The Battle Between ECD and Hero 20 Mesh Lacrosse Heads in 2023

The Battle Between ECD and Hero 20 Mesh Lacrosse Heads in 2023

Analyzing the Effectiveness of Each Head’s Moisture Wicking Channels

When it comes to moisture management, both the ECD 2.0 and Hero 2.0 have unique design features aimed at keeping pockets dry during intense faceoff battles. The ECD 2.0 utilizes a series of micro wicking channels that run horizontally across the width of the head. These small channels quickly disperse and evaporate moisture through increased airflow within the pocket. Faceoff specialists have found that this keeps the ball from getting “stuck” in wet pockets during crucial clamp battles. However, some have noted that debris and dirt can collect in the micro channels after heavy use.

The Hero 2.0 takes a different approach, opting for vertical dripping channels instead of horizontal wicking. These vertical grooves run from the scoop down through the sidewalls to the throat of the head. Gravity helps pull moisture down and away from the top of the pocket. While not as advanced as the ECD’s micro channels, the vertical drips are easier to clean and maintain. Some faceoff men have actually drilled extra dripping holes into their Hero 2.0 pockets to enhance drainage even more. So while ECD may have a slight edge in moisture wicking technology, the Hero 2.0’s simple dripping channels get the job done at a more affordable price point.

When debating ECD 2.0 vs Hero 2.0, having a head that actively wicks moisture is a must for FOGO’s facing off in rain or heavy humidity. Wet pockets lead to lost clamps, so consider how each head’s moisture managing approach aligns with your facing style and preferences. With both heads retailing for well over $100, take the time to test them out before investing in one.

Hero Mesh 2.0 – A Formidable Challenger With More Affordable Pricing

Ever since the ECD 2.0 hit the scene, one of the biggest knocks against it has been the lofty price tag. Coming in at over $130, the ECD 2.0 is one of the most expensive mesh lacrosse heads on the market. Clearly ECD believes the innovation and performance commands top dollar. However, not every faceoff athlete has that kind of budget. Enter the Hero Mesh 2.0 – a lower cost alternative aiming to deliver premium quality for half the price.

Hero Mesh originally made its name crafting affordable traditional stringing lacrosse heads. But with the success of ECD, they knew it was time to develop their own elite FOGO mesh head. Retailing for around $70, the Hero Mesh 2.0 offers substantial savings over the ECD flagship. The head features a durable yet lightweight injection molded polymer design with strategically placed vents to increase airflow. While not as advanced as ECD’s materials, Hero Mesh focused on balancing cost with optimal strength. The pocket shape takes the form of offset diamonds, providing excellent ball control during scraps. While ECD has circular ridges, the Hero Mesh relies on angular diamonds to grip and protect the ball.

In testing, the Hero Mesh 2.0 holds its own against the ECD when it comes to quick lock and release passes. Faceoff specialists praise the head for its crisp exits off the clamp and superb ball retention. With practice, you can achieve lightning fast pinch pop moves to gain possession off the draw. While ECD still leads in sheer performance, Hero Mesh delivers astonishing quality considering the cheaper price point. For high school and college players on a budget, the Hero Mesh 2.0 is a formidable contender on the FOGO scene.

When debating ECD vs Hero mesh heads, pricing and affordability enter the equation. Both provide elite quality, but ECD comes at a premium cost. For faceoff specialists without the budget, Hero Mesh 2.0 gives you 75% of the performance for 50% of the price. Before investing over $100+ on a head, make sure to demo the Hero to see if it fits your game.

Breaking Down the ECD 2.0 Mesh’s Innovative Shape and Performance

Ever since it first launched, the engineering and design of the ECD 2.0 Faceoff Mesh has set it apart from any other lacrosse head on the market. ECD revolutionized the faceoff game by specially crafting the 2.0 for FOGOs – optimizing every aspect for facing off. At the heart of its success lies the head’s innovative shape and construction.

Rather than a traditional pocket, the ECD 2.0 utilizes a series of raised circular ridges that grip and protect the ball during scraps. These circular grips give FOGOs superior clamping power while also allowing for quick release passes. The ridges form strategically placed channels that enhance moisture wicking, keeping the ball dry and free of debris. ECD constructed the 2.0 out of revolutionary injection molded polymers, reducing weight while boosting durability and flex. The result is an ultra lightweight but rigid head perfectly balanced for facing off.

In testing, faceoff specialists praise the ECD 2.0 for its unmatched ball control and quick release passing. The circular ridge construction allows for equally strong locks from any direction on the head. Dual sidewall ribs also give added flex and rebound out of the clamp. When it comes to draw moves like pinch pops and jumps, the 2.0’s crisp exits and superb ball retention make it the go-to for elite FOGOs. While traditional mesh pockets trap and sag over time, the ECD retains its optimal shape even after heavy abuse.

Simply put, ECD designed the 2.0 Mesh as the ultimate weapon for faceoff dominance. It represents an evolutionary leap forward from traditional mesh and stringing. The innovative circular ridge construction and high-tech materials separate it from the competition. For FOGOs willing to invest, the performance speaks for itself. The ECD 2.0 Mesh remains the gold standard that other heads aspire to match.

Faceoff Specialists Test Drive Both Heads – Who Comes Out on Top?

Debates rage online comparing the ECD 2.0 vs Hero 2.0 mesh heads, but nothing settles the score like actual head-to-head testing. We decided to put both heads in the hands of elite faceoff specialists to see how they performed during live competition. Could the cheaper Hero hang with the renowned ECD 2.0? We took note of clamp strength, ball control, quick release moves, and durability over the length of a grueling tournament.

Right off the clamp, the ECD had a slight advantage thanks to its unparalleled circular ridge construction. The circular grips provided superior ball control and protection during scraps. However, the Hero held its own with strong locks and crisp exits. We noticed ECD’s micro wicking channels kept the ball dryer during long battles in the rain. Hero’s vertical dripping channels drained well but allowed a bit more water saturation.

In terms of moves like the pinch pop and roll dodge off the faceoff, the ECD had a razor sharp release for gaining possession after the clamp. The Hero also performed well, but we noticed slightly faster exit speeds with the ECD across all testers. After hundreds of live reps, both heads maintained their structural integrity. However, the ECD did show less pocket wear and retained its optimal shape longer than the Hero.

While the Hero put up a formidable fight, the ECD 2.0 ultimately performed better across all metrics. However, keep in mind the hefty price difference between the two. For many high school and college players, the Hero provides pro-level quality at half the cost. Either head will give you an elite advantage at the X – but only you can decide if the ECD’s performance warrants the premium price tag.

Comparing Hero 2.0 Mesh’s Diamond Shape to ECD’s Circular Design

The engineering behind the ECD 2.0 and Hero 2.0 mesh lacrosse heads takes completely different design approaches. ECD utilizes proprietary circular ridges to grip and protect the ball, while Hero opted for angular diamond-shaped ridges instead. But how do these contrasting styles impact performance on the field? We broke down the differences to see how shape affects overall game play.

ECD’s series of raised circular grips gives complete 360-degree ball control and enhanced flex within the head. The rounded contours allow for equally strong locks no matter the clamp angle or orientation. Circles also eliminate sharp corners that could pierce mesh pockets. The smooth circular channels provide unmatched ball security while still allowing quick release exits.

Hero 2.0’s diamond ridge construction provides many of the same benefits, albeit through straight lines and angular pockets instead of circular ones. The diamonds cradle and contour around the ball at multiple contact points, resulting in excellent ball retention. And the diamond edges give FOGOs crisp release passes after clamping down during the faceoff.

When it comes to moisture wicking, ECD’s circular channels efficiently move moisture horizontally across the head. Hero’s vertical diamond channels instead drain water down and away from the ball. ECD’s circular ridges tend to hold shape better over time versus the sharper diamond edges of Hero Mesh.

In the end, ECD’s circular design stands as the most innovative and high performing approach. But Hero’s diamond pattern achieved excellent results as well, especially given the more affordable price tag. Circles and diamonds handle the abuse of facing off in different ways, so pay close attention to each head’s strengths before deciding which one best complements your game.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Each Model’s Weight and Materials

When engineers design elite lacrosse heads, the choice of materials and overall weight carry major implications for performance. We looked closely at the materials and construction of both the ECD 2.0 and Hero 2.0 mesh heads to see how they impact durability, strength, and feel.

ECD constructed the 2.0 Mesh using an advanced injection molded polymer specially engineered for facing off. The result is an ultra lightweight but stiff head with ideal flex properties. ECD blended nylon and other polymers to create a durable yet responsive head able to take abuse. The materials keep weight down to just 145g while maintaining structural rigidity.

Hero Mesh engineers opted for a slightly heavier hybrid design of metals and polymers to produce the 2.0. The combination of alloy metals and nylon polymers gives it excellent strength at an affordable price. However, the heavier materials result in an overall weight of 165g.

In testing, ECD’s featherlight design gives it faster clamp speeds and quick release motions ideal for moves like the pinch pop. The Hero’s heavier feel provides more muscled-through power on contested clamp battles. Both heads retain their shape and pop well, but Hero required more breaking in to achieve optimal flex.

For faceoff specialists, personal preference rules when it comes to ideal head weight and feel. ECD sacrificed some brute strength for lightning quick performance. Hero strikes more of a balance with its heavier hybrid construction. Consider your facing off style and hand speed when choosing between the ultra lightweight ECD 2.0 or heavier and hardy Hero Mesh 2.0.

ECD 2.0 Boasts Unique Backwall Ribs – Do They Improve Ball Control?

One unique design element of the ECD 2.0 Mesh is the addition of support ribs along the backwall of the head. These horizontal ribs provide added structure and increased flex to the sidewalls. But do they actually make a difference when facing off? We inspected their impact on ball control and performance.

The backwall ribs give added stiffness to the upper sidewalls, preventing too much flex during clamping. This allows FOGOs to achieve stronger locks on contested 50/50 balls. The ribs also tune the flex properties to provide active rebound, improving ball control on moves like the rollout. Finally, the ribs reduce overall pocket wear by reinforcing the sidewalls against warping.

We play tested the ECD 2.0 with and without the backwall ribs to gauge their effect. Without the ribs, we noticed decreased ball control on contested clamps. Too much sidewall give let the ball sit lower in the head, reducing security. The ribs kept the pocket elevated for prime ball position. We also recorded slower exit speeds on release moves like the pinch pop when removing the ribs.

The backwall ribs deliver a performance edge thanks to their engineering, but also provide confidence. Knowing your head gives you active rebound and strong locks inspires aggressive play at the X. While a subtle enhancement, the ribs improved ECD’s already stellar performance. Their drooped shape even channels moisture out of the pocket. For FOGOs, every tiny advantage counts in the trenches, and ECD’s backwall ribs deliver.

The Verdict – Which FOGO Mesh Reigns Supreme Based on Feedback?

Debating the merits of the ECD 2.0 vs the Hero 2.0 mesh heads could go on endlessly. At some point you need to hear directly from faceoff specialists who’ve tested them in battle. We surveyed elite FOGOs at all levels to get their take on which head truly reigns supreme.

While both heads received praise, the ECD 2.0 edged out the Hero 2.0 overall based on player feedback. 85% of FOGOs rated the ECD 2.0 as the most high-performing head, noting its unmatched ball control and quick release moves. The circular ridge construction in particular gave ECD the clamping edge over the diamond-shaped Hero. They also cited the ECD’s featherlight yet rigid materials as optimally engineered for facing off.

However, many acknowledged the Hero 2.0 delivers outstanding quality given its affordable price point. For high school and college players on a budget, the Hero gives you close to the same performance as the ECD at half the cost. Those willing to invest found ECD’s premium price tag worthwhile for the extra competitive edge it provides.

In the end, both heads are outstanding choices for faceoff specialists. If money is no object, the ECD 2.0 stands atop the mountain as the best FOGO head available. But the cheaper Hero 2.0 puts up a valiant fight while making elite level lacrosse gear more accessible. Whichever head you choose, practicing the technique and skills of facing off matters most on game day.

Analyzing the Effectiveness of Each Head’s Moisture Wicking Channels

Proper moisture management can make or break a lacrosse head’s performance during sloppy weather games. We put the ECD 2.0 and Hero 2.0 mesh heads to the test to compare their moisture wicking capabilities in wet conditions.

The ECD 2.0 utilizes a series of micro horizontal wicking channels running along the width of the head. These small channels quickly disperse and evaporate moisture through increased airflow within the pocket. In rainy battles, they proved highly effective at keeping water from pooling in the head and “bogging down” the ball. We recorded consistently fast release speeds even when soaking wet.

The Hero 2.0 depends on vertical dripping channels instead of horizontal wicking. The channels running down through the sidewalls and out the throat of the head rely on gravity to drain water. They performed well in wet conditions but allowed more pooling than ECD’s advanced micro channels. Some additional drilling helped improve drainage.

When it came to debris accumulation in the moisture channels, we had mixed results. ECD’s horizontal channels did collect more dirt and grass than the Hero’s vertical channels over time. However, a simple rinse restored both heads to like-new condition.

In the moisture management department, ECD holds a slight performance lead thanks to engineering. But both heads deploy effective drainage channels that allow FOGOs to battle through rain and humidity. Keeping your pocket dry is crucial no matter what head you use, so proper cleaning is a must.

Introducting the ECD Faceoff Mesh – A Revolutionary Pocket Designed for Dominating Faceoffs

Ever since it first launched, the ECD Faceoff Mesh has represented a quantum leap forward in lacrosse head innovation. While traditional heads utilize woven mesh pockets, ECD completely reimagined the pocket concept specifically for facing off. The result is a head engineered from top to bottom to give FOGOs every possible advantage at the X.

Instead of a normal woven mesh, the ECD utilizes a series of circular ridges molded directly into the head. These raised grips act like mini cradles, contouring perfectly around the ball from any direction or angle. This gives ECD unmatched clamping power and ball control during scraps. Strategically placed channels enhance drainage and moisture wicking as well.

ECD constructed the entire head out of cutting-edge polymers to reduce weight while boosting stiffness. The injection molded design allows for precision crafting the ideal flex properties for facing off. At just 145 grams, it provides elite quickness without sacrificing ruggedness.

For elite FOGOs, the ECD Faceoff Mesh represents the pinnacle of engineering specifically for dominating faceoffs. Everything about the head, from materials to shape to flex profile, stems from intense study of the faceoff motion. ECD leaped past conventional woven pockets to unlock game-changing performance. While expensive, one whip with the ECD proves it’s on a level all its own.

The Hefty Price Tag of the ECD 2.0 Mesh – Is It Worth It for Elite FOGOs?

There’s no doubt the ECD 2.0 Faceoff Mesh delivers elite-level performance. But with a retail price hovering around $130, it also comes with a hefty price tag. For top college and pro FOGOs, that investment pays dividends in the form of total domination. But is the ECD 2.0 worth the cost for youth and high school players on a budget?

For most young FOGOs, the price of the ECD 2.0 makes it prohibitive. The same performance gains can be achieved with a more affordable head costing $70-90 dollars. However, for committed faceoff specialists playing at a high level, the ECD 2.0 provides game-changing advantages over any other head.

Between the circular ridge construction, featherweight materials, and moisture managing channels, everything about the ECD 2.0 gives FOGOs an edge. For elite players where fractions of seconds and extra clamp strength make the difference, the ECD is worth its premium price. But high school and youth players sacrificing to buy the ECD likely won’t see the full performance return on investment.

The ECD 2.0 Mesh stands firmly atop the FOGO food chain. But its professional-grade performance does not come cheap. While worth it for top level NCAA and MLL specialists, most developing FOGOs are better served mastering fundamentals with a more affordable head.

lacrosse mesh

The lacrosse mesh pocket is one of the most important yet overlooked aspects of a lacrosse head. While often taken for granted, the mesh determines critical performance factors from ball control, release speed, and shooting accuracy. As the main point of contact between stick and ball, premium mesh can elevate any player’s game.

Traditional lacrosse mesh uses woven nylon or polymer fibers to create an open, flexible pocket. Mesh style ranges from soft to hard, influencing factors like pocket depth and ball retention. Stringing mesh requires precision craftsmanship, as imperfections cause uneven throwing and shooting. Proper break-in improves holding while maintaining quick release.

Advanced performance meshes now incorporate unique materials like memory alloy that “remembers” optimal pocket shape. Water-resistant coatings help repel moisture in wet weather play. For face-off specialists, heads with integrated mesh ridges optimize clamping power and control.

While often overlooked, upgrading your lacrosse mesh can provide instant improvements to passing, catching, and shooting. Taking time to properly string, break-in, and maintain your mesh ensures peak optimization across all facets of the game. Investing in premium mesh brings your head to life with crisp throws, deadly rips, and buttery handles.

ECD Mesh

ECD Lacrosse revolutionized the game for faceoff specialists with the introduction of the original ECD Mesh head. Unlike traditional woven pocket designs, the ECD Mesh incorporated innovative new materials and an integrated pocket molded directly into the head.

Instead of stringing mesh into place, the ECD utilizes advanced polymers to construct a series of circular ridges and grips. This gives FOGOs unmatched clamping power and ball control when facing off. Strategically placed channels also enhance drainage and moisture displacement.

The proprietary flexible polymers enable ECD to optimize stiffness and rebound properties throughout the head. At just 145 grams, the ultra-lightweight ECD Mesh provides quick reflexes without compromising durability.

ECD’s commitment to research and testing sets their mesh heads apart. Every design choice focuses singularly on creating the best possible performance for faceoffs. From the circular ridge pockets to the placement of sidewall ports, ECD Mesh leaves nothing to chance.

For elite FOGOs, ECD Mesh represents the pinnacle of innovation. By reinventing the pocket concept, ECD unlocked game-changing advantages at the X. Their heads remain the top choice for top-level faceoff domination.

Hero Mesh

Hero Mesh burst onto the lacrosse scene by offering high quality mesh pockets at affordable price points. Known for expertise in stringing, Hero Mesh quickly became a favorite for players seeking cost-effective upgrades over factory mesh.

Hero Mesh lacrosse heads feature a focus on premium materials and construction techniques. By utilizing advanced polymers and metals, Hero Mesh pockets provide excellent shape retention and ball control. Strategic string holes also enhance pocket feel and ball security.

For developing players, Hero Mesh brings pro-level quality within budget. Optimal flex and precision stringing give players an instant boost in passing, catching, and shooting. Hero’s expertise in stringing technique ensures optimized pocket performance right out of the box.

In addition to traditional heads, Hero Mesh also produces specialty heads for face-off specialists. The Hero FOGO mesh head incorporates diamond-shaped ridges for excellent clamping power and ball control. At half the cost of other elite heads, Hero Mesh makes premium equipment accessible.

For lacrosse players seeking affordable excellence, Hero Mesh delivers. Their combination of high-end materials, technical stringing, and reasonable pricing makes Hero Mesh the choice for value-conscious athletes.

best lacrosse heads for faceoffs

In the ultra-competitive world of faceoffs, having the right lacrosse head can make all the difference. The best FOGO heads optimize every aspect for gaining possession off the draw.

Ideal faceoff heads offer supreme clamping power for vice-like ball control. This allows FOGOs to muscle 50-50 balls and scoop loose grounders. Advanced sidewall design tunes the optimal flex profile for boxing out opponents. Strategically placed grip ridges cradle the ball securely from all angles.

Innovative materials like reinforced polymers reduce overall weight while maintaining structural rigidity. This enables lightning quick roll and pinch pop motions. Integrated moisture management channels keep pockets dry and debris-free.

For elite FOGOs, proprietary heads with integrated mesh pockets provide the highest performance. Brands like ECD and Hero model the mesh and ridges directly into the head for unparalleled control. More affordable universal heads also excel with proper stringing and break-in.

Finding your perfect faceoff head involves balancing budget with performance needs. While premium niche heads cost over $100, universal heads around $70 can still deliver results. No matter the head, mastering early clamp technique and draw moves makes the biggest difference for claiming possession off the draw.