The 11 Best Lacrosse Faceoff Heads for Winning Possessions in 2022

The 11 Best Lacrosse Faceoff Heads for Winning Possessions in 2022

Look for Stiff, Durable Lacrosse Faceoff Heads for Quick Ground Ball Scooping

When shopping for the perfect lacrosse faceoff head, one of the most important factors to consider is the stiffness and durability of the head frame. Top faceoff specialists recommend looking for heads with a rigid sidewall and stiff scoop that will hold its shape clash after ground-ball heavy clash. Materials like hardened composite and aircraft-grade aluminum alloy tend to perform the best in terms of stiffness. You want a head that has some flex to absorb checks but won’t permanently warp or deform after repeated ground ball scoops. Deformed heads lead to slower ground ball pickup and loss of possession.

Look for heads with scoops that have an aggressive almost box-like cross-section rather than a rounded scoop. The flatter shape allows you to easily get under ground balls for quick control. Also make sure the scoop has a smooth finish without pronounced ridges. This reduces friction scooping up ground balls for lightning fast recovery. Often overlooked, a smooth scoop is a must for faceoff midfielders who want every possible advantage gaining possession off the whistle.

When it comes to quick ground ball pickup, pocket shape and depth is also an important consideration. Mid-pocket placements allow the ball to sit low in the head for superior ball retention when clamping or jostling for possession. However, a baggy mid-pocket can slow down ground ball scooping compared to a shallow pocket. As a result, many faceoff players opt for heads with a nice mid-to-low pocket but with a pinched narrow channel and mesh adjusted to be more shallow. This combines the control of a mid pocket with the quick release of a shallow pocket.

So in summary, prioritize heads advertised as stiff or rigid when shopping for a new faceoff head. Look for scoops with a wide flat cross-section and smooth plastic finish. And consider meshing the head with a more shallow pocket if you are routinely getting out-groundballed. With the right head, you’ll be picking up ground balls faster than the possession time shot clock.

Consider Wider Lacrosse Heads for More Controlled Catches on Errant Faceoff Throws

One of the keys to gaining possession off faceoffs is controlling the initial pass from your faceoff teammate. All too often, faceoff specialists will tie up their opponent and flick the ball to the wings only for the pass to sail out of bounds or past the midfielder for a turnover. As a faceoff wing, part of your job is securely catching those suboptimal throws. This is why you need a lacrosse head with a wider head width and maximum surface area for catching.

The wider the head, the larger the sweet spot for snagging inaccurate passes. Wide heads also give you more control cradling the ball once possessed, making it easier to box out defenders during ground ball scrums. Max legal width heads like the Warrior NOZ X courtside the maximum 4.5 inches give you the most catching real estate. They are a common choice for faceoff wings for this reason.

However, some faceoff players prefer more narrow heads in the 3.5 to 4 inch range. While you lose some surface area, more narrow heads offer increased ball control for quicker sticks when handling ground balls. The reduced width also lightens the overall weight of the head for faster clamping and ball flicks during the faceoff draw. Ultimately it comes down to preference and play style. But if you find yourself constantly chasing down overthrown passes from the faceoff draw, a wider head is likely the solution.

When paired with a good faceoff mesh pocket, a wide head gives you an advantage snagging faceoff passes. A mid to mid-low pocket helps you secure passes across a larger catching area versus a shallow pocket. You also want to consider pocket placement. A more centered mid pocketfunnels passes right into the sweet spot of the head. Just avoid overly baggy pockets that close too slowly on errant throws. With some trial and error pocket tweaking, you can turn even the most inaccurate faceoff passer into a feeder.

Next time you are shopping for a new faceoff head, grab the widest head within your budget and string up a nicely centered mid pocket. Then get out on the field and have your teammate whip some passes at your head from odd angles. With practice, you’ll be corralling bad passes like a pro in no time.

Select Aggressive Offset Lacrosse Heads for Dominant Clamping During Faceoffs

One of the most critical elements of faceoff head design is the offset, which refers to how far forward the scoop is positioned from the center of the head. The amount of offset affects handling, scooping, clamping, and ball retention during faceoffs. For players who rely on overpowering opponents, a more dramatic offset is ideal.

Max offset heads like the Warrior Burn FO have the scoop positioned several inches forward of center. This shifts the point where you clamp the ball forward closer to your opponents’ head. The forward clamp point allows you to exert maximum leverage and torque when jostling for initial possession. You can use the offset to pry underneath and flip opponent’s heads when they aren’t expecting it.

The aggressive offset also positions your scoop closer to the neutral zone and just behind the ball at the “X”. This gives you a head start corralling ground balls that squirt out the backsides of faceoff heads during the draw. You’ll also find it easier to dig out tough ground balls, as max offset heads provide more scoop clearance near the throat of the head.

However, note that more offset means the ball will sit deeper in the pocket, slowing down ground ball scooping a bit. The offset also places more weight at the end of the head, which can tire out your hands and wrists over the course of a game if you aren’t conditioned for it. But for clamping power, nothing beats the leverage of an aggressively offset head.

When shopping for a new faceoff head, grab the model with the most dramatic offset within your budget. During your first faceoff, clamp the ball as far forward as possible and feel as you’re able to drive underneath your opponent’s head with the offset leverage. With practice, you’ll be out-muscling and flipping opponents to gain possession consistently.

Choose Flexible Lacrosse Heads to Maintain Possession Off The Faceoff Whistle

Gaining initial possession off the faceoff whistle is only half the battle. Equally important is maintaining control of the ball as you transition upfield or pass to your wings. This is where head flexibility comes into play. The most flexible lacrosse heads are engineered using advanced plastic compounds that provide a perfect blend of stiffness for scooping yet with targeted flex zones across the head.

Typically, you’ll see more flex towards the scoop of the head. This allows the scoop to absorb checks as you cradle upfield post-faceoff. Flexible scoops are less likely to be dislodged by errant slashes and reduce ball popping. Midfielders in transition rely on flex scoops to retain possession through traffic.

For portability, many faceoff midfielders opt for heads with a stiff upper sidewall but a more flexible lower sidewall. The blend allows you to maintain ball control cradling top-side while also absorbing slashes. Reversible heads with flex zones on both sidewalls are ideal for players who transition both righty and lefty.

Minimal flex heads with thick stiff sidewalls tend to lose possession more easily via ball popping on post-faceoff transitions. Engineers have gotten so good at injection molding specialized plastics that you can get heads with flex precisely where you need it.

Next time you’re looking for a new faceoff head, focus on models that advertise targeted flex zones. Prioritize flexible scoops and lower sidewalls that let you withstand checks without losing possession. The right flex blended with targeted stiffness ensures the ball stays in your head from whistle to clear.

Favor Lacrosse Heads with a Smooth Scoop for Clean Ground Ball Pickups

As a faceoff specialist, few things are as frustrating as losing out on a contested ground ball because your scoop didn’t smoothly channel the ball into your head. This is why seasoned faceoff players emphasize the importance of a head with a smooth scoop for cleanly corralling ground balls.

The best faceoff scoops have a wide flattened shape and a polished smooth finish without any pronounced ridges or protrusions. This creates a continuous surface for ground balls to roll up unimpeded. Some players even polish their scoops further using fine grit sandpaper to maximize smoothness.

In contrast, lower quality heads often have a rough pebbled texture on the scoop plastic. Faceoff players report these heads “chatter” or spit out ground balls during pickup attempts. Small ridges on the scoop also provide friction that can grab and misdirect grounders.

High-end heads from brands like Warrior and STX use advanced injection molding techniques to produce a blemish-free smooth scoop surface. The material is also optimized to have an ideal ground ball friction coefficient. Not so sticky that the ball gets stuck, but not so slick that ground balls spray wildly off the scoop.

When shopping for your next faceoff head, inspect the scoop carefully and look for a smooth continuous finish. Turn the head upside down and imagine ground balls effortlessly rolling up into the pocket. Avoid heads with noticeable ridges or texturing on the scoop if quick clean ground ball pickup is a priority. And remember to prep new heads with some light sanding and polishing to maximize scoop slicktiness.

Opt for Lightweight Lacrosse Heads for Quicker Faceoff Reaction Time

Shaving mere ounces off your lacrosse head weight can give you a measurable advantage in quickness and reaction time on faceoffs. This is why elite faceoff specialists pay close attention to head weight when selecting game sticks. The lightest heads on the market weigh in under 5 ounces strung, dramatically less than traditional head weights.

Reduced weight offers two key benefits on faceoffs. First, lighter heads reduce strain on your hands, wrists, and arms allowing you to clamp with maximum speed and torque repeatedly. You’ll stay fresher deeper into games, especially during long faceoff battles.

Second, lighter heads translate to quicker reaction times. You can maneuver, clamp, and flip lighter heads much more rapidly to gain an edge positioning for ground balls. Even a subtle weight reduction can make a dramatic difference in quick-twitch handle speed. This lets you outmaneuver opponents and fire off skilled stick checks on faceoff violations.

Typically, wider heads will be heavier while more narrow heads shed ounces. So you have to balance surface area versus lower weight. One trick is to use a lightweight shaft paired with your lightest head option. You can also opt for heads with cutout designs that maintain stiffness while removing material.

Don’t be afraid to abandon traditional head shapes and lengths in your quest for lower weight. For some faceoff specialists, the need for speed overrides preferences for a familiar head shape. Shave precious grams and watch your hands and reaction times get even quicker next faceoff.

Look for Pinched Lacrosse Heads to Hug the Ball Tightly During Faceoff Clashes

One way lacrosse faceoff heads are engineered for improved ball control is through pinched sidewall designs that closely hug the ball. Pinched sidewalls involve flex points and narrowed channels that tightly pocket the ball within the head. This prevents the ball from rattling around and popping out during intense faceoff clashes and scrambles.

Typically, you’ll see strategic pinch points up and down the sidewalls near the scoop, throat, and midsection of the head. These also improve hold on sideways checks and slashes during transitions. By pinching the ball from multiple angles, it becomes almost impossible to dislodge during gameplay.

When coupled with a mid-to-low strung pocket, pinched sides create a cocoon-like ball cradle. Faceoff players report dramatically improved clamping power and possession through contact when using pinched head designs. Just beware that overly pinched heads can slow down ground ball entry into the pocket.

During your head stringing, you can increase pinch by strategic sidewall stringing and casting techniques. Weaving over-under laces tightens up the channel. Shallow mid-pockets and narrow mesh also amp up pinching action. For maximal control, combine pinched sidewalls with a stiff head and flexible scoop.

Next time you’re in the market for a new faceoff head, seek out heads marketed with strategic pinch zones. You may have to trial a few different pocket and sidewall stringing styles to find your ideal blend of pinch, ground ball speed, and hold. But once dialed in, that ball will feel seemingly welded in place across whistle to clear.

Prefer Minimal Offset Lacrosse Heads for Straightforward Ground Ball Flicks

While aggressive offset heads excel at clamping power, some faceoff specialists prefer minimal offset designs for unparalleled ground ball flicking accuracy. Offset refers to how far forward the scoop sits from the center axis of the head. Less offset brings the scoop rearward for straighter flicking angles.

With zero offset heads like the Warrior Burn FO, the scoop aligns perfectly with the head’s center axis. This gives you the most direct ground ball flick possible out to your wings and midfield transition. You can rocket off-center ground balls straight out of the back of the head without any scatter from offset.

Minimal offset also positions the ball higher in the pocket for lightning fast ground ball entry on clean pickups. The ball releases noticeably quicker on passes. The rearward scoop does sacrifice some leverage and clamping power versus max offset designs. But the tradeoff is unparalleled flicking accuracy.

When shopping for your next faceoff head, pay close attention to the listed offset. For FOGO midfielders who rely on clean quick flicks, zero to low offset offers superior control. You’ll turn ground balls quicker and deliver leads to your wings within the narrow possession shot clock window. Just be prepared to work a bit harder fighting for those initial clamps at the X.

With practice, you can learn to use your hands and wrists to compensate for the decreased leverage of minimal offset heads. And the payoff is unmatched flicking precision to gain a possession edge off the draw. Give low offset a try if you are looking to fine tune your ground ball outlet passing.

Pick Lacrosse Heads with a Rounded Scoop to Funnel Up Ground Balls

While flat scoops excel at stiff clamping, some faceoff specialists prefer the ground ball funneling effect of a rounded scoop profile. The gradual curvature helps guide errant ground balls directly into your pocket.

Rounded scoops make it easier to corral wild grounders from odd angles, like when balls shoot behind you during faceoff scrambles. The shape gives you more margin for error positioning your head because ground balls naturally curl into the pocket as they contact the slope.

You’ll also find that rounded scoops nicely cradle ground balls sitting on a steep angle. The curved shape almost acts like a mini lacrosse stick, allowing you to roll balls up and into your mesh. This is perfect for snagging grounders near the sidelines.

However, take note that rounded scoops offer less stiffness for driving underneath opponent’s heads on the clamp. There is also increased friction slowing ground ball entry speed compared to smooth scoops. But for overall ground ball pickup control, nothing beats a gradual curved profile.

When shopping for your next faceoff head, grab a model with a scoop that looks more U-shaped than flat when upside down. With a properly string mid to mid-low pocket, you’ll be amazed at how easily those ground balls funnel straight into your mesh. Just be prepared to work a bit harder for clean initial clamps at the X versus flat scoops.

Consider Narrow Lacrosse Heads for Cleaner Faceoff Ball Handling

While wider heads offer increased surface area, some faceoff specialists prefer more narrow head designs for superior ball control. Narrow heads in the 3.5 to 4 inch width range constrain the ball, keeping it centered within the channel. This allows for quicker, cleaner handling and passing coming off the faceoff draw.

With a narrower head, you’ll notice significantly reduced rattling of the ball within the pocket. It helps keep the ball locked in place as you transition and evade checks upfield. The centered ball position also gives you a quicker release for outlet passes to your wings and midfield.

Less width means fewer errant passes and improved catchability for your teammates. The ball simply spends more time secured within the prime sweet spot of narrower heads. Just be prepared to spend more time honing your catching skills. You’ll have less head real estate to work with on faceoff passes.

When shopping for a new faceoff head, don’t be afraid to go more narrow than your current gamer. Focus on heads in the 3.5 to 4 inch range to maximize ball control. For the ultimate in quickstick ball movement, try pairing a narrow head with a stiffer shaft. You’ll be snapping off outlet passes before defenders can even react. Just be ready to put in extra reps with your wings to fine tune that narrowed catching sweet spot.

Choose NCAA Regulation Sized Heads for Optimal College Faceoff Performance

When competing at the college level, optimizing your gear for the latest NCAA regulations is key for faceoff success. In 2022, the NCAA updated rules to mandate more narrow, short, and lightweight lacrosse heads across all positions. This was done to increase safety and improve the pace of play. But it also impacts the ideal heads for facing off.

Under the new NCAA rules, legal head dimensions are capped at 10 to 12 inches in length, and 3.5 to 4.5 inches in width. Additionally, heads must weigh between 5 to 7 ounces strung. These tighter dimensions are closer to previous specialized FOGO head specs.

The shorter, lighter NCAA legal heads excel at quick ball movement and fast breaks. The reduced surface area improves control. Scoops are positioned closer to the ball’s resting point for quicker ground ball flicks. Faster, narrower heads match the up-tempo athletic style of college lacrosse.

When shopping for a new NCAA legal faceoff head, browse game-ready heads between 10.5 to 11.5 inches long and 4 to 4.5 inches wide. This offers the ideal blend of control versus surface area for facing off. Prioritize lighter weight heads under 6 ounces strung to maximize hand speed and reaction time.

Pay close attention to the year heads were introduced, as some wider legacy models like the Weapon X are now illegal for NCAA play. Read specifications carefully or verify with your college equipment managers. With the optimal NCAA legal head and pocket, you’ll gain an edge over opponents still adjusting to the new mandated dimensions.

Prioritize Stiff, Rigid Lacrosse Heads for Superior Ball Retention When Clamping

Aiming to dominate faceoffs? Then be sure to prioritize head stiffness and rigidity when selecting your next faceoff head. Ultra-stiff heads with thick sidewalls and sturdy scoops better retain possession during the intense jostling and clamping on draws.

Premium stiff heads are typically constructed from aircraft grade metals like titanium alloys or high-end composites like Carbon Pro. These exotic engineered materials offer unmatched stiffness without adding extra weight. The rigid frame provides a rock solid clamping platform to gain leverage against opponents’ heads.

Stiffer heads also bounce back to their original shape after bending. This ensures precise pocket geometry and scoop alignment for repeated faceoffs. Cheaper, more flexible heads tend to deform and warp over time, reducing ball retention.

Some faceoff specialists even bring extra stiff backup heads just for critical late game possessions. The equipment managers will bake or freeze premium heads to make them even more rigid for must-faceoff situations.

When shopping for a new faceoff head, seek out stiffness ratings to find the most rigid frame within your budget. Heads with hexagon or octagon sidewall holes also improve stiffness. With a frozen stiff head fresh off the sidelines, you’ll overpower opponents to control possession when it matters most.

Choose Durable Lacrosse Heads That Maintain Shape After Repeated Use

As a faceoff specialist, your head will endure a ton of abuse each game from clamping, flicking, and scooping. This is why durability should be a top priority when selecting a faceoff head. Premium durable heads maintain their shape and integrity even after hundreds of faceoffs.

Many high-end faceoff heads now use aircraft grade metals and composites that offer unmatched fatigue and impact resistance. For example, heads reinforced with titanium alloy, scandium, or carbon fiber far outlast cheaper plastic models. These space-age materials also resist warping and weather-related breakdown.

Some brands test heads using accelerated life testing machines that simulate an entire season of play in days. Only the heads that maintain performance metrics after abuse-testing make it to market.

When shopping for a new faceoff head, avoid cheaper models that use polyethylene or nylon plastics. These degrade and warp rapidly with use. Instead, invest in heads made of advanced alloys and composites. The few extra ounces of weight is worth it for the incredible durability over a whole season.

Be sure to inspect the scoop carefully for flatness and the sidewalls for Roundness. Reject any heads that seem warped out of the box. With a head engineered to be damage resistant, you can face off aggressively game after game knowing your most critical piece of equipment will hold strong.

Favor Quick-Release Mesh Pockets for Rapid Ground Balls on Faceoffs

Most faceoff specialists focus intensely on head design features, but your mesh and pocket can make an equally profound impact on faceoff success. Optimal faceoff pockets quickly direct ground balls up into the head while retaining enough hold during battles. This requires a carefully balanced stringing.

First, choose semi-soft flexible mesh in the mid to low mid range. This lets you string a nice pocket without over-bagging the channel. Softer hard meshes also conform better to cradle ground balls versus stiff varieties. Just avoid using traditional soft meshes that bag out excessively.

When stringing your pocket, maintain a smooth ramp-like shape that quickly guides ground balls rearward. The incline plane formed by the diamonds should have a constant angle. Avoid any flat spots or sudden drops that can hold up grounders.

Shoot for a pocket depth around halfway down the head. This balances ball retention versus quick ball entry and exit. Shallow low pockets release fastest but sacrifice some control. Excessively deep pockets close too slowly around ground balls.

Try adding a single nylon shooter lace across the center of the pocket ramp. This helps direct ground balls smoothly up into the throat of the head. With the right ramped pocket stringing and semi-soft mesh, you’ll gain a ground ball edge from whistle to clear.

Choose Regulation Lacrosse Head Sizes For Optimal NCAA Faceoff Performance

When competing at the NCAA college level, it’s critical to choose a lacrosse head that conforms tightly to the newest faceoff head dimension regulations. In 2022, the NCAA instituted tighter rules around overall head size to improve safety and pace of play. This has implications for selecting your next faceoff head.

The new mandates max out head length between 10 to 12 inches, reduced down from previous rules allowing up to 15 inch heads. Width must be between 3.5 to 4.5 inches. Additionally, heads cannot weigh more than 5 to 7 ounces strung.

These tighter dimension regulations match up well with specialized faceoff head specs. Shorter, narrower heads provide quicker ball handling and improved control. The lighter weight also caters to the fast-paced athletic style of college faceoffs.

When shopping for a new head, look for game-ready models sized from 10.5 to 11.5 inches in length. Favor heads with widths from 4 to 4.5 inches for the ideal blend of ball control vs. surface area for clamping during draws. Finally, opt for ultra-lightweight heads under 6 ounces.

Be wary of wider legacy heads that are now banned under the updated NCAA rules. Carefully verify the year any head was introduced and double check the advertised dimensions. With a dialed in NCAA legal head and pocket, you’ll gain an edge against opponents still adjusting to the new mandated sizing.