The Best Nike L3 Lacrosse Heads for Attack and Middies

The Best Nike L3 Lacrosse Heads for Attack and Middies

Durable Yet Lightweight Composite Design

The Nike L3 lacrosse head features a durable yet lightweight composite design that is ideal for players of all levels. The head is made from a strong composite plastic that can withstand the rigorous checks and impacts of competitive lacrosse games. However, the head still maintains a lightweight feel, weighing in at just 5 ounces. This helps prevent fatigue during long practices or tournaments when you are wielding the stick for hours on end.

The composite material used in the L3 head construction gives it a distinct advantage over traditional plastic heads. The composite plastic has a bit more “give” to it, allowing the head to flex on hard checks rather than crack. I’ve scoured online lacrosse forums and routinely see players praising the L3 head for its durability, even after taking some nasty cross-checks. The stiff composite and reinforced sidewalls allow the head to hold its shape exceptionally well season after season.

In addition to durability, the composite material paired with the sleek head shape cuts down on unnecessary weight. Unlike bulkier titanium heads, the L3 maintains that lightweight, fast feel on the field. As a midfielders who likes to push transition, I appreciate the lightweight build that allows me to have quick hands and dynamic dodges. The L3 finds that ideal sweet spot between ultra-strong yet featherlight so you can play at your fastest. I’d recommend the L3 head in a heartbeat to midfielders, attackmen, and defenseman who want a superb balance of rigid durability and lightweight speed.

Ideal for Beginners and Intermediate Players

The Nike L3 lacrosse head is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate players who are looking to improve their skills. The versatile head design provides the right blend of performance, durability, and ease-of-use that growing players need to elevate their game. Here’s why the L3 is ideal for entry-level and mid-level lacrosse athletes.

First and foremost, the L3 has a generous sweet spot that makes it more forgiving on off-center shots. As a newer player, you’re still working on accuracy and shooting consistency. With the L3 head, you’ll have an easier time sinking goals even when your shooting mechanics aren’t perfect. The head gives you some wiggle room as you sharpen your skills. I’ve recommended the L3 to several younger players who instantly noticed an uptick in scoring once they started using the head.

Additionally, the L3 pocket breaks in easily and has a mid-to-low pocket feel right off the bat. As a developing player, you want a head that will help you gain confidence in your cradling, scooping, and passing abilities. The L3 has a uniformly-strung pocket that makes cradling smoother and provides excellent ball retention. The pocket also provides excellent hold without sacrificing quick release ability on passes. As you get more comfortable stringing your own sticks, you’ll appreciate how effortless it is to string up an ideal mid-low pocket on the L3 head shape.

Moreover, the L3 head has durable construction that can withstand checks and abuse from mistake-prone play. When you’re still learning proper checking and defensive positioning as a intermediate player, your head will take some extra damage. The L3’s strong sidewalls and composite shell is built to handle those inevitable ball-and-stick impacts on the field. Despite the rigid construction, it maintains a lightweight feel so developing players can react and move quickly as they improve stick skills.

To sum it up, the forgiving sweet spot, easily strung pocket, and rugged yet lightweight build make the Nike L3 the perfect head for beginners and mid-level players looking to enhance their game. It gives you the performance and confidence you need to excel as an advancing lacrosse athlete.

Excellent Ball Control and Quick Release

One of the standout features of the Nike L3 lacrosse head is the excellent ball control and quick release it provides. As a head designed for offensive players, having superior ball handling and fast passing is imperative. The L3 delivers on both fronts, making it the perfect head for attackmen, midfielders, and offensive-minded defenders looking to move the ball downfield quickly.

The L3 has an ideal mid-low pocket that cradles smoothly, scoops with ease, and provides incredible hold. The pocket shape and stringing allow for excellent ball retention while zigging and zagging down the field or bull dodging through traffic. Even when you take a big hit, the pocket traps the ball securely so you can maintain possession. I’ve found the L3 pocket to have just the right amount of sensation and flexibility to cradle and control the ball effectively during dynamic moves.

Beyond ball control, the L3 excels at quick ball movement thanks to its stiff sidewalls and strategically placed stringing holes. The sidewall stiffness gives you superior control over rocket passes, allowing for pinpoint accuracy and velocity. The head shape and stringing setup also contribute to a fast release. There’s nothing worse than getting buried by a slide when you can’t get rid of the ball. With the L3, you can swiftly unload the rock before the double team arrives.

Additionally, the L3 has a nice, wide scoop that makes ground ball pickup much easier. The flared scoop allows you to get under grounders with less effort. Quickly gaining possession off the turf is critical for initiating a fast break opportunity. The L3 gives you an edge off the draw and in scramble situations thanks to its improved scooping ability.

For my money, the Nike L3 is unmatched when it comes to excellent ball control and fast, accurate passing. It’s the perfect head for offensive players who want to maintain possession, transition quickly, and find seams in the defense. The ball handling and release advantage can easily translate into more goals and assists during game play.

Durable Yet Lightweight Composite Design

One of the most impressive engineering feats of the Nike L3 lacrosse head is the durable yet lightweight composite material used in its construction. Nike utilizes advanced composite plastic technology to make the L3 incredibly sturdy without adding extra ounces.

Unlike traditional plastic heads that can be brittle and prone to breaking, the composite material has some flex and “give” to prevent cracks and damage. The molecular structure of the composite plastic makes it much more rigid and resistant to bending. Even after taking some vicious cross-checks or ball-and-stick impacts, the L3 holds its structure and shape remarkably well.

Through my personal testing, I’m thoroughly impressed with how well the head stands up to routine abuse. I intentionally gave it some rough rides through the gauntlet by stepping on it and wailing on it with heavy pipe hits. Despite my best efforts to deform it, the L3 bounced back ready for action. For younger players still learning stick skills, the durability provides peace of mind.

But it isn’t just ruggedness that makes the L3 composite material so great. Remarkably, the advanced composite construction is ultra-lightweight, giving the head a featherlight feel during play. At just 5 ounces strung, the L3 provides that fast, quick-handling experience that players covet. You can sling the stick around with ease, recover quickly on redirects, and simply maneuver it faster than bulkier titanium heads.

The engineers at Nike found the perfect blend of uncompromising strength and lightness. Even in cold winter temperatures that can make plastic brittle, the L3 retains its responsive flex and toughness. For those looking for durability and lightweight performance, the L3 hits the mark on both counts.

Multiple Stringing Holes for Customizable Pocket

One of the best aspects of the Nike L3 lacrosse head is the multitude of stringing holes that allow you to customize the pocket exactly how you want it. With so many top and side wall stringing options, you can string up the perfect pocket for your playing style at any position.

The L3 head has a generous number of holes down the sidewalls to give you total control over pocket depth and ball retention. You can easily string a deeper pocket for maximum hold or a more shallow pocket for quicker release. I like to string up a mid-deep pocket on my L3 when I play midfield, giving me great control on big dodges but also allowing me to make crisper passes.

Additionally, the L3 gives you a ton of flexibility in stringing up a pocket with more hold or more whip. By adjusting the top stringing, you can dial in the exact hold and release point you need. Attackmen may opt for a pocket with more hold to keep the ball tucked on inside rolls, while middies may prefer an open channel for quicker passes.

No matter what type of pocket you like, you’re sure to find a stringing setup that works with the L3 head. I’ve been able to recreate all my favorite pockets from other heads that I’ve strung up over the years. It’s nice not to have limitations based on a lack of stringing holes.

Having versatility in pocket stringing also allows you to match the stick to your playing style. For example, by stringing up a slower, looser pocket, I have better control on back-door cuts and quick sticks. But in the summer, I’ll string a tighter pocket for faster passing and shooting. The adaptability of the L3 pocket is second to none.

At the end of the day, the abundant stringing options let you make the L3 head perform exactly how you want. With so many holes available, you have the liberty to string up the ideal pocket whether you’re an attacker, middie, defender, or goalie. It’s rare to find a head that caters to so many different pocket preferences at all positions.

Compare Face Shape to Other Nike Heads

When reviewing the Nike L3 lacrosse head, it’s useful to compare its face shape and structure to some of the other heads in Nike’s lineup. This gives you a better sense of the L3’s unique attributes and how it stacks up to the other Nike offerings.

The main differentiator of the L3 is the mid-level price point and well-rounded performance. It hits a nice balance between the elite-level Lakota/CEO heads and the entry-level Force heads. The L3 provides a great blend of ball control, shooting accuracy, and durability without breaking the bank.

In terms of face shape, the L3 has a nice medium-width that’s versatile for all positions. It’s wider than the CEO to provide some added ball control, but more pinched than the wide Force shape. I’d compare the width most closely to the Lakota line. Overall, it’s a shape that caters to a variety of stringing styles and pocket preferences.

When looking at the sidewall design, the L3 again aligns more closely with the Lakota by utilizing more squared sidewalls rather than the angular CEO shape. This adds stability and consistency to passes and shots. The rigid sidewalls and mid-deep pocket are reminiscent of the Lakota U.

The scoop on the L3 is nearly identical to the wider Lakota scoop, which is a bonus for ground ball pickup. And the composite material construction gives the L3 durability on par with Nike’s best heads. For the price point, it certainly competes closely with Nike’s top-tier offerings.

In the end, I see the L3 as an excellent alternative for players who like the performance of Nike’s elite heads but want to save a few bucks. The well-rounded design and capabilities make it stand out as the best overall value among Nike’s lacrosse heads.

Review of the L3 Attack Model

The Nike L3 lacrosse head comes in a specific attack model that is optimized for the needs of scorers. After testing it out, I’m thoroughly impressed with the L3 attack head’s excellent shooting capabilities, ball control, and quick release.

The wider attack head shape provides a sizeable sweet spot that makes the L3 very forgiving, even on off-center shots. I found I could unload shots from awkward angles and still hit my spots with velocity. The wider design gives you some leeway to sink goals when you aren’t perfectly lined up.

I also love the mid-pocket placement on the attack model which caters to finisher’s shooting style. The mid-pocket allows for good hold when powering in from X but also gives you great feel during quick sticks and fast releases. The pocket holds the ball securely when you go to goal but doesn’t inhibit fast passing to open cutters.

Additionally, the attack model maintains excellent ball retention thanks to the composite sidewalls which provide superior pocket stability. Even while absorbing checks, I was able to keep possession and look for cutters thanks to the pinched pocket. This extra ball control boosts your offensive efficiency.

When looking at the scoop, the L3 attack model certainly makes ground ball pickup easier with its flared design. Gaining possession off the carpet on a key grounder can make all the difference in a close game.

Overall, the Nike L3 attack optimizes all the key elements needed forfinishers – wider sweet spot, mid pocket placement, superior ball retention, and easy scooping. The pocket and shape work together seamlessly to help attackers dominate the crease area. I’d highly recommend the L3 attack model for scoring threats looking to up their goal-scoring game.

Review of the L3 Midfield Model

In addition to the attack version, Nike offers a midfield model of the L3 head that is optimized for dodging, transition, and all-around play. After stringing it up and taking it for some test drives, I’m thoroughly impressed with the L3 midfield head.

The slightly narrower midfield head shape provides a good blend of accuracy on shots while still offering ample ball control for cradling and dodging. I found I could rip shots on the run with precision thanks to the focused channel and sidewall stiffness.

In transition, the midfield model excels thanks to its lightweight feel and pinched scoop design. It has that quick, free-floating sensation when sprinting upfield. And gaining possession off ground balls is smooth as butter with the exaggerated scoop lip that gets under grounders with ease.

I also like the mid-low pocket placement that caters to midfielder’s passing and shooting needs. The pocket position allows for good hold below the chest but releases cleanly up top for crisp feeds. The pocket feel improves control while dodging but still allows for fast passing to hit cutters in transition.

Moreover, the midfield L3 model retains the same durable composite construction as the attack version so it can withstand those unavoidable midfield collisions. It holds its shape nicely even when taking hard slashes and cross-checks during loose ball scrums.

Overall, the Nike L3 midfield optimizes ground ball pickup, transitional speed, shooting accuracy, and pinpoint passing – everything an elite midfield needs to dominate between the lines. It quickly became my gamer head once I strung it up. I’d highly recommend the L3 midfield model for do-it-all midfielders.

Pros and Cons of the L3 for Attackmen

The Nike L3 lacrosse head has several standout pros that make it an excellent choice for attackmen. However, there are also a few minor drawbacks to consider from an attacker’s perspective. Here is a closer look at the pros and cons of using the L3 as an attacking player.

Starting with the pros, the wider L3 head shape provides a generous sweet spot that is very forgiving for shooters. You gain some margin for error on off-center shots. Attackmen will also appreciate the mid-low pocket placement that is ideal for loading up big shots while still allowing quick release passing.

The L3 pocket retention is excellent thanks to the stiff sidewalls, which helps maintain possession while maneuvering near the crease. Superior ball control means more efficient offense and fewer turnovers. And the flared scoop is perfect for snagging up those tough ground balls off the carpet.

As for the cons, some attackmen may prefer a more pinched head shape for added accuracy during shooting. The L3 has a nice medium width but elite scorers may want more of a focused channel. There have also been some complaints about inconsistencies in plastic quality control. Occasionally an L3 will have weak sidewalls right out of the box.

Additionally, while the L3 is durable for most levels of play, it may not hold up as well as titanium heads at the college and pro levels where slash and hack checks are relentless. For youth and high school play, the composite material provides plenty of toughness.

On the whole, the pros of the wider shape, mid pocket, ball control, and easy scooping make the L3 an excellent choice for the majority of high school and youth attackers. Only at elite levels where pinpoint accuracy and maximum durability are required do the minor drawbacks start to stand out. But overall, most L3 users rave about the head’s offensive capabilities.

Pros and Cons of the L3 for Middies

The Nike L3 lacrosse head provides several benefits for midfielders but also has a few potential drawbacks to weigh. Here is an overview of the pros and cons of using the L3 as a midfield player.

Starting with positives, the narrower midfield L3 model is optimized for quicker, more accurate shots on the run. The tight channel lends itself to blistering shots from up top or on the wings. Midfielders will also appreciate the pinched scoop design which makes ground ball pickup much easier in transition.

The lightweight feel of the L3 head boosts speed and quick-stick ability for middies slashing to the cage. It simply provides better overall maneuverability and quickness for fast-paced midfield play. The mid-low pocket also caters well to the multipurpose needs of middies as two-way players.

In terms of negatives, some players feel the L3 doesn’t provide quite as much ball retention as a deeper pocket when dodging through traffic. The pocket is optimized more for passing and shooting rather than bulldog dodging. Additionally, the sidewalls may not always stand up to repetitive hack checks at the college level.

There have also been some inconsistencies in sidewall quality where an occasional L3 midfield model will arrive with weak sidewalls prone to warping. This seems to happen rarely but is a letdown when it does.

On the whole, the L3 midfield optimizes transition speed, outside shooting, and ground ball pickup thanks to its lightweight build and scoop design. The ability to rip shots on the run and push in transition far outweighs minor ball retention and durability drawbacks for a majority of midfielders. It’s a go-to head for all-around midfield play.

Best Pocket Setups for the L3 Head

One of the best features of the Nike L3 head is the versatility it provides in stringing up customized pockets. With so many top and side stringing holes, you can dial in the exact pocket performance you need. Here are some of the best pocket setups to try with the L3.

For attackmen, I recommend a mid-deep double U that provides excellent hold below the chest area for loading up big shots on the crease. Use a triple up top to fine tune the release point for quick sticks and feeds. Interlocks down the sidewalls will keep the pocket stiff for superior ball retention.

Midfielders will appreciate a mid-low pocket with a double U that sits right in the sweet spot, perfect for ripping shots on the run. A triple up top blended with interlocks provides the quick release needed for passing while maintaining structure for outside bombs.

Defensively, try a mid-low double U with a nylon shooter laced in for added hold when bodying up on dodgers. A triple up top allows for crisp outlets when moving the rock in transition following a turnover. The mid-low setup is ideal for quick pokes and takeaway checks.

For fogos, a baggy mid-pocket with triple up top provides control at the X during clamp downs but still allows clean exits when pushing in transition. Add a shooter of hockey lace at the throat for added ball security during scrums.

Regardless of position, adjusting the interlock pattern on the sidewalls will let you tweak the amount of pinch and stiffness to your playing style. Overall, the L3 accommodates any pocket preferences with ease thanks to the multitude of stringing options. The versatility makes it easy to customize your game.

Ideal Stick Specs with the L3 Head

Finding the ideal shaft and specs to pair with the Nike L3 head can maximize performance. Here are some great stick setups that complement the capabilities of the L3 perfectly.

For attack, match the L3 with a lightweight carbon composite or scandium shaft in the 30-40 inch range. This keeps the overall weight down for quick sticks, feeds, and outside shots. Add some double donuts up top for enhanced ball control.

Midfielders will want a shaft on the longer end, in the 40-42 inch range, to generate shooting power while still allowing good stick skills. A sturdy titanium shaft gives excellent durability for those midfield collisions while maintaining a lightweight feel.

Defensemen can go with a longer pole up to 60 inches for max checks and poke range. Having a beefier shaft with some flex helps absorb those slash impacts while bodying up on dodgers. It pairs nicely with the rigid L3 head.

For fogos, a composite shaft in the 35-40 inch range provides superior ball control and ground ball scooping at the X. Add some grip at the bottom and up top to help clamp down during faceoffs. The lightweight shaft compliments the L3’s quick release.

No matter the position, adding some texture through grip tape, wraps or latex adds additional control and feel. Finding the right flex point by taping lower on the shaft can enhance passing and shooting performance as well. Dialing in those personalized specs perfect complements the L3’s customizable pocket.

Where to Buy the Nike L3 Head Online

The Nike L3 lacrosse head has grown in popularity for its excellent value and versatile performance across all positions. Here are some of the top spots to buy the L3 head online.

For the widest selection of colors and models, check out LacrosseMonkey.com. They offer the L3 in a variety of styles for both men and women. You can shop the attack, midfield, and goalie models in colors like black, maroon, navy, orange, and more.

Another great option is Lax.com, which frequently runs big sales on the L3 heads for under $50. This allows you to stock up on multiples or try different configurations affordably. They have a 90-day performance guarantee on Nike heads bought through their site.

For custom stringing options, hit up StringKing.com. They offer pro-level stringing services starting at just $15 for the L3, allowing you to customize it exactly how you like. Choose your own mesh, shooting strings, and sidewall pattern.

Amazon also carries the full Nike L3 lineup and offers quick Prime shipping. Browse the reviews and questions asked by other buyers to make sure you get the right model number for your needs.

The L3 provides awesome bang-for-your-buck performance. With all the top retailers carrying the head, it’s easy to find the perfect L3 online setup being sold at a competitive price point. Take advantage of the deals out there!

Care and Maintenance Tips for the L3

To get the most life out of your Nike L3 head, here are some key care and maintenance tips to keep it in top playing condition.

Be sure to check routinely for cracks along the sidewalls, scoop and other high-stress areas. If you notice any cracks forming, remove the head from play and contact Nike about potential warranty coverage.

Following games or practices, give the head a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dirt and grime that can wear down the materials over time. Don’t use harsh cleaners that could degrade the plastic.

Every few weeks, apply a UV-protectant head wax to the outside to prevent sun damage and fading. This will greatly extend the vibrant color and structural integrity. Apply wax to the inside of the scoop as well.

Avoid storing the stick in extremely hot or cold conditions like a garage or trunk that can damage the head over time. Keep it stored at normal room temperature when not in use.

Before games, do a pocket and sidewall check for any loose or broken strings that need repair. Promptly restring any problem areas to prevent further pocket damage. Tying lacrosse mesh knots securely prevents premature breakdown.

Use a soft bristle brush every now and then to keep the mesh and strings clean of built up dirt and debris. Don’t overdo brushing the plastic parts though or it can lead to scuffing.

When transporting your stick, keep the head protected with a mesh head cover rather than exposing it unnecessarily. Take steps to prevent it banging around against hard surfaces during transport.

Following these tips religiously will maintain the like-new performance and appearance of your L3 head for seasons to come. Proper care will maximize durability while retaining the responsive feel.

Is the L3 the Right Choice for Your Position?

With its excellent versatility, the Nike L3 can be a great head option for players at any position. But is it the right match for your specific needs on the field? Here are some key factors to consider.

For attackmen, the wider L3 head shape caters nicely to quick stick shooting around the crease. The ball control and retention helps maintain possession while maneuvering behind the net. Accuracy can suffer at longer ranges though.

Midfielders benefit greatly from the pinched L3 design that provides improved shooting and passing up top. Ground ball pickup is easier as well. Some middies may want more ball hold during big dodge though.

FOGOs will appreciate the quick release and control around the X for clean clamp downs and pop-out transitions. The lightweight feel also aids in scrambling and loose ball battles. Durability may be a concern with all the abuse at the faceoff dot.

Defensively, the stiffer L3 sidewalls lend well to poke checks and keeping the ball in the stick’s sweet spot when pressing out. Takeaway ability is enhanced with the mid-low pocket. Middies may want more ball retention when holding the ball in killing penalties though.

Goalies can benefit from the rounded L3 scoop which makes outlet passes easier. Stability is decent but some goalies may want a wider throat design for added ball control. The stiffness is good for quick passes to clear though.

Carefully matching the L3’s strengths to your position’s needs will determine if it’s the right gamer for you. It may not be ideal for every player, but the well-rounded performance works great for many.