The 15 Best Lacrosse Sticks for Attack and Midfield in 2023The 15 Best Lacrosse Sticks for Attack and Midfield in 2023
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
Essential Features of Top-Tier Attack Lacrosse Sticks
When searching for the best attack lacrosse stick, certain features stand out as crucial for success on the field. These elements contribute to improved ball control, shooting accuracy, and overall performance.
Open Sidewall Design
Why is an open sidewall important for attack players? An open sidewall design lacks a lower sidewall, which allows for superior ball control and retention. This feature is particularly beneficial when dodging defenders or maneuvering down the field.
Open sidewalls, combined with soft mesh, also enhance ground ball pickup. This combination provides excellent feel and control, allowing attackers to quickly scoop up loose balls and maintain possession.
Soft Mesh Pocket
Soft mesh pockets are a staple of offensive lacrosse sticks, especially for attackmen. The flexible nylon strings offer several advantages:
- Better grip on the ball
- Quicker passing and catching
- Improved ability to redirect shots on target
- Superior pocket control and hold
How does soft mesh compare to hard mesh? While hard mesh may offer more durability, soft mesh provides the feel and control that many attack players prefer. It allows for a more responsive pocket that can be fine-tuned to the player’s preferences.
Precision and Quick Release Features
For attack players, accuracy is paramount. Whether making crisp passes to cutters or picking corners on shots, having a stick engineered for precision can give you a significant advantage.
What features contribute to improved accuracy and quick releases?
- Shooter channel designs
- Stiff heads
- Pinched scoops
- Anchored stringing
These elements work together to provide excellent ball control, allowing for accurate feeds and releases in tight spaces around the crease.
Optimizing Midfield Performance with the Right Lacrosse Stick
Midfielders require a unique set of features in their lacrosse sticks to excel in their versatile role. The ideal midfield stick balances offensive capabilities with defensive attributes, allowing players to contribute effectively at both ends of the field.
Lightweight Construction
Why is a lightweight stick crucial for midfielders? Speed and agility are critical in the midfield position. A lightweight lacrosse stick enables quicker movement up and down the field, allowing midfielders to transition rapidly between offense and defense.
Many midfielders prefer sticks in the 40-42 inch range for optimal maneuverability. Composite materials, such as Scandium/Titanium alloys, can significantly reduce overall stick weight without compromising durability.
Versatile Head Design
Midfield players benefit from a head design that offers a balance of offensive and defensive capabilities. This may include:
- Moderate sidewall height for improved ball control and checking ability
- A pocket that allows for both accurate passing and reliable ground ball pickup
- A scoop design that facilitates both offensive maneuvers and defensive plays
How can you determine if a head design is suitable for midfield play? Look for heads marketed as “all-around” or “versatile” options, which often strike the right balance for midfielders.
Selecting the Ideal Stick Length for Your Position and Height
Stick length plays a crucial role in a player’s performance and comfort on the field. The right length can enhance your reach, control, and overall effectiveness in your specific position.
Attack Stick Length Guidelines
For attack players, stick lengths typically range from 52 to 72 inches, with many players preferring the 60-66 inch range. To determine the right length for you, consider the following factors:
- Your height: Taller players may benefit from longer sticks for increased reach
- Playing style: Shorter sticks can be advantageous for close play around the crease
- League regulations: Ensure your stick meets the legal requirements for your level of play
A good rule of thumb is to choose a stick where the head sits just under your chin when standing upright in shoes.
Midfield Stick Length Considerations
Midfielders often prefer slightly shorter sticks compared to attackmen, typically in the 40-42 inch range. This length provides a good balance of control and maneuverability for the diverse responsibilities of the midfield position.
When selecting a midfield stick length, consider:
- Your transition speed: Shorter sticks may allow for quicker movements and easier cradling while running
- Defensive responsibilities: A longer stick might be beneficial if you frequently play a defensive midfield role
- Personal preference: Some players may feel more comfortable with a longer or shorter stick based on their individual playing style
Durability and Maintenance: Ensuring Your Stick’s Longevity
Investing in a high-quality lacrosse stick is only the first step. Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure your stick remains in top condition throughout the season and beyond.
Choosing Durable Materials
The physical nature of lacrosse can take a toll on your equipment. Opting for more rigid head designs and durable shaft materials can help your stick withstand the rigors of the game.
What materials offer the best durability for lacrosse sticks?
- Shafts: Scandium, titanium, and carbon fiber composites offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios
- Heads: Stiffer plastics with additional sidewall supports enhance durability
Many elite attack sticks are engineered with these materials to maintain ball control while withstanding repeated impacts.
Proper Maintenance Techniques
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your lacrosse stick. Consider the following tips:
- Clean your stick after each use to remove dirt and debris
- Store your stick in a cool, dry place to prevent warping
- Regularly check and tighten screws connecting the head to the shaft
- Replace worn strings or mesh to maintain optimal performance
How often should you replace your lacrosse stick? With proper care, a high-quality stick can last for several seasons. However, if you notice a decline in performance or visible damage, it may be time for a replacement.
Customization Options: Tailoring Your Stick to Your Play Style
One of the advantages of lacrosse is the ability to customize your stick to suit your individual preferences and playing style. This customization can give you an edge on the field by optimizing your stick’s performance to your specific needs.
Stringing Options
The way your stick is strung can significantly impact its performance. When purchasing a stick, you’ll typically have two options:
- Pre-strung: These sticks come ready to use and are convenient for beginners or players who want to start playing immediately.
- Unstrung: This option allows for complete customization of the pocket, giving you control over factors like hold, release, and channel characteristics.
Many experienced players enjoy stringing their own sticks to achieve the perfect pocket for their playing style. If you’re new to stringing, consider seeking guidance from a more experienced player or a professional stringing service.
Shaft Customization
Beyond choosing the right length and material for your shaft, you can further customize it to enhance your grip and control:
- Grip tape: Adding tape to specific areas of the shaft can improve your hold on the stick
- Butt end: Customizing the butt end of your stick can provide better control and feel
- Weight distribution: Some players add weight to certain parts of the shaft to adjust its balance
Remember that any customizations should comply with your league’s regulations to ensure your stick remains legal for play.
Navigating Brand Options: Top Manufacturers in the Lacrosse Industry
The lacrosse equipment market offers a wide array of brands, each with its own strengths and unique features. Understanding the top manufacturers can help you make an informed decision when selecting your next lacrosse stick.
Leading Lacrosse Stick Brands
Several brands have established themselves as leaders in the lacrosse industry. Some of the most renowned include:
- Warrior: Known for innovative designs and high-performance sticks
- Maverik: Offers a range of sticks suitable for various skill levels
- STX: A longstanding brand with a reputation for quality and durability
- ECD (East Coast Dyes): Gaining popularity for their customizable options
- StringKing: Known for their high-quality mesh and stringing materials
Each brand has its own unique technologies and design philosophies. Researching and comparing these brands can help you find the stick that best aligns with your needs and preferences.
Comparing Brand Features
When evaluating different brands, consider the following factors:
- Technology: What unique features or materials does the brand use in their sticks?
- Player endorsements: Which professional players use and endorse the brand?
- Price range: How do the brand’s offerings fit into your budget?
- Warranty: What kind of guarantee or warranty does the brand offer on their products?
Remember that while brand reputation is important, the best stick for you ultimately depends on your individual needs and how well the stick’s characteristics match your playing style.
Making an Informed Purchase: Research and Budget Considerations
Investing in a quality lacrosse stick is crucial for your performance and enjoyment of the game. However, with so many options available, it’s important to approach your purchase with careful consideration and research.
The Importance of Reading Reviews
Before making a purchase, take the time to read lacrosse stick reviews from reputable sources. These can include:
- Professional lacrosse equipment review websites
- User reviews on retail websites
- Opinions from experienced players in lacrosse forums
- Video reviews on platforms like YouTube
Pay attention to reviews that discuss the stick’s performance in areas that are important to your position and playing style. Look for consistent themes across multiple reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the stick’s strengths and potential drawbacks.
Balancing Quality and Budget
Lacrosse sticks can vary widely in price, from budget-friendly options to high-end professional-grade equipment. When considering your budget, keep in mind:
- Your level of play: Beginners may not need the most expensive options, while more serious players might benefit from higher-end sticks
- Frequency of use: If you play often, investing in a more durable stick might save money in the long run
- Growth potential: For young players, consider how long the stick will suit their needs as they develop
Remember that the most expensive stick isn’t always the best choice for every player. Focus on finding a stick that offers the best value for your specific needs and level of play.
How can you maximize your budget when buying a lacrosse stick? Consider these strategies:
- Look for last year’s models, which often offer great performance at a reduced price
- Watch for sales, especially during the off-season
- Consider buying a high-quality used stick from a reputable seller
- Invest in a stick that will grow with you, rather than needing frequent replacements
By carefully considering your needs, researching your options, and balancing quality with your budget, you can find a lacrosse stick that will enhance your game and provide lasting value.
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.
Consider Complete Sticks or Stick and Head Combos for Attack
Find the Best Attack Lacrosse Sticks for Shooting and Ball Control
Pick a Lightweight Midfield Lacrosse Stick for Speed
Get an Attack Stick With an Open Sidewall for Ball Retention
Look for Sticks With Soft Mesh for Superior Ball Control
Choose a Stick Length Based on Your Position and Height
Find Sticks With a Focus on Precision and Quick Releases
Consider a More Rigid Head for Increased Durability
Get a Strung Stick for Convenience or Do It Yourself
Make Sure Your Attack Stick is Legal for Your League
Shop Top Brands Like Warrior, Maverik, and STX
Read Lacrosse Stick Reviews Before You Buy
Consider Your Budget When Selecting a Stick
