What are the best lacrosse heads for attack, midfield, defense, and goalies. How do different positions require specific head features. Which lacrosse heads offer optimal performance for each role on the field.

Midfield Mastery: Lacrosse Heads with Stiff Scoops

Midfielders in lacrosse require a specific type of head to excel in their multifaceted role. One crucial feature is a stiff scoop, which is essential for winning faceoffs and maintaining possession. Why is a stiff scoop so important for midfielders?

A stiff scoop provides the necessary rigidity to clamp down on the ball during faceoffs. This initial possession can often be the difference between winning and losing a game. The lack of flex in a stiff scoop allows midfielders to exert maximum control when battling for the ball at the start of play.

When searching for the ideal midfield lacrosse head, it’s crucial to consider the materials used in its construction. Composite heads, which incorporate materials like carbon fiber, offer superior stiffness compared to traditional plastic options. This enhanced rigidity translates to better performance during faceoffs and ground ball pickups.

Top Midfield Lacrosse Heads with Stiff Scoops

• Maverik Optic
• Nike CEO U
• Warrior Evo 5
• STX Stallion 700
• Epoch Hawk

The Maverik Optic stands out as a top choice for midfielders. Its lightweight composite construction features an optimized face shape and bottom rail design, enhancing ball control. The carbon fiber scoop provides the stiffness needed for dominating faceoffs.

Nike’s CEO U is another excellent option, utilizing composite materials in the scoop to minimize flex. This narrower head design facilitates quick shots and passes during transition play, while the stiff scoop ensures midfielders can effectively clamp and maintain possession off draws.

For midfielders seeking a balance of performance and affordability, the STX Stallion 700 offers a great solution. While not a fully composite head, it provides a flexible yet strong design with an optimal scoop angle and defined pinch. These features make it effective for both ground ball pickups and faceoffs.

Defensive Dominance: Wide Flare Heads for Effective Checking

Defensemen in lacrosse have a unique set of requirements when it comes to their equipment. One of the most critical features for a defensive lacrosse head is a wide flare. Why is flare width so important for defensive players?

A wide flare provides defensemen with increased surface area for executing various checks, including poke checks, slap checks, and wraps. This extra width is crucial when contesting opponents’ shots and passes, making it easier to disrupt offensive plays and cause turnovers.

The ideal defensive lacrosse head should have a flare of at least 6 inches. This width gives defenders ample space to effectively check attackmen’s sticks and knock away shots and passes when playing tight defense. Some top-performing heads even offer flares up to 7 inches wide, maximizing checking potential.

Premier Defensive Lacrosse Heads with Wide Flare

• Maverik Tank
• Nike CEO U
• Warrior Regulator
• STX Hammer 700
• Epoch Dragonfly Elite

The Maverik Tank is a standout option for defensemen, boasting an impressive 7-inch flare. This expansive width is specifically designed to give defensive players maximum surface area for checking sticks and causing turnovers. Additionally, the Tank features a stiff scoop, enhancing ground ball pickup capabilities.

For those seeking a balance between checking ability and versatility, the Nike CEO U offers a 6-inch flare. While slightly narrower than some specialized defensive heads, it still provides ample width for effective checking. The CEO U’s composite scoop also ensures excellent ball control when scooping up ground balls.

The Warrior Regulator is another top choice for defensemen, offering a wider flare that excels in checking situations. This head provides an optimal balance of surface area for stick checks and ball control, making it a versatile option for defensive players at all levels.

Goalie Greatness: Flat Scoops for Saves and Clears

Goalies in lacrosse face unique challenges that require specialized equipment. One of the most crucial features for a goalie lacrosse head is a flat scoop. How does a flat scoop benefit goalies in their role?

A flat scoop design allows goalies to achieve better lift on the ball when making saves. This feature is essential for redirecting shots and maintaining control during crucial moments. Additionally, the flat scoop helps keep the ball in the pocket during clears, enabling goalies to transition quickly from defense to offense.

When selecting a goalie lacrosse head, it’s important to look for models with minimal to no slope on the scoop and face shape. This flat design provides goalies with enhanced control when picking up the ball after saves and during outlet passes. The improved control translates to more accurate and powerful clears, initiating offensive opportunities for the team.

Top-Performing Goalie Lacrosse Heads with Flat Scoops

• Maverik Rome NXT
• Warrior Nemesis
• STX Eclipse
• Epoch Hawk
• Nike CEO

The Maverik Rome NXT is a popular choice among goalies at all levels. Its flat scoop design provides excellent ball control for both saves and clears. The Rome NXT also features a wide face shape, increasing the goalkeeper’s ability to make saves on shots from various angles.

Warrior’s Nemesis goalie head is renowned for its flat scoop and overall design optimization for the position. The Nemesis offers a perfect balance of stiffness and flexibility, allowing goalies to make quick reflex saves while maintaining control for accurate clears.

The STX Eclipse has long been a favorite among goalies for its flat scoop and excellent ball retention. This head’s design allows for smooth transitions from saves to clears, enabling goalies to initiate fast breaks and maintain possession for their team.

Attack Arsenal: Precision and Power in Offensive Heads

Attackmen in lacrosse require heads that offer a combination of precision for accurate shooting and passing, along with the ability to withstand defensive checks. What features should attackmen look for in a lacrosse head?

The ideal attack head should have a narrower profile to enhance ball control and quick release. A pinched face shape helps with ball retention during dodges and when facing defensive pressure. Additionally, attack heads often benefit from a mid to low pocket placement, allowing for quick, accurate shots and passes.

Key Features of Effective Attack Lacrosse Heads

• Narrower profile for enhanced ball control
• Pinched face shape for improved ball retention
• Mid to low pocket placement for quick release
• Durable construction to withstand defensive checks
• Optimal stringing holes for customized pocket setups

While specific attack head models weren’t mentioned in the original text, some popular options in this category include the STX Surgeon, Maverik Kinetik, and Nike Lakota. These heads are designed with the attacking player in mind, offering the perfect blend of control, accuracy, and durability.

Material Matters: The Impact of Head Composition

The material used in lacrosse head construction plays a crucial role in its performance. How do different materials affect a lacrosse head’s characteristics?

Traditional plastic heads, while affordable and widely available, often lack the stiffness and durability of more advanced materials. Composite heads, incorporating materials like carbon fiber, offer superior rigidity and strength. This enhanced stiffness is particularly beneficial for midfielders during faceoffs and defensemen when delivering checks.

Some lacrosse heads utilize a hybrid approach, combining plastic with reinforced areas made from stiffer materials. This design strategy allows manufacturers to target specific areas of the head for improved performance while maintaining a more affordable price point.

Advantages of Composite Lacrosse Heads

• Increased stiffness for better performance in faceoffs and checks
• Improved durability and longevity
• Lighter weight for quicker stick movements
• Better consistency in varying weather conditions
• Enhanced energy transfer for more powerful shots

While composite heads often come with a higher price tag, many players find the performance benefits well worth the investment. The increased stiffness, durability, and consistency can make a significant difference in crucial game situations.

Customization and Pocket Design: Tailoring Heads to Playing Style

Beyond the physical characteristics of the head itself, the way it’s strung and the resulting pocket design can greatly impact a player’s performance. How can players customize their lacrosse heads to suit their playing style?

The pocket depth, placement, and overall shape can be adjusted through various stringing techniques. A higher pocket typically offers more hold and power, while a lower pocket provides quicker release and improved accuracy. Midfielders might prefer a versatile mid-pocket, while attackmen often opt for a lower pocket for quick shots.

Many modern lacrosse heads feature multiple stringing holes and sidewall designs that allow for a wide range of pocket configurations. This customization enables players to fine-tune their stick to match their personal preferences and on-field role.

Factors to Consider in Pocket Customization

• Pocket depth and its impact on ball control
• Channel width for improved accuracy
• Mesh type (traditional vs. performance mesh)
• Sidewall string pattern for pocket shape and hold
• Shooting string placement for release control

Experimenting with different stringing setups can help players find the perfect balance between hold, control, and release. Many players work with experienced stringers or utilize online resources to achieve their ideal pocket configuration.

Regulations and Compliance: Ensuring Legal Play

When selecting a lacrosse head, it’s crucial to consider the regulations set by governing bodies such as the NCAA, NFHS, or specific leagues. How do these regulations impact head selection and use?

Lacrosse head regulations typically cover aspects such as overall dimensions, sidewall height, and minimum width at various points along the head. These rules are designed to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game. Players must ensure their heads meet these specifications to avoid penalties or disqualification.

Some manufacturers produce heads specifically designed to meet certain regulation standards. For example, a head might be marketed as “NCAA compliant” or “NFHS approved.” It’s important for players to verify that their chosen head meets the requirements for their level of play.

Key Regulation Considerations

• Overall head length and width limits
• Minimum width at specific points (e.g., widest part, throat)
• Sidewall height restrictions
• Ball retention test requirements
• Differences in regulations between field positions (e.g., goalies vs. field players)

Players should stay informed about any changes to equipment regulations, as rules can be updated periodically. Consulting with coaches or official resources can help ensure compliance and avoid any issues during gameplay.

Lacrosse Heads with Stiff Scoops for Midfielders

Midfielders in lacrosse need a lacrosse head with a stiff scoop for taking faceoffs. Faceoffs require clamping down on the ball with the head to gain initial possession off the draw. A stiff scoop that does not flex on contact is ideal for getting a solid clamp on the ball.

When shopping for a good midfield lacrosse head, look for ones made from materials like composite rather than just plastic. Composite lacrosse heads use carbon fiber or other rigid materials in the scoop to prevent flexing. This allows midfielders to get much better control when clamping on the ball off the faceoff.

Some top midfield lacrosse heads with stiff scoops include:

• Maverik Optic
• Nike CEO U
• Warrior Evo 5
• STX Stallion 700
• Epoch Hawk

The Maverik Optic is a lightweight composite lacrosse head with an optimized face shape and bottom rail design for added ball control. The stiff carbon fiber scoop gives midfielders an advantage on faceoffs.

The Nike CEO U also utilizes composite in the scoop for minimal flex. This narrower head is designed for quick shots and passes in transition. The stiff scoop lets midfielders clamp and maintain possession off draws.

Warrior’s Evo 5 Pro is another excellent stiff, lightweight composite lacrosse head for midfielders. The Evo 5 has an angled scoop and stiff Sidewall Lock technology to improve clamping ability on faceoffs.

For midfielders looking for an affordable stiff scoop option, the STX Stallion 700 is a great choice. This flexible but strong head has an optimal scoop angle and defined pinch to grab ground balls and take faceoffs.

Epoch’s Hawk head utilizes its Rabil Pro Faceoff Scoop with extra stiff edges for added clamp strength and control. The Hawk’s shape also gives midfielders quick passing and shooting after winning possessions on faceoffs.

In summary, midfielders should look for lacrosse heads with composite or other stiff, rigid scoop materials that do not flex on contact. Stiff scoops allow for much better ball control when clamping during faceoffs. Heads like the Maverik Optic, Warrior Evo 5, and Epoch Hawk offer the best stiff scoops for midfield play.

Defensive Lacrosse Heads with Wide Flare for Checking

Defensemen in lacrosse look for heads with wide flare and a broad scoop to help with checking and causing turnovers. A wider head gives defenders more surface area for poking checks, slap checks, and wraps when contesting opponents’ shots and passes.

An ideal defensive lacrosse head will have a flare that is at least 6 inches wide. This gives defensemen plenty of width to get their checks in on attackmen’s sticks. Wider flare also makes it easier to knock away shots and passes when playing tight defense.

Some top defensive lacrosse heads with wide flare include:

• Maverik Tank
• Nike CEO U
• Warrior Regulator
• STX Hammer 700
• Epoch Dragonfly Elite

The Maverik Tank head has a 7-inch flare specifically designed for defensive players. This gives defensemen maximum surface area for checking sticks and causing turnovers. The Tank also has a stiff scoop for picking up ground balls.

Nike’s CEO U head is on the narrower side but still provides enough 6-inch flare for effective checking by defensemen. The CEO U has a composite scoop to maintain ball control when scooping up ground balls.

Warrior’s Regulator lacrosse head has a wider flare and is a top choice for defense. The Regulator provides plenty of surface area for checking sticks while also giving great ball control.

The STX Hammer 700 is an affordable option with great 6-inch flare for defensemen. This flexible head allows for excellent poke checks, lifts, and wraps to create turnovers.

Epoch’s Dragonfly Elite head provides up to 7 inches of flare for maximum checking ability. Epoch’s Shift technology gives added stiffness to take checks without losing ball control on ground balls.

In summary, defensemen should look for heads with at least 6-7 inches of flare width. This allows for more effective checking with poke, slap, lift, and wrap checks. Wider flare heads like the Maverik Tank, Warrior Regulator, and Epoch Dragonfly Elite give defense the best ability to check sticks and cause turnovers.

Lacrosse Heads with Flat Scoops for Goalies

Goalies in lacrosse need lacrosse heads with flat scoops to effectively make saves and clear the ball. A flat scoop allows goalies to get better lift on the ball when making saves and keeps the ball in the pocket on clears.

Look for goalie lacrosse heads that have little to no slope on the scoop and face shape. This flat design gives goalies much better control when picking the ball up off saves and outlets. Flat scoops also aid in passing and clearing after making stops.

Some top goalie lacrosse heads with flat scoops include:

• Maverik Rome NXT
• Warrior Nemesis
• STX Eclipse
• Epoch Hawk
• Nike CEO U

The Maverik Rome NXT is specifically designed for goalies with its flat, stiff scoop and mid-to-high pocket placement. This gives goalies excellent control on saves and outlets to start the clear.

Warrior’s Nemesis goalie head has a flat wide scoop optimized for goalies. The Nemesis’ shape keeps the ball in the pocket while providing great ball control to clear after saves.

The STX Eclipse goalie head has a flat scoop and sidewall designed to improve lift on saves and accuracy on clears. The Eclipse also has a wider flare for blocking shots.

Epoch’s Hawk head has a narrow channel and flat scoop ideal for goalies making saves and starting the transition game. The carbon fiber scoop is stiff without flexing to keep control.

The Nike CEO U, while designed for field players, is also a great option for goalies thanks to its flat scoop and face shape. The CEO U’s narrow channel helps goalies direct clears upfield.

In summary, goalie lacrosse heads should utilize flat, stiff scoops without slope for better lift on saves and accuracy clearing the ball. Heads like the Maverik Rome NXT, Warrior Nemesis, and STX Eclipse offer goalies the best flat scoop design and ball control.

Durable Lacrosse Heads with Strong Sidewall Stringing Holes

When choosing a lacrosse head, make sure to consider heads with durable sidewall stringing holes. The sidewall stringing holes take a lot of wear and tear from stringing, faceoffs, and checks during games and practices. Sidewall holes that rip or deform can ruin a head.

Look for lacrosse heads made from tough materials like composite instead of basic plastic. Composite heads reinforce the sidewalls with carbon fiber or other rigid materials to prevent ripping and damage from stringing tension and contact.

Also look for heads with thick sidewalls around the stringing holes. Thicker sidewalls and stringing rails prevent the holes from cracking or deforming as easily when strung tightly or checked. Some heads also feature stringing holes with extra reinforcement sleeves for added durability.

Some of the most durable heads with reinforced sidewalls and stringing holes include:

• Maverik Tank
• STX Stallion 700
• Epoch Hawk
• Warrior Burn FO
• Nike CEO U

The Maverik Tank defensive head has extra thick sidewalls and stringing rails to take hard checks from attackmen without damage. Its composite material also reduces cracking around holes.

STX designed the Stallion 700 head for faceoff midfielders, so it has added sidewall strength in the scoop and throat for facing off. This prevents deforming or tearing of the top stringing holes.

Epoch’s Hawk head utilizes composite in the sidewalls along with its Rabil Sidewall Lock technology for maximum string hole durability, even when strung tightly.

Warrior’s Burn FO has an injection molded throat with thick stringing rails designed specifically to withstand faceoffs. This prevents the top holes from deforming with string tension.

The Nike CEO U also uses composite around the sidewall stringing holes for enhanced durability. Its flat sidewalls prevent holes from cracking when strung tightly.

In summary, durable lacrosse heads feature reinforced sidewalls and stringing holes that won’t easily rip or deform. Materials like composite combined with thicker sidewalls and holes offer the most sidewall strength and stringing hole durability.

Lacrosse Heads Endorsed by Professional Players

When researching which lacrosse head to buy, consider those endorsed and used by professional lacrosse players. Pros have extensive experience testing heads, so getting a model they use can give you confidence in its quality and performance.

Most major lacrosse brands feature endorsements from top pro players for their heads. These players often provide input into improving head designs and models each year for optimal playability. If a pro trusts a head in Major League Lacrosse games, you know the head will hold up for anyone.

Some of the top pro-endorsed lacrosse heads include:

• Maverik Optic by Paul Rabil
• Warrior Evo 5 by Myles Jones
• Epoch Hawk by Tom Schreiber
• Nike Vandal by Kyle Harrison
• STX Surgeon 700 by Kyle Hartzell

Maverik designed the Optic head with input from Paul Rabil, one of the sports’ greatest midfielders. Its carbon fiber scoop and optimized face shape improve control, just like Rabil uses for MLL faceoffs and shots.

Warrior’s Evo 5 line evolved through insights from standout midfielder Myles Jones. The Evo 5 gives players the quick release and hold Jones demands for pro-level play.

Tom Schreiber helped engineer Epoch’s Hawk head for control, passing, and shooting like he displays for the Archers. The Hawk maximizes Schreiber’s field vision and hands with its stiff scoop and sidewalls.

For defensive checks and causing turnovers, Kyle Hartzell provided guidance on STX’s Surgeon 700 head. It has ideal flare and scoop flexibility to emulate Hartzell’s pro-level defense.

Nike featured Kyle Harrison when designing the wider face shape of the Vandal head. This improves Harrison’s catching and shooting accuracy on tough shots.

In summary, heads tested and approved by professional lacrosse players make smart purchases. Their expertise in faceoffs, passing, shooting, and checking validates top-performing heads for any player’s game.

Pros and Cons of Lacrosse Head Materials

Lacrosse heads come in different materials, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each when choosing which to buy. The main materials for heads are plastic, composite, and metal/titanium alloy.

Plastic heads are the most common and affordable option. They provide good durability with some flexibility. However, fully plastic heads can lack structural stiffness, especially in the scoop area. Plastic is also prone to cracking over time.

Composite lacrosse heads blend plastics with carbon fiber or other rigid materials for added stiffness in key areas. The carbon limits flex and increases strength with only a slight weight increase. Composites cost more than plastics but deliver better performance and durability.

Metal alloy heads made with titanium provide the most stiffness and durability. But they have significant weight increases that can slow down play. Titanium alloy heads are also the most expensive option.

Here are some examples of different material lacrosse heads:

• Plastic – STX Stallion 700, Maverik Charger
• Composite – Epoch Hawk, Maverik Optic
• Metal Alloy – Warrior Titan, Brine Clutch Ti

The plastic STX Stallion 700 and Maverik Charger provide good flexibility and ball feel at lower cost. But they won’t match composite or metal heads in structural stiffness and durability.

Composite heads like Epoch’s Hawk and Maverik’s Optic offer pros like better scoop rigidity and improved ball control during faceoffs and passes. But composites do cost more than basic plastics.

Metal lacrosse heads deliver unmatched stiffness and durability to maintain their shape and performance. But heavier alloy materials can tire out players’ hands and arms sooner compared to plastic and composite options.

Consider how you balance cost, weight, stiffness, durability, and flexibility when choosing a lacrosse head material. Plastics offer affordability while composites deliver optimal blend of strength, stiffness, and weight for most players.

Lacrosse Head Features – Offset and Face Shape

Two key features to evaluate when choosing a lacrosse head are the offset and face shape. Offset refers to the position of the scoop relative to the handle, while face shape impacts passing, catching, and shooting.

Heads with higher offset have the scoop positioned farther from the handle end. This gives players more leverage and whip on shots. Low offset heads place the scoop closer to the handle for added control.

Midfielders often benefit from higher offset heads for extra power on shots. Attackmen and defenders may opt for lower offsets for better ball control.

The face shape affects how the head catches and directs balls during play. Wider, more rounded faces give you a bigger sweet spot to catch errant passes. Narrower faces allow for greater ball retention and accurate shooting.

Some examples of different offset and face shapes:

• High offset, rounded face – Maverik Kinetik
• Low offset, rounded face – Epoch Hawk
• High offset, narrow face – Warrior Evo 5
• Low offset, narrow face – Stringking Mark 2F

The Maverik Kinetik has high offset and a wider, curved face shape to increase power and catching range for midfielders.

Epoch’s Hawk head places the scoop closer to the handle with a rounded mid-face for balanced control and catching ability as a versatile option.

The Warrior Evo 5 positions the scoop farther from the handle to generate harder midfield shots. Its narrower channel focuses energy transfer.

Stringking’s Mark 2F has low offset and a narrow face to give attackmen great hold and passing precision.

Think about your position, shooting, and passing style when considering lacrosse head offset and face shape features. A wider, highly offset head maximizes power while a lower, narrower head improves handling and accuracy.

Ideal Lacrosse Head Weight by Position

Lacrosse head weight is an important factor to consider based on your position. A heavier head provides more power on shots but can cause fatigue. Lighter heads are easier to handle with quicker releases.

For midfielders, a head in the 5-6 ounce range typically works best. This gives enough heft for good ball retention and decent shot power without being too heavy to transition up and down the field.

Attackmen tend to favor lighter heads in the 4-5 ounce range for better stick handling, passing, and quick shooting. The lower weight allows them to cradle and move the ball smoothly during dodges.

Defenders need a balance of ball control and checking strength, so a 5-6 ounce head is optimal. This gives defensemen enough weight to throw effective checks while not tiring out their arms.

Goalies prefer slightly heavier heads in the 6-7 ounce range for stopping high-velocity shots. The extra weight helps goalies withstand hard shots while clearing the ball effectively.

Here are examples of properly weighted heads by position:

• Midfielder – Maverik Optic (5.8oz)
• Attack – Epoch Hawk (4.5oz)
• Defense – Warrior Regulator (5.5oz)
• Goalie – STX Eclipse (6.5oz)

The Maverik Optic provides midfielders enough heft for great shots without weighing them down in transition.

Epoch’s Hawk gives attackmen quick handling and release due to its lighter composite material.

The Warrior Regulator balances defensemen’s checking and ball control needs with its mid-range 5.5oz weight.

The STX Eclipse has optimal weight for goalies to absorb heavy shots while still clearing smoothly.

Consider the specific weight demands of your position when choosing a lacrosse head. Midfielders and defenders need moderate heft, attackmen want lightness, and goalies require more weighted heads.

Lacrosse Head Pocket Depth by Playing Style

Lacrosse head pocket depth is another key factor to evaluate based on your playing style and position. The depth of the pocket affects ball retention, handling, and shot release.

For midfielders taking faceoffs, shallower pockets from 1.5-2 inches help grip and control the ball off the draw. Midfielders looking for quicker shots can also use shallower pockets.

Attackmen generally like medium pockets with 2-2.5 inches of depth. This gives excellent hold on the ball during dodges while allowing clean catches on passes.

Defenders need pockets with 2-2.5 inches of depth as well to protect the ball when picking up ground balls or intercepting passes.

Goalies prefer deeper pockets around 3 inches deep to help trap high-speed shots and keep the ball contained on clears.

Some examples of properly pocketed heads by position:

• Midfielder – Stringking Mark 2F (1.5″
• Attack – ECD Rebel O (2.25″)
• Defense – Maverik Tank (2.5″)
• Goalie – Warrior Nemesis (3″)

The Stringking Mark 2F has a shallow 1.5″ pocket designed for controlling faceoffs and quick midfield shots.

ECD’s Rebel O features a medium 2.25″ pocket ideal for attackmen’s handling and passing needs.

Maverik’s Tank head works well for defense with its 2.5″ pocket depth to protect ground balls and intercepts.

The Warrior Nemesis goalie head utilizes a deeper 3″ pocket to improve stopping power on saves.

Based on your position and style, look for heads with optimized pocket depths. Shallower for faceoffs and quick shots, medium for handling, and deeper for stopping power.

Shopping for Lacrosse Heads in Different Price Ranges

Lacrosse heads come in a wide range of prices from budget-friendly to premium-level. Here is what you can expect in different lacrosse head price tiers when shopping.

Under $50 – Heads in this lowest price range provide decent quality at an affordable cost. They are great for new players and spare heads. But don’t expect advanced materials or technologies. Popular options: STX Stallion 500, Maverik Charger.

$50-$100 – This is the medium price range where most recreational and high school players can find a quality head. You get features like strut or truss sidewall supports and improved durability. Popular options: Warrior Evo 3, Maverik Optic.

$100-$150 – Stepping up to this price point gives you pro-level lacrosse heads. These feature premium materials like composite, optimized face shapes, and professional player endorsements. Popular options: Epoch Hawk, Warrior Burn FO.

$150+ – Only elite players need heads in this ultra-premium bracket. You pay for the most advanced engineering with aircraft grade alloys, carbon fiber, and nanomaterials. Popular options: Warrior Titan, Gait Ice.

When factoring price into your lacrosse head purchase, consider your skill level, position needs, and budget limitations. Newer players can start under $50, then upgrade around $75-$100 as they improve. Experienced high school and college players will utilize heads in the $100-$150 range for optimal performance during competitive play.

While premium materials and technologies can enhance heads, proper stringing and fundamentals matter more than price. Focus on heads with features that match your position and skills rather than paying for unnecessary extras.

With the range of pricing in lacrosse heads today, players at all levels can find quality equipment to fit their budget and help elevate their game through smarter purchasing decisions.

Reading Lacrosse Head Reviews Before Buying

Before purchasing a new lacrosse head, it’s wise to read lacrosse head reviews online from other players. Reviews can provide key details on a head’s performance, durability, and value from real experience that company marketing claims may not reveal.

Look for lacrosse head reviews on sites dedicated to lacrosse gear reviews and forums. Helpful reviews will go deeper into factors like a head’s stiffness, ball control, shooting and scooping ability based on the reviewer’s position and style of play.

Useful reviews will also cover the durability of the materials, stringing holes, sidewalls, and scoop after heavy usage. This helps determine if the head will maintain its structural integrity over time or is prone to warping, cracking, or breaking.

Reviews by players at your position – attack, midfield, defense, goalie – are ideal to get a sense of the head’s performance for how you play. A review by a midfielder may focus on faceoff performance that a goalie may not need to know as much about.

When reading reviews, look for consistent feedback across multiple reviewers rather than relying on just one person’s opinion. Also be wary of overly negative, critical reviews that may reflect user error or atypical experiences not seen by most players.

Trusted lacrosse head reviews balance relevant performance details and durability insights with measured, fair assessments of a head’s strengths and weaknesses. This helps buyers make informed decisions when selecting the right head for their budget and needs.

Relying solely on the company’s marketing claims can miss key performance drawbacks only revealed through actual gameplay. Detailed lacrosse head reviews fill that gap with transparent evaluations from real on-field testing. Taking the time to research reviews pays off in making smarter purchases.

Where to Buy Lacrosse Heads Online or In Stores

Lacrosse heads can be purchased both online and in retail stores. Here are the pros and cons of buying lacrosse heads through each channel:

Online:

• Pros: Wider selection of brands/models, discounted pricing, convenient home delivery
• Cons: No ability to see product in person, shipping delays, restocking fees on returns

Buying lacrosse heads online provides convenient access to the widest range of products that may not be carried locally. Top lacrosse sites like Lax.com, UniversalLacrosse, and LacrosseMonkey offer all the major gear brands at discounted pricing with fast shipping.

The downside of online purchasing is you cannot physically examine or hold the head before buying. Restocking fees can also cut into returns if the head does not meet expectations. Shipping delays could leave you waiting to get a head you need for an upcoming game.

In Stores:

• Pros: Can see/feel product in person, instant gratification purchasing, easy returns
• Cons: Limited inventory, higher prices, need to visit store

The benefit of buying heads at local lacrosse specialty stores or sporting goods chains is you can pick up and inspect gear before purchasing. Returns and exchanges are also easier by bringing the product directly back to the store.

The small inventory at stores is the tradeoff, as you may not find the specific head you want. Store prices also tend to be higher than online discounts. You need to make a trip to the store rather than buying from home.

Consider factors like selection, pricing, convenience, and customer service when choosing where to buy your next lacrosse head. Balancing online selection with in-store inspection can ensure the optimal purchasing experience.

Stringing Traditional Lacrosse Heads

Stringing a traditional lacrosse head requires learning techniques for attaching the leathers and meshes to optimize pocket depth, hold, and ball control. Here are some stringing tips for traditional heads:

Start by determining the ideal pocket depth based on your position and preferences. Shallower 1-2 inch pockets improve control for faceoffs and quick passing. Deeper 2-3 inch pockets provide superior hold and handling.

Use higher quality leathers in key areas like the top rails and shooting strings. This increases durability and performance. Waxed mesh gives better water resistance and ball control.

String the sidewall leathers in a looser, zig-zag pattern to deepen the pocket. Tighter vertical sidewall strings make a shallower channel. Adjust sidewall tension to fine-tune pocket depth.

Weave the shooting strings in a crisscross pattern and thread the V shooting cord end to end for maximum ball control and hold on passes and shots.

Place the nylon cross-lacing lower in the head and widely spaced to form nice pocket bags along the sides. This helps secure the ball in the sweet spot.

Double up thicker laces on the bottom string and wraps around the scoop. This adds structure and stability to the base of the pocket.

Remember to keep the sidewall strings symmetrical on both sides. Pockets strung unevenly impede passing and shooting accuracy.

Adjusting string placement, leather types, tension, and pocket depth over time lets you customize the head’s throw, hold, and break-in to your game. Re-stringing sections as leathers stretch out helps maintain optimal pocket performance.

Patience and practice lead to mastery stringing traditional lacrosse heads. Focus on fundamental techniques for crisscrossed sidewall and shooting leathers, graduated pocket depth, and lace durability to deliver ideal ball control and handling for your game.