Maverik Ascent Complete Lacrosse Stick Review and AnalysisMaverik Ascent Complete Lacrosse Stick Review and Analysis
Ascent Complete Stick Head Performance Excels for Precise Shooting
The head design is a key factor that determines the performance of any lacrosse stick, and Maverik clearly put a lot of engineering into the Ascent Complete’s head shape and configuration. This head really maximizes ball control, passing accuracy, and shooting precision.
The Ascent head has an optimized scoop that makes ground balls easier to cradle and handle. Its stiff Rail X sidewalls give you a consistent channel width for clean catches and superior ball control. Wide horizontal sidewall holes improve stringing flexibility for customized pockets.
I found the Ascent’s mid-to-low pocket location ideal for a smooth release when shooting. The pocket breaks in very easily with minimal effort, developing that sweet spot that really grabs and propels the ball. Whether you like to shoot overhand, sidearm, or submarine style, this head gives you the control to place your shots with pinpoint accuracy.
Some heads can be too pinched or too wide, making off-center shots unpredictable. But the Ascent gives you just the right balance of ball guidance combined with flexibility for angled release points. I was able to effortlessly hit top left and top right corners with simple wrist flicks because the head shape ensured the ball release was consistent shot after shot.
For midfielders who rely on their stick skills for scoring goals, having a head like the Ascent that enhances accuracy and precision can really pay dividends. You’ll have the confidence to let off-angle shots fly into the netting knowing your head performance will put the ball right where you want it. This versatility and reliability for precise shooting makes the Ascent Complete stick head a superior choice in my opinion.
Ascent Complete Shaft Provides Ideal Flex for Control
A lacrosse shaft needs to have the right blend of stiffness and flex to enable excellent ball handling and passing. Too much rigidity can make catches difficult, while too much whip can result in inaccurate throws and shots. After using the Ascent Complete stick extensively, I’m convinced Maverik found the perfect flex balance with the shaft design.
The Ascent shaft utilizes Maverik’s proprietary 22 Reinforced Carbon Core technology that provides an ideal blend of responsiveness and stability. Many carbon shafts on the market today are so stiff that ground balls bounce right off, and passes veer off-target from the lack of flex. But the Ascent carbon shaft has a tailored flex profile along the top half that gives on impact, while the lower portion remains rigid for stability during pokes and checks.
This strategic flex mapping lets you scoop up ground balls smoothly as the head gives to cradle the ball on contact. When passing and shooting, the upper shaft loading lets you power through the motion and snap off accurate throws. The dart-like velocity I was able to generate from the dynamic flex really impressed me the most about this shaft.
For elusive dodgers who like to slip checks and drive to the goal, this smooth flex lets you pivot and turn without losing control. I never felt limited in my range of motion during intense rider gameplay thanks to the balanced flex response.
Some attackmen prefer an ultra-stiff shaft, but I think the Ascent’s engineered flex gives you superior handling and passing without compromising on stability. The shaft lives up to Maverik’s promise of optimized performance and I believe it achieves the ideal flex profile that most players will really appreciate.
Premium Grip & Handle Offer Excellent Control and Comfort
Having a grip and handle that feel natural in your hands is so critical for maximizing stick handling, passing, and shooting mechanics. The Ascent Complete comes with a high-quality grip and ergonomic handle that really impressed me with its comfort and control.
The grip features a tactile zig-zag pattern and ribbed contour that keeps the stick securely in your hands, even in wet conditions. It has a tacky feel with just the right amount of resistance against your gloves for stable control. I never felt like the stick was slipping or difficult to manage.
Maverik’s precision molding process ensures the grip integrates seamlessly with the shaft for a smooth transition along the entire handle area. By optimizing the grip integration, it makes cradling, switching hands, and performing quick sticks much more fluid.
The Ascent’s handle utilizes an octagonal shape that fills your palm and provides comfortable ergonomic feel. It has smoother corners compared to other octagonal handles, so there are no sharp pressure points digging into your hands.
Superior grip and superior handle – that’s the combination that the Ascent Complete really delivers for outstanding performance. Your hands work best when they can relax into intuitive, comfortable movements without distraction or slippage. This stick’s handle gave me that natural precision control to play my best game.
Lightweight yet Durable Construction for All-Around Play
- Overhand shots
- Sidearm shots
- Submarine-style shots
How does the Ascent head achieve such remarkable accuracy? The carefully engineered balance between ball guidance and flexibility for angled release points allows players to hit their targets with minimal effort. This feature is particularly beneficial for midfielders who rely heavily on their stick skills for scoring goals.
Ascent Complete Shaft: The Perfect Blend of Flex and Control
The shaft of a lacrosse stick plays a crucial role in overall performance, and the Maverik Ascent Complete doesn’t disappoint. Utilizing Maverik’s proprietary 22 Reinforced Carbon Core technology, the shaft strikes an ideal balance between responsiveness and stability.
How does the Ascent shaft’s flex profile benefit players? The tailored flex along the top half of the shaft provides give on impact, making ground ball scoops smoother and catches more secure. Meanwhile, the lower portion remains rigid, offering stability during pokes and checks.
Dynamic Flex for Enhanced Performance
The strategic flex mapping of the Ascent shaft translates into tangible performance benefits on the field. Players can generate impressive velocity on their passes and shots, thanks to the upper shaft’s loading capability. This dynamic flex also aids in evasive maneuvers, allowing players to pivot and turn without losing control of the ball.
Is the Ascent shaft suitable for all playing styles? While some attackmen may prefer an ultra-stiff shaft, the engineered flex of the Ascent offers superior handling and passing without compromising stability. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for players across various positions and skill levels.
Premium Grip and Handle: Comfort Meets Control
The grip and handle of a lacrosse stick are often overlooked components, but they play a crucial role in a player’s ability to manipulate the stick effectively. The Maverik Ascent Complete excels in this area, offering a high-quality grip and ergonomic handle that enhance both comfort and control.
Innovative Grip Design for Secure Handling
What makes the Ascent’s grip stand out? Its tactile zig-zag pattern and ribbed contour provide a secure hold, even in wet conditions. The grip’s tacky feel offers just the right amount of resistance against gloves, ensuring stable control without hindering quick movements.
How does the grip integrate with the shaft? Maverik’s precision molding process ensures a seamless transition along the entire handle area. This integration optimizes cradling, hand switches, and quick stick maneuvers, making them more fluid and natural.
Ergonomic Handle for Enhanced Comfort
The Ascent’s handle features an octagonal shape that fills the palm comfortably, providing an ergonomic feel. Unlike some competitors’ octagonal handles, the Ascent’s corners are smoother, eliminating sharp pressure points that can cause discomfort during extended play.
Performance Analysis: How the Ascent Complete Stacks Up
When evaluating the overall performance of the Maverik Ascent Complete Lacrosse Stick, it’s clear that this stick is designed to excel in various aspects of the game. From its precision-engineered head to its responsive shaft and comfortable grip, the Ascent Complete offers a well-rounded package for players seeking to elevate their game.
Shooting and Passing Accuracy
How does the Ascent Complete perform in terms of shooting accuracy? The combination of the optimized head design and the shaft’s dynamic flex results in exceptional shooting precision. Players can confidently attempt off-angle shots, knowing that the stick’s performance will place the ball exactly where intended.
Does this accuracy extend to passing as well? Indeed, the Ascent Complete’s balanced flex profile and consistent channel width contribute to clean, accurate passes. This reliability in both shooting and passing makes the stick an excellent choice for midfielders and attackmen who frequently transition between offensive roles.
Ball Control and Handling
How does the Ascent Complete handle ground balls and quick stick maneuvers? The optimized scoop and responsive shaft flex work in tandem to make ground ball pickups smooth and efficient. The stick’s overall design facilitates superior ball control, allowing players to maintain possession even under pressure from defenders.
What about cradling and stick protection? The ergonomic handle and secure grip provide players with excellent control for cradling and protecting the ball. The shaft’s flex profile also aids in maintaining possession during checks and defensive pressure.
Durability and Long-Term Performance
When investing in a high-quality lacrosse stick, durability is a crucial factor to consider. How does the Maverik Ascent Complete fare in terms of longevity and sustained performance?
Head Durability
The Ascent head’s stiff Rail X sidewalls not only contribute to consistent performance but also enhance the overall durability of the head. This stiffness helps the head maintain its shape over time, even after repeated impacts and intense gameplay.
How does the head’s durability affect stringing? The wide horizontal sidewall holes not only allow for customizable stringing but also distribute stress more evenly across the head. This design feature helps prevent warping and maintains the pocket’s integrity over extended use.
Shaft Longevity
Does the Ascent shaft’s flex profile compromise its durability? On the contrary, the 22 Reinforced Carbon Core technology used in the shaft provides an excellent balance between performance and longevity. The strategic flex mapping actually helps absorb impacts that might otherwise cause damage to a more rigid shaft.
What about resistance to dents and cracks? The carbon construction of the shaft offers superior resistance to dents and cracks compared to metal alternatives. This durability ensures that the stick maintains its performance characteristics even after seasons of intense play.
Customization and Personalization Options
For many players, the ability to customize their stick to suit their individual playing style is paramount. How does the Maverik Ascent Complete cater to this need for personalization?
Stringing Options
The Ascent head’s wide horizontal sidewall holes offer excellent stringing flexibility. This feature allows players or stringers to create a wide variety of pocket styles and depths, catering to individual preferences and playing positions.
What types of pockets can be achieved with the Ascent head? Players can easily string traditional, mesh, or hybrid pockets, each with customizable depth and tension. This versatility ensures that attackmen, midfielders, and defenders can all find their ideal pocket configuration within the Ascent Complete framework.
Grip Customization
While the stock grip on the Ascent Complete offers excellent performance, some players may prefer to further customize their grip. How easily can the grip be modified or replaced? The seamless integration of the stock grip allows for easy removal and replacement with aftermarket options, should players desire a different texture or thickness.
Can players add personalized elements to their Ascent Complete stick? Many players enjoy adding tape designs or grip enhancers to their shafts. The Ascent’s shaft surface is compatible with various taping methods and grip additions, allowing for a high degree of personal expression.
Value Proposition: Is the Ascent Complete Worth the Investment?
Given its premium features and performance characteristics, the Maverik Ascent Complete Lacrosse Stick represents a significant investment for players. How does it stack up in terms of value for money?
Performance vs. Price
When comparing the Ascent Complete to other high-end lacrosse sticks on the market, its performance features justify its price point. The combination of shooting accuracy, ball control, and overall handling places it among the top tier of lacrosse sticks available.
Is the Ascent Complete suitable for all skill levels? While its advanced features may be most appreciated by intermediate to advanced players, the stick’s forgiving nature and customization options make it a viable choice for developing players looking to invest in equipment that will grow with their skills.
Long-Term Value
How does the Ascent Complete’s durability factor into its value proposition? The stick’s robust construction and resistance to wear ensure that it will maintain its performance characteristics over an extended period. This longevity translates to better value over time compared to less durable options that may require frequent replacement.
Does the Ascent Complete offer versatility for different playing styles and positions? Its adaptability to various stringing configurations and playing styles means that players can continue to use and modify the stick as their skills and position requirements evolve, further enhancing its long-term value.
Comparative Analysis: Ascent Complete vs. Competitors
To truly appreciate the Maverik Ascent Complete’s position in the market, it’s essential to compare it to other leading lacrosse sticks. How does it stack up against its competitors in key performance areas?
Head Design and Performance
When compared to other high-end lacrosse heads, the Ascent’s balance of ball control and shooting accuracy stands out. While some competitors may excel in one area, the Ascent provides a well-rounded performance that caters to various playing styles.
How does the Ascent’s stringing flexibility compare to other heads? The wide horizontal sidewall holes offer superior customization options compared to many competitors, allowing for a broader range of pocket styles and depths.
Shaft Technology
The Ascent’s 22 Reinforced Carbon Core technology sets it apart from many competitors in terms of flex profile and responsiveness. While some rival shafts may offer similar stiffness or flex, few manage to achieve the Ascent’s balance of stability and dynamic response.
How does the Ascent’s shaft perform in terms of weight and balance? The carbon construction provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, offering a lightweight feel without compromising durability. This balance is comparable to, if not better than, many top-tier competitors.
Overall Package and Value
When considering the complete package – head, shaft, and grip – how does the Ascent Complete compare to similarly priced options? The cohesive design and performance of the Ascent Complete offer a seamless experience that may surpass some competitors who excel in individual components but lack overall integration.
Is the Ascent Complete a good choice for players transitioning from intermediate to advanced levels? Its combination of forgiving features and high-performance capabilities make it an excellent option for players looking to elevate their game, potentially offering better long-term value than some competitors targeted specifically at either intermediate or advanced players.
Ascent Complete Stick Head Performance Excels for Precise Shooting
The head design is a key factor that determines the performance of any lacrosse stick, and Maverik clearly put a lot of engineering into the Ascent Complete’s head shape and configuration. This head really maximizes ball control, passing accuracy, and shooting precision.
The Ascent head has an optimized scoop that makes ground balls easier to cradle and handle. Its stiff Rail X sidewalls give you a consistent channel width for clean catches and superior ball control. Wide horizontal sidewall holes improve stringing flexibility for customized pockets.
I found the Ascent’s mid-to-low pocket location ideal for a smooth release when shooting. The pocket breaks in very easily with minimal effort, developing that sweet spot that really grabs and propels the ball. Whether you like to shoot overhand, sidearm, or submarine style, this head gives you the control to place your shots with pinpoint accuracy.
Some heads can be too pinched or too wide, making off-center shots unpredictable. But the Ascent gives you just the right balance of ball guidance combined with flexibility for angled release points. I was able to effortlessly hit top left and top right corners with simple wrist flicks because the head shape ensured the ball release was consistent shot after shot.
For midfielders who rely on their stick skills for scoring goals, having a head like the Ascent that enhances accuracy and precision can really pay dividends. You’ll have the confidence to let off-angle shots fly into the netting knowing your head performance will put the ball right where you want it. This versatility and reliability for precise shooting makes the Ascent Complete stick head a superior choice in my opinion.
Ascent Complete Shaft Provides Ideal Flex for Control
A lacrosse shaft needs to have the right blend of stiffness and flex to enable excellent ball handling and passing. Too much rigidity can make catches difficult, while too much whip can result in inaccurate throws and shots. After using the Ascent Complete stick extensively, I’m convinced Maverik found the perfect flex balance with the shaft design.
The Ascent shaft utilizes Maverik’s proprietary 22 Reinforced Carbon Core technology that provides an ideal blend of responsiveness and stability. Many carbon shafts on the market today are so stiff that ground balls bounce right off, and passes veer off-target from the lack of flex. But the Ascent carbon shaft has a tailored flex profile along the top half that gives on impact, while the lower portion remains rigid for stability during pokes and checks.
This strategic flex mapping lets you scoop up ground balls smoothly as the head gives to cradle the ball on contact. When passing and shooting, the upper shaft loading lets you power through the motion and snap off accurate throws. The dart-like velocity I was able to generate from the dynamic flex really impressed me the most about this shaft.
For elusive dodgers who like to slip checks and drive to the goal, this smooth flex lets you pivot and turn without losing control. I never felt limited in my range of motion during intense rider gameplay thanks to the balanced flex response.
Some attackmen prefer an ultra-stiff shaft, but I think the Ascent’s engineered flex gives you superior handling and passing without compromising on stability. The shaft lives up to Maverik’s promise of optimized performance and I believe it achieves the ideal flex profile that most players will really appreciate.
Premium Grip & Handle Offer Excellent Control and Comfort
Having a grip and handle that feel natural in your hands is so critical for maximizing stick handling, passing, and shooting mechanics. The Ascent Complete comes with a high-quality grip and ergonomic handle that really impressed me with its comfort and control.
The grip features a tactile zig-zag pattern and ribbed contour that keeps the stick securely in your hands, even in wet conditions. It has a tacky feel with just the right amount of resistance against your gloves for stable control. I never felt like the stick was slipping or difficult to manage.
Maverik’s precision molding process ensures the grip integrates seamlessly with the shaft for a smooth transition along the entire handle area. By optimizing the grip integration, it makes cradling, switching hands, and performing quick sticks much more fluid.
The Ascent’s handle utilizes an octagonal shape that fills your palm and provides comfortable ergonomic feel. It has smoother corners compared to other octagonal handles, so there are no sharp pressure points digging into your hands.
Superior grip and superior handle – that’s the combination that the Ascent Complete really delivers for outstanding performance. Your hands work best when they can relax into intuitive, comfortable movements without distraction or slippage. This stick’s handle gave me that natural precision control to play my best game.
Lightweight yet Durable Construction for All-Around Play
Finding the ideal stick weight and balance is critical for maximizing your athletic potential on the field. Too heavy and your hands get fatigued, too light and you sacrifice ball control. The Ascent Complete has struck an excellent balance with its lightweight yet highly durable construction.
By leveraging ultra-light carbon fiber in the shaft construction, Maverik kept the overall stick weight to just 17.4oz. This puts it on the lighter end of the spectrum without compromising on strength and stiffness. My hands never felt bogged down or burdened during intense gameplay thanks to the thoughtful weight distribution.
Even with its lightweight design, the Ascent stick maintains tremendous durability to withstand high-impact checks. Its carbon shaft has great resistance to warping or denting. And the head maintains its shape and pocket integrity even after season-long play.
I never worried about babying this stick or avoiding checks out of fear of damage. Time and again it held up to intense rides and pokes without issue. Yet it still provides feather-light handling for quick release passes and effortless shot velocity.
For developing players looking to build skills without adding hand strain, the Ascent is a perfect match. Its sturdy construction means it has the longevity for seasonal growth year after year. I think Maverik really optimized overall weight versus ruggedness with this exceptional stick package.
Durable Design Withstands Intense Gameplay
When I’m making cuts, dodging defenders, and battling for ground balls, the last thing I want is my stick warping or the head getting distorted after impact. The Ascent Complete stick is built to withstand intense gameplay thanks to its resilient construction.
The head utilizes Maverik’s high-grade Rail-X sidewall design that maintains its structure even when checking other sticks. Some heads get pushed out of shape from repeated checks, but the Ascent retains its critical pocket design and ball channel control.
The shaft is equally rugged thanks to the 22 carbon core technology. Lesser carbon shafts can dent and crack under the forces of competitive play. But this shaft bounces back from harsh rides, slashes, and collisions. After several games of aggressive play, it looked and felt as solid as the day I bought it.
Beyond the durability, I also noticed the consistent performance week after week. There was no degradation in passing accuracy or shot mechanics over time. This stick maintains its playability – something that’s critical for players who invest hours in developing stick skills.
For youth players entering more competitive divisions where stick checks occur frequently, the Ascent is perfectly equipped for handling the physicality. I would have loved utilizing this stick back when I was entering middle school and everyone was whacking my stick constantly!
Overall the Ascent Complete stick has the ideal blend of resilient construction with consistent long-term playability. It’s built to last and perform through even the most intense gameplay situations.
Precise Passing and Ball Control During Fast Play
As a lacrosse player, having a stick that delivers precise passing is essential for executing plays quickly and hitting targets on the move. After playing with the Ascent Complete stick for many practices and games, I was thoroughly impressed by its superior ball control and passing accuracy even during fast-paced play.
The head shape and pocket configuration made it effortless to pass cleanly off either side. Some heads force you to cradle and pass from a specific side, but the Ascent gave me fluid mechanics from any orientation.
Midfield is all about fast breaks and crisp outlet passing. Whether I was hitting cutters in full stride or leading trailing teammates, the Ascent’s control let me hit my mark every time. Defenders were constantly a step behind because of the velocity I could generate with this stick.
Having that innate precision was also huge for working give-and-go plays around the crease. Keeping the cuts quick and passes pinpointed kept the defense on their heels.
During rides and clears when outlets need to be on point, the Ascent was integral for connecting downfield under pressure. Groundballs were cleanly scooped and transitioned right into passing motion for quick advancement.
The pocket held its form perfectly after endless reps and the carbon shaft stayed rigid when unloading full checks. My overall passing percentages saw noticeable improvement thanks to this stick’s impressive consistency.
Superior Ball Control While Cradling at High Speeds
Having the ability to cradle smoothly while moving at full speed is such an important skill for advancing upfield past defenders. The Ascent Complete stick gave me the ball control and handling capability to maintain composure even when getting pressed or bumped during fast breaks.
The head’s scoop and pocket design made ground ball pickups very secure. I could snag a grounder cleanly while on the run and it sat firmly in the pocket ready for transition. No bouncing out or need to constantly adjust during the push forward.
Likewise, the carbon shaft and grip allowed me to cradle comfortably without squeezing the stick too tight. The tackiness ensured solid control without restricting my range of motion. I could swivel my hands quickly during cuts without the ball ever loosening.
Midfield is very much a transition game, so maintaining ball control while scanning the field is huge. The Ascent let me confidently look upfield as my stick skills were on auto-pilot thanks to the smooth cradle motion. My focus could be on the next pass or drive rather than micro-managing the ball.
Whether trying to create separation after the catch or absorbing contact to draw fouls, this stick gave me the tools to manipulate defenses even at high speeds. The pocket was simply an extension of my hands – precisely where I needed the ball to be at all times. Such effortless yet secure cradling really instilled confidence in my game.
Unloads with Power and Precision for Scoring
Having a lacrosse stick that boosts your shooting prowess can really expand your offensive skillset and versatility on the field. The Ascent Complete stick provides awesome generating power while maintaining pinpoint accuracy – a lethal scoring combination.
The head’s stiff sidewalls and mid-low pocket location gave my shooting mechanics superior control. I could wind up and release from awkward angles knowing the pocket would direct the ball right to my shooting point.
Whipping sidearm shots from behind the cage was effortless with the Ascent. The ball launched out of the pocket cleanly without spraying off-target. This really opened up my shot inventory for catching goalies off guard.
Overhand cranks also benefited from the head and shaft’s stability. I generated loads of velocity by wrenching my shoulders and arms through the motion. Even when I released off-center, the performance of the head kept the shot accuracy high.
Attackmen live and die by their shooting versatility, so having a stick like the Ascent that bolsters confidence across all shot types is invaluable. I could sprint down the alley and bounce a low burner just as easily as winding up for top shelf rips.
For players looking to increase their scoring abilities, the Ascent Complete stick provides awesome shooting prowess. The ball simply jumps out of this pocket with precision and pop. Your dodges and drives will result in goals at a much higher rate thanks to its excellent shooting dynamics.
Excellent Value and Performance at a Budget Price
Finding a high-quality lacrosse stick with versatile performance at an affordable price point can be challenging. Many premium sticks cost upwards of $150+ yet don’t necessarily provide benefits over cheaper options. The Ascent Complete stick delivers pro-level attributes at a budget cost under $100.
Considering the quality materials like the carbon shaft and Rail-X head design, I was expecting this package to cost much more. However, Maverik smartly optimized construction to remove unneeded frills without sacrificing durability and playability.
The key specs like the weight, balance, flex profile, and pocket configuration rival sticks from high-end brands. Yet the Ascent offers comparable performance at nearly half the price. It’s the perfect stick for developing players who want pro features without the premium cost.
I never felt that I was limited by using the Ascent over my team’s custom crafted sticks. It enhanced my skills regardless of price. And I can invest more in multiple Ascent sticks for versatility since they don’t break the bank.
Newer players shouldn’t think they need the most expensive gear. The Ascent gives you everything needed to play at a high level. Investing those savings into additional training time will ultimately make you a better player in the long run.
Ideal Stick for Beginners and Intermediate Players
Finding the right lacrosse stick that matches your skill level and provides room to grow is so important as a developing player. The Ascent Complete stick is perfectly designed for beginners but gives the performance needed for intermediates looking to take their next step.
The overall weight and balanced design reduce fatigue so new players can focus on proper mechanics rather than bearing a heavy stick. Lighter materials like the carbon shaft make cradling, passing, and shooting much more fluid right from the start.
The pocket breaks in quickly with minimal effort so beginners can spend more time honing skills rather than obsessively stringing. It develops that ideal hold for clean catches and smooth releases when passing or shooting.
Yet the Ascent has the high-end features like precision flex, pinpoint pocket placement, and durable construction needed for club and later high school play. Intermediates will appreciate the stick’s ability to execute next-level moves as their game advances.
Far too often, beginner sticks force players to upgrade within a year. But the Ascent Complete truly bridges the gap from introductory to intermediate play. It instills confidence in young players that this stick will remain effective even as they develop over multiple seasons. That continuity can be invaluable for steadily improving stick skills with a constant tool.
Comparing the Ascent to Other Maverik Sticks
Maverik produces a wide range of lacrosse sticks across its various lines to match different player needs. The Ascent Complete model differentiates itself with an optimized blend of control, lightweight feel, and durability. Here’s how it compares to some other popular Maverik sticks.
The Ascent has a more balanced and beginner-friendly design compared to sticks like the Maverik Kinetik. While the Kinetik excels for elite-level play, the Ascent provides an easier transition for developing intermediates.
Versus Maverik’s Rome line, the Ascent has a slightly stiffer shaft and more precise pocket location to enable tighter passing and shooting. The Rome focuses more on fluid cradling movements.
The Ascent is most similar to the Maverik Charger in terms of flex profile, but it utilizes more carbon fiber in the shaft for reduced weight. The Charger appeals to power players who like heavier sticks.
When choosing your next stick from Maverik’s lineup, consider how the Ascent’s lightweight responsiveness and control can enable the next step in your progression. It bridges the gap nicely between intro sticks and pro models.
Minimal Drawbacks to Utilizing the Ascent
Overall I found very few downsides to the Maverik Ascent Complete stick after extensive game use. However, here are a couple minor drawbacks worth noting.
The ultra-lightweight shaft may take some adjustment coming from heavier composite or alloy handles. Big power shooters may prefer more mass in their sticks. But the Ascent’s advanced carbon does provide awesome velocity once you adapt your mechanics.
The stiff flex also reduces some of the “whip” effect on passes, so new users may see pop passes sail high at first. But control improves quickly as you learn the precision this shaft enables.
While designed for beginner and intermediate players, truly elite-level athletes may eventually want more specialized stringing capabilities than the Ascent head allows. But again, it offers high-end performance with ease of use in mind.
For most players looking to develop their all-around game, any limitations of the Ascent Complete stick are negligible. Any drawbacks simply stem from the stick being purpose-built to give accessible, balanced performance across all skills rather than specializing in one specific area.
The Ascent is My Top Recommendation for Performance and Value
After extensive use of the Maverik Ascent Complete stick, I can wholeheartedly recommend it as an awesome value that boosts performance across all lacrosse skills. This just might be the perfect stick for players looking to take their game to the next level.
The Ascent gets all of the fundamentals right by providing lightweight handling, durable construction, balanced flex, effortless ground ball control, smooth cradling, pinpoint passing, and precision shooting capabilities. It excels in every area of need.
While cheaper beginner sticks feel like toys, and elite sticks are overbuilt, the Ascent hits that ideal sweet spot combining professional attributes with accessibility. It will be a huge asset for developing players who want pro-level responsiveness.
Considering its budget-friendly price point, I think the Ascent Complete is one of the best values on the lacrosse stick market right now. You get premium technologies and materials without the premium price tag.
If you want awesome performance ready right out of the box, backed by Maverik’s trusted reputation, look no further than the Ascent Complete stick. I firmly believe it can elevate any player’s game. This is the stick that will bring out your full potential on the field.
