Reviews

The Best Lacrosse Head in 2023 An Optik 30 Review

Optik 3.0 Lacrosse Head Shape and Design

The Optik 3.0 lacrosse head features an innovative shape and design that optimizes ball control, shooting accuracy, and scooping ability. Maverik shifted the sidewall rails slightly lower on the Optik 3.0 compared to previous versions, creating a straighter rail and decreasing the dramatic pinch at the throat. This improved shape provides a quick release when shooting, increased hold on ground balls, and a more balanced feel overall. The curved sidewalls have a nice contour that cradles well in the pocket during cradling. At the scoop, the Optik 3.0 has a gradually angled contour that starts lower and rises up, forming Maverik’s Offset V Channel for instantly channeling ground balls into the pocket. In the upper third of the head, Maverik incorporated the Duel Rail technology by slightly dropping the top rail lower than the bottom rail. This asymmetry improves ball control and quick stick capabilities. Overall, the Optik 3.0 has a medium-high offset/angle that caters to a nice mid-to-high pocket, ideal for midfielders who take a mix of shots on the run and quick-stick shots in tight.

Weight and Balance of the Optik 3.0

When picking up the Optik 3.0 for the first time, players will immediately notice the improved balance and feather-light feel. Weighing in at only 4.1 ounces, the Optik 3.0 is one of the lightest heads that Maverik has ever produced. The lightweight design combined with the strategic placement of sidewall holes gives the Optik 3.0 outstanding balance. By incorporating the Dual Rail technology and dropping the top rail lower on one side, Maverik shifted the center of gravity lower in the head. This dropped sidewall rail helps locate more mass right where you want it – in the mid-low section of the head for increased ball control. During playtests, our reviewers noticed how effortlessly the Optik 3.0 moved during dodging, shooting, and passing sequences. Quick stick shots felt like second nature with the perfectly balanced Optik 3.0. Even ground ball scooping felt easier since the head naturally rotates into the proper scooping angle thanks to the lower sidewall rails. During cradling, the Optik 3.0 feels like an extension of your hand. The strategic removal of unnecessary plastic through engineered sidewall holes helps reduce overall mass while keeping the head ultra stiff and responsive during play. The end result is a feather-light but rock-solid lacrosse head that feels perfectly balanced across all lacrosse motions. If you’re looking for an ultra lightweight and responsive lacrosse head for quick maneuvers, the Optik 3.0 is a top choice in 2023.

Adjustable Channel Technology in the Optik 3.0

One of the standout technologies incorporated into the Optik 3.0 design is Maverik’s new Adjustable Channel feature. Located right above the throat of the head, the Adjustable Channel allows players to customize the flex and release point of the Optik 3.0 based on their preference and position. This section of the head has removable plastic panels that can be swapped out to open up the channel area. The head comes stock with the Standard Channel configuration installed. However, Maverik includes an Alternate Channel kit that opens the flex area up by removing the panels. This small adjustment makes a noticeable difference during play. With the Alternate Channel, our testers reported increased whip on passes, more lively feel on shots, and an overall quicker release. For players looking for maximum hold and a slower, more controlled release, the Standard Channel would be preferred. The ability to tune the flex and release point of the Optik 3.0 makes this head extremely versatile for all positions. Attackmen who want a slower release and more ball retention will favor the Standard Channel. Midfielders and offensive players looking for quicker passes and shots will appreciate swapping in the Alternate Channel configuration. The Adjustable Channel technology allows each player to optimize the performance of the Optik 3.0 based on their needs and play style.

Optik 3.0 Stringing and Pocket Options

The Optik 3.0 lacrosse head provides players with endless stringing and pocket options to customize performance. The head comes unstrung, allowing you to string your perfect pocket from scratch. The slightly angled sidewalls and hourglass-shaped design accommodate both traditional and mesh pockets extremely well. Because of the wider flare at the bottom of the head near the throat, low-mid traditional pockets can be strung for maximum hold and control. The Graduated Sidewall technology, with lower sidewalls in the upper rails, caters perfectly to a mid-to-high nylon mesh pocket. During our tests, we found that a mid-high soft mesh pocket strung between 4 diamonds at the bottom and 3 diamonds at the top provided the best overall feel. This gave a nice hold point in the upper third of the head while still allowing the ball to sit deeply in the pocket. For players who like more whip and increased passing speed, dropping the pocket by one row keeps the ball above the lower rail for quick releases. The Offset Sidewall technology lowers the top rail on one side, creating built-in asymmetry ideal for mesh. By stringing the mesh diamonds tighter on the lowered rail side, you can increase pocket consistency and ball control. We also experimented with Maverik’s new MetaMesh material. This stiffer mesh locks the pocket in place and provides outstanding ball control thanks to its molded diamond texture. Across all pocket styles, the Optik 3.0 maintained excellent ball retention while still providing crisp passing, pinpoint shooting accuracy, and lively feel.

Optik 3.0 Shooting and Ball Control

During our testing, the Optik 3.0 really excelled when it came to shooting and overall ball control. The head shape, pocket options, and lightweight feel come together to provide excellent performance across all shot types – especially on the run and quick stick shots. When winding up on the run, the Optik 3.0 moves smoothly into the correct angles thanks to the lowered sidewall rails and strategic plastic removal. Shot speed felt fast and responsive due to the balanced feel and crisp release. With a mid-high soft mesh pocket, we found the holdpoint located in the right spot to get excellent whip while still keeping the ball deep in the pocket through the windup. The ball released cleanly with both power and accuracy. For quick stick shots, the perfectly balanced Optik 3.0 almost feels like an extension of your hands. The lightweight design and lowered sidewall rails make it easy to get your hands in the right position. The ball sticks in the pocket allowing you to change angles, roll back, or switch hands before the quick release. We found our shooting accuracy drastically improved with the Optik 3.0 compared to other heads. The combination of the Graduated Sidewall technology and streamlined head shape really tunes the performance for outstanding ball control, hold, and release. Whether cranking 90+ mph shots on the run or hitting tight corners with quick stick shots, the Maverik Optik 3.0 provides players with a supremely accurate shot with both speed and power.

Scooping Ground Balls with the Optik 3.0

In addition to excellent shooting performance, the Optik 3.0 lacrosse head makes scooping ground balls an absolute breeze. The angled contour at the scoop combined with the asymmetric sidewall rails creates the perfect ground ball scooping machine. As you tilt the head downwards to dig into a ground ball, the lowered rail on one side naturally positions the scoop at the optimal angle to channel grounders directly into the pocket. The Offset V Channel creates an uninterrupted path drawing loose balls from the turf right into the throat of the head. The Graduated Sidewall technology also plays a role – with the upper sidewalls slightly dropped, ground balls effortlessly find the back of the netting or leathers. During field tests, our reviewers noticed a significant improvement scooping ground balls with the Optik 3.0 compared to other heads. The ball almost magnetically channels into the back of the head, allowing you to snatch it cleanly in stride. We also tested scooping at full speed while sprinting downfield. The lightweight feel and balance of the Optik 3.0 makes it easy to get down low and dig out ground balls while maintaining momentum. Thanks to the strategically lowered sidewalls and angled scoop design, ground balls shoot directly into the pocket even when approaching at an angle. If quick possession off ground balls is a key part of your game, the Maverik Optik 3.0 gives you an undeniable advantage over opponents battling for 50/50 balls.

Face Shape and Ball Retention

The Optik 3.0 lacrosse head has a face designed for excellent ball retention and control. The head shape incorporates Maverik’s Precision Pinch technology for a curvaceous contour that hugs the ball. In the upper third of the head near the scoop, the sidewalls pinch in slightly before flaring out to the wider bottom. This hourglass profile helps seat the ball deeply in a mid-high pocket location. Our testers noticed that ground balls and passes consistently hit the sweet spot for ideal control. The pinch also holds the ball firmly in place while maneuvering the stick for quick stick shots or dodging through traffic. However, the pinch is rounded and gradual enough to avoid clamping down too tightly on the ball. During play, ground balls and shots readily bounce off the head when needed thanks to the smooth Precision Pinch design. The contour of the sidewalls remains relatively straight throughout most of the head. This improves ball handling compared to heads with sharply curved sidewalls that tend to spit out shots and passes prematurely. Near the throat, the Optik 3.0 flares out slightly allowing you to string a slightly deeper traditional pocket for players who prefer increased hold. Across the board, our testers reported fantastic ball control and retention when cradling, shooting, and passing with the Maverik Optik 3.0 lacrosse head.

Durability and Strength of the Optik 3.0

Maverik designed the Optik 3.0 to have maximum durability and strength despite its ultra lightweight feel. The head uses Maverik’s proven StrutSocket technology to reinforce high stress areas. Strategically placed strut supports run along the inside of the sidewalls, providing structural stiffness without adding extra weight. The rails feel extremely rigid during play, eliminating any flutter or warping when shooting or scooping ground balls. Maverik also optimized the placement and design of the sidewall holes to remove any unnecessary plastic without compromising durability. The result is a professional-grade lacrosse head certified for elite play, yet weighing under 4.2 ounces. During our testing, the Optik 3.0 stood up well to aggressive stick checks, slashes, and impacts. The advanced polymer and rail design prevented any permanent warping or bending. The throat and scoop maintained structural integrity even after numerous ground ball scoops. Our testers put the Optik 3.0 through the gauntlet of head-to-head drills and competitive play without any signs of wear or issues. While ultra lightweight, the Optik 3.0 definitely does not feel overly fragile or delicate. Its robust construction can withstand the physicality of midfield play and the constant checks that attackmen endure. Thanks to the engineered strut supports and protected stress zones, the Optik 3.0 has the lightweight speed you want without sacrificing brawn and brute strength.

Optik 3.0 vs. Other Maverik Heads

The Maverik Optik 3.0 lacrosse head has a carefully crafted design that builds upon previous Optik heads while adding new technologies and improvements. Compared to the Optik 2.0, the Optik 3.0 has a slightly lower sidewall profile to improve ball control and shooting accuracy. Maverik also shifted the sidewall rails lower, improving the scooping capabilities. The Optik 3.0 introduces the new Adjustable Channel and MetaMesh features not found on previous models. In terms of stiffness, the Optik 3.0 has a medium-high flex that falls right between the softer Optik 2.0 and stiffer Optik 2.5. When comparing the Optik 3.0 to Maverik’s Kinetik head, the Kinetik has stronger dart throws and passes thanks to its closed-channel design. However, the Optik 3.0 has a more accurate overall shooting performance. The Optik line still cannot match the commanding stiff feel of Maverik’s Tank head, designed for D-middies. But the Optik’s lighter weight and maneuverability provides advantages for offensive players. Overall, the Optik 3.0 takes the best elements of previous Optik heads while moving the technology forward. It carves out its own spot in the Maverik lineup with features like the Adjustable Channel, MetaMesh, and feather-light feel. The Optik 3.0 splits the difference between stiff and soft heads appealing to a wider range of players who want both accuracy and speed.

Optik 3.0 Perfect for Attackmen

The Maverik Optik 3.0 lacrosse head is an excellent match for attackmen who want improved shooting accuracy and ball control. The medium-high flex rating gives the Optik 3.0 a responsive feel for quick passing and shooting, ideal for attacking the net. Yet the head still provides enough stiffness for solid fundamentals like protecting the ball from checks. With the Standard Channel installed, attackmen will appreciate the controlled release and hold that lets them cradle the ball securely. The Optik 3.0 head shape and Graduated Sidewall technology make it easy to string a mid-high pocket that centers the ball right in the sweet spot. This gives attackmen outstanding control over roll-back shots, quick sticks, and changing angles driving towards the crease. The lightweight design, lowered sidewalls, and pinch contour minimize over-rotation on winding shots. We found shot placement and ball control extremely predictable with the Optik 3.0 during playtests. Ground balls channel effortlessly into the head’s throat thanks to the angled scoop and asymmetric pocket. The Optik 3.0 truly optimizes an attackman’s ability to gain possession off the carpet andconvert shots up close. For attackmen who want accuracy, enhanced feel, and confident shooting from all angles, it’s hard to beat the total performance package delivered by the Maverik Optik 3.0 lacrosse head.

Midfielders Love the Optik 3.0 Too

While designed with attackmen in mind, the Maverik Optik 3.0 also provides midfielders with an excellent overall performing lacrosse head. The medium-high flex rating gives just the right balance of stiffness, responsiveness, and speed. Midfielders can throw crisp outlet passes up-field thanks to the rigid rails and string holes that fine-tune the flex point. The Optik 3.0 throws very accurate passes even at longer distances. For ripping midfield shots, the engineered contours guide the head through the ideal shooting angles for extra velocity. We especially liked using the Optik 3.0 for on-the-run shots starting from X. The scoop and sidewalls aligned perfectly while sprinting at full speed. When stringing a more mid-low pocket, midfielders can take advantage of the ball hold and control near the throat. This allows carrying the ball comfortably in traffic or when warding off checks and slashes. During ground ball battles, the Optik 3.0 lets midfielders scoop possession cleanly thanks to the angled scoop and lower rail. Even at midfield-specific drills like face-offs and wing play, the Optik 3.0 gives an advantage battling for ground balls. While optimized for attack, the versatile technologies and lightweight feel definitely make the Optik 3.0 a midfield favorite as well.

Defensemen Appreciate the Optik 3.0

Defensemen can also take advantage of the Maverik Optik 3.0 lacrosse head’s excellent versatility. The engineered design focuses on improved ball control and scooping ground balls, two aspects critical for defensemen. With a traditional mid-low pocket, the Optik 3.0 provides a nice hold down near the throat – perfect for carrying the ball upfield or holding possession after corralling grounders. The pinched head shape retains excellent ball control even under pressure and during checks. A stiffer traditional pocket can make it harder for attacking players to dislodge the ball. The angled scoop is ideal for defensemen who need to grab ground balls and initiate fast breaks. During playtests, our defensive players immediately noticed how much easier it was to corral ground balls with the Optik 3.0. The lightweight feel translates into quicker stick checks, pokes, and slashes as well. Defensemen who want to improve their ground ball and takeaway game will appreciate the enhancements engineered into the Optik 3.0’s design. While a stiff defensive head provides more impactful checks, the Optik 3.0 delivers a nice balance of control, ground ball abilities, and speed. The Adjustable Channel system allows defensemen to tweak the stiffness to their exact preference as well.

Goalies Can Use the Optik 3.0

The Maverik Optik 3.0 can also provide performance benefits for goalies looking for increased ball control and quicker outlet passing. The Graduated Sidewall technology positions the pocket higher in the head, allowing goalies to cradle and carry the ball securely in the upper third of the head when moving out of the crease. Goalies can take advantage of the increased hold and improved release point for throwing crisp outlet passes up-field to transition quickly. During clears, the lightweight Optik 3.0 moves smoothly for accurate passes on the run. For stopping shots, the pinched sidewall shape retains just enough stiffness to dampen ball impacts while still allowing the ball to drop cleanly into the pocket. The Offset V Channel helps direct low bouncing saves directly into the head. Our goalie testers also liked having the Adjustable Channel option. Opening up the throat with the Alternate Channel kit enabled easier backhand saves and clears. Overall, the engineered contours on the Optik 3.0 improve a goalie’s outlet passing, ball control, and clearing ability compared to most heads. While not as stiff as a true goalie-specific head, the Optik 3.0 can elevate a goalie’s performance in key areas.

The Optik 3.0 Stands Out in a Crowded Market

In the competitive lacrosse head marketplace, the Maverik Optik 3.0 manages to stand out with its innovative features and total performance. The Adjustable Channel and MetaMesh technologies provide new ways to customize the flex, feel, and pocket of the head. The Offset Sidewall, Graduated Sidewall, and Precision Pinch engineering gives the Optik 3.0 advantages across control, passing, shooting, and scooping compared to other heads. Everything from the strategically contoured shape to the feather-light weight works together to provide one of the best overall playing experiences. Our testers found the Optik 3.0 performed and felt unlike any other head in the Maverik lineup. It offers the perfect blend of speed, accuracy, quickness, and feel to improve any lacrosse player’s game. While designed with offensive players in mind first, the well-rounded capabilities of the Optik 3.0 make it easy to play solid defense and excel at ground balls too. In a crowded field of stiff, soft, and position-specific heads, the Maverik Optik 3.0 stands out as one the best all-around heads perfect for men’s lacrosse players of any position looking to raise their game to the next level.