Shop Clearance Sections for Deep Discounts on Lacrosse Sticks
One of the best ways to save money on lacrosse sticks is to shop clearance sections, either online or in sporting goods stores. Retailers will often deeply discount sticks at the end of a season or when a new model comes out. By buying last year’s gear, you can find high-quality sticks for sometimes 50% off or more.
Browsing clearance racks takes more time and effort than buying the newest gear at full price. But the payoff can be huge, with sticks originally $150-200 available for $75-100. I always make a point to peruse clearance sections before buying a new stick. Last season, I found a top-of-the-line Maverik Kryptolyte attack stick marked down from $180 to just $90! It had some minor cosmetic wear but played great.
Timing is important when shopping clearances. Inventory will be most picked over right when the season ends. The best deals can be found later in the offseason. I try to buy clearance sticks in the late fall and winter, when new product lines have already been introduced. Retailers are trying to liquidate old stock to make room for the new gear. With some patience, you can land an incredible bargain on a stick that will still perform at a high level.
Some tips when buying clearance lacrosse sticks: carefully inspect for cracks/damage, know your preferred specs, buy backups of discontinued models you like, grab accessories/heads/shafts to mix and match. Clearance shopping requires more effort but will stretch your dollars. With a discerning eye and well-timed visits, you can land pro-level sticks at beginner prices.
Buy Used Lacrosse Sticks to Save Big on Gear Costs
Purchasing used lacrosse sticks is a great way to get quality gear for much cheaper than buying new. Pre-owned sticks have been broken in and tested on the field, but often still have plenty of play left in them. With some inspection and minor repairs, used sticks can offer big savings over new models.
I’ve found awesome deals on used sticks through various sources – SidelineSwap, PlayItAgainSports, lacrosse forums, and Craigslist. Last season I bought two barely used Maverik Kryptolyte shafts for $40 each, a fraction of their $130 retail price. The heads were a bit worn but I had spare heads to string up. After replacing the sidewalls and shooters, they threw just like brand new $300 sticks.
When buying used, carefully inspect sticks for any cracks, dents or damage. Cosmetic blemishes are OK but you want to ensure structural integrity. Test the head and shaft flex and stability. Check screw holes are not stripped. Know exactly what specs you want in your stick so you can identify optimal candidates. If buying heads, examine sidewalls and scoop for noticeable wear.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate on used gear pricing. Sellers often just want to recoup some costs rather than maximize profits. I’ll typically offer 25-50% below asking price and can usually get 10-20% discounts. With some repair skills and elbow grease, used sticks can perform as well as new.
Having a few extra heads and backup shafts is useful for mixing and matching setups. Don’t hesitate to buy used shafts and components to create custom sticks on the cheap. With the right finds, a little money can go a long way when buying used lacrosse sticks.
Search for Coupon Codes and Promotions to Save on Lacrosse Sticks
Using coupon codes and promotions is an excellent way to slash costs when buying lacrosse sticks and gear. With a little searching, you can often find discounts on full-priced items, stack savings for even more value, and take advantage of seasonal sales events. Getting in the habit of always looking for deals before purchasing can lead to big savings over time.
My first stop when shopping for lacrosse gear is RetailMeNot and other coupon sites. You’d be surprised how many stores offer 10-20% off entire purchases or discounts on specific products. I search “[brand name] coupon code” and often find instant savings. Signing up for email lists and rewards programs also provides access to exclusive promos.
Amazon Prime Day, Cyber Monday, Black Friday, and other seasonal sales are prime times to get lacrosse deals. I mark my calendar and stock up on essentials like tape, gloves, arm pads when prices plummet 30-50% on those days. Signing up early for notifications alerts me to the best lightning deals.
Stacking multiple discounts is where huge savings happen. I combine coupon codes, seasonal sales, and customer loyalty discounts to maximize value. Last Cyber Monday, I scored a $200 Maverik stick for just $120 using a 20% off sitewide coupon and my 10% subscriber discount. A little planning pays off greatly.
With some coupon code searching, timing of purchases around sales events, and stacking discounts, you can outfit your entire lacrosse bag while keeping more cash in your wallet. Don’t ever pay full price again!
Wait for End of Season Sales to Get the Best Lacrosse Stick Deals
One of the best times to buy lacrosse sticks and gear at deep discounts is during end of season clearance sales. As the season wraps up, retailers are looking to clean out old inventory to make room for new products. With some patience, you can score incredible deals on top quality items.
I always advise my teammates to wait until after playoffs and championships finish before making any big gear purchases. That’s when the sales start rolling in. Check your favorite lacrosse sites and stores and you’ll see sticks, heads, gloves, and more marked down 30, 40, even 50% in many cases.
Last year, I waited until mid-summer to buy a new head and landed a brand new Strung by Stringers Mark 2V for $80 – half off its normal $160 price tag. It took some willpower to wait rather than buy at full price during peak season. But the huge savings were well worth it.
Timing on end of season sales varies by retailer and brand. I’ve found some of the best deals happen in July and August, once most leagues have wrapped up. Waiting even longer into the offseason can yield even deeper discounts as they clear out remaining old stock. Sign up for sale alerts and watch for stacking discounts for max savings.
With some patience and timing, waiting for end of season lacrosse sales will reward you with the sticks and gear you need at a fraction of the normal cost. Don’t pay full price when huge discounts are coming!
Buy Last Year’s Lacrosse Stick Models to Save on Costs
When new lacrosse sticks hit the market each year, retailers deeply discount previous models. Buying last year’s gear can net huge savings compared to new gear at full price. The technology and performance differences are often quite minor from year to year as well.
For example, when the Maverik Kryptolyte came out, shops were selling the previous model, the Maverik Kryptolyte II, for over 50% off. I picked one up for $75 when it had retailed for $150 originally. The changes between the models were very slight – just small adjustments to the shaft geometry. On field performance was identical.
Before buying any new gear, I always check for discounts on the previous year’s model first. Unless you absolutely need the latest and greatest tech, you can safe big by going with last year’s version. Shop clearance sections and filter search tools for “previous model” or “last year’s” to find these deals. Sign up for sales alerts too.
The key is not worrying about having the current year’s gear and instead focusing on value and performance. Who cares if your stick is a 2021 instead of 2022? Lacrosse gear has reached a point where year-to-year upgrades are incremental, not major. Take advantage of the discounts on older stuff while you can!
With some flexible thinking and searching for last year’s lacrosse gear, you can land pro-level sticks and equipment at budget prices. Don’t pay more than you need to!
Consider Less Expensive Brands When Buying Lacrosse Sticks
The major lacrosse gear brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior capture most of the attention and hype. But lesser known, budget-friendly brands can offer great performing sticks at fraction of the prices. Don’t overlook them in your search for deals.
Brands like Element, Shock Doctor, and STX Buddy are designed with budget-conscious players in mind. Their sticks utilize proven head and shaft designs to deliver responsive feel and durability. They simply cut out the marketing costs and sponsored athletes that drive up prices of the pro brands.
Last season when my son needed his first stick, I bought him a STX Buddy instead of the $100+ entry-level sticks. For under $50 he got an ideal starter stick with solid construction and playable characteristics. Had I gone with a major name brand, I’d have paid over twice as much for what amounted to visual differences.
Of course, the major brands offer excellent high-end sticks with cutting edge tech. But for newer players’ first sticks or budget backups, lesser known brands can totally fit the bill. Watch out for gimmicky Amazon specials, but companies like STX Buddy deliver real value.
Next time you need a new stick, don’t limit your search to just the major brands. Quality lacrosse sticks can be found for affordable prices from brands tailored to value-focused players rather than pros. Expand your considerations beyond the big names in the sport.
Buy Factory Seconds and Cosmetic Blem Lacrosse Sticks for Savings
Major lacrosse gear companies often sell discounted “factory seconds” with minor cosmetic issues or “blem” models with scuffs and marks. These sticks are functionally and performance-wise the same as full retail models but available at deep discounts.
Factory seconds occur when gear doesn’t pass final quality control for appearance reasons – an off color, improperly placed decal, etc. The functional performance is unaffected, but the gear can’t be sold at full retail price. Blem models are usually returns or scuffed up inventory.
I’ve bought numerous factory second and blem sticks over the years and saved hundreds. The Maverik Kryptolyte shaft I found had an engraved logo that was slightly crooked. Worked and felt identical but was nearly half off retail.
When buying factory seconds or blems, inspect closely for any actual damage versus just cosmetic issues. Test flex and throwing/shooting to ensure proper function wasn’t impacted. Know exactly what specs you want so minor appearance flaws don’t bother you.
Usually factory seconds and blem inventory is sold directly from the manufacturer, so search their websites. These deals sell out extremely fast, so jump on them right away if you see ideal sticks available. With some flexibility on looks, major performance and savings can be had.
For the best in budget lacrosse gear, keep an eye out for factory second and cosmetic blem sale models. You’ll land pro sticks for cheap!
Search Local Listings for Great Deals on Used Lacrosse Sticks
One of the best places to uncover hidden gems and deals on lacrosse gear is searching local classifieds, thrift stores, and secondhand sporting goods stores. While it takes more effort than online shopping, patient shoppers can find incredible discounted sticks locally.
I make a habit to browse the lacrosse stick selection whenever I come across a PlayItAgain Sports or secondhand sporting goods store. Even though the inventory is hit or miss, I’ve found insane deals on high end sticks being sold for pennies on the dollar. It’s worth the time to dig through and know what to look for.
Local online listings like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are other hot spots for lacrosse deals. Players and parents often sell gear at very low prices just to clear out closets and recoup a few bucks. I search these sites regularly using keywords like “lacrosse stick” and scan for under-priced gems.
It takes an eagle eye to identify quality sticks that are just hidden gems rather than junk. Carefully inspect all gear in person before buying to ensure there are no cracks or damage. Be ready to move fast, as the best deals go in a flash.
With some persistence and searching off the beaten path, local sources can yield discounted lacrosse sticks and gear that would cost a small fortune from normal retailers. Nothing beats the thrill of landing an incredible find locally!
Join Lacrosse Gear Buy/Sell/Trade Groups to Find Deals
An excellent way to both buy and sell discounted lacrosse equipment is to join buy/sell/trade groups specific to the sport. These online communities allow players to exchange well-cared for gear at affordable prices.
On Facebook, search for groups like “[Your City] Lacrosse Gear BST” or broader groups like “Lacrosse Gear Buy Sell Trade”. I’m a member of several local and national groups with tens of thousands of active members. Players are constantly listing heads, shafts, pads, and other gear at reasonable prices.
Whenever I’m looking for a specific piece of equipment, I search these BST groups first. Chances are another local player has what I need in good condition for cheap. I also list any gear I’m looking to sell rather than tossing it. The community aspect keeps pricing fair.
BST groups have buyer/seller rating systems to identify trusted members. I read feedback ratings and only deal with reputable high-rated sellers and buyers. Take standard precautions for any online transaction. But I’ve had nothing but great experiences within my local lacrosse BST community.
For both convenient selling and buying of discounted quality lacrosse gear, joining BST groups is a must. The time saved searching local listings yields far more free time for actually playing lacrosse instead!
Buy Lacrosse Sticks in Bulk with Teammates to Save
Getting teammates together to make bulk purchases is a smart way to save money when buying multiple lacrosse sticks and gear. Buying as a group unlocks discounts and incentives from retailers. Plus it builds camaraderie!
Before each season, I coordinate a team order for essentials like sticks, heads, gloves, and other equipment everyone will need. Retailers offer volume discounts, usually 10% off for 10+ items and up to 20% off for 20+ items ordered together.
Even more savings can happen when we combine bulk orders with existing promos and coupon codes. Last season our bulk order of 15 Maverik heads and 10 new STX sticks ended up 30% off thanks to stacking discounts.
Ordering as a team also allows for easy customization of colors for matching gear. We survey our teammates and make purchases accordingly. The retailers love the simple large order rather than 15 separate small ones.
There’s the added benefit of bonding during the ordering process. We make a party of unpacking and checking out all the new gear together. Team bulk buying saves money and brings players closer. It just makes so much sense!
If you need multiple pieces of new lacrosse gear, get your teammates together and coordinate. The discounts will add up quickly for major savings across the board.
Repair and Re-String Lacrosse Sticks Before Buying New
Before immediately buying brand new lacrosse sticks and heads, consider repairing and re-stringing existing gear first. With some new mesh, restored sidewalls, and elbow grease, well-loved sticks can be revived to like-new performance at a fraction of replacement cost.
I constantly see teammates ready to trash sticks over a broken sidewall or messed up pocket. But with $20 in materials and some patience, I can get those sticks looking and throwing like new again. Basic re-stringing is easy to learn and sidewall repairs are quick too.
Always inspect gear carefully before deciding it’s beyond saving. Tape up cracks in shafts, replace dented heads, swap out worn grommets and fasteners. Most damage is superficial or easily fixed rather than catastrophic. Don’t overestimate needed repairs.
Having a bench of backup heads to re-string and extra handles is useful for repairs. I keep a custom tuning kit with pliers, leathers, shooters, mesh, etc. for on-the-fly fixes. Get creative – sometimes just switching components between sticks brings new life.
Before the gear piles up, take time to assess what can be salvaged. Your wallet and the planet will thank you. With some DIY spirit and ingenuity, your existing lacrosse sticks can stay in the game.
Buy Direct From Lacrosse Gear Manufacturers to Save
Purchasing lacrosse sticks and equipment directly from the manufacturers can lead to significant savings versus buying through retailers. Cutting out the middleman leads to better pricing.
Brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior sell gear through their own e-commerce shops. By buying direct, you avoid retail markups. Keep an eye out for sales and promos direct from the source too.
For example, Maverik runs special discount events on heads, shafts, and bundles only through their website. Around the holidays I saved 15% off new Superflex shafts by buying direct rather than a retailer.
Direct buying also provides earlier access to new gear releases. Manufacturers give their own customers first dibs on new equipment models and drops before retailers. Sign up for launch alerts!
One downside to direct buying is having to pay shipping costs unless you meet free shipping minimums. I try to bundle orders with teammates to hit the volumes needed.
For the best pricing on lacrosse gear from top brands, check out their websites and buy direct when possible. Cut out the middleman and overhead of retailers and save more for what really matters – playing lacrosse!
Opt For Basic Lacrosse Stick Models Over Premium Versions
When purchasing new lacrosse sticks, opting for mid-tier or basic models rather than premium versions can lead to substantial savings. While high-end sticks have cutting edge tech and materials, basic sticks often deliver 90%+ of the performance at a fraction of the price.
Premium sticks from brands like Maverik and STX run $150+, with top-of-the-line versions over $200. But browse a bit and you can find their mid-grade sticks in the $80-120 range. These sticks forgo space age materials for standard alloys and polymer plastics but play very solid.
My go-to game stick right now is the STX Stallion 500 – a $100 alloy and plastic stick that throws beautifully. It lacks the carbon fiber, titanium, and rubber grips of the $300 STX models but I honestly can’t tell a difference on the field.
You see diminishing returns on tech and performance advances as lacrosse stick price climbs. Unless you really need those last 10% performance gains, dial back the budget and bank the savings.
Of course, budget sticks have their place too for new players. But for those with some experience looking for a value-priced go-to stick, mid-grade models fit the bill nicely. Simpler construction, same great play at half the price or less.
Consider Youth Lacrosse Sticks for Smaller Hands
For players with smaller hands, purchasing intermediate or youth model lacrosse sticks can be a great way to find optimal fit at an affordable price. Youth sticks offer narrower shaft diameters and smaller head sizes perfect for younger players.
Whereas standard adult sticks have shaft diameters in the 30-35mm range, youth sticks run 25-30mm. This makes a world of difference for smaller hands to grip comfortably and control the stick. Youth heads are proportionally sized down as well.
I advise all new youth and women’s team players to try out youth sticks when possible. The prices are lower too – good youth sticks run $50-75 versus $100+ for comparable adult versions.
Focus on finding the right combination of shaft diameter, head size, weight balance, and handling. Don’t get caught up in buying the oversized “pro” gear just because. Proper fit matters far more.
You can also cut down full length shafts for shorter players. I regularly cut senior sticks to the 52-72″ range for middies and attack players on my youth teams. Custom sizing is easy with a hacksaw!
For younger or smaller handed players, be sure to check out intermediate and youth lacrosse sticks. The fit and savings can’t be beat.
Set Price Alerts to Catch Lacrosse Gear Price Drops
Using price tracking tools and alerts allows you to monitor lacrosse equipment for price drops and grab deals as soon as they hit. Rather than manually checking sites, let technology do the monitoring for you.
Browser extensions like Honey can automatically notify you when an item you’re watching drops below a target price. I add all the gear I’m hoping to buy to my Honey watchlist with ideal pricing. When the alert hits, I can swoop in quickly.
Amazon price trackers are another useful free tool. CamelCamelCamel will show price history and email alerts when user-defined thresholds are met. I watch for used gear deals and lighting sales.
Even Google Shopping itself allows you to track prices on specific products across retailers. Enable email alerts and they’ll notify you of any price movements or discounts.
The key is identifying the exact gear you want and setting up multifaceted tracking. Let the tools do the hard work of monitoring daily fluctuations and sales. With some alerts in place, great deals land right in your inbox.
Rather than hoping to randomly catch discounted gear in time, use free price tracking tools to lock in the lowest prices automatically. Technology can beat retailers at their own pricing games!