The Carbon Pro 20 Lacrosse Shaft Everything You Need to Know

The Carbon Pro 20 Lacrosse Shaft Everything You Need to Know

Key Features of the Carbon Pro 2.0 Shaft

The new Carbon Pro 2.0 lacrosse shaft from East Coast Dyes brings some exciting innovations and improvements to the table. As the latest iteration of ECD’s flagship carbon fiber shaft, the Carbon Pro 2.0 boasts several key features that make it lighter, stronger, and more responsive than ever before.

One of the standout features of the Carbon Pro 2.0 is the proprietary hybrid carbon fiber layering used in its construction. ECD engineers cleverly combined high modulus and intermediate modulus carbon fibers in the shaft’s layup to optimize its strength-to-weight ratio. The high modulus carbon provides exceptional stiffness and stability, while the intermediate modulus carbon lends improved flex and vibration dampening. This advanced composite design allows the Carbon Pro 2.0 to be up to 20% lighter than its predecessor, while still retaining outstanding durability.

ECD also developed an innovative new surface texturing technology for the Carbon Pro 2.0 grip. Using a 3D laser etching process, they were able to create micro-ribbed grooves along the entire grip area of the shaft. This provides a highly tactile, non-slip grip texture that significantly enhances ball control and handling, especially in wet conditions. Players report that the ball just sticks firmly in their crosse thanks to the remarkably grippy etched pattern.

The strategic placement of stringing holes is another key upgrade in the Carbon Pro 2.0. ECD carefully analyzed data on stringing attachment points and their effects on pocket formation. This led them to optimize the string hole spacing, size, and orientation to allow for more consistent pocket patterns and improved ball control on shots, passes, and cradles. The head-to-shaft connection was also enhanced to provide a fluid flex profile and snappy release when paired with ECD Carbon Pro 2.0 compatible heads.

With its smart carbon construction, tactile textured grip, and dialed-in stringing design, the Carbon Pro 2.0 lacrosse shaft demonstrates ECD’s commitment to continuous innovation. It represents the culmination of cutting-edge materials science, rigorous testing, and input from elite players to take ECD’s signature shaft to the next level.

Lighter and More Durable Than Ever Before

When East Coast Dyes set out to develop the next generation of their Carbon Pro shaft, one of the key objectives was improving the strength-to-weight ratio. Thanks to advances in carbon fiber technology and manufacturing processes, the engineers were able to shave valuable ounces off the Carbon Pro 2.0 while maintaining exceptional durability.

By optimizing the layup of the carbon fiber and using more intermediate modulus fibers, they succeeded in reducing the overall mass of the shaft by up to 20%. This allows players to enjoy noticeably lighter shafts ranging from 135 grams to 165 grams, depending on flex profile and length. The lightweight feel makes it easier to quickly whip the stick through passing and shooting motions. It also reduces fatigue over the course of a game, especially for midfielders who see a lot of time on the field.

Yet despite weighing less, the Carbon Pro 2.0 actually outperforms its predecessor in key durability metrics. Leveraging new epoxy resins and curing techniques, ECD produced a carbon layup that can better withstand impacts and abrasions. The shafts hold up remarkably well to checks, slashes, and routine wear and tear. Players report that their Carbon Pro 2.0 shafts maintain their pop and performance after many hard-fought seasons of use.

ECD subjects the Carbon Pro 2.0 to an array of torturous tests to ensure its durability. Engineers use sophisticated stress testing machines to bend and twist the shafts thousands of times, simulating extreme game conditions. They also impact the shafts with weighted pendulums and monitor the damage sustained. Only after meeting rigorous benchmarks for longitudinal and torsional strength is the design validated for actual gameplay.

The Carbon Pro 2.0 further protects against damage thanks to its refined endcap design. It features a slightly thicker neck right above the handle for added impact resistance. ECD also created a textured tactile grip pattern along the lower endcap to provide a secure hold. This helps prevent slipping that could lead to inadvertent drops and dings during transitions.

With its expertly engineered carbon fiber matrix and enhanced protections, the Carbon Pro 2.0 delivers on its promise of being remarkably lightweight yet supremely durable. It maintains the feathery feel that ECD fans expect, while standing up to the abuse that comes with high-level lacrosse.

The Science Behind the Shaft Construction

Creating a high-performance carbon fiber lacrosse shaft like the Carbon Pro 2.0 requires an incredible amount of engineering expertise and technical mastery. There is a lot of complex science involved in optimizing the carbon fiber construction to achieve the desired balance of strength, stiffness, and lightweight feel.

ECD utilizes an advanced automated manufacturing process called automated fiber placement to construct the carbon fiber matrix in the shaft. This allows the engineers to tailor the orientation and composition of the carbon fibers to precise specifications. By adjusting variables like the angle of the fibers and mixing different types of carbon, they can dial in specific performance characteristics.

For the Carbon Pro 2.0, ECD experts determined that a hybrid layup incorporating both high modulus and intermediate modulus carbon fibers would yield the best results. The high modulus carbon adds serious stiffness to maintain the shaft’s stability and shooting performance. But blending in intermediate modulus fibers provides some flex and vibration dampening for improved comfort and control.

ECD also employs cutting-edge epoxy resins to bind the carbon layers together into a cohesive composite material. Formulating the right epoxy system is crucial, as it determines the interlaminar shear strength and shielding properties of the layup. The epoxy resin completely saturates the fibers to maximize stiffness and energy transfer while eliminating voids that could compromise structural integrity.

The curing process is also vital to properly setting the epoxy resin and bonding the matrix. ECD uses advanced autoclave ovens to accurately regulate the temperature and pressure conditions. This ensures the epoxy flows evenly throughout the layup and cross-links correctly, creating a dense, consolidated composite optimized for lacrosse performance.

To enhance the grip and handling of the Carbon Pro 2.0, ECD utilizes a specialized 3D laser etching technique. Highly accurate CO2 lasers etch an intricate pattern of micro-ribs and ridges into the shaft’s surface. This provides a tactile, non-slip texture without adding any thickness or weight. The lasers can etch curved paths to optimize grip ergonomics.

From the nuanced carbon layup to the laser grip texturing, it’s clear that a tremendous science and engineering effort goes into producing the Carbon Pro 2.0. ECD leans heavily on composites expertise and cutting-edge manufacturing to achieve new heights of strength, responsiveness, and handling in a high-end lacrosse shaft.

Optimized Flex Profile for Superior Ball Control

One of the most important performance considerations in any lacrosse shaft is its flex profile. The way the shaft bends and recoils affects ball control, passing, shooting, and handling. With the Carbon Pro 2.0, East Coast Dyes went the extra mile to engineer the optimal blend of flex and stiffness for responsive play.

Through extensive player testing and data analysis, ECD experts identified the precise shaft flex measurements that yielded the best results for ball control and feel. They then set about designing the carbon fiber matrix and layup to match those targets, tweaking the composition and orientation until the flex profile was dialed in.

The Carbon Pro 2.0 flexes in a controlled, predictable manner that makes cradling, passing, and shooting feel crisp and effortless. When loading up for a pass, the shaft bends evenly to store energy, then releases it to rocket the ball to your teammate’s stick. On shots, the strategic flex directs more energy into the ball for added velocity and a wicked fast release.

ECD engineers also varied the carbon mapping to produce tailored flex profiles for different player positions and preferences. Attackmen and midfielders generally prefer more flex for enhanced ball control and passing touch. Meanwhile, stiffer options are available for defensemen who prioritize checking strength and shaft stability when jostling with opponents.

By finding the sweet spot for flex in each variant of the Carbon Pro 2.0, ECD ensures that players can find a shaft that caters to their position and playing style. The flex design supports smooth, accurate feeding in tight spaces just as capably as rocket two-pointers from way outside. And the balanced recoil helps you maintain ball control if you get checked hard in traffic.

Through advanced carbon crafting and extensive testing, the Carbon Pro 2.0 delivers an exquisite flex profile that is thoughtfully optimized for the nuances of lacrosse performance. The responsive bend and rebound equip players with better touch, control, and feel to elevate every aspect of their game.

Revolutionary Textured Grip Improves Handling

One of the most innovative new features of the Carbon Pro 2.0 lacrosse shaft is its textured grip treatment. East Coast Dyes optimized the grip on their latest premium shaft using advanced 3D laser etching technology to take players’ control and command to the next level.

Rather than a basic smooth glossy grip or inconsistent sandpaper-like grip tape, the Carbon Pro 2.0 utilizes micro-patterned texturing etched directly onto the shaft’s surface. ECD engineers employed high-precision CO2 lasers to carve an intricate lattice-like structure into the lower end of the shaft where players place their lead and bottom hands.

This laser etching process creates extremely fine ridges, peaks, and valleys measured in microns. It provides a remarkably tactile surface texture without adding any thickness or weight. Players report that the textured grip feels almost sticky in the hands, providing exemplary control even in rainy and muddy conditions.

By etching complex curvilinear paths, ECD is able to optimize the grip patterning ergonomics for different hand placements and leverage angles. The grip texture is mapped to allow for slip-resistant yet comfortable cushioning and flexing in the areas that see the most torsional force.

The snake-like grip texture also facilitates quicker sliding of the bottom hand for extra whip on passes and shots. Meanwhile, the top hand enjoys a stable non-slip hold for pinpoint accuracy. The combination allows for effortless repositioning of the hands into optimal passing setups and shooting postures.

Through extensive experimentation and player feedback, ECD engineered the revolutionary Carbon Pro 2.0 grip to provide next-level command over the lacrosse shaft. It takes advantage of laser micro-texturing and ergonomic mapping to deliver unmatched control and handling. The exceptional grip gives players the confidence to make difficult stick moves and perfectly place passes and shots, even in sub-optimal field conditions.

Strategically Placed Stringing Holes Enhance Pocket Formation

One often overlooked but crucial element of any lacrosse shaft is the placement and configuration of its stringing holes. The stringing holes dictate how mesh and leathers are attached to form the head’s pocket. With the Carbon Pro 2.0, East Coast Dyes strategically optimized the stringing to make pocket stringing easier while enhancing ball control.

ECD engineers comprehensively analyzed how string attachments affect pocket shape, ball retention, and shot dynamics. They identified exact stringing hole locations that eliminated unwanted distortions and inconsistencies in pocket formation. Synthetic laces and leathers can now be attached in ways that better hold their tension and shape.

By adjusting the spacing between top string holes, ECD was able to reduce interference and friction during stringing. This facilitates quicker installs and allows for more customizable pocket configurations. The sidewall stringing holes were also optimized to promote enhanced channel formation and ball control on craddles.

The carbon fiber composite construction of the Carbon Pro 2.0 allows for greater flexibility in string hole placement compared to traditional alloys. ECD experts took full advantage by mapping holes strategically based on flex dynamics and ergonomics. This further harmonizes pocket structure with the shaft’s performance.

The connection point between shaft and head was likewise tuned to improve ball control and release. ECD minimally flares the shaft walls at the throat to promote smoother flex across the entire shaft-head system. Players experience excellent feel on passes, shots, and scoops thanks to the enhanced energy transfer.

With so much R&D invested in perfecting the stringing design, the Carbon Pro 2.0 allows players to consistently achieve their desired pocket structure and performance characteristics. The strategic string holes foster improved ball control, faster breaks in time, and greater customization potential.

Gorgeous New Cosmetic Designs

In addition to its performance upgrades, the new Carbon Pro 2.0 also features exciting aesthetic updates that make it one of the sharpest looking shafts on the field. The graphics team at East Coast Dyes went all out with striking new colorways and accents that match the shaft’s elite-level play.

Lacrosse players are increasingly concerned with style and self-expression on the field. The Carbon Pro 2.0 delivers with eye-catching artistic designs that help you stand out. Vibrant anodized metallic finishes give the shaft a premium luxury feel. Meanwhile, bold gradiated fades and color block patterns provide crisp, modern looks.

For truly custom styling, ECD offers full custom color and print options. Using hydrographic film transfer processes, they can impart virtually any colorful graphics onto the Carbon Pro 2.0. This allows teams and players to design one-of-a-kind shafts sporting their logos, numbers, names, and other special designs.

In addition to eye-catching colors, the Carbon Pro 2.0 features refined ergonomic shaping for a sleek, sculpted aesthetic. ECD designers modeled the endcap and grip area for an organic contoured fit. Visually, the tapered lines and supple curves give the shaft a fast, technical, yet comfortable vibe.

Subtle engraved logos and graphics add the finishing flair. On the grip area, an embossed waffle-like ECD text logo provides an added tactile design element. Down on the end knob, engraved numbering displays the flex profile and serial number with classy understated style.

On the field or sidewalk, the Carbon Pro 2.0’s fusion of vibrant colors, ergonomic shaping, and sleek accents announces your premium lacrosse pedigree. The head-turning aesthetics match the elite performance you’d expect from ECD’s flagship shaft model. When you play like a superstar, you deserve to look like one too.

Fitted Specifically for ECD Heads

To achieve maximum performance, it’s crucial that a lacrosse shaft and head are properly tuned to work together harmoniously. That’s why East Coast Dyes engineered the Carbon Pro 2.0 shaft to integrate seamlessly with ECD branded heads.

During the design process, ECD experts carefully considered the geometry, flex profile, and stringing dynamics of their lineup of high-end carbon heads. They then tailored the Carbon Pro 2.0 specs to create an ideal synergistic fit with favorites like the Rebel Offense, Rebel Defense, and Carbon III.

The connector shape and diameter at the throat were optimized to fit snugly into ECD heads for a smooth, fluid feel. Players experience excellent energy transfer and response across the entire shaft and head system when passing, shooting, and scooping.

The flex profile and stringing layout of the Carbon Pro 2.0 also enhance the pocket shape, hold, and release characteristics of ECD heads. You can dial in pocket configurations that take full advantage of the advanced head sidewall and scoop architectures.

ECD produces their shafts and heads under the same roof using integrated aerospace manufacturing processes. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality controls and product synergies. The Carbon Pro 2.0 reflects a holistic approach to designing the perfect shaft-head pairing.

Of course, the Carbon Pro 2.0 can be mounted with any brand head. But to get the most out of the shaft’s performance and ergonomics, ECD recommends pairing it with their precision-tuned heads for a fully optimized setup. The seamless fit and responsiveness between shaft and head afford a level of play and control simply unattainable with mismatched equipment.

Available in a Range of Flex Options

One of the great things about the Carbon Pro 2.0 is that it comes in a wide range of flex options to suit players of different positions, skill levels, and preferences. East Coast Dyes offers the shaft in five distinct flex profiles so you can find your ideal blend of responsiveness and stability.

For midfielders who benefit from maximum whipping action on shots and passes, the “X” flex option provides the most bend and snap. Attackmen looking for enhanced control and passing touch may prefer the slightly stiffer “A” flex. Meanwhile, bruising defensemen can opt for the ultra-rigid “D” flex for dominating checks and ground balls.

There are also two intermediate flex options (“M” and “I”) that offer a balance of flex and stiffness for versatile all-around play. Within each profile, players can choose the exact stiffness rating based on height and strength. This allows you to really personalize the shaft’s performance.

During development, ECD engineers thoroughly tested each flex variant by digitally simulating lacrosse maneuvers and impacts. They also accumulated extensive feedback from players of all positions, ages, and ability levels. The result is the most comprehensive sizing of shaft stiffness on the market today.

The expanded flex range of the Carbon Pro 2.0 ensures you can find your personal sweet spot for handling, control, and power. With so many options, players no longer need to compromise by selecting a one-flex-fits-all shaft model. Your stick can now precisely match your playing style for optimized performance.

Top Choice of Elite NCAA and MLL Players

The Carbon Pro 2.0 has quickly become a go-to shaft for top players in college lacrosse and Major League Lacrosse. Thanks to its professional-grade performance and innovations, many of the game’s elite stars have made the Carbon Pro 2.0 their shaft of choice.

Leading NCAA programs like Virginia, North Carolina, Syracuse, Maryland, and Notre Dame have team-wide sponsorships with East Coast Dyes. Their rosters are stacked with talent wielding the Carbon Pro 2.0 to dominate the competition. These college lacrosse powerhouses appreciate the shaft’s perfect blend of light weight, durability, and responsive handling.

Pro players in Major League Lacrosse have also gravitated to the Carbon Pro 2.0 in droves. MLL stars like Tom Schreiber, Connor Fields, Matt Rambo, and Zach Currier praise the shaft’s elite-level shooting, passing, and ball control capabilities. They trust the Carbon Pro 2.0 to boost their performance under the bright lights.

The shaft allows these top NCAA and MLL athletes to play at the peak of their abilities. When the game is on the line, the pros count on the Carbon Pro 2.0’s pinpoint accuracy and high-powered velocity to come through. And talented college prospects rely on the shaft’s durability to endure the grueling gauntlet of competitive play.

For any serious lacrosse player striving to perform like the pros they admire, the Carbon Pro 2.0 represents an essential piece of equipment. Its quality construction and dialed-in design specs give you the same elite-level sticks skills as NCAA and MLL stars at the top of their game.

Used by Championship Winning Teams

The Carbon Pro 2.0 shaft hasn’t just been picked up by individual superstar players, but also by championship-winning college lacrosse programs. Top NCAA teams that have recently captured national titles have relied on the Carbon Pro 2.0 to help deliver their success.

The Virginia Cavaliers won the 2019 NCAA championship powered in part by the ball control and shooting capabilities of the Carbon Pro 2.0. UVA teammates Michael Kraus and Ian Laviano both used the shaft en route to the national title and raved about its performance and durability.

When the University of Maryland captured back-to-back NCAA lacrosse titles in 2017 and 2018, their offensive firepower came from Carbon Pro 2.0 shooters. Top scorers like Dylan Maltz, Jared Bernhardt, and Louis Dubick wielded ECD’s cutting-edge shaft technology to dominate the competition.

These college lacrosse dynasty teams turn to the Carbon Pro 2.0 because they recognize its ability to provide a competitive edge. The shaft gives players the skills boost and rugged dependability needed to prevail in the pressure cooker of NCAA tournament play.

For youth, high school, and college players aspiring to compete at the highest echelons, the Carbon Pro 2.0 represents a proven championship-caliber piece of gear. Its track record of success among NCAA champions demonstrates the shaft’s ability to support players in grasping lacrosse glory.

Longevity Ensured Through Rigorous Testing

The durability and longevity of the Carbon Pro 2.0 shaft did not happen by accident. East Coast Dyes engineers subjected the shaft to a battery of rigorous tests to guarantee its construction could withstand the demands of competitive play.

In their advanced composites lab, ECD utililzes automated robotic equipment to repeatedly flex and twist shaft samples through extreme angles. This allows them to validate that the carbon fiber matrix resists fracturing even after thousands of harsh bending cycles.

They also employ impact pendulum tests to simulate the forces of checks and slashes on the shaft. High-speed cameras precisely measure the damage sustained. ECD requires each shaft variant to endure intense repeated strikes without compromise.

Fatigue testing machines further assess the shaft’s stamina over time. By simulating an entire season’s worth of play through millions of computer-controlled movements, ECD verifies the Carbon Pro 2.0’s resilience.

In addition to lab testing apparatuses, ECD relies heavily on player feedback from tournaments, camps, leagues, and sponsored college teams. This real-world usoage data ensures the shaft performs well through the unpredictable conditions of live gameplay.

Players consistently report that their Carbon Pro 2.0 shafts maintain structural integrity and performance capabilities season after season. The rigorous testing protocols employed by ECD engineers accurately simulate lacrosse conditions to guarantee long-lasting durability and playability.

Made in the USA With Precision Manufacturing

A source of pride for East Coast Dyes is that the Carbon Pro 2.0 and all their lacrosse gear is made right here in the USA. By keeping design and manufacturing stateside, they can closely oversee and control the production quality.

ECD operates their own specialized factory in Ohio equipped with advanced aerospace composites technology. They expertly bond the carbon fiber layers in climate-controlled clean rooms to avoid any contamination.

Precision automated machinery expertly applies the epoxy resin system to eliminate imperfections and voids. The strict tolerances and quality checks result in remarkably consistent shafts with the highest structural integrity.

ECD also leverages automated fiber placement to construct each carbon fiber shaft matrix with accuracy down to a fraction of a millimeter. There is zero variance in the composition and orientation of the carbon fibers within each shaft.

When it comes time to cure the epoxy resins and bond the materials, ECD utilizes an autoclave system. By perfectly regulating temperature and pressure, it creates a repeatable curing process that achieves uniform material consolidation.

The made-in-USA pedigree also allows for rapid implementation of player feedback into product enhancements. ECD’s engineers can tweak composite designs and manufacturing parameters quickly based on input from sponsored teams and camps.

By maintaining complete control over the end-to-end manufacturing process, ECD ensures the Carbon Pro 2.0 delivers uncompromising consistency and quality you can trust. The pride of American craftsmanship results in superior carbon fiber shafts.

An Affordable High-End Shaft Loved by Lacrosse Enthusiasts

Considering its elite-level performance and quality construction, the Carbon Pro 2.0 is impressively affordable. East Coast Dyes priced their flagship shaft to be accessible for serious high school, college, and youth players seeking pro-grade gear.

By engineering the shaft in-house and controlling production costs through their US-based factory, ECD avoids premium markup. They pass the savings directly on to players who want top-tier equipment without breaking the bank.

The Carbon Pro 2.0 costs significantly less than comparable pro-level composite shafts from major brands. You get professional features and materials like advanced carbon fiber, a textured grip, and dialed flex profiles at a price typical consumer sticks.

ECD also avoids expensive yearly model updates, allowing them to maintain stable pricing. They improve the Carbon Pro 2.0 design gradually based on player feedback rather than releasing short-lived gimmicky variants.

Thanks to its reasonable price point, the Carbon Pro 2.0 has earned a loyal following among value-conscious lacrosse enthusiasts. The shaft punches far above its weight class, delighting players who recognize the high cost-to-performance ratio.

Lacrosse is an expensive sport, but the Carbon Pro 2.0 makes pro-caliber gear more financially accessible. ECD engineered a top-tier shaft that gives any player a chance to enhance their game without breaking the bank.