Choose Between Offensive and Defensive Lacrosse Sticks
Consider Complete Sticks or Stick and Head Combos for Attack
Many players, especially beginners, opt for complete lacrosse sticks that come pre-strung with a head and shaft already attached. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option. More advanced players often buy stick and head combinations separately, which allows for more customization and fine-tuning. For attack specifically, complete sticks with an open sidewall design and softer mesh are ideal for precision passing and shooting.
Find the Best Attack Lacrosse Sticks for Shooting and Ball Control
When looking for the optimal attack lacrosse stick, prioritize ball control and quick, accurate shots on goal. Features like an open sidewall on the head, pinched and rounded scoop, and soft mesh pocket are designed to cradle and control the ball. You’ll also want an attack stick with good hold and release when passing and shooting. Offset heads and stiff shafts transfer more energy for powerful shots.
Pick a Lightweight Midfield Lacrosse Stick for Speed
In the midfield position, speed and agility are critical. Having a lightweight lacrosse stick enables quicker movement up and down the field. Many midfielders also prefer a shorter stick, typically 40-42 inches, for optimal maneuverability. Composite materials like Scandium/Titanium alloys can reduce overall stick weight without compromising durability.
Get an Attack Stick With an Open Sidewall for Ball Retention
Lacrosse stick heads with an open sidewall lack a lower sidewall, allowing for better ball control. This gives you superior cradle and retention as you maneuver down the field or dodge defenders. Open sidewalls combined with soft mesh also provide excellent feel for scooping up ground balls.
Look for Sticks With Soft Mesh for Superior Ball Control
Soft mesh pocket designs are ideal for offensive lacrosse sticks, especially if you’re an attackman. The soft, flexible nylon strings give you a better grip on the ball, allowing for quicker passing, catching, and redirecting shots on target. Soft mesh also offers superior pocket control and hold.
Choose a Stick Length Based on Your Position and Height
Stick length is key for optimal control and performance. For attack, 52-72 inch sticks are common, with many players in the 60-66 inch range. Make sure the head sits just under your chin in shoes when standing upright. Smaller players can use shorter sticks for closer play around the crease. Taller attackmen may need max length for reach.
Find Sticks With a Focus on Precision and Quick Releases
Accuracy is paramount for attack, whether making crisp passes to cutters or picking corners on shots. Lacrosse sticks engineered for precision passing and shooting can give you an edge. Features like shitty channel designs, stiff heads, pinched scoops, and anchored stringing provide excellent ball control for accurate feeds and releases in tight spaces around the crease.
Consider a More Rigid Head for Increased Durability
The recurring checks, slashes, and general contact of lacrosse can take a toll on your stick. More rigid head designs help withstand the physicality while maintaining ball control. Many elite attack sticks are engineered with stiffer materials and additional sidewall supports for enhanced durability play after play.
Get a Strung Stick for Convenience or Do It Yourself
When buying a complete lacrosse stick, you can choose between pre-strung or unstrung heads. Pre-strung options are convenient if you want to get on the field faster. Unstrung gives you more flexibility to customize stringing, pocket placement, whip, hold, and channel characteristics. Many players also enjoy stringing their own sticks to get the perfect pocket.
Make Sure Your Attack Stick is Legal for Your League
Most major lacrosse leagues govern the legal dimensions and specifications for sticks used in competition. Things like pocket depth, sidewall height, and shooting string placement are common areas regulated. When buying an attack stick, double-check that it meets the requirements for your particular league and level of play.