The Definitive Guide to Lacrosse Mesh Types for Attack Middie DefenseThe Definitive Guide to Lacrosse Mesh Types for Attack Middie Defense
Traditional Mesh Provides Great Ball Control for Midfielders
Midfielders require excellent ball retention and control when cradling up the field or making quick passes. This is why traditional mesh remains a top choice for many elite midfield lacrosse players. The traditional loose weave with a mid to deep pocket allows the ball to “stick” in the head without bouncing out. While offering less hold than some newer meshes, traditional mesh gives midfielders superior feel on passes, shots, and protecting the rock during runs upfield. The slight give of traditionally strung pockets also provides some “whip” on harder shots for extra velocity.
Stringing traditional mesh pockets requires precision and experience to get the right mid-low pocket shape. Midfielders who prefer a quicker release opt for a slightly tighter channel and pocket. Those looking for maximum ball control go for a deeper traditional pocket with more give on passes and shots. Either way, traditionally strung sticks have a “broken-in” feel preferred by midfielders. The best traditional meshes like Throne, Hero, and Wax also maintain their pockets over time unlike synthetic meshes which tend to bag out. While lacking the consistency and durability of synthetics, traditional mesh delivers the superior feel that the best offensive middies demand.
Newer meshes tout increased hold, consistency, and weather-resistance but sacrifice some of the supple feel of traditional pockets. For elite midfielders running the field in all conditions, traditional mesh delivers unmatched control to go with pinpoint passing accuracy. Its flexibility allows for quicker releases on passes and shots during fast transitions. While mid and low-level players embrace synthetic meshes for their forgiveness, the best midfielders want the tried and true feel of traditional mesh pockets game after game.
Hard Mesh Provides Pinpoint Shooting Accuracy for Attackmen
Attackmen thrive on pinpoint shooting accuracy in high pressure situations. This is why many elite scorers favor stiff hard mesh pockets with minimal give. Hard meshes like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Bravo give attackmen more consistent pocket shapes and increased hold on passes, shots, and tough catches in traffic. While lacking the flexible feel of softer meshes, hard mesh delivers the consistent release and accuracy that deadly finishers demand. The stiffer synthetic materials used in hard mesh generate whip and velocity while retaining their shape better than traditional softer meshes. Attackmen who value consistency above all else have embraced hardened meshes for their performance game to game.
Properly stringing a hard mesh pocket requires precision to avoid an overly stiff hold and release. While attackmen want consistency, they also need some feel on quick stick shots and passes from odd angles. Finding the right combo of diamond shapes, nylon strings, and sidewall patterns is key to optimizing hard mesh performance. A pocket strung too tight will limit ball control and feel while also increasing the risk of bouncing out passes and shots. Elite stringers balance hold and release by mixing in some mid-range diamonds along with harder mesh towards the scoop and sidewalls. This gives attackmen the ideal blend of consistency, command, and feel from their stiff mesh pockets.
While excellent for accuracy, hard mesh requires some break-in time before reaching peak performance. Newer synthetics usually lack the immediately pliable feel of traditional mesh right off the stick. But after a few practices catching, passing, and shooting, the diamonds soften up slightly for better control. Harder meshes also tend to bag out less over time than their softer counterparts. This durability ensures seasons of shooting consistency once the pocket breaks in fully. For attackmen who value reps and precision, nothing delivers quite like hard mesh strung to exactly match their release.
Soft Mesh Helps Beginners Develop Proper Techniques
Beginner lacrosse players need mesh that helps promote proper technique versus developing bad habits. This is why soft flexible meshes are ideal for new players learning fundamentals. Softer meshes like Stringking Type 1 and Hero provide more hold and enhanced feel for developing key skills like cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting.
The supple materials in soft mesh pockets conform around the ball better. This gives beginners more control and command compared to stiff meshes that can lead to bouncing out passes and shots. Soft mesh pockets also retain their initial shape longer before bagging out. This consistency allows newer players to groove proper mechanics through repetition versus constantly adapting to a changing pocket. The flexibility of soft mesh also provides essential feel for stick moves like quick sticks and shot fakes – techniques beginners need to hone.
While lacking the sensitivity of traditional mesh, soft synthetic pockets offer new players a balanced feel. More give than hard meshes but more structure than traditionally strung waxed varieties. Proper stringing optimizes soft mesh performance for beginners by avoiding excess whip or hold. A mid-pocket with a moderate channel allows command without limiting ball control. Soft meshes also encourage better fundamentals by absorbing some of the sting from bad catches and passes. The result is accelerated skill development and confidence.
As players improve, they may transition to meshes that enhance shooting, passing, or hold. But in those early stages, soft mesh serves a key purpose by promoting proper fundamentals through flexibility, feel, and enhanced control. The best coaches know the right mesh can help new players build muscle memory and skills that will pay dividends once hardened and traditional meshes enter the picture down the road.
Mesh Types Based on Player Position
Top brands like Throne, Hero, and Wax produce high-quality traditional meshes that maintain their shape over time, unlike some synthetic alternatives that tend to bag out. This durability ensures consistent performance throughout the season, a crucial factor for midfielders who rely on their stick’s reliability in every game.
Hard Mesh: Precision Shooting for Attackmen
When it comes to attackmen, accuracy is paramount. This is where hard mesh comes into play, offering unparalleled consistency and hold for those crucial scoring opportunities.
Hard mesh, such as Stringking Type 3F or ECD Bravo, provides a stiff pocket with minimal give. This characteristic translates to more consistent pocket shapes and increased hold on passes, shots, and catches in traffic – all essential skills for attackmen operating in high-pressure situations near the goal.
Key Advantages of Hard Mesh for Attackmen
- Consistent release for improved shooting accuracy
- Enhanced hold for secure catches in traffic
- Increased shot velocity due to stiffer material
- Better shape retention compared to softer meshes
How does one properly string a hard mesh pocket? The key lies in finding the right balance between hold and release. Stringers must carefully select diamond shapes, nylon strings, and sidewall patterns to optimize performance. A well-strung hard mesh pocket will offer the ideal blend of consistency, command, and feel that elite attackmen demand.
It’s worth noting that hard mesh typically requires a break-in period to reach its peak performance. However, once broken in, it tends to maintain its shape and performance characteristics for extended periods, ensuring seasons of consistent shooting accuracy.
Soft Mesh: The Beginner’s Best Friend
For those just starting their lacrosse journey, soft mesh offers numerous advantages that can help develop proper techniques and build confidence on the field.
Soft, flexible meshes like Stringking Type 1 and Hero provide enhanced hold and feel, making it easier for beginners to master fundamental skills such as cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting. The supple materials conform around the ball, offering greater control and reducing the likelihood of dropped passes or errant shots.
Benefits of Soft Mesh for Novice Players
- Improved ball control for developing proper cradling techniques
- Enhanced feel for learning stick skills and shot fakes
- Consistent pocket shape for grooving proper mechanics
- Forgiving nature that builds confidence in beginners
How does soft mesh contribute to skill development? The flexibility of soft mesh provides essential feedback for stick moves like quick sticks and shot fakes – techniques that beginners need to master as they progress in the sport. Additionally, the forgiving nature of soft mesh helps prevent frustration and encourages players to practice more frequently.
Weather-Resistant Mesh: Performing in All Conditions
Lacrosse is often played in challenging weather conditions, from scorching heat to pouring rain. This is where weather-resistant mesh comes into play, offering consistent performance regardless of the elements.
Weather-resistant meshes are typically made from synthetic materials that don’t absorb water or warp in extreme temperatures. This characteristic ensures that the pocket maintains its shape and performance characteristics throughout the game, even in wet or humid conditions.
Advantages of Weather-Resistant Mesh
- Consistent performance in wet conditions
- Minimal warping in extreme temperatures
- Quicker drying time after exposure to moisture
- Reduced maintenance requirements
Do all players benefit from weather-resistant mesh? While it’s particularly valuable for those who frequently play in challenging weather conditions, any player can appreciate the consistency and low maintenance of weather-resistant mesh. However, some players may find that it lacks the “feel” of traditional materials, so personal preference plays a role in the decision to use this type of mesh.
Semi-Soft Mesh: The Versatile Option
For players seeking a balance between the hold of soft mesh and the consistency of hard mesh, semi-soft mesh offers an excellent middle ground. This versatile option provides a blend of characteristics that can benefit players across various positions.
Semi-soft mesh combines the initial softness and hold of traditional mesh with the durability and consistency of synthetic materials. This results in a pocket that offers good feel and control while maintaining its shape over time.
Key Features of Semi-Soft Mesh
- Good initial hold and feel similar to traditional mesh
- Improved durability compared to fully soft mesh
- Consistent pocket shape retention
- Versatility for various playing styles and positions
How does semi-soft mesh compare to other types in terms of break-in time? Semi-soft mesh typically requires less break-in time than hard mesh but may take longer to reach optimal performance compared to soft mesh. This middle ground makes it an attractive option for players who want a balance of immediate playability and long-term consistency.
Wax Mesh: Enhanced Grip in All Weather
Wax mesh has gained popularity among players who demand superior grip and control, especially in adverse weather conditions. This specialized type of mesh features a wax coating that enhances ball retention and provides a unique feel.
The wax treatment creates a tacky surface that improves hold without sacrificing the ability to release the ball quickly. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in wet or humid conditions where maintaining control can be challenging.
Benefits of Wax Mesh
- Enhanced grip in all weather conditions
- Improved ball retention during aggressive play
- Unique feel that some players prefer
- Potential for increased shot power due to better hold
Does wax mesh require special maintenance? While the wax coating provides excellent performance benefits, it may require more frequent reapplication or touch-ups to maintain its tacky surface. Some players find this additional maintenance worthwhile for the performance advantages, while others prefer lower-maintenance options.
Performance Mesh: Cutting-Edge Technology for Elite Players
As lacrosse equipment continues to evolve, performance mesh represents the cutting edge of pocket technology. These advanced meshes often incorporate innovative materials and designs to optimize specific aspects of play.
Performance meshes may feature unique fiber blends, specialized coatings, or advanced weaving techniques. The goal is to create a pocket that excels in areas such as ball control, shot speed, or weather resistance, often targeting the needs of elite-level players.
Characteristics of Performance Mesh
- Advanced materials for optimized performance
- Specialized designs for specific playing styles or positions
- Often incorporates features from multiple mesh types
- May offer superior durability or consistency
Are performance meshes worth the investment for all players? While these advanced options can offer significant benefits, they often come with a higher price tag. For elite players or those seriously committed to improving their game, the advantages may justify the cost. However, many players can achieve excellent results with more traditional mesh types.
In conclusion, the world of lacrosse mesh offers a wide array of options to suit every player’s needs and preferences. From the traditional feel favored by midfielders to the precision of hard mesh for attackmen, and the forgiving nature of soft mesh for beginners, there’s a perfect match for every position and skill level. As you consider your options, remember that personal preference and playing style play crucial roles in finding the ideal mesh for your game. Experiment with different types, seek advice from experienced players and coaches, and ultimately choose the mesh that helps you perform at your best on the lacrosse field.
Traditional Mesh Provides Great Ball Control for Midfielders
Midfielders require excellent ball retention and control when cradling up the field or making quick passes. This is why traditional mesh remains a top choice for many elite midfield lacrosse players. The traditional loose weave with a mid to deep pocket allows the ball to “stick” in the head without bouncing out. While offering less hold than some newer meshes, traditional mesh gives midfielders superior feel on passes, shots, and protecting the rock during runs upfield. The slight give of traditionally strung pockets also provides some “whip” on harder shots for extra velocity.
Stringing traditional mesh pockets requires precision and experience to get the right mid-low pocket shape. Midfielders who prefer a quicker release opt for a slightly tighter channel and pocket. Those looking for maximum ball control go for a deeper traditional pocket with more give on passes and shots. Either way, traditionally strung sticks have a “broken-in” feel preferred by midfielders. The best traditional meshes like Throne, Hero, and Wax also maintain their pockets over time unlike synthetic meshes which tend to bag out. While lacking the consistency and durability of synthetics, traditional mesh delivers the superior feel that the best offensive middies demand.
Newer meshes tout increased hold, consistency, and weather-resistance but sacrifice some of the supple feel of traditional pockets. For elite midfielders running the field in all conditions, traditional mesh delivers unmatched control to go with pinpoint passing accuracy. Its flexibility allows for quicker releases on passes and shots during fast transitions. While mid and low-level players embrace synthetic meshes for their forgiveness, the best midfielders want the tried and true feel of traditional mesh pockets game after game.
Hard Mesh Provides Pinpoint Shooting Accuracy for Attackmen
Attackmen thrive on pinpoint shooting accuracy in high pressure situations. This is why many elite scorers favor stiff hard mesh pockets with minimal give. Hard meshes like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Bravo give attackmen more consistent pocket shapes and increased hold on passes, shots, and tough catches in traffic. While lacking the flexible feel of softer meshes, hard mesh delivers the consistent release and accuracy that deadly finishers demand. The stiffer synthetic materials used in hard mesh generate whip and velocity while retaining their shape better than traditional softer meshes. Attackmen who value consistency above all else have embraced hardened meshes for their performance game to game.
Properly stringing a hard mesh pocket requires precision to avoid an overly stiff hold and release. While attackmen want consistency, they also need some feel on quick stick shots and passes from odd angles. Finding the right combo of diamond shapes, nylon strings, and sidewall patterns is key to optimizing hard mesh performance. A pocket strung too tight will limit ball control and feel while also increasing the risk of bouncing out passes and shots. Elite stringers balance hold and release by mixing in some mid-range diamonds along with harder mesh towards the scoop and sidewalls. This gives attackmen the ideal blend of consistency, command, and feel from their stiff mesh pockets.
While excellent for accuracy, hard mesh requires some break-in time before reaching peak performance. Newer synthetics usually lack the immediately pliable feel of traditional mesh right off the stick. But after a few practices catching, passing, and shooting, the diamonds soften up slightly for better control. Harder meshes also tend to bag out less over time than their softer counterparts. This durability ensures seasons of shooting consistency once the pocket breaks in fully. For attackmen who value reps and precision, nothing delivers quite like hard mesh strung to exactly match their release.
Soft Mesh Helps Beginners Develop Proper Techniques
Beginner lacrosse players need mesh that helps promote proper technique versus developing bad habits. This is why soft flexible meshes are ideal for new players learning fundamentals. Softer meshes like Stringking Type 1 and Hero provide more hold and enhanced feel for developing key skills like cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting.
The supple materials in soft mesh pockets conform around the ball better. This gives beginners more control and command compared to stiff meshes that can lead to bouncing out passes and shots. Soft mesh pockets also retain their initial shape longer before bagging out. This consistency allows newer players to groove proper mechanics through repetition versus constantly adapting to a changing pocket. The flexibility of soft mesh also provides essential feel for stick moves like quick sticks and shot fakes – techniques beginners need to hone.
While lacking the sensitivity of traditional mesh, soft synthetic pockets offer new players a balanced feel. More give than hard meshes but more structure than traditionally strung waxed varieties. Proper stringing optimizes soft mesh performance for beginners by avoiding excess whip or hold. A mid-pocket with a moderate channel allows command without limiting ball control. Soft meshes also encourage better fundamentals by absorbing some of the sting from bad catches and passes. The result is accelerated skill development and confidence.
As players improve, they may transition to meshes that enhance shooting, passing, or hold. But in those early stages, soft mesh serves a key purpose by promoting proper fundamentals through flexibility, feel, and enhanced control. The best coaches know the right mesh can help new players build muscle memory and skills that will pay dividends once hardened and traditional meshes enter the picture down the road.
Mesh Types Based on Player Position
Lacrosse stick mesh must match a player’s position and style. Attackmen, middies, defenders, and goalies each require different mesh qualities to optimize their performance. Pockets ideally complement on-field roles to generate the desired passing, shooting, and ball control for each position.
Attackmen focus on shooting accuracy and consistency. This leads many to favor stiff hard meshes for precision and command. Middies need flexible feel for passing and dodging upfield. So traditional leathers or soft to medium synthetics work best. Defenders prioritize hold and durability under pressure. Hard or medium-soft meshes provide needed ball control and retention when being slashed. Goalies need deep pockets that cradle easily and absorb sting. Traditional leathers or soft meshes allow for quick outlet passes.
Mesh selection also varies between men’s and women’s lacrosse. Legal pocket depths differ, with men’s meshes often strung deeper. Shooting strings are another variation, as women’s sticks cannot have shooting strings in the upper third of the head. Beyond position and gender, arm strength is a factor. Younger players need more flexible meshes for control until building more power. Experienced players can utilize stiffer meshes and tighter channeling for velocity.
Gauging mesh style based on climate is also key. Soft meshes retain pockets better in wet conditions. Hard meshes provide consistency across temperatures. Traditionally strung leathers adjust well between weather but lack durability. Ultimately finding the right mesh means factoring position, power, weather, and personal style. With so many variables, testing different meshes is critical to optimizing performance across roles.
Pocket Shape Impacts Passing and Shooting
Lacrosse stick pocket shape significantly influences passing, catching, and shooting effectiveness. Optimal pocket styles vary based on player position and individual style, but some overarching principles apply.
Deeper pockets typically provide superior ball control for cradling but can reduce passing speed and accuracy. The extra leather or mesh wrapped around the ball cushions control but dampens release velocity. Shallower pockets increase passing quickness but offer less security cradling upfield. An ideal mid-range pocket depth balances hold and release.
Wider pockets with more relaxed sidewalls give increased hold strength but decrease handling agility. Tighter sidewall stringing generates quicker rolls but provides less security. Optimizing sidewall tightness brings command without sacrificing feel.
Proper pocket placement also enhances performance. Pockets set too high in the head force players to cradle downwards awkwardly. Dropping pockets too low can angle release points and limit power. Centering pockets in the mid-upper sweet spot brings control, hold, and versatile release angles.
Factors like diamond shape, stringing materials, and interlocks further influence pocket style. Ultimately finding the right depth, width, and placement to match positioning and playing style is critical. Slight adjustments to pocket shaping bring major differences in passing speed, ball control, and shooting accuracy over time.
Custom Stringing for Performance Enhancement
Beyond mesh selection, customized stringing boosts lacrosse stick performance. Experienced stringers alter diamond patterns, interlocks, and sidewall configurations to match a player’s style and needs.
Precision stringing creates ideal pocket placement, depth, and channel width. Attackmen need shots channeled low foraccuracy. Middies want a slightly higher pocket release. Defenders need hold and control when protecting the ball. Customizing pocket location brings optimal play for all positions.
Stringers also weave specialty shooting strings for extra velocity, hold or feel. V-nylons increase whip on shots. Roller shooting cords add consistency. Unique sidewall lacing generates enhanced command and response. Mixing different shooting string types brings a blend of control, power, and finesse.
Even diamond patterns make a difference. Changing diamond size, shape, and angle alters flexibility and ball cushioning. Cross-lacing and specialty knots also influence hold, release, and durability. No two players string their sticks identically due to the performance impact of customized lacing.
Ultimately elite play demands tailored stringing that maximizes strengths while masking weaknesses. Off the shelf factory stringing leaves performance on the table. With customized pockets and shooting strings, players gain every possible edge out on the field.
Mesh Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse
Men’s and women’s lacrosse feature several key differences in legal mesh types and stringing styles. These variations stem from contrasting rules, field positions, and gameplay in the men’s and women’s games.
Women’s sticks cannot have shooting strings in the top third of the head. This facilitates faster passing and shooting. Men’s sticks lack this stringing restriction, allowing lower pockets for increased hold. Legal women’s pockets are also shallower, usually 3-5 inches deep versus up to 6 inches for men. Women focus more on quick passing and movement versus men’s physical play.
Mesh style preferences also differ. Many women use softer meshes for faster passing and release. Men often favor thicker leathers or stiff synthetics for maximum durability and ball control. Stringing materials reflect this, with women integrating more nylons and men using thicker leathers and shooters.
Women typically use more traditional style pockets with quicker release points. Men’s pockets emphasize hold and command for physical dodging play. Women also need more flex in pockets to facilitate passing and catching on the run during dynamic play. Stiffer men’s pockets support physicality and checks.
While crossover exists, men’s and women’s meshes are optimized for their respective games. Understanding key variations in stringing and materials helps players find pockets that maximize their performance within standard rules.
Unique Mesh Setups of Top NCAA Teams
Many top NCAA lacrosse programs use unique mesh set-ups designed to enhance performance. By tailoring stringing and materials to team systems, colleges gain an edge over opponents.
Tight channel shooting strings are a common theme of top men’s programs. This facilitates passing precision and consistency in high-volume offenses like Albany and Denver. Quick stick teams like Cornell and Princeton integrate more nylons for fast catch-and-release play.
In the women’s game, powerhouses like Northwestern and Boston College integrate firmer sidewalls and mid-range diamond sizes. This blend of control and feel improves passing accuracy. Pockets are strung higher to enable fast feeds and quick sticks.
NCAA teams also run experiments testing how various meshes perform in different weather conditions. By collecting data on passing, shooting, ground balls in rain or snow, programs select optimal fabrics. Schools like Maryland and North Carolina leverage data to determine the best materials for their regions.
Many NCAA players bring their own mesh preferences from youth and high school careers. But most commit to new team stringing norms designed for system optimization. Unique team meshes prove that in lacrosse, even small pocket tweaks can create performance differences and strategic advantages.
Finding the Ideal Mesh Tension
Proper mesh tension brings the ultimate blend of control, hold, and release for lacrosse players. Optimizing stringing tightness through pocket placement, diamond size, and sidewall adjustments enhances performance across positions.
Tighter stringing provides more responsiveness for quicker passes, shots, and transitions. But excess tension reduces hold and feel while increasing bounce-out risk. Too little tension sacrifices speed and precision despite improving ball control. The goal is balancing whip and command without overtightening.
Pocket tension also impacts shooting. Tighter channels focus shot velocity and accuracy while wider setups provide more finesse on quick sticks. Because game situations differ, mesh tension ranges allow versatility. Tighter setups for close dodges and looser pockets on the perimeter.
Finding ideal tension requires testing various diamond shapes, sidewall configurations, and interlock placements during stringing. Players should observe ball response, hold, and release plus pocket memory over time. Making micro-adjustments to areas like mid-diamond angles or sidewall holes brings major differences in overall tightness.
With the right overall tension, players gain shooting precision along with cradling control and passing touch. Maintaining mesh optimally over time then comes down to restringing as materials relax. Dialing in personalized tension balance through pro stringing and careful break-in enables peak performance.
Mesh Optimized for Weather Conditions
Lacrosse mesh materials perform differently in various weather conditions. Selecting optimal fabrics for local climates can enhance ball control, passing, and shooting consistency.
Synthetic meshes like Stringking Type 3F or ECD Bravo withstand moisture better than traditional leathers. Their integrated nature resists water saturation compared to natural pockets. Harder synthetics also maintain shape in wet weather due to stiffness.
In extreme cold, waxed meshes stay supple for feel while synthetic materials stiffen. Natural pockets also provide grip versus hardened plastics that become slick. Pre-waxing mesh helps repel snow and ice accumulation during play.
Excessive heat can soften some synthetic diamonds, reducing pocket stability. Natural leathers absorb sweat better, maintaining integrity. However, heavier meshes cause increased steam in extreme temperatures. Lighter synthetics with integrated sidewalls optimize airflow.
For optimal performance, lacrosse players should analyze their region’s typical weather patterns. Locations prone to rain and humidity favor synthetic meshes. Colder climates benefit from waxed pockets. Testing materials in expected conditions ensures ideal stick response across the season.
Breaking In New Lacrosse Mesh
Properly breaking in new lacrosse stick mesh brings optimized performance. Using proper techniques reduces break-in time so new pockets reach peak playability faster.
Pockets require an initial wear-in period as materials shift and strings settle. Catching hundreds of passes trains mesh to contour properly around balls for ideal hold. Shooting drills also focus diamonds for increased velocity and accuracy.
Dunking mesh pockets in water can accelerate break-in by softening stiff fabrics. Repeatedly drenching and drying mesh helps accelerate the flex needed for peak ball control. Wetting traditional leathers makes them more pliable faster.
Using stick rollers or tennis balls also mimics mesh break-in. Rolling pockets forces shaping while controlling contact angles. Wall ball training with tennis balls wears in pockets through repetitive impact in a controlled setting.
New mesh requires continuous play for at least a few weeks before becoming maximally responsive. Advance break-in with water, rollers, or specialty balls reduces this transition. With patience and proper techniques, players find that sweet spot where new pockets gain their ultimate feel and performance.
Evaluating Lacrosse Mesh Durability
Lacrosse mesh durability greatly impacts pocket integrity and performance over time. Evaluating fabric lifespan helps optimize equipment budgets and playing consistency.
Synthetic meshes like Stringking and ECD Bravo offer the longest pocket life, often lasting 1-2 full seasons before fraying. Their integrated nature resists deformation better than individual leather pieces. However, synthetics lack the out-of-box feel of softer meshes until break-in.
Waxed leathers provide optimal sensitivity but shorter lifespan at 4-6 months. Frequent play in rain or humidity speeds deterioration. Unwaxed varieties lack weather protection but retain pockets a bit longer. Heat and direct sun also degrade untreated leathers over time.
Polyester and nylon blends balance durability and feel in the 6-12 month range. Hybrid materials mimic leathers’ flex while adding structure. Their intermediate lifespan delivers value given enhanced sensing versus pure synthetics.
Regularly checking sidewall strings, shooting cords, and diamonds spots premature mesh wear. Replacing individual diamonds or sections extends pocket life at lower cost than full re-stringing. Proper weather protection and occasional re-waxing also safely extend traditional leather lifespan.
Pros and Cons of Lacrosse Mesh Materials
Various lacrosse mesh materials each offer unique benefits and tradeoffs for performance, feel, and durability.
Traditional leathers like kangaroo provide unmatched feel but lack weather resistance. Coating leathers in wax boosts water protection but reduces sensing. Leathers also require frequent re-stringing as pockets deform over time.
Synthetic meshes like Stringking Type 3F offer consistent shape and all-weather integrity. However, they require a break-in period to match leathers’ flex and feel. Cost is also higher for pre-formed synthetic pockets versus leather DIY stringing.
Nylon blended meshes from Stringking, ECD, and others balance control and durability. By integrating nylon into leather-like materials, pockets gain weather protection without sacrificing feel. Mid-range lifespan delivers value over time.
Polyester mesh alternatives provide stiffness for shot power but decreased life compared to nylon blends. They also lack nylon’s conformity around balls during cradling. Rubber meshes tout durability but feel entirely different from other pocket materials.
In the end, players must determine their priorities around feel, consistency, and longevity when selecting mesh. Trying different materials is the only way to discover preferences that optimize individual performance.
When to Replace Lacrosse Mesh
Knowing when to replace lacrosse stick mesh is critical for maintaining top performance. As materials degrade over time, evaluating several indicators helps identify when a fresh stringing is needed.
Fraying and broken sidewall strings signal diminishing integrity. As these foundational laces stretch and snap, pocket structure weakens. Frequent re-threading and knotting provides only temporary relief before requiring full re-stringing.
Lost shape or bagging of the pocket indicates materials are wearing down. Proper diamonds, runners, and channel width get compromised, reducing accuracy. Sagging pockets also lose hold from excess slack in the mesh.
Weather damage like obvious mildew, dirt saturation, and material brittleness are sure signs new mesh is needed. Performance drops off once grime, sweat, and debris permeate the materials, affecting ball contact and release.
Finally, reduced passing speed, control, erratic shooting, and constant bouncing out indicate a mesh change. Even with seasoning from use, these performance declines signal the need for fresh pockets optimized for control.
While personal feel comes into play, following these indicators helps players know when mesh has passed its useful life. Keeping pockets fresh is the only way to maintain the consistency, command, and handling that breeds on-field confidence.
Key Takeaways for Selecting Lacrosse Mesh
Finding the right lacrosse stick mesh involves balancing control, feel, and durability for your position and style. Keeping several key factors in mind optimizes the mesh selection process.
Test different pocket materials like leathers, nylons, and synthetics to gauge preference. Softer leathers provide the most feel but degrade faster. Synthetics bring consistency and weather-resistance at the cost of responsiveness.
Pocket style matters. Deeper pockets allow superior hold but can restrict quick passing. Low pocket placements generate power but hinder versatility. Moderate depth and mid-high placement create balance.
Factor your climate into the mesh equation. Synthetics withstand humidity and rain better. Natural leathers conform more uniformly in cold conditions.
Remember that stiffer meshes provide consistency while softer pockets bring control. Finding your ideal flex combination enhances performance.
Don’t overlook custom stringing factors like diamond pattern, shooting strings, and sidewall style. Precision stringing makes good mesh great.
With so many variables, be open to trying new meshes until discovering your optimal match. Keeping meshes fresh then ensures seasons of peak passing, shooting, and command on the field.