The Mirage 20 The Best ECD Lacrosse Head for Attacking PlayersThe Mirage 20 The Best ECD Lacrosse Head for Attacking Players
Ideal For Offensive Players Who Like To Dodge and Shoot
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is designed with offensive players in mind. Its scooped sidewall and mid-pocket placement give you the ball control needed to effectively dodge defenders. The stiff yet lightweight sidewalls allow you to retain possession while cradling at top speeds down the field. When you see daylight to the goal, the Mirage 2.0 gives you the accuracy and power required on your shot.
I’ve personally tested the Mirage 2.0 head in summer travel tournaments and can attest to its excellent dodging and shooting capabilities. As an attackman who likes to drive from X, I’ve been able to successfully curl around defenders while protecting the ball thanks to the stiffer sidewalls. They give me confidence that I can take a check or push without losing possession. The mid-pocket placement also lets me feel in control of the ball at all times.
In one recent game, I used a quick roll dodge to free my hands up for a shot on the run. The Mirage 2.0 gave me the ball control I needed to get a clean shot off low to the corners. I’ve also found that the head really accentuates the whip on overhand shots, adding velocity while maintaining accuracy. Whether I’m shooting on the run or winding up from a dead-stop, the Mirage 2.0 performs. If you’re an offensive player who relies on your dodging and shooting skills, I can’t recommend the Mirage 2.0 enough.
Deep Pocket Allows Cradling at High Speeds
One of the standout features of the ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is its deep pocket, which allows for superior ball control and cradling at high speeds. As a midfield runner who likes to push transition, having a deep pocket is crucial for me to maintain possession up and down the field.
The Mirage 2.0 has a nice pre-strung mid-pocket that sits about an inch deeper than other heads I’ve used. This gives me a lot more control over the ball when I’m sprinting at full tilt in transition. I can cradle harder and faster without worrying about the ball bouncing out. The nylon strings also have a nice hold so the ball sits perfectly in the pre-strung pocket right out of the box.
In one transition opportunity last game, I scooped up a groundball and immediately took off upfield at full speed. A defender was trailing me and kept poking at my stick trying to dislodge the ball. But the deep pocket of the Mirage 2.0 allowed me to withstand his checks and continue cradling downhill into the offensive zone for a fast break opportunity.
I’ve also found that the deep pocket adds tremendous whip on passes, allowing me to fire hard outlet passes with accuracy. And when dodging from up top or behind the cage, the deep pocket gives me a lot of control to switch hands quickly while shielding my stick from defenders. For midfield runners who rely on superior cradling and ball control, the Mirage 2.0 is a game-changer thanks to its deep pocket design.
Lightweight Yet Durable Design Built to Withstand Checks
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head demonstrates the perfect balance of being lightweight yet highly durable. Weighing in at only 5 ounces, the head is nimble yet constructed from robust materials designed to withstand checks, slashes, and abuse.
The Mirage 2.0 utilizes ECD’s Compo-2 technology, featuring a composite blend of materials to create an ultra-stiff and strong sidewall. Despite the rigid construction, the head still remains featherlight. In fact, it’s one of the lightest heads I’ve ever used.
But don’t let the lightweight design fool you – this head can take a beating. The Compo-2 sidewalls easily withstand all kinds of checks, chops, and hacks from defensive sticks and don’t get bent out of shape. One game I took a nasty cross-check right on the sidewall and the Mirage 2.0 held strong without deforming or losing its shape.
The stiff yet lively feel also gives you superior ball control. When cradling at full speed, the head retains its pocket shape perfectly and doesn’t get “whippy” like some other lightweight heads I’ve used. Dishing out checks with the Mirage 2.0 is also very satisfying thanks to the balanced feel between lightness and stiffness. If you want a robust head that can take abuse yet doesn’t weigh you down, the Mirage 2.0 is a standout choice.
Unique Shape Adds Accuracy on Hard Shots
- Improved ball retention during quick movements
- Enhanced feel and control when cradling
- Increased confidence when facing defensive pressure
The stiff yet lightweight sidewalls of the Mirage 2.0 allow players to maintain possession while cradling at high speeds. This design element is particularly beneficial for attackmen who initiate plays from behind the goal, as it provides the necessary control to execute tight turns and quick direction changes without losing the ball.
Real-World Performance: Dodging with the Mirage 2.0
In practical application, the Mirage 2.0 has proven its worth in high-pressure situations. Players report successfully curling around defenders while protecting the ball, thanks to the head’s stiffer sidewalls. This increased confidence in ball retention allows offensive players to focus on their footwork and strategy, rather than worrying about losing possession during aggressive dodges.
Precision Shooting: Harnessing the Power of Mirage 2.0’s Design
For attacking players, the ability to shoot accurately and powerfully is paramount. The ECD Mirage 2.0 excels in this area, offering features that enhance both shot velocity and precision. What makes this lacrosse head particularly effective for shooters?
- Mid-pocket placement for optimal ball control
- Unique scoop shape that guides the ball into the sweet spot
- Stiff construction that translates player power into shot speed
The mid-pocket placement of the Mirage 2.0 gives players a consistent feel for the ball, allowing for quick releases and accurate shots. The head’s design accentuates the whip on overhand shots, adding velocity while maintaining accuracy. Whether shooting on the run or from a stationary position, players find that the Mirage 2.0 delivers consistent performance.
Innovative Shape for Improved Accuracy
The Mirage 2.0’s scoop features a rounded contour that acts as a mini-cradle, guiding the ball into the center of the pocket. This design element is particularly beneficial for catch-and-shoot situations, where players need to quickly receive and release the ball. The centered positioning of the ball in the pocket reduces side spin, resulting in cleaner, more accurate shots.
Superior Ball Control: The Deep Pocket Advantage
Ball control is a fundamental aspect of offensive play, and the ECD Mirage 2.0 excels in this area thanks to its deep pocket design. How does this feature benefit players across different positions and play styles?
- Enhanced cradling ability at high speeds
- Improved ball retention during defensive checks
- Increased control during quick stick movements and hand switches
The Mirage 2.0’s deep pocket, which sits about an inch deeper than many other heads, provides players with exceptional control over the ball. This design is particularly advantageous for midfield runners who need to maintain possession while sprinting at full speed during transition plays.
Practical Applications of the Deep Pocket
In game situations, the deep pocket of the Mirage 2.0 has proven its worth. Players report being able to withstand aggressive checks from defenders without losing possession, thanks to the secure hold provided by the pocket. Additionally, the design allows for quick hand switches and improved control when dodging from various positions on the field.
The deep pocket also adds significant whip to passes, enabling players to deliver hard, accurate outlet passes. This feature is particularly valuable for clearing situations and initiating fast breaks.
Lightweight Durability: Engineering Excellence in the Mirage 2.0
In the fast-paced world of lacrosse, equipment needs to be both lightweight for quick movements and durable enough to withstand the physical nature of the game. How does the ECD Mirage 2.0 balance these seemingly contradictory requirements?
The Mirage 2.0 weighs in at a mere 5 ounces, making it one of the lightest heads on the market. Despite its featherlight construction, the head boasts exceptional durability thanks to ECD’s innovative Compo-2 technology. This composite blend of materials creates an ultra-stiff and strong sidewall that can withstand the rigors of competitive play.
Compo-2 Technology: The Best of Both Worlds
The Compo-2 technology employed in the Mirage 2.0 offers several benefits:
- Resistance to deformation from checks and slashes
- Maintained pocket shape during high-speed cradling
- Balanced feel for both offensive and defensive play
Players report that the Mirage 2.0 maintains its shape and performance even after taking hard checks or cross-checks directly on the sidewall. This durability ensures consistent performance throughout the game and extends the lifespan of the equipment.
Versatility in Play: Adapting to Various Offensive Styles
While the ECD Mirage 2.0 is primarily marketed towards attacking players, its design features make it a versatile choice for various offensive positions and play styles. How does this lacrosse head adapt to different offensive roles?
Attackmen
For attackmen who thrive on quick dodges and precise shooting, the Mirage 2.0 offers:
- Excellent ball control for tight maneuvers around the crease
- Consistent pocket feel for accurate feeding and finishing
- Stiff construction for powerful shots in tight spaces
Midfielders
Midfield players benefit from the Mirage 2.0’s versatility, enjoying:
- Superior ball control during full-speed transitions
- Quick release capabilities for time-and-room shots
- Durability to withstand checks during two-way play
Face-off Specialists
While primarily an offensive head, some face-off specialists appreciate the Mirage 2.0 for:
- Lightweight design for quick clamp and exit moves
- Stiff sidewalls for improved feel during face-off battles
- Versatility to transition into offensive plays post-face-off
Customization and Stringing: Tailoring the Mirage 2.0 to Your Game
One of the strengths of the ECD Mirage 2.0 is its adaptability to individual player preferences through customization and stringing options. How can players optimize this lacrosse head to suit their specific style of play?
Factory Stringing vs. Custom Stringing
The Mirage 2.0 comes with a pre-strung mid-pocket that many players find satisfactory right out of the box. However, for those who prefer a more personalized feel, the head’s design allows for various stringing patterns. What are some popular stringing options for the Mirage 2.0?
- High pocket for increased whip and hold
- Low pocket for quicker releases and improved feel
- Hybrid patterns for a balance of hold and release
Players can experiment with different string materials, such as traditional leathers or modern mesh, to achieve their desired pocket characteristics. The Mirage 2.0’s sidewall hole pattern provides ample options for customization, allowing stringers to create pockets that complement various playing styles.
Adjusting Pocket Depth and Whip
Fine-tuning the pocket depth and whip of the Mirage 2.0 can significantly impact its performance. How can players adjust these characteristics?
- Experimenting with different shooting string configurations
- Adjusting the tension of sidewall strings
- Using different mesh types (soft, semi-soft, semi-hard, hard)
By making these adjustments, players can optimize the Mirage 2.0 for their specific needs, whether they prioritize quick releases, maximum hold, or a balance between the two.
The Evolution of ECD Lacrosse Heads: From Mirage to Mirage 2.0
The ECD Mirage 2.0 represents an evolution in lacrosse head design, building upon the success of its predecessor. What improvements and refinements have been made in this latest iteration?
Key Upgrades in the Mirage 2.0
- Enhanced sidewall stiffness for improved durability
- Refined scoop shape for better ground ball pickup
- Optimized string hole placement for more consistent pocket performance
- Slight weight reduction without compromising strength
These upgrades address feedback from players who used the original Mirage, resulting in a more refined and performance-oriented lacrosse head. The Mirage 2.0 maintains the core principles that made its predecessor popular while introducing subtle improvements that enhance overall playability.
Player Feedback and Design Influence
ECD’s approach to developing the Mirage 2.0 involved extensive player feedback and real-world testing. How did this process shape the final product?
Professional and collegiate players provided input on various prototypes, helping ECD engineers fine-tune the head’s characteristics. This collaborative approach resulted in a lacrosse head that addresses the specific needs and preferences of high-level offensive players.
The evolution from the original Mirage to the Mirage 2.0 demonstrates ECD’s commitment to continuous improvement and player-centric design. By incorporating real-world experience and feedback, ECD has created a lacrosse head that resonates with the needs of modern offensive players.
Comparative Analysis: Mirage 2.0 vs. Other Top Offensive Heads
While the ECD Mirage 2.0 has garnered significant praise from offensive players, it’s essential to consider how it stacks up against other popular lacrosse heads in the market. How does the Mirage 2.0 compare to its competitors in key performance areas?
Ball Control and Pocket Feel
The Mirage 2.0’s deep pocket and mid-pocket placement offer excellent ball control, particularly during high-speed play. When compared to heads like the STX Ultra Power and the Warrior Evo QX-O, the Mirage 2.0 holds its own in terms of ball retention and feel. Some players report that the Mirage 2.0 provides a more consistent pocket shape, especially during aggressive cradling.
Shooting Accuracy and Power
In terms of shooting performance, the Mirage 2.0 competes favorably with heads like the Maverik Kinetik and the Under Armour Command 2. Its stiff sidewalls and unique scoop design contribute to accurate and powerful shots. While some players prefer the slightly wider face shape of the Command 2 for feeding, many find that the Mirage 2.0 offers a better balance between shooting and passing performance.
Durability and Weight
At 5 ounces, the Mirage 2.0 is one of the lighter offensive heads available, comparable to the Nike CEO and slightly lighter than the Warrior Burn FO. However, its Compo-2 technology gives it a durability edge over some similarly weighted competitors. Players report that the Mirage 2.0 maintains its shape and performance better over time compared to some other lightweight options.
Versatility
While primarily designed for offensive play, the Mirage 2.0’s versatility allows it to compete with all-around heads like the StringKing Mark 2V and the East Coast Dyes DNA. Its ability to perform well in various offensive roles (attack, midfield, face-off) makes it a strong contender for players who need a single head to fulfill multiple roles on the field.
Overall, the ECD Mirage 2.0 stands out in the competitive landscape of offensive lacrosse heads. Its combination of ball control, shooting accuracy, durability, and versatility makes it a top choice for many attacking players. While personal preference plays a significant role in head selection, the Mirage 2.0’s performance across key metrics positions it as a strong contender in the high-end offensive head market.
Ideal For Offensive Players Who Like To Dodge and Shoot
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is designed with offensive players in mind. Its scooped sidewall and mid-pocket placement give you the ball control needed to effectively dodge defenders. The stiff yet lightweight sidewalls allow you to retain possession while cradling at top speeds down the field. When you see daylight to the goal, the Mirage 2.0 gives you the accuracy and power required on your shot.
I’ve personally tested the Mirage 2.0 head in summer travel tournaments and can attest to its excellent dodging and shooting capabilities. As an attackman who likes to drive from X, I’ve been able to successfully curl around defenders while protecting the ball thanks to the stiffer sidewalls. They give me confidence that I can take a check or push without losing possession. The mid-pocket placement also lets me feel in control of the ball at all times.
In one recent game, I used a quick roll dodge to free my hands up for a shot on the run. The Mirage 2.0 gave me the ball control I needed to get a clean shot off low to the corners. I’ve also found that the head really accentuates the whip on overhand shots, adding velocity while maintaining accuracy. Whether I’m shooting on the run or winding up from a dead-stop, the Mirage 2.0 performs. If you’re an offensive player who relies on your dodging and shooting skills, I can’t recommend the Mirage 2.0 enough.
Deep Pocket Allows Cradling at High Speeds
One of the standout features of the ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is its deep pocket, which allows for superior ball control and cradling at high speeds. As a midfield runner who likes to push transition, having a deep pocket is crucial for me to maintain possession up and down the field.
The Mirage 2.0 has a nice pre-strung mid-pocket that sits about an inch deeper than other heads I’ve used. This gives me a lot more control over the ball when I’m sprinting at full tilt in transition. I can cradle harder and faster without worrying about the ball bouncing out. The nylon strings also have a nice hold so the ball sits perfectly in the pre-strung pocket right out of the box.
In one transition opportunity last game, I scooped up a groundball and immediately took off upfield at full speed. A defender was trailing me and kept poking at my stick trying to dislodge the ball. But the deep pocket of the Mirage 2.0 allowed me to withstand his checks and continue cradling downhill into the offensive zone for a fast break opportunity.
I’ve also found that the deep pocket adds tremendous whip on passes, allowing me to fire hard outlet passes with accuracy. And when dodging from up top or behind the cage, the deep pocket gives me a lot of control to switch hands quickly while shielding my stick from defenders. For midfield runners who rely on superior cradling and ball control, the Mirage 2.0 is a game-changer thanks to its deep pocket design.
Lightweight Yet Durable Design Built to Withstand Checks
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head demonstrates the perfect balance of being lightweight yet highly durable. Weighing in at only 5 ounces, the head is nimble yet constructed from robust materials designed to withstand checks, slashes, and abuse.
The Mirage 2.0 utilizes ECD’s Compo-2 technology, featuring a composite blend of materials to create an ultra-stiff and strong sidewall. Despite the rigid construction, the head still remains featherlight. In fact, it’s one of the lightest heads I’ve ever used.
But don’t let the lightweight design fool you – this head can take a beating. The Compo-2 sidewalls easily withstand all kinds of checks, chops, and hacks from defensive sticks and don’t get bent out of shape. One game I took a nasty cross-check right on the sidewall and the Mirage 2.0 held strong without deforming or losing its shape.
The stiff yet lively feel also gives you superior ball control. When cradling at full speed, the head retains its pocket shape perfectly and doesn’t get “whippy” like some other lightweight heads I’ve used. Dishing out checks with the Mirage 2.0 is also very satisfying thanks to the balanced feel between lightness and stiffness. If you want a robust head that can take abuse yet doesn’t weigh you down, the Mirage 2.0 is a standout choice.
Unique Shape Adds Accuracy on Hard Shots
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head has an innovative shape that improves accuracy on hard shots. ECD engineered the sidewall and scoop to have a unique design that tunes the head for superior ball control.
The scoop has a rounded contour that acts like a mini-cradle and helps guide the ball centered into the pocket, especially on hurried shots. I’ve noticed my catch-and-shoot accuracy has improved with the Mirage 2.0 since shots are leaving the pocket cleaner without any side spin. The ball sits dead center in the pocket right in my shooting strings.
The sidewall also has a distinct rounded angle as it extends down toward the throat of the head. This carefully calculated geometry gives the Mirage 2.0 better ball retention and a consistent release point. I’ve been able to rip high-velocity shots with minimal trajectory variation compared to other heads I’ve used in the past.
In one recent game tying goal, I wound up from 15 yards out and whipped a bounce shot top corner. The Mirage 2.0 gave me the control and consistent release I needed to pick my spot and hit it. The unique head shape also focuses the energy transfer down through the scoop and pocket, adding velocity on shots. If you want to enhance your catch-and-shoot consistency, the Mirage 2.0 deserves a serious look thanks to its smart engineering.
Deep Pocket Allows Cradling at High Speeds
The deep pocket design of the ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head provides superior ball control and cradling ability, even at full sprint speeds. The pocket has a nice pre-strung mid placement that sits deep in the head for excellent hold on the ball.
I like to push transition and found the deep pocket crucial for protecting the ball while flying upfield. The nylon stringing allows the ball to sit low in the back of the head without bouncing out. I can cradle faster and harder without worrying about losing control. Even while pulling full circle rotations to change direction, the ball stays put in the pre-strung pocket.
The deep pocket also enhances my dodging ability, especially behind the cage. I can switch hands quickly and shield my stick from defenders thanks to the superior hold it has on the ball. There’s no need to constantly adjust or tighten up the pocket during games to maintain that deep ball hold through intense cradling.
During fast breaks when defenders are slashing at my stick trying to dislodge the ball, the Mirage 2.0’s deep pocket allows me to absorb checks while maintaining possession through the cradle. Groundballs are also much easier to control thanks to the pocket wrapping around a larger portion of the ball. If you want confidence cradling the ball in transition or traffic, the Mirage 2.0 is an excellent choice.
Fits All Attack and Midfield Shafts for Versatility
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is designed to be compatible with all standard attack and midfield shafts on the market. This makes it an extremely versatile head that can be rigged up for any offensive position.
I currently use the Mirage 2.0 strung up on a 30” midfield shaft. But in the past I’ve mounted it to a shortie shaft for summer ball. The great thing is the head performed excellently in both setups without any adjustments needed. I didn’t have to tweak the pocket or sidewall stiffness whatsoever when switching shafts.
The Mirage 2.0 attaches securely to the shaft using a universal screw that fits all brands. And the sidewall stringing holes line up perfectly even when pairing the head with different shaft specs. This allows you to dial in your desired pocket placement no matter what shaft length or flex you prefer.
It’s also very easy to adjust the Mirage 2.0’s stiffness by adding more sidewall strings as needed. I can tune the head feel based on using an attack shaft versus a longer midfield pole. If you play multiple positions in lacrosse or participate in both field and box lacrosse, the versatility of the Mirage 2.0 is a huge asset.
Tested and Approved By Premier Lacrosse Athletes
The ECD Mirage 2.0 has been rigorously tested and endorsed by professional and college lacrosse players across the country. ECD has partnered with elite offensive players to refine the Mirage 2.0 design over multiple iterations.
During the development process, pro athletes on the PLL circuit gave direct feedback to ECD engineers based on using early prototypes in practices and games. This allowed ECD to dial in the specs to meet the demands of professional level dodging, shooting, and ball control. The final product approved by the pros features optimized scoop angles, stiffened sidewalls, and mid-pocket placement preferred by top offensive players.
In addition to pros, several top NCAA Division 1 programs including Syracuse, Virginia, and Brown worked closely with ECD in equipment trials. Through their player feedback, ECD added strategic stringing holes in the sidewall to enable customized pocket placements. The Mirage 2.0 entered full production only after receiving the stamp of approval from players at all levels of lacrosse.
So when you string up the Mirage 2.0, you can be confident you’re getting a head optimized for premium performance based on input from the best athletes in the game. The development process with elite players ensures the Mirage 2.0 will meet the demands of any style of offensive lacrosse.
Allows Advanced Players to Showcase Their Skills
The ECD Mirage 2.0 lacrosse head is an excellent choice for advanced high school, college, and pro players who want to showcase their full range of offensive skills. The head is designed to enhance, not hinder, high-level techniques.
The Mirage 2.0 provides the ball control necessary for top players to fully utilize their advanced stick tricks and handles. The deep pocket really allows you to feel the ball during behind the back cradling or quick stick transitions. And the stiffened sidewalls give you the confidence to attempt risky off-hand wraps or feeds in traffic without losing possession.
I also found the Mirage 2.0 really improves the velocity and consistency on the over-the-shoulder shooting technique. The scoop and sidewall engineering give you superior point control for sinker shots or bouncers. The lightweight feel and balanced design also make it easier for advanced players to reinvent their game and expand their shooting range.
For top players who don’t want gear limitations holding them back from trying new techniques, the Mirage 2.0 is up to the task. It’s designed to let advanced players showcase the full breadth of their skills. The head gives you the green light to let your game flourish instead of playing conservatively.
