The Definitive Guide to Choosing the Right Womens Lacrosse Shaft in 2023

The Definitive Guide to Choosing the Right Womens Lacrosse Shaft in 2023

Consider your playing position when selecting a shaft

When choosing a women’s lacrosse shaft, one of the most important factors to consider is your playing position. As a defender, midfielder, or attacker, you each have different needs in a shaft in order to optimize your performance.

Defenders tend to benefit from stiffer, more durable shafts that can take the constant checks and physical play. A sturdy alloy or composite shaft with an octagonal shape is ideal to give you extra strength in cradling, checking, and ground ball play. Flexible shafts can bend too easily, so focus on finding a stiff, rugged design.

Midfielders need a balance of stiffness for checks but some flex for quick passes, shots, and ball control. Look for a lightweight composite or alloy shaft with medium flex. The octagonal shape also gives midfielders great handling, especially on quick cuts, change of direction, and accurate passing. An endcap can help strengthen your passes and shots.

Attackers rely on their shaft for superior ball handling, quick passing, and pinpoint shooting accuracy. More flexible shafts with some “give” are often preferred by attackers. Rounder, smooth shafts allow for better feel on cradling and releases. Lightweight composite materials paired with specialized shooting strings or a soft Lacrosse grip can really enhance an attacker’s finesse and touch around the goal.

No matter your position, bring your own playing style into the equation too. If you tend to cradle and pass more, opt for a smoother flex shaft. If you’re physical on ground balls, choose a durable, rugged shaft. Testing different shafts is the best way to dial in what performs and feels best for you on the field.

Determine the right shaft length based on your height and position

When selecting a lacrosse shaft, finding the optimal length is a key factor for maximizing your performance and comfort on the field. The right length allows you to effectively handle ground balls, cradle, pass, catch, and shoot the ball. Length is primarily based on your height and playing position.

For defenders, a long shaft between 35 to 37 inches is preferred. This extra length helps defenders poke check and intercept passes more effectively with a wider range. Extra length also makes it easier to control and scoop up ground balls. Taller defenders over 5’10” can benefit from a 37 to 43 inch range for maximum reach on checks, picks, and caused turnovers.

Midfielders tend to prefer a median length between 30 to 35 inches. This versatile range allows them to transition between offense and defense fluidly. A shorter shaft provides quicker handling and passing, while longer shafts aid in checking and intercepting. For midfielders under 5’6″, a 30 to 32 inch shaft is ideal, while taller midfielders can look to 34 or 35 inches.

Attackers and offensive players require superb stick handling, passing, and shooting, favoring shorter shaft lengths from 28 to 32 inches. Quick spins, rolls, and release points demand a shorter shaft for optimum control. Smaller players under 5’4″ perform best with a 28 to 30 inch women’s lacrosse shaft. Taller attackers can extend up to a 32 inch shaft for added reach on shots.

Testing shafts in person is the best way to hone in on your ideal length. Consider length in conjunction with factors like flex, grip, weight, and materials. No matter your position or height, choosing the right length women’s lacrosse shaft elevates every aspect of your game play.

Evaluate stiffness vs flexibility to match your playing style

When selecting a women’s lacrosse shaft, an important evaluation is the overall stiffness and flex profile. The right blend of stiffness and flex can optimize ball control, shooting, checking, and handling for your position and playing style.

Stiffer shafts provide extra power on shots, checks, and passes due to decreased flex. The rigidity offers more stability in ground ball scrums and physical play. Defenders benefit most from ultra stiff shafts for their checking, intercepting, and takeaway abilities. Goalies also favor stiff shafts for quick reactions and clearing power.

More flexible shafts offer wider cradle control, enhanced feel on stick tricks and rolls, and some “give” on checks. Attackers and offensive players gravitate toward more flexible shafts for quicker release points, accuracy, and ball handling. Flexible endcaps also dampen vibration for smoother passing and shooting.

Midfielders need a blend of stiffness and flex for transition play. A moderately stiff shaft with some flex gives versatility in all-around play. Composite shafts often provide the ideal median by layering stiff and flexible materials to engineer targeted flex zones.

Test bending lacrosse shafts in the upper, lower, and midpoint areas. Move the head around to feel flex for passing, catching, and cradling needs. Try shooting with different flex levels to experience the power and feel firsthand. Finding the right blend of stiffness and flex in a women’s lacrosse shaft requires experimenting on the field to optimize your personal playing abilities.

Choose an octagonal or round shaft for optimal ball control

When selecting a women’s lacrosse shaft, one key decision is choosing between an octagonal or round shaft profile. The shaft shape impacts overall ball control, handling, and feel. Octagonal and round shafts each offer unique advantages for players.

Octagonal shafts feature eight sides with slightly beveled edges. The flat sides give added surface area for improved ball control, especially when cradling. The angled edges also provide a grippy texture to prevent sliding. Octagonal shafts are popular for defenders and midfielders who need superior command when cradling through traffic and during physical play.

Round shafts have a smooth, oval-like shape for an ergonomic feel. The seamless contour allows for excellent roll and spin capabilities for players who like to incorporate a lot of stick tricks into their game. The rounded design is ideal for attackers who rely on quick stick work andHandling and passing also benefit from the organic feel of a round shaft.

An octagonal shaft provides a balance of control and command, lending well to possession play. The rounder shape of a round shaft amplifies feel for finesse players who want fluid skills. Consider your position and playing style when deciding between the control and handling differences of octagonal versus round women’s lacrosse shafts.

Select a grip pattern and diameter for comfort and performance

Finding the right grip on your women’s lacrosse shaft is vital for optimal comfort, control, and performance. Lacrosse shaft grips come in a variety of patterns, textures, and diameters.

Popular grip patterns include smooth, raised ridge, contoured, and bar grips. Smooth grips provide even contact with the shaft for players who like unobstructed feel. Ridged and bar patterns add tactile zones for grip, while contoured shapes cater to ergonomic hand placement.

Grip textures like sandpaper, silicone, rubber, and leather offer different friction levels. Rougher grippy textures help prevent sliding and maintain command even in wet conditions. Smoother textures allow for more fluid movement and spin techniques.

Consider grip diameter in relation to your hand size and personal preference. Standard diameters around 5/8 to 3/4 inch work well for most. Slimmer grips down to 1/2 inch suit players with smaller hands who want maximum control. Oversize jumbo grips up to 7/8 inch provide cushion for impact.

Test out the array of grip patterns, textures, and diameters available to determine what locks in comfortably and provides the right mix of control, slip resistance, and responsive feel for your game play style. Dialing in the ideal grip transforms your lacrosse shaft into an extension of your hand for seamless performance.

Compare weights to find the ideal balance for you

Women’s lacrosse shafts come in a range of weights, from featherlight to extra heavyweight, so comparing ounces and balance is key to finding your ideal fit and feel. Weight impacts overall maneuverability, power, and fatigue.

Ultralight shafts under 150 grams give maximum speed, quickness and finesse for skill-focused players who carry the ball most. Quick sticks and cutters benefit from ultra responsive lightweight shafts. But durability may be compromised on checking impacts.

Mid-weight shafts from 150-180 grams provide a versatile balance of mobility and stability for well-rounded play. Midfielders who transition between offense and defense favor a median weight for all-around performance. Composite shafts in this range blend lightweight carbon with tougher alloy or titanium for ideal median balance.

Heavy and super-heavy shafts over 180 grams offer superior toughness needed for physical defenders. Added weight also increases power on checks, ground balls, and clears. But extra mass does sacrifice some handling nimbleness.

Swing and cradle shafts at different weight ranges to gauge what feels best for your game. While ultralight performance shafts appeal to many, the right balance of responsiveness, durability and power may outweigh simply going as light as possible. Dial in your own weight comfort zone.

Check endcaps for durability and increased power

Women’s lacrosse shaft endcaps are important yet often overlooked components that impact a stick’s durability and performance. Endcaps provide vital reinforcement on the bottom end of shafts.

Metal endcaps made of alloys like aluminum or titanium offer maximum ruggedness to prevent cracking under impact. Defenders benefit most from ultra protective endcaps that withstand hashes and checks. While adding some weight, metal caps protect shaft integrity.

Composite endcaps fuse tough carbon fibers or polymers for an ultra lightweight yet strong alternative. The engineered impact resistance keeps lower shafts safe during play. Composite caps maintain versatility without sacrificing much weight.

Specialized endcaps like Flare and LaunchSpoon shape shafts for increased ball velocity and improved accuracy. Flared ends widen the plastic scoop for better ball contact and control. LaunchSpoon carves downward angles in the cap to generate more power and precision on passes, shots and clears.

Endcap technology continues advancing with innovative shapes and materials to boost both performance and protection. For female players generating high ball speeds and facing physical defense, endcaps make a big difference in optimizing power while preserving stick integrity over the long term.

Look at specialized shafts like goalie or defensive crosses

In women’s lacrosse, certain positions like goalie and defense require specialized shafts to optimize performance. Understanding key differences in goalie and defensive shafts helps select the right stick.

Goalie shafts are extra long, measuring 35 to 48 inches for maximum reach and ball blocking coverage. The ultra lightweight design between 140-160 grams gives goalies quick maneuverability. Throat shapes are optimized for protecting the net with curved or angled scoops.

Stiff tempered alloys like titanium or scandium are often used for durability, combined with layered foam or rubber grips for shock absorption. Some goalie shafts integrate advanced tech like metal alloy cores suspended in lightweight composites to balance toughness, lightness and responsiveness.

Defensive shafts also offer extended lengths from 35 up to 43 inches for poke checking, intercepting passes, and scooping ground balls. Defensive crosses utilize wider heads with flat scoops optimized for controlling possession play.

With their specialized needs, goalies and defenders should look for lacrosse shafts engineered specifically for their positions. From extended, lightweight designs to reinforced construction, niche crosses optimize the unique play styles of backline players.

Analyze shooting strings, sidewall patterns, and pocket placement

Key aspects of a women’s lacrosse head like shooting strings, sidewall patterns, and pocket placement impact overall ball control and handling. Optimizing these components complements the shaft for peak performance.

Shooting string placement affects ball speed, release, and accuracy. Tighter upper V-shapes give more whip and velocity while wider channels offer more control. Customizable sidewall stringing provides preferred pocket tension and hold. Materials like nylon, athletic lace, or leather strings cater to feel.

Sidewall hole patterns create defined pocket zones. Tighter sidewalls up top maintain ball control while wider openings below channel speed. Hybrid mixes provide both grip up top and quick release below. The personalized stringing enhances handling, passing, catching and shooting.

Pocket placement also varies from high, mid to low positions. High pockets keep the ball above the shaft for carrying possession and crisp passing. Mid pockets balance hold with quick release for versatile play. Low pockets drop below the shaft for scooping ground balls and faster shots.

Complementing the shaft with dialed-in personalized stringing and optimal pocket placement takes your lacrosse stick capabilities to the next level. Work with specialists to customize the head to match your playing style and shaft synergies.

Research brands known for consistency and quality construction

With so many lacrosse shaft brands available, researching companies with reputations for consistent quality helps ensure optimal performance and durability. Trusted brands engineer designs dialed in for women’s lacrosse.

STX focuses engineering on balancing lightweight feel with rugged durability. STX shafts like the Sci-Ti Pro and Stallion blend stiffness and flex for smooth versatile play. STX consistently integrates innovative materials like titanium and scandium alloys.

Maverik emphasizes standout shaft technology like its carbon-wrapped MetaFlex Composite and tactile Control grip. Maverik’s hybrid HydraLite shafts optimize lightweight power. Multi-zoned flex profiles target handling and control across shaft zones.

Epoch lacrosse shafts utilize patented carbon fiber processes for smooth, responsive feel combined with strength. The Dragonfly and Assassin shafts provide an ideal blend of stiffness, strength, and lightweight dexterity for elite play.

StringKing complements renowned heads with shafts like the Metal 2.0, touting tempered alloys wrapped in Tactik grip for all-weather control. The A1 aluminum shafts focus on balanced lightweight versatility. Consistency and quality define the brand.

Researching top brands helps narrow the field to proven elite models. Testing out reputable company shafts firsthand ensures you get predictable excellence suited for women’s lacrosse.

Read reviews to learn from other players’ experiences

With so many shaft options on the market, reading lacrosse shaft reviews provides helpful insights directly from other players’ experiences using different models. Their firsthand feedback helps identify ideal fits.

Look for reviews that compare the stiffness, flex profile, weight, balance, and feel of different shafts. This helps you gauge aspects like responsiveness, power, and handling objectively across those you’re considering. Durability feedback also reveals how long a shaft holds up under game play.

Pay attention to reviews focused on women’s lacrosse in particular, as male and female needs can differ. Female player reviews give specific insight into how a shaft performs for women’s field dimensions, physicality, ball control needs, and shot power.

You can also learn about innovative features and technologies in new lacrosse shafts from early adopter reviews. Things like flex zones, dampening, advanced endcaps, and custom tuning are often highlighted.

While trying out shafts firsthand is ideal, reading feedback from fellow female players provides unique perspectives you can’t get from simple specs alone. Let their real experiences guide you toward shafts that not only look good on paper but deliver on the field.

Compare prices but don’t sacrifice quality to save money

With women’s lacrosse shafts ranging in price from around $50 up to $300, it’s tempting to simply choose the cheapest option. However, balancing value and quality is key in picking the best shaft.

Higher-end shafts utilize premium materials like aerospace-grade alloys, military spec composites, and space-aged polymers to achieve elite level strength, weight ratios, and responsiveness. These exotic metals and carbon fibers justify the price for next-level performance.

Budget models utilize standard aluminum alloys that add weight while lacking the precision construction and rigorous testing of premium shafts. Cheaper shafts may dent and bend easier under game loads and physical play.

Mid-range composite shafts blend durable alloy cores with lightweight outer carbon fiber or polymer wraps for enhanced strength-to-weight balance. These offer intermediate performance and durability at moderate prices.

While an expensive shaft may exceed your needs, avoid going too cheap on a critical piece of equipment. Compare construction, flex, features and feel across price ranges to get the best match of value, quality and performance for your game.

Consider customization options for a personalized fit

Beyond off-the-shelf lacrosse shafts, some brands offer full custom services for a truly personalized fit tailored to your preferences. Custom shafts allow you to optimize every design element.

Custom shafts start with choosing your preferred length, flex profile, and weight. Next dial in specialized components like your ideal grip pattern, endcap shape, and possible dampening inserts. Brand art and laser etching can further personalize the look.

Materials can also be selected per section like a stiff lightweight alloy upper with a flexible composite lower section for blended performance. Even flex distribution, grip patterns, and balance can be mapped to your swing and handling style.

Paint fill options allow matching your shaft to your school colors or team scheme for a cohesive look. For true one-of-a-kind sticks, custom lacrosse shafts elevate tailoring and personalization to an art form.

While custom shafts come at a premium cost, the ability to construct your dream stick from top to bottom makes the investment worthwhile for players seeking peak optimization. Work with specialists to build a custom shaft that feels like an extension of you on the field.

Try out different shafts to determine what feels right for you

With so many women’s lacrosse shaft variables from length, flex, shape, and weight, the best way to find your ideal match is to try out multiple different options hands-on. By test driving shafts, you can experience the performance and feel differences firsthand.

Swing shafts with different flex profiles to get a sense of power and control. Cradle shafts to gauge comfort and command. Pass and catch with various grips and weights to assess maneuverability. Shoot with different lengths to find your optimal release point.

Narrow down criteria like your position, budget, weight needs, and preferred materials first. Then sample different shafts within your parameters to hone in on the right balance of attributes. Consider complementary heads for a complete customized setup.

Don’t limit yourself to what looks good online or is popular. Lacrosse shops with batting cages and demo programs allow you to try before you buy. Let your hands and playing style guide you toward a shaft that optimizes your ability.

Finding your gear soulmate requires getting shafts in your hands and developing that natural feel and connection. Test driving is the ultimate way to experience how different shafts perform for you on the field.