How much does it cost to restring a lacrosse stick. Where can you find professional restringing services. What are the benefits of DIY restringing. Discover everything you need to know about lacrosse stick restringing in 2024.
The Cost of Restringing a Lacrosse Stick: Breaking Down the Numbers
Restringing a lacrosse stick is an essential aspect of maintaining your equipment and optimizing your performance on the field. The cost of this service can vary significantly based on several factors. Generally, you can expect to pay between $20 and $60 for a professional restringing job.
What influences the price of restringing? Here are the key factors:
- Type of mesh used
- Complexity of the stringing pattern
- Experience level of the stringer
- Location of the service provider
For a standard synthetic mesh and basic stringing pattern, most stores charge around $40, give or take $10. However, if you’re looking for a high-end custom stringing job with special requests, you might be looking at $60-$75. Elite stringers using premium “money mesh” and intricate patterns may charge $100 or more.
Is investing in a quality pocket worth the price? Absolutely. A well-strung stick can significantly improve your ball control, hold, and overall performance. With proper care, a high-quality pocket can last multiple seasons, making it a worthwhile investment for serious players.
Where to Find Professional Lacrosse Stick Restringing Services
When it’s time to restring your lacrosse stick, you have several options to choose from. Finding a reputable and skilled stringer is crucial for getting a quality pocket that maximizes your performance. Let’s explore some of the best places to get your stick restrung:
Local Lacrosse Pro Shops
Areas with active lacrosse communities often have dedicated pro shops. These stores employ experienced stringers who can handle all varieties of heads. The benefits of pro shops include:
- Quick turnaround time
- Wide variety of mesh and sidewall options
- Ability to get basic or customized stringing jobs
The main drawback is that pro shops typically charge higher rates compared to other options.
Lacrosse Tournaments and Events
At major tournaments or showcases, you’ll often find stringers offering on-site services. These are usually more affordable options, with prices ranging from $20 to $30 for a basic synthetic pocket. While the stringers are experienced, they may not offer specialized mesh brands or intricate stringing patterns.
The convenience of getting your stick restrung at a tournament is a significant advantage, especially if you need a quick fix. However, the lack of customization options can be a drawback for players with specific preferences.
Online Restringing Services
Many elite stringers now offer mail-in restringing services. This option allows you to access top-quality work regardless of your location. The process typically involves shipping your head to the stringer, who will restring it and return it within a week or so.
Online services often offer:
- Intricate stringing patterns
- Premium mesh brands
- Access to elite stringers
The main downsides are slower turnaround times and additional shipping costs.
DIY Lacrosse Stick Restringing: A Budget-Friendly Alternative
For players on a tight budget or those interested in learning a new skill, DIY restringing can be an attractive option. While it requires an initial investment in stringing supplies and tools, it can save you money in the long run.
What do you need to start stringing your own sticks?
- Stringing materials (mesh, sidewall string, shooting strings)
- Stringing tools (scissors, pliers, screwdriver)
- Access to tutorial videos or guides
- Patience and willingness to practice
The main advantage of DIY stringing is the potential for long-term cost savings. However, be prepared for a learning curve as you master advanced techniques and learn to create optimal pocket depth and shape.
Finding Lacrosse Stick Restringing Services Near You
As lacrosse continues to grow in popularity, finding restringing services has become easier than ever. Here are some options to consider when looking for restringing services in your area:
Sporting Goods Chains
Many large sporting goods stores offer lacrosse stick restringing services. Chains like DICK’S Sporting Goods, Modell’s, and Hibbett Sports often have lacrosse equipment experts on staff who can handle restringing jobs.
The main advantage of these stores is their widespread availability and convenience. However, turnaround times can be longer if the stores are backlogged with orders.
Independent Lacrosse Pro Shops
In areas where lacrosse is particularly popular, you might find specialized pro shops catering exclusively to the sport. These small businesses are often run by lacrosse enthusiasts who offer a high level of expertise.
What can you expect from independent pro shops?
- Trained stringers on staff
- Wide selection of mesh and sidewall options
- Ability to create custom pockets
- Personalized service
While these shops typically offer superior service, their prices may be higher than other options.
The Importance of Regular Lacrosse Stick Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your lacrosse stick is crucial for optimal performance and longevity of your equipment. A well-maintained stick not only performs better but can also save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of restringing.
How often should you restring your lacrosse stick? This depends on several factors:
- Frequency of use
- Playing conditions (weather, field type)
- Quality of the original stringing
- Your personal preferences
As a general rule, most players should consider restringing their stick at least once per season. However, if you notice any signs of wear or a decrease in performance, it might be time to restring sooner.
Signs That Your Lacrosse Stick Needs Restringing
Knowing when to restring your stick is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Inconsistent ball release
- Decreased pocket depth
- Frayed or broken strings
- Loosened mesh
- Difficulty catching or cradling the ball
If you notice any of these issues, it’s likely time to consider restringing your stick.
Choosing the Right Mesh for Your Lacrosse Stick
When restringing your lacrosse stick, selecting the right mesh is crucial. The type of mesh you choose can significantly impact your stick’s performance, feel, and durability.
What are the main types of lacrosse mesh available?
- Traditional soft mesh
- Hard mesh
- Semi-soft mesh
- Wax mesh
- Performance mesh
Each type of mesh has its own unique characteristics and benefits. For example, soft mesh offers excellent feel and ball control but may stretch over time. Hard mesh, on the other hand, maintains its shape better but can be less forgiving for beginners.
When choosing mesh, consider factors such as your playing style, position, weather conditions you typically play in, and personal preferences. It’s often helpful to experiment with different types to find what works best for you.
The Rise of Performance Mesh in Lacrosse
In recent years, performance mesh has gained popularity among players at all levels. This advanced type of mesh is designed to combine the best qualities of traditional mesh types while minimizing their drawbacks.
What makes performance mesh stand out?
- Weather resistance
- Consistency in various conditions
- Minimal break-in time
- Improved durability
- Enhanced ball control
While performance mesh often comes with a higher price tag, many players find that the benefits justify the cost. If you’re looking to upgrade your stick’s performance, consider giving performance mesh a try during your next restring.
Advanced Stringing Techniques for Improved Performance
For players looking to take their game to the next level, exploring advanced stringing techniques can make a significant difference. These techniques allow for greater customization of your pocket, potentially improving your shooting accuracy, ball control, and overall performance.
What are some advanced stringing techniques to consider?
- Channel pockets
- U-string pockets
- Custom top string patterns
- Specialized sidewall patterns
- Hybrid mesh setups
Each of these techniques requires specific skills and knowledge to execute properly. If you’re interested in trying advanced stringing methods, it’s often best to start by having a professional stringer create the pocket for you. This allows you to experience the benefits firsthand and provides a model to learn from if you decide to attempt the technique yourself in the future.
The Impact of Pocket Shape on Playing Style
The shape and depth of your pocket can significantly influence your playing style and effectiveness on the field. Different pocket shapes cater to various playing styles and positions.
What are the main pocket shapes used in lacrosse?
- High pocket
- Mid pocket
- Low pocket
- Shifty pocket
A high pocket, for instance, is often preferred by attackmen for quick releases and accurate shots. Midfielders might opt for a mid pocket for versatility in both offense and defense. Defensemen typically favor low pockets for easier ground ball pickups and long passes.
When restringing your stick, discuss your playing style and preferences with your stringer. They can recommend a pocket shape that complements your strengths and helps improve areas where you might be struggling.
The Role of Shooting Strings in Lacrosse Stick Performance
Shooting strings play a crucial role in how your lacrosse stick performs, particularly when it comes to shot accuracy and ball release. These strings, typically placed at the top of the pocket, help control the ball’s spin and trajectory as it leaves the stick.
How do shooting strings affect your game?
- Control ball spin
- Influence shot accuracy
- Affect ball release speed
- Help maintain consistent pocket shape
The number, placement, and tension of your shooting strings can significantly impact your stick’s performance. Some players prefer a single straight shooting string for a quick release, while others opt for multiple U or V-shaped strings for added control.
Experimenting with Shooting String Setups
Finding the ideal shooting string setup often requires experimentation. What works best can vary based on your playing style, stick head shape, and personal preferences.
Here are some popular shooting string configurations to consider:
- Single straight
- Double straight
- U-shape
- V-shape
- Candy cane
When restringing your stick, don’t be afraid to try different setups. Many stringers are happy to adjust shooting strings after the initial stringing job, allowing you to fine-tune your stick’s performance.
Caring for Your Newly Restrung Lacrosse Stick
After investing time and money into restringing your lacrosse stick, proper care is essential to maintain its performance and longevity. With the right maintenance, you can extend the life of your pocket and ensure consistent play.
What are some key tips for caring for a newly restrung stick?
- Allow proper break-in time
- Store your stick in a cool, dry place
- Avoid leaving your stick in extreme temperatures
- Clean your pocket regularly
- Tighten loose strings promptly
Breaking in a new pocket is crucial for optimal performance. This process allows the mesh to settle and form to your playing style. Typically, it involves wall ball practice and gradually increasing the intensity of your play over a period of days or weeks.
Maintaining Pocket Consistency
Maintaining the consistency of your pocket is key to reliable performance on the field. Weather conditions, particularly moisture, can affect your pocket’s shape and feel.
How can you maintain pocket consistency?
- Use a pocket guard when not playing
- Apply mesh wax or conditioner as needed
- Reshape the pocket after wet conditions
- Regularly check and adjust string tension
- Consider weather-resistant mesh for consistent play in various conditions
By following these care tips, you can ensure that your newly restrung lacrosse stick maintains its performance characteristics for as long as possible, potentially extending the time between necessary restrings.
The Average Cost to Restring a Lacrosse Stick
When it comes to restringing a lacrosse stick, one of the most common questions players and parents have is “How much does it cost?” The price to restring a lacrosse head can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $60 to have your stick restrung by a professional stringer.
The exact restringing cost depends on several variables:
For an average synthetic mesh and basic stringing job, most stores charge around $40 give or take $10. High-end custom stringing with special requests can be $60-75. Having an elite stringer do an intricate pattern with money mesh may cost $100 or more.
The bottom line is regular restringing ensures optimal ball control and hold. Investing in a quality pocket improves performance and is worth the price. With proper care, a good pocket can last multiple seasons as well.
Where to Get Your Lacrosse Stick Restrung
When it comes time to get your lacrosse stick restrung, you have several options to consider. Finding a reputable and skilled stringer is important to get a quality pocket that maximizes ball control, hold, and shooting performance. Here are some of the best places to get your stick restrung:
Local lacrosse pro shops – Most areas with active lacrosse communities will have pro shops dedicated to the sport. These stores employ stringers with years of experience stringing all varieties of heads. The benefit of pro shops is they often have a quick turnaround time and a variety of mesh/sidewall options to choose from. You can get a basic pocket or customized stringing job. The downside is pro shops often have higher rates.
Lacrosse tournaments and events – At any major tournament or showcase, you’ll find stringers onsite offering restringing services. These are usually less expensive options, charging around $20-30 for a basic synthetic pocket. The stringers are experienced but may not offer specialized mesh brands or intricate stringing. Upside is convenience if you need a quick fix at a tournament. Downside is lack of customization options.
Online restringing services – Many elite stringers offer mail-in restringing services, where you ship them your head and they’ll restring and return it within a week or so. These virtual stringers allow you to get top-quality work no matter where you live. They offer intricate stringing and premium mesh brands. Turnaround is slower and shipping costs add up however.
DIY stringing – If you’re on a tight budget and want to learn, you can invest in stringing supplies and tools to string your own sticks. This requires watching tutorials, getting hands-on practice, and trial and error. Upside is you save money long-term. Downside is the learning curve to master advanced techniques and ensure optimal pocket depth/shape.
Asking lacrosse teammates for referrals is a great way to find a quality, affordable option convenient for you. With many choices available, you can get your lacrosse stick restrung to perform exactly as you need it to maximize your game.
Lacrosse Stick Restringing Services Near You
Once you decide it’s time to restring your lacrosse stick, the next step is finding a stringing service near you. With lacrosse continuing to grow nationwide, there are more options than ever to get your stick restrung conveniently.
Local lacrosse stores – Most sporting goods stores with lacrosse gear offer stringing services. Models like DICK’S Sporting Goods, Modell’s, and Hibbett Sports employ lacrosse equipment experts in their stores to string sticks. The benefit is convenience, with many locations to choose from. The downside can be longer turnaround time if stores are backlogged.
Independent pro shops – In lacrosse hotbed areas, specialized pro shops catering solely to lacrosse are common. These small businesses are owned by people passionate about the sport and offer a high level of expertise. They have trained stringers on staff and a wide selection of mesh/sidewalls to create any pocket. The personalized service is a plus, but pricing is higher.
Lax camps and tournaments – Any lacrosse camp or tournament will have vendors onsite restringing sticks for participants. These are usually quick, affordable restringing options. Stringers work out of tents right at the venue to offer convenience. The stringing quality can vary however, so ask for examples of their work.
Online restringing – For those without good local options, many top stringers offer online restringing services. You simply ship them your stick head, they’ll restring it within a few days and ship back. No need to leave home. However, shipping costs add up, especially for rush orders. Communication may be slower as well.
DIY restringing – With some practice and patience, you can learn to string sticks right at home. Watch online video tutorials to pick up techniques. Invest in stringing supplies like pliers, needles and mesh. As you develop skills, you’ll save money. Factor in cost of trial and error and learning curve though.
Ask fellow lacrosse players where they get sticks restrung and for stringer recommendations. Between local retailers, tournaments, camps, online services and DIY, you can find a quality, reliable lacrosse stick restringing option near you to keep your stick game-ready.
Where to Get Your Lacrosse Stick Restrung
Getting your lacrosse stick restrung is vital maintenance to keep your stick performing at its best. When it’s time for a new pocket, you have several options to consider for where to get it restrung affordably and conveniently.
Local lacrosse shops – Visiting a local lacrosse pro shop is a popular choice. These shops usually employ several experienced stringers with expertise stringing all types of heads. They offer a wide selection of mesh, let you customize stringing, and deliver quick turnaround. The downside is prices are often higher.
Lacrosse camps & tournaments – At any major camp or tournament, you’ll find vendors onsite offering stringing services. Players can get sticks fixed up right at the venue. Pricing is more affordable, though selection is limited. Great for quick fixes, but not intricate stringing jobs.
Sporting goods stores – Retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods have lacrosse sections in most locations now. Their equipment experts can restring sticks in-store with a basic synthetic pocket. Convenient if you have one close by, but minimal customization options.
Online restringing – For lacrosse players without good local options, online restringing shops are a solid choice. You ship your head to an experienced stringer and they restring and ship back within a week typically. More options for premium mesh and custom stringing jobs. Increased costs for shipping and potential communication delays are the tradeoff.
DIY stringing – With practice and patience, players can learn to string their own sticks and save money long-term. You’ll need proper stringing tools like pliers, needles, knives and an investment of time watching tutorials to develop expertise. Factor in costs of supplies and trial and error learning.
Asking teammates where they get their pockets done and for stringer recommendations is wise. With a range of options like pro shops, sporting goods stores, tournaments, online services and DIY restringing, you can find the right lacrosse stick restringing choice for your needs and budget.
DIY Lacrosse Stick Restringing
Many lacrosse players choose to save money by learning to string their own sticks at home. With practice and patience, you can become skilled at restringing your lacrosse heads and maintaining optimal pocket performance.
The first step is educating yourself on stringing terminology and techniques. There are many online video tutorials and guides detailing the stringing process step-by-step. Take time to study proper stringing methods for attack, midfield and defense heads. Understanding key concepts like pocket placement, channel width and whip is crucial.
Next, invest in solid stringing tools and supplies. Items like stringing pliers, mesh, shooting strings, sidewall string and a variety of needles are necessities. A stringing stand helps keep the head secure while you work. Quality stringing tools make the process much easier. Expect to spend $60-100 on supplies to start.
Be ready for a learning curve as you develop skills. Your first few stringing attempts will be messy and involve lots of trial and error. As your hands get used to intricacies like interlocking sidewalls and tying off diamond lace, your precision will improve. Refer back to tutorials anytime you get stuck. Ask experienced stringers for tips.
Don’t rush the process, stringing a pocket properly takes 1-3 hours. Rushing leads to sloppy pockets that need re-fixed. Take your time, don’t pull strings too tight or overlap mesh. Follow step-by-step stringing order for best results. Check regulations on pocket depth frequently.
As your hands get used to manipulating mesh, sidewall and shooting strings, your skills will grow exponentially. DIY stringing saves money over time despite initial investments. And being able to customize your pocket exactly how you want is a major perk. With practice and patience, you can become your team’s go-to stringer.
Lacrosse Stick Stringing Supplies Needed
When taking on stringing your own lacrosse stick, having the proper stringing tools and supplies is crucial. The right equipment makes the intricate process much more manageable. Here are the must-have items for DIY lacrosse stick stringing:
Stringing pliers – Stringing pliers feature pointed tips ideal for grasping and pulling strings through holes in the head. Models like East Coast Dyes stringing pliers are trusted go-tos. Quality pliers prevent snapping strings while providing top grip and control.
Mesh – The most popular mesh types like Money Mesh and Stringking Type 3 are durable, provide excellent ball hold and maintain their shape well. Invest in higher-end mesh for best performance. Have a few colors on hand to match team strings.
Sidewall string – Bulk spools of high-quality nylon sidewall like Axis or Carolina Cross help threads stay tight. Pre-waxed options move smoothly through holes. Sidewall keeps the pocket structured and centered.
Shooting strings – Shooters like nylon hockey lace give you consistency and control when shooting. A glossy finish reduces friction. Having an assortment of colors allows custom designs.
Stringing needles – Needles in a variety of sizes make interweaving sidewall and shooting strings easier. Curved needles improve access to tight spots. Stock up on extras since they bend and break.
Lacrosse ball – Dropping balls into the pocket as you string ensures proper depth and hold. Regulation lacrosse balls verify sufficient ball control throughout the process.
With quality stringing tools and supplies, you can piece together solid pockets that maximize hold, control and aim. Don’t skimp on stringing necessities – better equipment improves precision and makes DIY restringing much more manageable over time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stringing a Lacrosse Head
Learning to string your own lacrosse stick takes time and patience, but with the right process you can piece together a quality pocket. Here is a step-by-step guide to stringing a lacrosse head:
1. Prep the head – Install screw and flaps in the throat of the head and tape off the scoop to protect it during stringing. Use a head stand to keep the head secured as you work.
2. Top string – Anchor the top string roughly 4 inches from the scoop and thread throughout the entire head, interlocking as you move down side to side. Leave space in the middle for the shooter.
3. Shooting strings – Weave the first straight shooter about 3 inches below the top string, keeping it slightly angled down toward the scoop. Add V-shaped nylon to fine-tune hold.
4. Sidewall – Anchor the sidewall string at the bottom of the head on each side and string up one side at a time. Keep even tension and space between diamonds.
5. Mesh – Place the mesh in the head and anchor along the top string and sidewall. Be sure the mesh covers all the sidewall diamonds but isn’t too tight.
6. Interlock mesh – Working one row at a time, interlock the mesh and sidewall using a stringing needle to create diamonds. Pull each row taut but be careful not to warp the mesh.
7. Finish bottom – Anchor off the remaining mesh and trim excess material. Weave the bottom string an inch or two up from the scoop for a quick release when passing.
8. Pound pocket – Use a mallet and lacrosse ball to pound the pocket and define the channel. Check regulations and adjust as needed. Remove tape and screws – you’re strung!
With the right techniques and quality materials, this stringing process will result in a structured, consistent pocket optimized for passing, catching and shooting.
Key Lacrosse Stringing Techniques
Piecing together a quality lacrosse pocket requires mastering some key stringing techniques. The intricacies of stringing take practice, but learning proper methods will greatly improve pocket performance.
Starting the top string – Anchor the top string in the proper spot (usually 3-5 inches down from scoop) using an anchor knot. Keeping tension even, string the top string side to side, precisely interlocking diamonds down the head.
Weaving shooters – Shooters like nylon lace add structure, hold, and fine-tune release points. Feed the shooter through the top string diamonds at the proper angle and evenly space multiple shooters.
Sidewall stringing – Tie off the sidewall using an anchor knot close to the bottom. Moving up one side at a time, string the sidewall at even tension, leaving uniform gaps between interlocked diamonds.
Setting the mesh – Place the mesh so it just reaches the sidewall diamonds. Anchor it to the top string using a simple double knot. Don’t stretch mesh too tight or overlap the diamonds.
Interlocking the mesh – Use a curved needle to cleanly interlock each row of mesh with the sidewall. Alternate which sidewall hole you enter and exit to keep rows straight. Pull each row taut.
Centering the pocket – Pound a ball into the pocket and adjust top strings or sidewall as needed to center the channel. The ball should sit just above the bottom string resting slightly toward the scoop.
Learning proper stringing order and techniques takes repetition and mentorship from experienced stringers. But mastering the intricate details results in consistent, high-performing pockets season after season.
Key Lacrosse Stringing Techniques
When stringing a lacrosse head, mastering some fundamental techniques is key to creating a high-quality pocket optimized for passing, catching, and shooting. Here are some of the most important stringing methods to learn:
Starting the top string – Properly anchoring the top string and maintaining even tension as you string side-to-side lays the foundation for the pocket. Start by anchoring the top string 3-5 inches down from the scoop depending on head type.
Weaving shooters – Shooters fine-tune the pocket’s hold and release points. Feed shooting strings like nylon lace through the top string diamonds at an angle. Space multiple straight shooters evenly to adjust hold along the entire channel.
Sidewall stringing – Tie off the sidewall string near the bottom of the head and string up one side at a time. Keep even gaps between interlocked diamonds up each sidewall to center the pocket.
Setting the mesh – Place the mesh so it just reaches the sidewall diamonds when tensioned. Anchor it to the top string using a simple double knot. Overlap reduces pocket depth.
Interlocking mesh – Use a curved needle to cleanly interlock each row of mesh with the sidewall diamonds. Entering and exiting sidewall holes alternately keeps rows straight. Pull each row uniformly taut.
Pocketing balls – Drop balls into the pocket periodically as you string. Pound the ball in with a mallet to define the channel shape and depth. The ball should sit above the bottom string slightly angled toward the scoop.
Developing precision with fundamental stringing steps like these ensures the pocket shapes up evenly with ideal depth, hold, and release. Mastering key techniques leads to consistent stringing results season after season.
Offense vs. Defense Lacrosse Head Stringing
When stringing a lacrosse head, attack and midfield players need pockets optimized for quick passing and shooting, while defenders need sticks focused on control and ball retention. Here’s how offensive and defensive stringing differs:
Pocket placement – Offensive pockets sit higher in the head with a quicker release point for fast passing and shots. Defensive pockets sit lower to cradle and protect the ball. The ball rests deeper in a defender’s stick.
Shooters – Offensive sticks have more shooters for fine-tuned hold and aim on shots. Defenders need just 1-2 straight shooters for basic hold since they take fewer shots.
Whip – Middies and attack need more whip to generate faster shots. More sidewall weaves increase whip on offensive sticks. Defenders need minimal whip for optimal control.
Mesh – Offense uses soft, flexible meshes like Stringking Type 3F. Defenders like stiff meshes like Money Mesh for superior ball retention when being checked.
Sidewalls – Favor thicker sidewall like 15K on defense heads to reinforce the pocket structure for control. Thinner options like 8K work for quicker offensive releases.
Bottom string – Attack and midfield players string the bottom higher up the head, around 2 inches from the scoop. This creates a quick release for passing and shooting. Defenders string the bottom lower, around 3-5 inches up, cradling deeper in the head.
Mastering distinct stringing for offense and defense optimizes performance. Following position-specific stringing principles results in sticks tailored ideally for passing, shooting, or ball control when facing pressure.
Popular Lacrosse Mesh, Sidewall, and Shooting String Brands
When stringing a lacrosse head, the materials you use impact the pocket performance. Lacrosse meshes, sidewalls and shooting strings come in a variety of types and brands. Here are some of the most popular options:
Mesh – Brands like Stringking, ECD, and Money Mesh make premiere synthetic meshes optimized for minimum stretch, durability, and consistent pockets. Popular meshes include Stringking Type 3, Money Mesh, and ECD Hero 2.0. Softer meshes like Stringking Type 3F suit offensive play while stiffer options like Money Mesh work for defense.
Sidewall – Trusted sidewall brands like ECD, Maverik, and East Coast Dyes offer sidewalls in a range of materials from 6K to 21K thickness. Pre-waxed options like ECD Ultra Wax and Maverik Hookup provide smooth threading. Carolina Cross and ECD Bravo give firm structure when interlocked.
Shooters – For shooting strings, nylon hockey lace offers consistent performance season after season. Brands like JimaLax, ECD, and Throne of String provide glossy, pre-waxed hockey lace that resists friction. V nylons fine-tune channel shape.
Leathers – For traditionalists, leathers like Kangaroo add premium feel but less consistency over time. Brands like Torpedo Leathers, Throne Mesh, and StringKing offer quality kangaroo, calfskin, and cowhide leathers.
Choosing top-end mesh, sidewall, and shooting string materials from leading brands results in structured, high-performing pockets optimized for quick releases, hold, and aim. Investing in quality lacrosse stringing materials pays dividends.
Ensuring Proper Lacrosse Stick Pocket Depth
Ensuring legal and optimal pocket depth is crucial when stringing a lacrosse head. Here’s how to string pockets with excellent ball control while adhering to depth regulations:
Follow rules – Know the specific pocket depth rules for your league, usually between 2-3 inches. Measure depth routinely when stringing using a lacrosse ball and ruler.
Account for break-in – Synthetic meshes like Stringking Type 3F or Hero 2.0 break in over time. String pockets to the maximum legal depth to allow for stretch over a season of play.
Use stiff mesh – Stuff, low-stretch meshes like Money Mesh or Stringking Type 1 maintain shape well to help keep pockets legal. Softer meshes tend to stretch more with use.
Pack the diamonds – Tightly packing the sidewall and mesh diamonds limits how much the pocket can deepen. Keep even tension pulling the rows taut.
Extra sidewall holes – String extra holes along the top of the sidewall to reinforce pocket structure as the mesh breaks in. This helps restrict stretching.
Check often – During stringing, repeatedly measure with a ball in the pocket to ensure even depth across the channel. After stringing, re-check depth regularly.
With the right techniques and high-quality materials, you can string excellent pockets with ideal depth for quick releases and superior control that stand the test of time and usage.
Maintaining Your Freshly Strung Lacrosse Stick
After investing time and money into restringing your lacrosse stick, proper maintenance is key to extending the life of the pocket and performance. Here are some tips for caring for your freshly strung stick:
Limit water exposure – Get in the habit of taking heads off sticks before washing shafts to reduce excess moisture absorption by the mesh and sidewalls. Limit submerging heads in water.
Shape after washing – After washing heads, shape and stretch the mesh back into form while drying. Use a ball or shaper to maintain the pocket channel.
Control warp – Don’t leave strung sticks sitting in extreme hot or cold temperatures. This can cause the mesh and sidewalls to warp and stretch over time.
Check often – Routinely inspect shooting strings, sidewalls, and mesh diamonds for wear. Tighten up or replace areas before small issues become big problems.
Soften mesh – For stiff synthetic mesh, use mesh softener to reduce rigidness. Softeners help maintain optimal pocket feel and pliability.
Disinfect pocket – Sanitize pocket frequently by spraying with antimicrobial solutions and letting sit before wiping out. This prevents buildup of dirt, sweat and bacteria.
Proper storage – Keep sticks stored in a climate-controlled space out of direct sunlight when not in use. Don’t cram tightly in crowded bags.
With regular inspection, occasional maintenance, and proper care, your freshly strung pocket can maintain excellent shape, feel and performance all season long.
When to Restring Your Lacrosse Stick
Determining when it’s time to restring your lacrosse stick comes down to closely monitoring the wear and performance of the pocket. Here are signs it’s time to restring:
– Pocket too shallow/deep – If the pocket is consistently above or below optimal depth, affecting throws and catching, a restring can better optimize depth.
- Sidewall wear – Fraying sidewalls lose tension and structure. Holes widening also impact pocket shape. Replace significant sidewall wear.
- Shooting strings fraying – Frayed shooters alter release points and aim. Swap out any overly frayed shooters.
- Mesh bagging out – With use, mesh can permanently bag out, forming deep pockets. Restringing returns shape.
- Pocket lacks hold – If the ball rattles around too much in the pocket, new mesh could improve hold.
- Warped shape – Extreme heat or damage can warp the mesh shape. Restringing realigns the channel.
- Stick feels “soft” – A soft, floppy feel indicates loss of tension. Restringing restores structure.
- Performance issues – Inconsistent throwing, catching or scooping signals a restring.
Ideally, sticks should be restrung every season or two to maintain prime performance. Be proactive with restringing to prevent significant issues from developing.
FAQs About Lacrosse Stick Restringing
Many lacrosse players and parents have questions about the when, where, and how of restringing their sticks. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How often should I get a lacrosse stick restrung?
– Ideally every year or two. Frequent restringing maintains optimal pocket shape, tension, and performance.
Where is the best place to get a stick restrung?
What affects the cost of restringing a lacrosse stick?
How can I learn to string lacrosse sticks myself?
What are the key techniques for stringing a great pocket?
How do I maintain a freshly strung pocket?
What are signs my pocket needs restringing?
How do I ensure legal pocket depth when stringing?
Restringing lacrosse sticks takes precision, quality materials, and proper technique, but pays dividends for improving performance.