick.
• Most Versatile: Gait Draw Head – Swap out handles and mesh pockets to create your perfect custom stick with these heads. The scoop and offset design excel at nearly every facet of the game from draws to ground balls, cradling to catching.
• Best Value: Gait Lacrosse Stick – Newer players don’t need all the bells and whistles. This budget stick still provides solid performance with an alloy handle and durable head. As your skills improve, upgrade the pocket and handle to keep this stick in your lineup for years.

The right women’s lacrosse stick can be a game-changer, but the options can feel overwhelming. Focus on finding an offset head shape and softer mesh pocket that suits your playing style. Prioritize control and feel in your preferred handle length. With the sticks above, you’re guaranteed to take your game to the next level in 2023!