The Best Lacrosse Mesh for Top ECD StringersThe Best Lacrosse Mesh for Top ECD Stringers
Faceoff Mesh Dominates College Fields
ECD Hero 2.0 Improves Ball Control
Soft Mesh Great For Beginners
Weatherproof Materials Resist Water
Diamond Mesh Easy To String
Waxed Mesh Holds Shape Longer
ecd faceoff mesh
ecd 2.0 mesh
tight channel improves accuracy
Low pocket depth for quick release
Hero Mesh Great For Middies
Run Away Mesh For Faster Shots
Soft Mesh Cushions Hard Shots
Custom Stringing Options
Choosing The Right Pocket Depth
Diamond Mesh Holds Its Shape
Diamond mesh holds its shape better than other types, making it easy to string tight channels and lower pockets. The structure leads to increased ball control and accurate passing and shooting. While not as soft as hero mesh, the diamonds provide enough cushioning for all-around play.
Soft Hero Mesh Excels at Cradling
Soft hero meshes like ECD Hero 2.0 blend the best aspects of softness and structure. The soft feel makes it easy to cradle the ball, especially on the run. With weatherproof materials, hero mesh pockets resist water for maintaining optimal ball control. The softness cushions passes, improving feel.
Pocket Depth Matters
Midfielders prefer shallow to mid-depth pockets for quick releases when feeding the crease. Attackmen often like mid-deep pockets for holding the ball securely while dodging defenders. Faceoff specialists need pockets with ideal grip and release characteristics to gain possession off the draw.
Weatherproof Mesh Materials
Whether playing in rain, snow, or heat, today’s lacrosse meshes stand up to the elements. Brands like ECD use materials designed to resist water and maintain shape in wet conditions. Pockets glide smoothly even when wet for consistent performance.
Custom Stringing Options
Every player has unique preferences for pocket placement, depth, and channel configuration. Brands like ECD allow for customized stringing so players can get the exact pocket performance they want. Experienced stringers can fine tune pockets for individual needs.
With the right mesh and stringing, lacrosse players can maximize ball control, passing, catching, and shooting. Parameters like weatherproofing, softness, structure, and customization allow players to tailor pockets to their position and style of play.
ECD Hero 2.0 Improves Ball Control
The ECD Hero 2.0 mesh utilizes a soft, flexible nylon/polyester blend designed for excellent ball control. The materials provide just the right amount of give to cushion passes and shots, while still maintaining shape and structure. Players report the Hero 2.0 pocket “hugs” the ball, making it easy to cradle and transition from cradling to passing or shooting.
In addition to softness, the Hero 2.0 mesh maintains its pocket structure over time. Some meshes can bag out or lose their shape, but Hero 2.0 pockets maintain defined sidewall stiffeners and mid-channel rails even after heavy use. This consistency leads to reliable ball control day after day.
For players who prize ball control above all else, the ECD Hero 2.0 mesh brings soft feel without sacrificing shape and definition. From attackmen dodging through traffic to faceoff specialists gripping ground balls, the Hero 2.0 gives players an edge with its unique blend of flexibility and structure.
Soft Mesh Great For Beginners
ECD Hero 2.0: The Game-Changer in Ball Control
When it comes to ball control, the ECD Hero 2.0 mesh is revolutionizing the game. This advanced mesh combines softness with structure, offering players an unparalleled feel for the ball.
The Hero 2.0 utilizes a unique nylon/polyester blend that provides just the right amount of give to cushion passes and shots while maintaining its shape over time. Players report that the pocket seems to “hug” the ball, making cradling and transitioning between cradling, passing, and shooting seamless.
Key Features of ECD Hero 2.0 Mesh:
- Soft, flexible material for excellent ball control
- Maintains pocket structure even after heavy use
- Defined sidewall stiffeners and mid-channel rails for consistency
- Weatherproof materials for all-condition performance
Who benefits most from the Hero 2.0 mesh? Attackmen dodging through traffic and midfielders who need quick, reliable transitions find the Hero 2.0 particularly advantageous. The unique blend of flexibility and structure gives players an edge in maintaining possession and executing precise passes and shots.
Soft Mesh: The Perfect Starting Point for Beginners
For those new to lacrosse, soft mesh can be a game-changer in building confidence and developing fundamental skills. But why is soft mesh particularly beneficial for beginners?
Soft mesh, like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Runaway, is constructed using softer nylon strands. This increased flexibility provides several advantages for new players:
- Cushions inaccurate passes, making catching easier
- Requires no breaking-in period, allowing immediate use
- Provides valuable feedback for developing smooth cradling technique
- Helps beginners focus on fundamentals without fighting a stiff pocket
Does soft mesh have any drawbacks? While excellent for beginners, advanced players often find soft mesh lacks the structure needed for more precise ball control and shooting accuracy. As players progress, they typically transition to more structured mesh types.
Weatherproof Mesh: Performing in All Conditions
Modern lacrosse demands equipment that can withstand various weather conditions. Weatherproof mesh materials have become a game-changer, allowing players to maintain consistent performance regardless of the elements.
Brands like Stringking and ECD utilize proprietary nylons and polyesters that resist absorbing water. This innovation addresses a significant issue with traditional cotton meshes, which would become heavy and soggy when wet, leading to decreased ball control.
Advantages of Weatherproof Mesh:
- Maintains shape and performance in wet conditions
- Repels moisture for consistent throwing and catching
- Some meshes incorporate hydrophobic nanocoatings for enhanced water resistance
- Performs well in rain, snow, or extreme heat
How does weatherproof mesh compare to traditional materials in dry conditions? Many players find that high-quality weatherproof mesh performs just as well, if not better, than traditional materials even in ideal weather, making it a versatile choice for all-season play.
Diamond Mesh: The Key to Shape Retention and Accuracy
Diamond mesh has gained popularity among players seeking a perfect balance between structure and performance. But what makes diamond mesh stand out from other types?
The unique structure of diamond mesh allows it to hold its shape better than many other mesh types. This characteristic provides several advantages:
- Easier to string tight channels and lower pockets
- Increased ball control due to consistent pocket shape
- Improved accuracy in passing and shooting
- Maintains structure while still providing adequate cushioning
Is diamond mesh suitable for all playing styles? While not as soft as hero mesh, the diamond structure provides enough cushioning for all-around play, making it a versatile choice for various positions and skill levels.
Waxed Mesh: Extended Shape Retention for Consistent Play
Waxed mesh has carved out a niche in the lacrosse world, offering players extended shape retention and unique performance characteristics. But what exactly is waxed mesh, and how does it benefit players?
Waxed mesh is treated with a special coating that helps it maintain its shape for longer periods. This treatment provides several advantages:
- Resists bagging out, maintaining pocket depth and shape
- Provides a tacky surface for improved ball control
- Often performs well in wet conditions due to water-resistant properties
- Requires less frequent restringing or adjustment
Are there any drawbacks to waxed mesh? Some players find that waxed mesh can feel stiffer, especially when new, and may require a longer break-in period compared to untreated mesh. However, many players feel the benefits outweigh this initial stiffness.
Custom Stringing: Tailoring Your Pocket for Optimal Performance
While the type of mesh is crucial, how it’s strung can make or break a player’s performance. Custom stringing options allow players to fine-tune their pockets to match their specific needs and playing style.
Brands like ECD offer customization services, but many players also learn to string their own pockets. Custom stringing allows for adjustments in several key areas:
- Pocket depth and placement
- Channel width and tension
- Sidewall pattern for specific release points
- Shooters strings configuration for ball flight control
How does custom stringing impact different positions? Each position benefits from specific stringing techniques. For example, attackmen often prefer deeper pockets for ball security during dodges, while midfielders might opt for a mid-depth pocket for quicker releases.
Position-Specific Stringing Considerations:
- Attackmen: Deeper pockets for ball retention during dodges
- Midfielders: Mid-depth pockets for versatile play and quick releases
- Defensemen: Higher pockets for easier ground ball pickups and long passes
- Goalies: Wide, deep pockets for maximum ball stopping area
Can custom stringing compensate for mesh type limitations? To some extent, yes. Skilled stringers can often mitigate certain mesh characteristics through creative stringing techniques, but the inherent properties of the mesh will always play a significant role in overall pocket performance.
Pocket Depth: Finding the Sweet Spot for Your Position
Pocket depth is a critical factor in a player’s ability to control, pass, and shoot the ball effectively. Different positions often require varying pocket depths to optimize performance. But how do you determine the ideal pocket depth for your playing style?
Pocket Depth Preferences by Position:
- Midfielders: Shallow to mid-depth pockets for quick releases when feeding the crease
- Attackmen: Mid to deep pockets for secure ball control while dodging defenders
- Defensemen: Higher, shallower pockets for easier ground ball pickups and long clearing passes
- Faceoff Specialists: Specialized pockets with ideal grip and release characteristics
Is there a universal “best” pocket depth? No, the ideal pocket depth varies based on position, playing style, and personal preference. Many players experiment with different depths before finding their sweet spot.
How does pocket depth affect shot speed and accuracy? Generally, deeper pockets allow for more powerful shots but can sacrifice some accuracy, while shallower pockets offer quicker releases and potentially more accurate passes and shots.
The Impact of Mesh on Shooting and Passing Accuracy
The choice of mesh can significantly influence a player’s shooting and passing accuracy. Different mesh types offer varying levels of hold, channel consistency, and release characteristics. But how exactly does mesh affect these crucial aspects of the game?
Mesh Characteristics and Their Impact on Accuracy:
- Stiffness: Stiffer mesh often provides more consistent releases, potentially improving accuracy
- Channel: Mesh that holds its shape well can maintain a tighter channel, enhancing ball direction control
- Texture: Some mesh types offer a grippier texture, allowing for better ball control during cradling and release
- Pocket Formation: Certain meshes allow for more precise pocket shaping, enabling players to dial in their preferred release point
Does weather affect mesh performance in terms of accuracy? Yes, some mesh types perform better in wet conditions, maintaining their shape and release characteristics. Weatherproof meshes often excel in maintaining consistent accuracy across various weather conditions.
Can mesh choice compensate for technique issues? While good mesh can enhance a player’s natural abilities, it’s important to note that proper technique is fundamental. The best mesh won’t fix poor shooting or passing form, but it can help good technique translate into great performance.
Breaking In New Mesh: Tips and Techniques
New lacrosse mesh often requires a breaking-in period to achieve optimal performance. The process of breaking in mesh can significantly impact how it performs on the field. But what are the best methods for breaking in new mesh, and how long does it typically take?
Effective Breaking-In Techniques:
- Wall Ball: Repeatedly throwing against a wall helps form the pocket and soften the mesh
- Cradling: Regular cradling motions help shape the pocket to your specific style
- Hot Water Treatment: Some players use hot water to speed up the breaking-in process (caution: this may affect mesh durability)
- Continuous Play: Regular use in practices and games naturally breaks in the mesh over time
How long does it typically take to break in new mesh? The time can vary depending on the mesh type and breaking-in method. Some meshes are game-ready immediately, while others might take several weeks of regular use to reach peak performance.
Are there any risks to accelerated breaking-in methods? Some aggressive breaking-in techniques, like the hot water method, can potentially reduce the lifespan of the mesh or alter its intended characteristics. It’s often best to break in mesh through natural play whenever possible.
Maintenance and Care for Lacrosse Mesh
Proper maintenance of lacrosse mesh can significantly extend its lifespan and maintain its performance characteristics. But what are the best practices for caring for different types of lacrosse mesh?
Essential Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Rinse with clean water after play, especially if exposed to mud or salt water
- Proper Drying: Allow mesh to air dry completely before storage to prevent mold growth
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your stick in hot cars or freezing conditions
- Restringing: Periodically restring your stick to maintain optimal pocket shape
- Protection: Use a stick bag to protect your mesh when not in use
How often should mesh be replaced? The frequency of replacement depends on usage and care. With proper maintenance, high-quality mesh can last an entire season or longer. However, if you notice significant bagging out or inconsistent performance, it may be time for a replacement.
Are there specific care instructions for weatherproof or waxed mesh? While these types are generally more resistant to environmental factors, they still benefit from regular cleaning and proper storage. Avoid using harsh chemicals or heat treatments, which can degrade the special coatings on these meshes.
The Future of Lacrosse Mesh: Innovations on the Horizon
The world of lacrosse mesh is constantly evolving, with manufacturers continually pushing the boundaries of material science and design. But what innovations can players expect to see in the coming years, and how might they impact the game?
Emerging Trends in Lacrosse Mesh Technology:
- Smart Mesh: Integration of sensors for performance tracking and analysis
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Sustainable and biodegradable mesh options
- Adaptive Mesh: Materials that adjust properties based on playing conditions
- Hybrid Designs: Combining different mesh types for optimized performance
- Customization Technologies: 3D-printed mesh for perfectly tailored pockets
How might these innovations change the game of lacrosse? These advancements could potentially lead to more precise play, improved player development through data analysis, and reduced environmental impact from equipment production.
Will new mesh technologies be allowed in official play? As with any equipment innovations, new mesh technologies will likely need to go through approval processes with governing bodies to ensure they maintain the integrity of the game while enhancing player performance.
The future of lacrosse mesh looks bright, with potential advancements that could revolutionize how players interact with their equipment and approach the game. As these innovations continue to develop, players at all levels may find new ways to enhance their skills and enjoyment of the sport.
Faceoff Mesh Dominates College Fields
ECD Hero 2.0 Improves Ball Control
Soft Mesh Great For Beginners
Weatherproof Materials Resist Water
Diamond Mesh Easy To String
Waxed Mesh Holds Shape Longer
ecd faceoff mesh
ecd 2.0 mesh
tight channel improves accuracy
Low pocket depth for quick release
Hero Mesh Great For Middies
Run Away Mesh For Faster Shots
Soft Mesh Cushions Hard Shots
Custom Stringing Options
Choosing The Right Pocket Depth
Diamond Mesh Holds Its Shape
Diamond mesh holds its shape better than other types, making it easy to string tight channels and lower pockets. The structure leads to increased ball control and accurate passing and shooting. While not as soft as hero mesh, the diamonds provide enough cushioning for all-around play.
Soft Hero Mesh Excels at Cradling
Soft hero meshes like ECD Hero 2.0 blend the best aspects of softness and structure. The soft feel makes it easy to cradle the ball, especially on the run. With weatherproof materials, hero mesh pockets resist water for maintaining optimal ball control. The softness cushions passes, improving feel.
Pocket Depth Matters
Midfielders prefer shallow to mid-depth pockets for quick releases when feeding the crease. Attackmen often like mid-deep pockets for holding the ball securely while dodging defenders. Faceoff specialists need pockets with ideal grip and release characteristics to gain possession off the draw.
Weatherproof Mesh Materials
Whether playing in rain, snow, or heat, today’s lacrosse meshes stand up to the elements. Brands like ECD use materials designed to resist water and maintain shape in wet conditions. Pockets glide smoothly even when wet for consistent performance.
Custom Stringing Options
Every player has unique preferences for pocket placement, depth, and channel configuration. Brands like ECD allow for customized stringing so players can get the exact pocket performance they want. Experienced stringers can fine tune pockets for individual needs.
With the right mesh and stringing, lacrosse players can maximize ball control, passing, catching, and shooting. Parameters like weatherproofing, softness, structure, and customization allow players to tailor pockets to their position and style of play.
ECD Hero 2.0 Improves Ball Control
The ECD Hero 2.0 mesh utilizes a soft, flexible nylon/polyester blend designed for excellent ball control. The materials provide just the right amount of give to cushion passes and shots, while still maintaining shape and structure. Players report the Hero 2.0 pocket “hugs” the ball, making it easy to cradle and transition from cradling to passing or shooting.
In addition to softness, the Hero 2.0 mesh maintains its pocket structure over time. Some meshes can bag out or lose their shape, but Hero 2.0 pockets maintain defined sidewall stiffeners and mid-channel rails even after heavy use. This consistency leads to reliable ball control day after day.
For players who prize ball control above all else, the ECD Hero 2.0 mesh brings soft feel without sacrificing shape and definition. From attackmen dodging through traffic to faceoff specialists gripping ground balls, the Hero 2.0 gives players an edge with its unique blend of flexibility and structure.
Soft Mesh Great For Beginners
For newcomers to the sport, a soft mesh can help build confidence catching and throwing. While structured meshes require breaking in, soft meshes are game-ready right off the stick. The flexibility cushions passes from teammates learning proper technique.
Soft meshes like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Runaway are constructed using softer nylon strands. This gives the pocket more give for absorbing inaccurate throws. New players can focus on developing fundamentals without fighting a stiff pocket.
In addition to catching, soft mesh makes throwing fundamentals easier to learn. The mesh gives on cradle attempts, helping beginners practice keeping the pocket to the outside. Softness provides valuable feedback for developing smooth cradling technique.
While advanced players often prefer more structured pockets, soft mesh accelerates beginners’ development. By taking the sting out of catching and throwing, soft mesh builds confidence and skills in early learning stages.
Weatherproof Materials Resist Water
Modern lacrosse meshes utilize weatherproof materials that maintain their shape and performance in wet conditions. Brands like Stringking and ECD use proprietary nylons and polyesters that resist absorbing water weight.
When traditional cotton meshes get wet, the added water weight can lead to decreased ball control and soggy pockets. Newer synthetics shed water far better. Sidewalls and pocket nylons repel moisture for consistent throwing and catching.
Some meshes even incorporate coatings to further improve water resistance. For example, ECD’s Hero 2.0 mesh has an integrated nanocoating to create a hydrophobic barrier. This prevents the mesh from getting waterlogged in the rain.
Lacrosse is played in all conditions, from blazing heat to pouring rain. Thanks to weatherproof materials, today’s meshes provide all-weather grip and performance to step up your game year-round.
Diamond Mesh Easy To String
Diamond mesh gets its name from the distinctive crisscross diamond pattern. This uniform structure makes diamond mesh one of the easiest to string into defined pockets.
The clearly defined diamonds provide consistent holes for stringing rails and stitches. This allows stringers to weave consistent sidewall stiffeners and mid-channel nylon. The result is pockets with tight channels and defined shape.
While soft mesh can shift during stringing, diamond mesh holds its form. The rigid diamonds maintain the intended pocket shape through the stringing process. This makes it easy for stringers to achieve the desired pocket configuration.
For players looking for a structured, consistent pocket, diamond mesh is a top choice. The uniform diamonds make it easy to string tight channels and mid-pocket flex points for great ball control.
Waxed Mesh Holds Shape Longer
Wax coatings help lacrosse mesh maintain its shape over prolonged use. The wax provides stiffness that prevents the mesh diamonds from collapsing or deforming too much. This preserves the pocket shape for consistent throwing and catching.
Waxed meshes like Stringking Mark 2F or ECD Runaway include either a factory wax coating or wax treatment instructions. The wax fills the holes in the mesh, controlling stretch. It also weatherproofs the materials against moisture.
As players break in an untreated mesh, it can bag out and lose its structure. Wax supports the shape so pockets maintain defined sidewalls and channel nylon. This improves pocket consistency through the life of the mesh.
For field players and faceoff specialists who rely on an optimized pocket, waxed mesh is a smart option. The wax treatment preserves the pocket shape for consistent performance game after game.
ecd faceoff mesh
When every possession matters, faceoff specialists choose an ECD faceoff mesh for its grip and control. ECD meshes like Swagger X provide the ideal blend of softness and structure to gain leverage on clamps and scoops.
The partially waxed surface provides just the right tackiness to corral ground balls. Strategically placed interwoven shooters maintain the pocket shape for quick transitions from grip to passing. The diamonds absorb checks while retaining definition.
ECD engineers its faceoff meshes from the ground up for the unique demands of draws. The materials withstand elbows and knees while retaining shape through extreme warping. Stiff sidewalls prevent the ball from jamming to retain possession through contact.
Winning clamps, controlling ground balls, and quick outlets require a mesh optimized for faceoffs. The ECD faceoff lineup provides the grip, feel, and consistency that give specialists an edge in the first moments of possession.
ecd 2.0 mesh
The ECD 2.0 mesh builds upon the popularity of the original Hero mesh. By optimizing the materials and construction, ECD created a next generation mesh with improved consistency and durability.
The 2.0 mesh utilizes a proprietary blend of materials for the ideal flex and structure balance. Nylon and polyester fibers interlock to better maintain shape through stringing and break-in. The materials resist bagging out or losing definition.
Enhancements to the 2.0 include a nanocoating for water resistance and coated sidewalls for abrasion resistance. This results in a more weatherproof, long-lasting pocket. The coatings also improve grip in wet conditions.
With the ECD 2.0 mesh, ECD took athlete feedback and refined the Hero to achieve better performance. The materials, coatings, and construction come together to provide next level feel, consistency, and durability demanded by players.
Hero Mesh Great For Middies
The versatility and ball control of hero mesh makes it a top choice for midfielders. Brands like ECD Hero excel at cushioning passes across the middle while retaining pocket shape through contact.
The softer hero materials absorb checks better than stiff meshes. This allows middies to hang onto the ball when hammered by poles on crosses. A hero mesh also provides superior ball feel for snagging feeds in traffic.
When transitioning to offense, hero mesh pockets hold their shape for quick stingers down the alley. The defined pocket and mid-channel nylon provide great control dodging to cage. On rides and clears, hero mesh excels at securing ground balls.
Overall, hero mesh perfectly matches midfielders’ needs to handle passes, absorb contact, rip shots, and pick up ground balls. Its unique blend of softness and structure is ideal for the two-way play demanded of middies.
Soft Mesh Cushions Hard Shots
One of the main benefits of soft lacrosse mesh is cushioning. The flexible nylon strands provide give to absorb the impact of passes and shots. This helps take the sting out of rifle throws from teammates.
Soft meshes like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Runaway utilize more flexible nylon to create a softer feel. While lacking the structure of stiffer meshes, the material absorbs energy better. The pocket gives slightly to take the bite out of whippy passes.
For players with sensitive hands or playing through injury, soft mesh can make catching more comfortable. The mesh cushions the ball’s impact rather than forcing the player’s hands to absorb all the energy.
While not for every player, soft mesh excels at cushioning hard throws. The flexible materials provide a touch more forgiveness that some players appreciate for reducing hand sting.
Custom Stringing Options
Today’s lacrosse mesh allows for extensive customization through stringing to match individual playing styles. Brands like ECD and Stringking offer kits with multiple mesh options to string into your perfect pocket.
Factors like diamond size, material stiffness, pre-formed shape, and wax coating provide the foundation. Expert stringers then weave pockets with defined sidewalls, mid-channel nylon, and shooter lace configurations.
Mesh stringing tailors pocket placement, ball position, whip, hold, and release point. A shallower pocket improves quickness while a deeper setup increases hold. Shooters control ball trajectory. Sidewall stiffness optimizes channel shape.
Taking advantage of custom stringing helps optimize your pocket feel and performance. Dialing in pocket specifics through mesh selection and stringing creates consistent throwing, catching, and shooting.
Choosing The Right Pocket Depth
Pocket depth is one of the most important customizations for lacrosse mesh. The ideal depth depends on playing style, position, and preference. In general, shallower pockets optimize quickness while deeper pockets prioritize security.
Attackmen tend to prefer mid-deep to deep pockets for cradling in traffic and quick sticks around the crease. Midfielders often like more mid-depth pockets for quick release in transition. Faceoff specialists need strong gripping power for clamps.
Stringing allows pockets to be customized from shallow to deep. Shooters, sidewall stiffness, channel configuration, and gathering the diamonds all impact depth. Trying different setups is key to dialing in your ideal pocket.
Work with your stringer to accurately describe your needs in a pocket. The materials and stringing can then come together to optimize ball control, hold, whip, release, and other pocket performance factors.