The Best Womens Lacrosse Sticks for Attack Midfield and Defense

The Best Womens Lacrosse Sticks for Attack Midfield and Defense

Choosing the Right Women’s Lacrosse Stick Based on Position (Attack, Midfield, Defense)

When selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, one of the most important factors to consider is what position you play. Lacrosse sticks are designed and engineered differently depending on whether you are an attacker, midfielder, or defender. The optimal features and specifications will vary for each position.

For attackers, having a stick with excellent ball control and handling is crucial for quickly passing, catching, and shooting in tight spaces around the goal. Sticks made for attack players often have a deeper, more flexible pocket to cradle and control the ball. Attack sticks also tend to be more lightweight, allowing for faster movement and quick stick work. Popular attack stick brands include STX, Maverik, and Brine.

Midfielders benefit from an all-around women’s lacrosse stick that balances both offensive playmaking abilities with defensive checking skills. Midfield sticks will have a medium depth pocket for decent ball retention while still allowing for power passes and shots on goal. These sticks are a bit stiffer than attack sticks while still maintaining some flex. Trusted middie stick options include the Warrior Namestic and STX Crux models.

Defenders demand a women’s lacrosse stick with maximum durability, stiffness, and checking power. Defensive sticks feature shallow, tight pockets that make it easy to dislodge the ball from opponents. The head shape on defense sticks is wider and stouter for excellent ball control. Defenders also rely on a stiff stick shaft for aggressively poking, lifting, and knocking away passes and potential shots. Top defensive sticks come from brands like Maverik and STX.

No matter your position, choosing a lacrosse stick tailored for your specific needs and playing style is key. Be sure to test out various pocket types, head shapes, weights, and flexibilities to find your ideal women’s lacrosse stick match. Experienced lacrosse players may even have multiple sticks for different positions.

Top Brands for Women’s Lacrosse Sticks (STX, Brine, Maverik, Warrior)

When shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which brand to go with. There are several major lacrosse equipment companies making high-quality sticks tailored specifically for female players. The top brands to look at include STX, Brine, Maverik, and Warrior based on their reputation, popularity, and cutting-edge tech.

STX is arguably the leader in women’s lacrosse sticks, offering a diverse lineup optimized for every position. They make excellent all-around sticks like the Stallion and Crux lines with balanced ball control and checking abilities. STX also produces specialized sticks for attackers, midfielders, and defenders across a range of price points. Their women’s sticks consistently rate highly for their adjustable pocket systems, durable construction, and lightweight feel.

Brine has also cemented itself as a top brand for women’s sticks by leveraging insights from elite players to create high-performance sticks. Brine sticks are known for their precision craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their women’s stick lineup includes versatile all-around sticks like the Clutch and customizable position-specific sticks like the Swizzbeat for attack. Brine sticks offer deep, consistent pockets preferred by advanced players.

Maverik is another trusted name in the lacrosse world, designing sticks that emphasize shot speed, accuracy, and ball control. Maverik women’s sticks feature unique technologies like their Optimized Pocket and Multi-Scoop designs to improve ball handling. The Mirage and Athena lines offer excellent value for developing players, while their Pro lines have a reputation for dominance on the elite level.

Rounding out the top brands is Warrior, who engineers women’s lacrosse sticks that really maximize power potential. Warrior sticks utilize strong yet lightweight materials and wider head shapes to generate more velocity. Their Control series sticks also incorporate a unique slant scoop for added finesse. From the Akron to the Namestic, Warrior makes sticks that can hang with the competition.

While personal preference will ultimately determine the best lacrosse stick brand for you, starting your search with industry leaders like STX, Brine, Maverik, and Warrior is advised. Demand sticks endorsed and tested by the pros so you can elevate your game with absolute confidence and control.

Stick Features to Look for (Pocket Type, Stiffness, Weight)

When evaluating different womens lacrosse sticks, there are several key features and specifications to consider that will impact performance and fit. Three of the most important factors to look at are the pocket type, stiffness, and weight of the stick.

The pocket is one of the main things that sets different lacrosse sticks apart. Pockets come in different depths, shapes, and materials that affect ball control. Shallower pockets make it easier to pass and shoot with speed, while deeper pockets allow for superior cradling. V-shaped pockets offer a nice blend of hold and quick release. Also look at the stringing pattern and scoop design which impact handling.

Stick stiffness also varies quite a bit between models. More flexible sticks provide better ball feel and control for stick tricks and passing, while stiffer, sturdier sticks offer more checking and defensive power. Midfielders may prefer a medium stiffness, but attackers and defenders often benefit from sticks on the ends of the spectrum. Flex ratings are usually listed for sticks.

In terms of weight, a lighter stick allows you to wield it faster and with less fatigue. But an ultra-lightweight stick may compromise durability and power. Many elite players like a stick weighing between 510-580 grams strung. But beginners may prefer a slightly heavier stick for more control. Balanced weight distribution also prevents your stick from feeling “top-heavy”.

Beyond those big three factors, also assess the materials used, grip style, head shape, and shaft dimensions. Advanced carbon composite materials make sticks very lightweight yet strong. An ergonomic grip aids control and comfort. Wider heads provide a larger sweet spot. A shaft sized properly for your height is crucial for optimal ball handling.

While ultimately personal preference dictates the ideal stick features for your game, evaluating the key specs carefully will help narrow your selection. Test sticks with different pocket types, stiffness levels, and weights to determine what works best for your playing style and strengths. Don’t be afraid to geek out on the details and fine tune your stick’s performance.

Finding the best match of pocket type, stiffness, weight, materials, and construction will give you an on-field edge and boost confidence in your lacrosse stick. Let the specs guide you, then refine based on feel as you put top sticks through their paces on the field or against a brick wall.

Best All-Around Stick for Beginners

For women just starting out with lacrosse, selecting your very first stick can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, models, and features to consider, it’s tough to know where to start. When in doubt, go with a versatile all-around stick designed for beginners. These sticks provide a great introduction to the sport and help build fundamental skills across all positions.

Ideal beginner lacrosse sticks have a medium pocket depth for decent ball control paired with a stiff enough shaft for checking drills. Modifiable pockets allow new players to adjust the pocket to their liking as skills improve. An open sidewall improves handling and passing precision for early developers. Lightweight materials make maneuvering easier for lacrosse newcomers.

Trusted all-around sticks for lacrosse beginners include the STX Crux 500, Maverik Athena, Warrior Stealth LX, and Brine Clutch Rise. These sticks share user-friendly features like wider heads for catching, hybrid pocket constructions, and mid-range flex ratings. Most offer an adjustable length shaft to accommodate growth spurts.

The STX Crux 500 is arguably the top all-in-one stick for new female players. It incorporates STX’s signature “Memory Mesh” pocket which memorizes shapes for excellent control. The Crux 500 also provides great value for a stick with solid construction from a leading brand. As skills progress, players can upgrade to the pro-level Crux 600 model.

For developing players on a budget, the Maverik Athena stands out. Its “Optimized Pocket” promotes smoother catching and passing at a very affordable price point. The Athena’s stiff shaft and mid-depth pocket give beginners a stick to grow with through their rookie season and beyond.

Rather than feel overwhelmed browsing elite sticks, new women’s lacrosse players can build confidence and ability using an intelligently designed all-around stick. Models vetted by beginners facilitate learning the basics while allowing room to progress. Start your lacrosse journey off right with a stick that fits your experience level.

Sticks Optimized for Passing and Ball Control

In lacrosse, mastering the fundamentals of passing, catching, and ball control requires a stick engineered for superior handling. For women looking to take their passing game to the next level, utilizing a stick designed specifically for enhancing ball skills is key.

Sticks optimized for passing and control feature deeper, more flexible pockets to cradle balls securely. Pockets made of soft mesh allow for better ball feel and retention compared to synthetic nylons. A generous sweet spot gives you more real estate for clean catches. Scoops with a curved flair help guide errant passes into the pocket.

In terms of shaft construction, ultra-lightweight carbon materials paired with a glossy grip coating gives you better command of your stick. Strategic flex points in the upper shaft also augment ball control for quick sticks and one-handed cradling. Minimal sidewall openings keep the ball safely nestled in the channel.

Top passing specialist sticks like the STX Crux 600, Maverik Athena O, and Brine Clutch Rise offer these optimized features. The Crux 600 has an adaptable Memory Mesh pocket ideal for possession play. The Athena O utilizes Maverik’sva precision Kangaroo leather pocket for unmatched control. The Clutch Rise incorporates a textured tactile grip and carbon handle to direct the ball with ease.

For developing players still honing fundamentals like catching, throwing, and protecting the ball, choosing a stick engineered for enhanced handling is imperative. Test sticks with deeper flexible pockets, lightweight carbon shafts, contoured grips, and strategic flex points. Take time to break-in the pocket properly through wall ball. Then get ready to see your passing and possession game ascend to the next level.

Having a stick suited for your needs and skills makes all the difference. For ball handlers looking to become elite distributors and playmakers, prioritizing control and touch in your next women’s lacrosse stick purchase is advised. Mastering the fundamentals will serve as the foundation for your success.

Sticks Built for Powerful Shooting

For lacrosse players looking to boost their shooting prowess and become scoring threats, having a stick engineered for maximum shot power is a must. When searching for a stick to enhance your shooting game, keep an eye out for features geared towards generating speed, accuracy, and velocity.

Ideal shooting sticks have a medium-shallow pocket depth to really whip the ball and a soft pocket material like premium mesh to cushion hard passes. A minimum sidewall area and straight scoop design also channel shots with precision. These sticks incorporate lightweight carbon shafts and narrowed lower shafts for increased swing speed.

Trusted shooting specialist sticks include the Maverik Kinetik, STX Crux 610, and Brine Swizzbeat. The Kinetik has Maverik’s Power Sling pocket designed for blistering passes and shots. The Crux 610 emphasizes a responsive nylon mesh pocket and lightweight construction to fire the ball. The Swizzbeat leverages elite player input for pinpoint accuracy.

Beyond stick features, developing your mechanics through shooting drills and wall ball is vital. Master shooting fundamentals like stick grip, motion, release point, and follow through. Shoot on the run and from different angles. Train your wrists and arms to maximize velocity. Fine tune footwork to harness power from your lower body.

With the right curve and pocket optimizing ball launch, along with honed shooting skills, you’ll have goalies quivering. Unleash your full scoring potential with a women’s lacrosse stick engineered for sheer shot power. Just remember that accuracy is equally important, so focus on precision shooting as well.

Having the confidence that your stick gives you every mechanical advantage to phone in goals from anywhere on the field is huge. Do your homework to find the perfect shooting stick, then put in practice time to become a true sniper. Defenders won’t know what hit them after you upgrade your shot with the best shooting lacrosse stick.

Durable Defensive Lacrosse Sticks

For defenders tasked with impeding offenses and causing turnovers, having a rugged lacrosse stick built for withstanding physical play is essential. Defensive sticks demand superb durability along with optimized checking abilities to knock away passes, jar the ball loose, and intercept errant throws.

When researching sticks to elevate your defensive play, seek out models with stiff composite shafts and wide head shapes to increase strength. Defensive heads also incorporate denser sidewall strings and tighter channel nylon to wrestle away possession. Minimal offset helps align your hands for straight on poking checks.

Trusted defensive sticks include the Warrior RF-X, STX Hammer 500, and Maverik Rome. The RF-X has an Extreme Arch for extra stiffness to bully attackers. The Hammer 500 uses thick tactile rubber grips for control when jostling. The Rome maximizes a strong scoop and sidewalls to protect against slashes.

Just as critical as stick selection is honing checking technique through specific drills. Master the basics like lift checks, downward checks, and body positioning first. Then advance to wraparounds, over the shoulder pokes, and off-ball play. Footwork, timing, and hand placement are all vital.

The last line of defense demands a stick tough enough to continually foil opponents. Seek out lacrosse sticks engineered for durability with stiff shafts, dense stringing, and optimized head shapes. Then dedicate time to perfecting checking skills. Your gritty play and clutch sticks will ensure the crease and goalie stay protected.

Having confidence in your defensive stick goes a long way on the field. When crunch time arrives, you won’t have to think twice blasting a shooter with a check or stepping in front of a blistering pass. Let your opponents worry about their sticks while you control possession with sound fundamentals and a rugged defensive lacrosse stick.

Customizable and Adjustable Stick Options

One of the great aspects of lacrosse is that sticks can be customized and adjusted to match individual playing styles and strengths. Beyond factoring in position, skill level, and brand preferences, you also have the freedom to personalize sticks to your exact specs and needs.

Many sticks now offer adjustable length shafts, so you can find your ideal handle length as you grow and develop. Replaceable grips allow you to modify thickness and texture for personalized comfort. Removable end caps let you tweak weighting and balance.

You can also customize lacrosse head shapes, sidewall stringing, and pocket features. More flexible heads become pinched and stiffened through custom stringing. Aftermarket mesh kits allow you to restring pockets to preferred depths. Some heads offer removable inserts to modify pocket control and release.

Sticks with interchangeable shafts transform your experience, letting you optimize flex, material, and handling attributes for your position and style. Universal heads work across various brands, so you can mix and match components until you create your dream stick.

While pre-strung sticks work for most beginners, as you progress in lacrosse, look into customization. Work with coaches or experienced stringers to tweak your pocket based on needs. Don’t settle for stick features that don’t maximize your talents.

The right adjustments and personalizations can take your stick game to the next level. Come ready with your specific wants, then collaborate to build your ideal product. Enjoy the process of incrementally optimizing your lacrosse stick until it feels like an extension of your arm.

Stylish Sticks in Fun Colors and Designs

Beyond just performance attributes, lacrosse sticks also express personal style and creativity. Many top brands now offer sticks featuring stylish colors, graphics, and designs to fit your personality. While most colleges mandate classic white stick designs, you have options for uniqueness.

For a bold look, choose a brightly colored shaft in hues like neon green, vibrant pink, electric blue, or sunset orange. Lacrosse shafts now come in a rainbow range so you can represent your team colors or just get noticed on the field.

If neutrals suit you better, go for a black or gray shaft paired with colored netting and shooters. Metallic shafts in copper, rose gold, or silver are also available for some subtle shine. Alternative material options like wood and leather shafts emit effortless style.

For head turners, pick a lacrosse head featuring colorful cascades or stringing accents. Etched or printed graphics like geometric patterns, flowers, and mandalas give your stick flair. Or opt for a dye-sublimated lacrosse head with ombre fades or tie-dye swirls.

Finally, customize your stick by threading brightly dyed mesh for your pocket strings or adding glittering hard lace. Use shooting string in bold hues like coral and turquoise. Stick to one color scheme or go for a fun clash of patterns.

While performance rightfully comes first when selecting lacrosse sticks, today’s styles allow you to express your individuality. So whether you crave vibrant color pops or prefer subtle sophisticated accents, your stick can uniquely embody your spirit.

Best Value Sticks Under $100

While the top-tier lacrosse sticks used in college and the pros can cost over $150, more affordable sticks under $100 offer new players great value. Beginners and youth players just starting out really don’t need an expensive high-performance stick right away.

Trusted brands like STX, Maverik, and Brine offer sticks around the $50-$100 range optimized for new players with developing skills. Models like the STX Exult 100 and Maverik Charger highlight smart construction that focuses budget on key elements like the head and pocket.

Value-priced sticks utilize aluminum instead of pricier composite or titanium for the shaft material. But aluminum offers good durability and decent lightweight properties for youth play. These budget sticks may lack some resin or carbon fiber layering but get the job done.

While their pockets may not be made with elite materials like pro-grade mesh, beginner sticks incorporate decent nylon strings and basic synthetic leather. The pocket quality allows for executing fundamentals like catching, throwing, and cradling without frustration.

Before investing hefty sums on premium sticks, snag an affordable, yet reliable stick under $100. As your skills progress, you can upgrade to pro sticks with more advanced features. But quality value sticks let young players hone fundamentals without breaking the bank.

Used and Vintage Sticks for Nostalgia

In addition to the latest new lacrosse sticks on the market, used and vintage sticks offer a cool way to tap into the sport’s history and heritage. Secondhand sticks provide nostalgia at an affordable price point compared to antique memorabilia.

Vintage lacrosse sticks from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s showcase how equipment has evolved. Older wooden shafts and leather pockets play much differently than modern carbon fiber sticks with advanced mesh strings. It’s fun to experience the retro vibe.

Pre-owned sticks also reveal patina and character from their prior lives. Faded graphics, worn grips, and battle scars tell a story on the field. The pockets reflect how their past owners strung and broke-in the heads over seasons of play.

Beyond just nostalgia, used sticks offer performance value. Secondhand pro-level sticks often get resold in quality condition at steep discounts. With some restringing and TLC, these sticks recapture their prime. Vintage sticks also make novel displays or decorative wall art.

So for a dose of history or a chance to save, don’t overlook the used and vintage lacrosse stick market. Browse local consignment shops, online retailers, and secondhand sites to unearth deals. Then relive the sport’s golden eras while making memories of your own.

Pro Tips for Stringing and Breaking In New Sticks

Getting the most out of a new lacrosse stick requires proper stringing and a thorough break-in process. Follow these pro tips when preparing new sticks to ensure optimal performance and ball control.

When stringing a new head, focus on even diamonds and symmetrical sidewalls. Tight top strings increase ball retention while looser middle and lower strings promote quick releases. Use high-quality mesh or leathers in ideal colors. Consider adding a shooter and nylon shooters for extra finesse.

To break-in sticks, begin by flexing and bending the head and scoop by hand to soften it up. Then use a wooden lacrosse ball or ball bearing to force the pocket into shape by sinking the ball and vibrating it around the head.

Next, spend considerable time doing wall ball drills to continually whip the ball into the pocket, further forming the mesh. Work from different angles and distances. Change up mechanics like sidearm wind-ups and overhand rockets.

As the stick forms to the ball, re-tighten strings as needed while ensuring the pocket doesn’t get too deep. Check that the ball sits just above the scoop resting in the upper third of the head. Make small adjustments until the channel and pocket feel dialed in.

With brand new heads, invest 30-60 minutes a day over a two week span for ideal results. Be patient and keep pocket pounding. The commitment will maximize ball control, handling, and shooting.

Proper stringing sets the foundation while diligent wall ball break-in optimizes performance. Follow lacrosse stick preparation best practices and you’ll notice the difference once game action starts.

Caring for Your Stick: Cleaning, Storing, and Protecting

Making your lacrosse stick last means taking proper care of it through regular cleaning, smart storage, and protection. Simple maintenance will extend your stick’s lifespan and performance.

Clean off dirt and debris from your stick after each use. Use a damp cloth to wipe down all parts of the shaft and head. For tough stains, utilize mild soap and a stiff brush. Disinfect sticks periodically with antibacterial spray or alcohol wipes.

When storing sticks, avoid excess moisture and direct sunlight which can damage materials. Hang sticks vertically on wall mounts or racks to preserve pocket shape. For travel, use protective casings rather than jamming sticks in cramped bags.

Shield your stick from inadvertent damage by never letting others use it unsupervised. Refrain from using team sticks for wall ball practice. Install bumper guards on indoor cinder block walls. Keep sticks safely stashed on the sidelines when not in active use.

Take time to spot check your stick for loosening screws, compromised strings, and cracks in the head or shaft. Make minor repairs immediately to avoid bigger issues. Professionally restring heads at least once a year.

With some extra care, your trusty lacrosse stick will battle on for many seasons. Treat it with respect both on and off the field. Your stick loyalty will be rewarded with added longevity, saved money, and reliable performance.

How Stick Technology Has Evolved Over the Years

Over lacrosse’s history, stick technology has come a long way from the Native American’s original wooden sticks. Materials, construction methods, pocket designs, and specialty features have drastically evolved.

Native sticks consisted of hand-carved ash or hickory shafts with rawhide leather pockets. Lacrosse sticks used in the 1800s-early 1900s saw the emergence ofGES solid wooden heads and gut or cord netting.

In the 1970s, manufacturers like STX pioneered synthetic heads made of nylon, fiberglass, and plastic polymers. This allowed for more consistent shapes and performance. Mesh stringing materials also created more responsive pockets.

The late 1990s brought titanium and aluminum alloy shafts which were lighter yet stronger than wood. Composite carbon fiber shafts later provided superior strength-to-weight ratios. Multi-piece interchangeable heads also arrived on the scene.

Recent decades have seen pockets shift from traditional leathers to advanced woven and monofilament mesh. Scoop and sidewall designs now utilize groundbreaking geometries. Lacrosse brands also leverage space-age materials like aerospace-grade alloys.

While paying respect to the sport’s roots, today’s sticks represent major technological leaps. The combination of modern materials, construction techniques, and decades of innovation have drastically improved performance and playability over the generations.