The Experts Guide to Choosing the Best Lacrosse Head in 2023 and Beyond

The Experts Guide to Choosing the Best Lacrosse Head in 2023 and Beyond

The Optimal Pocket Placement for Maximum Ball Control with a Command Lacrosse Head

When stringing a Command lacrosse head, one of the most important considerations is pocket placement. An optimally placed pocket is crucial for achieving the quick, accurate passes and smooth releases that Command heads are known for. But what exactly constitutes optimal pocket placement?

Generally, the best pocket placement for a Command head is in the mid to lower sidewall area. This gives you increased ball control, especially on quicker shots and passes. Command heads have a defined channel and pinch that cradles the ball right in the sweet spot. If you string the pocket too high, the ball can rattle around and release unpredictably. Too low, and scooping ground balls becomes difficult.

For midfield play where ball retention on cradling is key, focus on a mid pocket placement. This lets you carry the ball securely while still maintaining quick hands. Attack players who rely on tight dodges and accurate feeds will benefit from shifting the pocket slightly lower. This gives excellent hold on the ball while enabling insane passing speeds with a smooth channel.

You’ll also want to pay attention to pocket placement front to back. Too far forward, and you lose some power on passes and shots. Too far back leads to decreased aiming ability. Generally, the back of the pocket on a Command head should end about 1-2 diamonds from the scoop. This centered placement gives you the best of both worlds – pinpoint accuracy and serious velocity.

WhileCommand heads excel at ball control across the board, optimizing pocket placement for your position and style of play takes it to the next level. Spending time to string your Command with the pocket in just the right spot can pay big dividends in improving your lacrosse game. With the ball locked into the ideal sweet spot, you’ll have the confidence to let it fly knowing it will hit your teammates’ sticks or the back of the net.

Comparing the Stiffness and Flex of Under Armour Command vs Other Lacrosse Heads

One of the key factors in choosing a lacrosse head is finding the right balance of stiffness and flex. This greatly impacts handling, scooping, passing and shooting. When looking at Under Armour’s Command head, how does it compare to stiffness and flex of other major brands?

Overall, the Command tends to be on the stiffer side, while still retaining some flex. This makes it ideal for players who value quick, accurate passes and a smooth release when shooting. Under Armour leverages proprietary alloys and sidewall designs to strike this balance. Meanwhile, heads like the Maverik Optik aim for maximum flex and “give” on hard shots.

For example, the Command uses a hybrid sidewall that combines durable alloys with injected polymer. This creates targeted stiffening along the channel and sidewalls for structure, while allowing flex through the scoop and throat. Other heads rely more heavily on thicker, uniform alloys throughout which can sometimes be overly rigid.

In terms of scooping, Command heads are known for having a super stiff and strong scoop that won’t warp. This allows for quick ground ball pickups and great ball retention compared to flimsier scoops that collapse. At the same time, the throat area has some give for better ball control during cradling.

For face shapes and sidewall geometries, Under Armour leverages 3D scanning and printing technology to optimize stiffness distribution. This results in pinched sidewalls that cradle well, along with an angled face that provides a quick release. More flexible heads may lack rigidity for clean passing channels and defined hold points.

While preference for flex versus stiffness comes down to playing style, Under Armour does an excellent job making the Command rigid where needed without sacrificing feel and ball control. This balance is a key reason you’ll see the Command head used by players at all levels needing quick hands, accurate feeding, and high shooting speeds matched with great touch.

How Sidewall Design Affects Scooping Ability in Under Armour Lacrosse Heads

When designing a lacrosse head, one of the most important engineering considerations is the sidewall geometry. This greatly impacts essential skills like scooping up ground balls. Under Armour leverages innovative sidewall shapes and materials in their lacrosse heads to optimize scooping performance.

On their Command line of heads, Under Armour uses a hybrid sidewall construction. The upper sidewalls utilize a stiff aluminum-scandium alloy, while the lower sidewalls are made from durable polymer. This optimized blend creates rigidity in the channel for great ball control, while allowing some flex and “give” in the lower sidewalls.

Angling the sidewalls outward as they descend also maximizes scoop width to gather more ground balls. Wider heads essentially funnel balls in, while narrow throats let balls glance off the plastic. Under Armour tweaks the sidewall angles and dimensions based on player position to balance ball retention versus quick hands.

In addition, Under Armour engineers the geometry, thickness, and materials of the full scoop itself for structural integrity. Denser alloys prevent the scoop from warping or developing “fishhooks” that impede ground balls. Some flimsier head designs neglect the scoop strength which hampers performance over time.

By considering the sidewall design holistically from the channel down through the throat area, Under Armour optimizes heads like the Command for easy ground ball scooping. The polymer and alloy blend provides rigidity where needed for ball control, while strategic flex zones allow the head to absorb impacts when scooping. This excellent blend of materials and geometry makes Under Armour one of the most trusted brands for lacrosse heads across all positions.

Next time you are in the market for a new lacrosse head, be sure to pay close attention to the sidewall construction. Subtle design choices like sidewall angles, thickness, material choices, and scoop geometry can make a world of difference in your ability to gain possession off ground balls. Prioritize heads like the Command that really emphasize optimized sidewall engineering.

Evaluating Face Shape and Angle for Optimal Ball Control

When designing a lacrosse head, the face shape and angle have a big impact on ball control, passing, and shooting. Under Armour carefully engineers the face geometry on heads like the Command to optimize performance.

Command lacrosse heads utilize a curved face shape that provides excellent hold on the ball. This is combined with a pinched sidewall design that cradles the ball securely in the pocket’s sweet spot. Some heads use a more angular, flat face shape, which can lead to less defined hold points and decreased ball control.

In addition to the curve, Under Armour precisely calculates the face angle to enable a quick release when passing or shooting. Too much of an angle, and the ball hesitates on release, slowing your shot speed and passing accuracy. Too flat of a face angle, and the ball is more prone to rattling around the head.

To find that sweet spot, Under Armour leverages 3D scans of players’ heads during play to determine optimal face angles. This data is used to tweak each head profile, from attack to defense to goalie versions, based on typical head positioning by position. The resulting heads, like the Command, perfectly contour to the ball for excellent retention while enabling lightning-quick passing and shooting.

Under Armour also utilizes a technology called FlexUtiltiy Panels in their lacrosse heads to fine tune the flex and stiffness across the head. Strategic placement of these panels allows the head to have some “give” in targeted areas like the scoop while optimizing stiffness along the sidewalls and channel. This further improves the heads’ overall ball control capabilities.

By carefully engineering the face shape, angle, sidewall geometry, and flex points, Under Armour Command heads offer elite-level ball control. The curved face pocket cradles the ball securely while the calculated face angle provides a lightning-quick release. So next time you’re in the market for a new lacrosse head, be sure to evaluate the face design and angle for optimal performance.

Importance of a Smooth Release Channel for Quick, Accurate Passes

One of the key engineering considerations for a lacrosse head is optimizing the release channel for quick, accurate passes. Under Armour carefully designs the throats on their heads like the Command to enable smooth, fast releases.

The release channel is formed by the lower throat of the head near the bottom of the sidewalls. This is the last point of contact before the ball releases from the pocket on a pass. An uneven or obstructed channel can cause the ball to wobble or deflect on release, leading to imprecise passing.

To maximize passing precision, Under Armour polishes and refines the release channel area. This creates an optimally smooth surface for the ball to roll off the plastic. Other heads may have rough edges or inconsistent wall thickness in this critical zone.

In addition, Under Armour engineers the ideal angle and curvature along the channel walls to promote quick, no-wobble releases. Heads with flatter or irregular channels often hesitate on passes as the ball clicks along the plastic. This costs you valuable fractions of a second to get rid of the ball.

A well-defined release channel also complements the pocket placement and shooting stringing on a head like the Command. With the pocket in the mid- to lower-sidewall sweet spot and angled shooting strings, the ball feeds perfectly into the channel for blistering passes.

So when picking your next lacrosse head, be sure to inspect the release channel carefully. Smoother, angled channels enable the fastest passes and tightest feeds. Combine that with a strategically stringed pocket, and you have a head designed for high-precision, lightning-quick ball movement. Your teammates and goal scorers will thank you!

Understanding Pinch and Flare to Find Your Ideal Scoop Size

When selecting a lacrosse head, one of the key factors is determining the optimal scoop size and geometry for your position and style of play. This is impacted by the head’s “pinch” and “flare.” Under Armour carefully engineers the pinch and flare on their heads like the Command to balance ball retention versus quick release.

The “pinch” refers to how tight the sidewalls pinch together up by the scoop. A more pinched head has a narrower scoop, while less pinch creates a wider opening. In general, wider scoops allow for easier ground ball scooping, while more pinch enables greater ball control and faster passing.

“Flare” describes how quickly the sidewalls flare out from the pinch point down to the widest part of the head. More flare means the sidewalls open up rapidly for a voluminous pocket area. Minimal flare keeps the head narrower overall. More flare enhances ball retention while less flare promotes quick stick moves.

For example, Attack heads like the Command feature more pinch and less flare for tighter ball control on dodging and feeding. Wider flare is better suited for long pole midfielders who scoop lots of ground balls. Defensemen benefit from moderate pinch and flare for checking control while still picking up grounders. Goalies need maximum flare for catching incoming shots.

So be sure to think about how you personally utilize your lacrosse head when determining ideal pinch and flare. Heads like the Command are available in position-specific versions to optimize these key structural aspects. Dialing in the perfect scoop size, dimensions, and sidewall angles for your style of play is crucial for maximizing your on-field lacrosse performance.

Getting Excellent Ball Retention from a Command Lacrosse Head

One of the trademarks of the Under Armour Command lacrosse head is its ability to optimize ball retention while still allowing quick stick movement. This makes it popular across positions needing excellent control.

Command heads feature strategically designed sidewalls that pinch in near the scoop area. This cradles the ball securely in the pocket’s sweet spot allowing for confident dodging, cradling, and scooping. The pinched sidewalls combined with the curved head shape contour perfectly to the ball for unmatched control.

In addition, the angled scoop and flared throat help guide ground balls directly into the pocket so they stick on contact. Scoops that flatten out at the top allow less ball retention on ground ball pickups. The Command’s scoop geometry ensures full possession.

The pocket placement also contributes to ball retention. Optimal stringing in the mid- to lower-sidewall area on a Command head locks the ball in. High pockets lead to decreased control, while low pockets make ground balls tricky. The Command’s defined channel delivers excellent hold across pocket placements.

Finally, the hybrid sidewall construction balances stiffness through the channel with strategic flex points in the scoop and throat. This blend optimizes the ball-hugging cradle of the Command head, a key benefit for possession-focused players.

Thanks to its smart engineering and design, the Command lacrosse head is trusted by elite players at all levels needing unmatched ball control. Whether cradling through traffic, scooping grounders, or hanging onto checks, the Command gives you confidence that the ball will stick when it matters most.

Picking the Right Lacrosse Head for Your Playing Style

With so many lacrosse head options on the market, it can be tough to select the right one for your playing style and position. However, heads like the Under Armour Command make it easier by offering tailored designs to align with how you utilize your stick.

For example, attack players benefit from the Command’s elite ball retention capabilities for quick dodges, feeds, and shot consistency. The pinched sidewalls and defined channel enable tight control on the crease. Version are optimized for quick hands to get shots off in tight spaces.

Midfielders need command heads that balance ground ball scooping with ball security during lengthy cradles. Wider flare in midfield heads makes scooping grounders easier while the mid-high pocket placement locks in balls. Throats are engineered to improve outlet passing speed.

Defensemen require heads offering checking flexibility but with defined hold points. The Command provides excellent ball control after dislodging possession on checks. Meanwhile, long stick middies rely on specialized wider heads for expert ground ball skills and downfield transition play.

By selecting a Command designed specifically for your playing style and position, you get a head engineered to excel at the skills you utilize the most. While the Command delivers great versatility too, choosing the version aligned with your needs gives you that extra competitive edge you need to dominate.

New Technologies Making Command Lacrosse Heads More Durable

As lacrosse heads have evolved, brands like Under Armour have incorporated innovative new technologies to make them more durable. The Command lacrosse head in particular utilizes several advancements for improved structural integrity.

One area of focus has been using advanced polymer materials in key areas vulnerable to warping. Under Armour leverages high-strength polycarbonate blended with other polymers to reinforce high-stress zones on the Command head.

This polymer material comprises the lower sidewalls and scoop areas that take the brunt of checks and slash impacts. The improved durability in these flex areas minimizes warp and deformation over time. Other heads still rely on basic alloys that dent and bend easier under routine impacts.

In addition to polymers, Under Armour incorporates scandium-aluminum alloys strategically throughout the Command’s sidewalls and channel. Scandium enhances the structural properties of aluminum, creating a stronger, stiffer alloy less prone to damage.

Finally, Under Armour uses advanced 3D modeling software to digitally stress test head designs well beyond normal limits. This technology enables them to run complex simulations and optimize durability prior to any physical prototypes.

Thanks to these engineering improvements, the Command lacrosse head maintains its structure and performance far longer than previous generations of heads. So you can play more aggressively while worrying less about inadvertent damage shortening the life of your stick.

Tips for Stringing Your Command Lacrosse Head for Maximum Performance

Stringing the pocket on your Command lacrosse head is crucial for optimizing its performance. With the right techniques and adjustments, you can maximize ball control, passing, and shooting with this elite head.

First, focus on a mid- to lower-sidewall pocket placement. This area provides the best hold and quickest release. Make sure to use a balanced 4-nylon setup with 8-16 knots/diamonds depending on preference. Too few knots leads to sloppy pockets that hinder control.

When installing shooting strings, use a U-shape starting low on the sidewall up to the channel. This helps guide shots with precision and consistency. Traditional straight shooting strings can obstruct smooth releases off the Command’s channel.

For cross-lacing, a pattern like the 1-1-1 or 1-2-1 provides excellent hold while minimizing whip and rattle. Skip too many holes, and the pocket gets too deep with decreased control. Be sure to pull cross-laces tight so they cradle the ball securely.

Consider adding stringing elements like a mid-pocket nylon for greater hold or a single V shooting string to refine the release point. But avoid over-stringing the head, as too much extra lacing leads to decreased passing speed. Focus only on key touches that maximize the engineered benefits of the Command design.

Lastly, customize the pocket placement, whip, and hold points to your exact position, stick skills, and shooting mechanics. Dialing in the perfect pocket set up for you is key to getting elite performance out of a Command lacrosse head.

Customizing Flex and Pocket Placement for Midfield Play

When stringing a Command lacrosse head for midfield play, optimizing flex and pocket placement for this position is key. The right adjustments to these factors can pay big dividends for any middie’s game.

In terms of flex, midfielders benefit from moderate stiffness through the channel for solid passing, but with some added give in the scoop and sidewalls. This combo enables great ground ball scooping while still maintaining pinpoint passing accuracy.

Focus the pocket placement in the mid- to upper-mid sidewall area. This provides excellent hold for lengthy cradles downfield while allowing quick hands on outlet passes. Avoid placing the pocket too low, as this makes scooping grounders more difficult.

Consider using less whip and a tighter channel to promote crisp outlet passes. But incorporate a decent amount of hold through the midsection with careful shooting string placement to retain possession on checks. Use a straight across top nylon for increased ball control.

In terms of materials, a softer mesh promotes better hold during long runs. Harder meshes tend to lose shape over time. Use a mid-range nylon like Type 1M that optimizes hold, feel, and durability.

Focus on a balanced 4-nylon setup stringing to define the channel. Skip too many holes, and the pocket loses that crisp passing ability midfielders need. Make adjustments from there based on your individual throwing motion.

With the right flex profile, pocket placement, mesh, and stringing setup, you can turn your Command into the ultimate midfield lacrosse head. Taking the time to customize your stick for this crucial position gives you an edge over the competition.

Achieving the Hardest Shots with the Right Command Lacrosse Head

The Command lacrosse head is trusted by elite shooters needing maximum ball speed and pinpoint accuracy. With the right flex profile and pocket setup, this head launches absolute rockets.

Focus on versions of the Command optimized for stiffness through the sidewalls and channel. This enables insane ball velocity as energy transfers cleanly through the head with no dissipation from flex. A stiff throat is also crucial for lightning-quick passing.

At the same time, strategically add flex to the lower sidewalls with special shooting strings. This allows the upper head to act like a slingshot whipping the ball forward. Use soft shooting lace like nylon multifilament rather than stiff cord to enhance that catapult effect.

Pocket placement should sit on the mid to lower sidewalls for optimized energy transfer. Make sure the shooting strings angle in from the channel up toward the scoop. This centralizes the launch point for highly accurate shots.

During stringing, focus on wider diamond top string holes to deepen the pocket. This increases hold time on the shooter’s wind-up. Add a u-shooter to finely tune the release point. Consider an additional straight shooter if needed.

With the right Command model, strategic pocket placement, and shooting string setup, you can achieve maximum ball speed without sacrificing control. Your blistering outside snipes and rocket top corners will terrorize goalies all season long.

Finding the Optimal Balance of Stiffness and Flex for Defense

When selecting a lacrosse head for defense, finding the right blend of stiffness and flex is crucial. The Command lacrosse head provides the perfect balance to excel on defense.

Overall, a moderately stiff profile optimizes the Command head for defenders. This maintains solid structure for checking but with some flex to allow better ball control during transitions. Scoops should have limited give to facilitate ground balls.

Focus on a mid-level hold and defined channel to retain possession after dislodging the ball. More flexible heads often lose their shape, leading to sloppy handling. Excessive stiffness hinders control during ground balls and passing on the clear.

In the throat, allow some engineered flex to absorb checks while retaining passing accuracy. Rigid throats transmit too much vibration, causing inaccurate outlet feeds. Strategic flex also reduces errant passes after contact.

For pockets, choose mid-level placement with minimal whip that runs parallel to the head shape. This isolates the ball in the upper pocket for secure holds after checks but still enables crisp passing. Avoid deep pockets that obstruct clean releases.

With the Command’s dialed-in stiffness and flex distribution, advanced sidewall design, and optimized pocket placement, defenders gain a major advantage. Make sure to select lacrosse heads with the ideal balance of rigidity and engineered flex zones suited for shutting down opponents.

Why the Command Remains a Top Choice After Years of Innovation

Even with constant new lacrosse head designs entering the market, the Under Armour Command remains one of the most popular and trusted heads year after year. There are some key reasons why it stays at the top.

First and foremost, the Command gets all the fundamentals right. Scooping, cradling, ball retention, passing, shooting – this head excels at everything players need. The Sidewall shaping, flex points, and face angles are optimized through decades of engineering iterations.

In addition, Under Armour doesn’t rest on their laurels. They consistently integrate innovative new technologies into the Command line, like strengthened scandium-alloys and engineered polymer blends. This improves durability and performance with every new model.

The Command also offers excellent versatility. While optimized for specific positions, it really provides elite playability across the field. Attackmen, middies, defenders, and goalies can all utilize the Command effectively due to smart flex tuning and pocket placement options.

It also features tons of customization potential. You can string it up with various pocket styles and shooting lace setups to match your playing style. The head shape takes any pocket beautifully for excellent stringing control.

At the end of the day, the Command has staying power because it simply works. When you need reliable excellence across all the fundamentals, this head remains a go-to choice. Even with new tech and materials, the Command still reigns supreme.

Why the Command Remains a Top Choice After Years of Innovation

Even with constant new lacrosse head designs entering the market, the Under Armour Command remains one of the most popular and trusted heads year after year. There are some key reasons why it stays at the top.

First and foremost, the Command gets all the fundamentals right. Scooping, cradling, ball retention, passing, shooting – this head excels at everything players need. The sidewall shaping, flex points, and face angles are optimized through decades of engineering iterations.

In addition, Under Armour doesn’t rest on their laurels. They consistently integrate innovative new technologies into the Command line, like strengthened scandium-alloys and engineered polymer blends. This improves durability and performance with every new model.

The Command also offers excellent versatility. While optimized for specific positions, it really provides elite playability across the field. Attackmen, middies, defenders, and goalies can all utilize the Command effectively due to smart flex tuning and pocket placement options.

It also features tons of customization potential. You can string it up with various pocket styles and shooting lace setups to match your playing style. The head shape takes any pocket beautifully for excellent stringing control.

At the end of the day, the Command has staying power because it simply works. When you need reliable excellence across all the fundamentals, this head remains a go-to choice. Even with new tech and materials, the Command still reigns supreme.