The StringKing Mark 2D Lacrosse Head Review

The StringKing Mark 2D Lacrosse Head Review

2D Technology for Improved Ball Control and Quick Stick Skills

The StringKing Mark 2D head features an innovative 2-shot co-molded construction that gives it unique performance advantages. This patented 2D technology utilizes a stiff “exoskeleton” frame molded around a softer flexible core.

This dual-density head design results in increased ball control, quicker releases, and enhanced feel on passes, catches, and shots. The rigid outer rails make the head hold its shape and provide crisp, consistent passes and shots. At the same time, the pliable inner core conforms to the ball on contact, cushioning passes and improving ball retention during hard dodges or checks.

Overall, the 2D construction gives you the best of both worlds – the stiffness required for accuracy combined with softness for superior control. As a midfielder, this means I can thread precision feeds through traffic, rip off-speed shots top corners, and protect the rock through contact.

The quick break-in time is another plus. Even in summer heat, the head maintains its shape and doesn’t get too soft or floppy. Within a few practices, the pocket is gamer-ready with a smooth release.

Whether I’m winding up on a 12-yard blast or pushing transition and hitting cutters in stride, the Mark 2D gives me consistent performance I can rely on. The enhanced control definitely improves handles and quick stick ability in tight quarters. I don’t have to slow down my play or second guess my accuracy on critical feeds or shots in traffic.

After logging heavy mileage on my Mark 2D so far this season, I’m blown away by how it still looks and performs like new. The head shape hasn’t warped at all and the pocket hasn’t lost its nice defined channel. I can’t say the same for other heads I’ve used in the past.

The innovative 2-shot construction is a game-changer that gives the StringKing 2D line an edge over traditional heads. If you’re looking to take your offensive game to the next level, the Mark 2D should be on your radar. The improved ball control will instantly boost your confidence to create space, dodge defenders, and make high-pressure plays.

Stiff and Strong Sidewalls for Durability

One of the hallmarks of StringKing lacrosse heads is their rugged durability, and the Mark 2D is no exception. This head is built to withstand the rigors of heavy use thanks to its stiff sidewalls and Enduraform polymer construction.

The sidewalls utilize StringKing’s signature parallel design, meaning they run straight from the throat of the head to the scoop without tapering. This gives the sidewalls increased thickness all the way up for extra stiffness and strength. Thinner sidewalls on some heads tend to dent more easily leading to premature warping.

The rigid rails of the Mark 2D retain their shape even after tons of ground balls, checks, and slashes. I never have to worry about the head twisting or deforming during play. No matter how much abuse this head takes, it continues performing like new. The stiff sidewalls also provide a solid foundation for the pocket, keeping the ball channel consistent through contact.

The head is also crafted from StringKing’s Enduraform material, an engineering-grade polymer designed for structural integrity. Enduraform has high-impact toughness to resist cracks and fractures. It holds up better over time than traditional nylons to reduce damage from UV light, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.

After a full high school season already under its belt, my Mark 2D still looks freshly strung with minimal signs of wear. The Enduraform hasn’t shown any UV fading or hazing on the plastic like some heads do. And the shape has stayed intact without warping along the sidewalls or scoop.

For a high school lacrosse player like myself, gear durability is critical. I need a head built robust enough to be a workhorse all season long through practices, games, errant checks, and occasional fence collisions. The Mark 2D’s stiff construction gives me confidence that it can stand up to anything I dish out game after game.

While ground balls and checks bounce right off the rigid rails, the head still has enough flex and “give” for solid ball feel and pocket movement. It provides the perfect blend of stiffness for performance and durability along with some flex for playability.

With its rugged Enduraform polymer and stiff parallel sidewalls, the StringKing Mark 2D is one of the most rugged heads I’ve used. Season after season, it takes everything in stride and keeps performing with zero issues. I never have to waste time adjusting the shape or restringing prematurely like with other heads. If you demand consistent performance and maximum longevity out of your gear, look no further than the Mark 2D.

Minimal Offset for Superior Ball Retention

One of the key technologies that sets the StringKing Mark 2D apart is its minimal offset design. Offset refers to how far back the sidewalls are set from the scoop of the head.

Many attackers prefer heads with more dramatic offset because it pushes the pocket lower in the head for a quicker release. However, increased offset comes at the cost of ball retention, especially on harder checks and pokes.

The Mark 2D utilizes a minimal offset focused on improving ball security and hold. The top of the sidewalls align closer to the scoop, raising the pocket higher in the head. This results in increased ball control and protects against accidental dislodges.

As a midfielder constantly pushing transition, ball retention is a top priority for me. A lower pocket might provide a bit quicker release, but I’ll sacrifice some speed for improved security through contact every time.

During contested ground balls and cutters through traffic, I have total confidence that the Mark 2D will shield the rock. The raised pocket encapsulates more ball, keeping it locked in through pokes and slashes. Offset heads I’ve used in the past would too easily give up possession.

The Mark 2D’s minimal offset also provides a nice balanced feel. Some super pinched heads shift too much weight up high making them scoop and pass heavy. The 2D has a dialed in mid-pocket that keeps the balance point centered right where you want it.

Around the crease the high pocket position gives me extra protection from backside strips and checks when powering to the cage. I can dip my shoulder and bulldoze downhill without worrying about losing the ball.

For quick stick situations, the decreased offset doesn’t hinder my release much either. The flexible 2D material combined with a well-broken in pocket makes up for the slightly higher ball position. I can still snap feeds and shots with defenders draped on me.

At the end of the day, retaining possession is crucial no matter what position you play. The StringKing Mark 2D’s strategic offset does an awesome job balancing quickness with exceptional ball security through traffic and contact. I’ll gladly trade off a millisecond faster release for the ability to keep the ball in my stick when I need it most.

Enduraform Material for Consistent Pocket Shape

One of the common frustrations with lacrosse heads is pocket inconsistency. As the head breaks in and wears, the pocket shape often changes becoming deeper, shallower, or more uneven. This forces players to continually restring and adjust their pockets through the season to maintain the same release and feel.

The StringKing Mark 2D eliminates this problem thanks to its innovative Enduraform head material. Enduraform is an engineered polymer designed to optimize and retain pocket shape over time.

Unlike traditional nylons, Enduraform doesn’t soften or deform as the head breaks in. This keeps the sidewall and scoop shape consistent to preserve the original pocket configuration. Enduraform also resists warping from UV and moisture damage better than other plastics.

On top of the durable head material, StringKing strings their pockets in house using a specialized steam molding process. This heat sets an ideal mid-low pocket shape into the head that remains consistent through heavy usage.

Together, the Enduraform construction and molded pocket provide unmatched shape retention season after season. Once I string up my Mark 2D and break it in how I like it, the pocket stays dialed exactly how it started.

I never have to waste time and mesh restringing multiple times to compensate for stretching or warping like with other heads. My release point and feel stays uniform which is crucial for building muscle memory and confidence.

The Mark 2D also holds tune extremely well between games which is big for performance consistency. Some heads I’ve used will bag out overnight if it’s hot or humid between practices. But my 2D keeps its precise pocket shape day after day regardless of the conditions.

As a player who hates frequent restringing and adjustment, the set-it-and-forget-it pocket is a dream come true. Once I string it up to my specs, I can trust the same consistent release every time. I never have to worry about lost balls from an uneven or collapsed pocket.

The Mark 2D’s Enduraform polymer and molded pocket technology is clearly a cut above normal heads when it comes to shape retention. If you want a head with long-lasting pocket consistency to set your game up for success, the 2D won’t disappoint. The hassle-free shape retention gives me confidence that my head will perform exactly how I strung it, game after game.

Ideal Width and Depth for All Positions

Finding the right lacrosse head dimensions can be tricky. A wider head offers a larger sweet spot and increased ball control, but too wide leads to slower releases. Similarly, more depth improves ball retention but makes for a heavier scoop.

The StringKing Mark 2D hits the sweet spot with its strategically dialed-in dimensions. It provides an ideal blend of width and depth for versatile performance across all field positions.

At its widest point, the head measures 6 inches across. This gives plenty of ball control for stick handling and passing without sacrificing too much quickness. The defined channel also helps accuracy on feeds and shots.

In terms of depth, it runs around 2 inches with a nice gradual taper down to the scoop. This slightly mid-deep profile is deep enough for solid ball retention but still light enough for quick transitions and fast breaks.

As a midfielder, I appreciate the versatility the 2D provides. Whether I’m on offense swinging behind the cage or on defense pressing out on a dodge, the dimensions feel balanced for any situation.

The width gives me a nice sweet spot when cradling and running down the alleys. I can go full throttle with the ball secured safely in the pocket. But the head is still narrow enough to deliver crisp, accurate outlets on the run.

The moderate depth is noticeable boxing out on ground balls and absorbing checks. I can take some contact and maintain possession thanks to the secure pocket. At the same time, the head feels nimble when pushing in transition or chasing someone down.

Around the crease, the width provides ample room for quick sticks and wraparounds. I can catch tight feeds in traffic and power shot fakes and rolls off either shoulder without losing control.

For a versatile do-it-all head, the Mark 2D’s dimensions are spot on. It has the perfect blend of ball control, security, and quickness that translates to every area of the field. I don’t have to sacrifice anything based on if I’m on offense, defense, or at the face-off x. The 2D simply performs at a high level no matter the position.

Parallel Sidewall Design for Accurate Passing

An underrated yet important aspect of a lacrosse head is the angle and design of its sidewalls. Sidewall geometry impacts passing accuracy and overall head stiffness.

Many manufacturer’s taper or angle their sidewalls up towards the scoop to enhance ball control in the upper third of the head. However, this can reduce passing precision.

The StringKing Mark 2D utilizes a parallel sidewall design where the sidewalls run straight from the throat to the scoop without angling in. This provides a consistent width and pocket all the way up for deadly accurate feeds.

I immediately noticed a difference catching and throwing with the 2D compared to my old pinched head. My passes come off cleaner with tighter spirals and improved speed consistency.

On the run or in settled 6v6, I can deliver leading feeds to cutters on a dime. The parallel sidewalls give the ball a true flight path every pass. I don’t have to account for extra whip or angle like with sloped sidewall heads.

The straight sidewalls also tune the pocket channel perfectly from the throat to scoop. There are no irregularities or dead spots in the top third of the head which provides a smooth even release on shots.

Whether it’s a last second dish or a 12 yard frozen rope, I have total confidence placing my passes exactly where I want. The parallel sidewalls remove any guesswork and make the 2D an absolute sniper of a head.

In addition to accuracy, the parallel design maximizes stiffness by avoiding thin vulnerable points along the rails. This rigid construction maintains the head shape through checks and slashes to keep the pocket consistent.

For midfielders like myself who live between the lines, passing ability is a huge priority. I rely heavily on hitting cutters and working inside out ball movement to generate offense. The Mark 2D’s sidewall geometry gives me pinpoint passing precision to setup goals.

If you put a premium on placing accurate feeds to teammates, the 2D should be on your radar. The parallel sidewalls tuned my passing skills up another notch and boosted my overall confidence distributing the rock.

Reinforced Support Struts for Extra Stiffness

High-level lacrosse often comes down to milliseconds. Getting your shot off a split second quicker than a defender can make all the difference. Maximizing ball speed starts with a rigid head foundation.

The StringKing Mark 2D utilizes reinforced support struts in key areas to amplify overall stiffness without adding extra weight. This provides a rock solid shooting platform for pure velocity.

The support struts integrate into the sidewall, scoop, and throat areas. Thicker walled polymers strengthen vulnerable high-stress points. An extra band of Enduraform across the scoop boosts frame integrity for enhanced ball speed.

The focused reinforcements work in unison with the stiff Enduraform head material to make the 2D an exceptionally rigid shooting weapon. When I step into my shots, there is zero flex or vibration.

From outside rips to tight off-stick blasts, my shots fly off the 2D with eye-popping speed and a clean release. The ball jumps effortlessly with every crank thanks to the sturdy foundation.

During game situations like riding on clears or 2-man games, milliseconds matter. The ultra-stiff frame lets me shoot absolute lasers to catch goalies off guard before the slide arrives.

The strong support struts also maintain the head shape beautifully. Through tons of ground balls, checks, and purchased shots, my Mark 2D still looks and feels freshly strung.

For younger players lacking shooter strength, the 2D provides some extra power in your shot without compromising feel or control. Every ounce of energy transfers directly into ball speed.

Whether it’s creating separation on the crease or capitalizing on the catch-and-shoot, a perfectly tuned head like the Mark 2D amplifies my shooting prowess. The fortified frame with zero flex lets me consistently light up the radar gun.

Overall, the StringKing 2D’s reinforced polymers take stiffness to another level without bulking up the overall weight. The instant power transfer gives my game an undeniable shooting edge when fractions of a second count.

Lightweight Feel Compared to Other Heads

Over the past decade, there’s been an arms race in lacrosse to make heads bigger, tougher, and more durable. However, bulking up heads too much leads to increased weight which can hinder performance.

Despite its rugged construction, the Stringking Mark 2D maintains a super lightweight feel that other heavier heads can’t match. The engineered Enduraform material avoids excess bulk while still boosting structural integrity.

Tipping the scales at only 5 ounces strung up, the Mark 2D is an absolute feather compared to some of the heavyweight heads out there. However, it still outperforms and outlasts traditional heads thanks to smarter material usage.

The ultra lightweight build gives the head increased maneuverability and quicker hand speed. I notice the difference most during tight stick handling and on backside rolls where heavier heads lag behind.

The reduced weight also keeps energy levels up during high intensity defensive stands or late game situations when fatigue kicks in. Scooping, passing, and shooting don’t get compromised as my stamina drains.

Despite being so featherlight, the Enduraform construction makes the 2D plenty stiff for great ball speed and accuracy. The fortified polymers are concentrated where needed instead of bulking up the entire frame.

Even younger players with less developed stick skills and arm strength appreciate the easy scooping and passing the 2D provides. It takes no effort to sling the ball around cleanly.

I love the perfect balance of the Mark 2D providing pro-level performance without compromising lightweight maneuverability. My hands and feet can operate quicker to gain an edge on both sides of the ball.

If you want a design taking advantage of modern materials without overbuilding, the 2D hits the mark. The smart construction approach shaves precious ounces for a feathery feel unmatched by other elite heads.

Designed for Faceoffs and Ground Balls

While offense gets the flashy highlight reel plays, winning possessions off faceoffs and ground balls is a less glamorous yet equally important part of the game. The right head can give you an edge in the trenches battling for 50-50 balls.

With its scoop and sidewall geometry, the StringKing Mark 2D is purpose-built to excel in ground ball situations. The head perfectly blends durability, ball retention, and quick handling to gain possession.

The flare and shape of the scoop digs under grounders effectively for clean grabs. The Enduraform retains its exact shape even after harsh abuse against the carpet. The scoop doesn’t get bent back or warped like traditional heads.

During faceoff scrums and tie-ups, the narrow channel helps lock down balls. The battled sidewalls prevent off-ball pokes while the raised pocket protects against lifts.

Once the ball is corralled, the 2D’s lightweight design allows quick split dodges before defenders can recover. The flexible polymer effortlessly props the ball to either hand mid-spin move.

On contested grounders, the minimal offset combined with the Enduraform flexibility absorbs checks nicely to maintain possession through contact. The ball stays tucked safely away on collisions.

The 2D also throws exceptionally accurate outlet passes to start the break. Whether it’s a quick shovel pass or clearing launch, the ball comes off the strings with precision thanks to the stiff parallel sidewalls.

As someone who takes a lot of draws and lives in the mouth of the beast scrapping for 50-50’s, the Mark 2D has my ground ball game on lock. It gives me an instant advantage controlling possessions to fuel transition.

For players focused on improving ground ball skills and winning draws, look no further than the 2D. No other head I’ve used controls scrums and quickly translates to offense as well as the Mark 2D thanks to its specialized design.

Works Well with Mark Mesh and Hero Mesh

No lacrosse head can reach its full potential without a properly strung pocket optimized for performance. The right mesh complements the head’s design to maximize ball control, release speed, and hold.

For the Stringking Mark 2D, I recommend pairing it with Stringking’s own Mark Mesh or Hero Mesh for the best results. Both of these optimized mesh pieces integrate seamlessly with the 2D head.

Stringking’s Mark Mesh features a semi-soft texture with a thick traditional knot design. The stiffness gives it good hold while the sizing and shape molds perfectly to the Enduraform sidewalls.

In my 2D, Mark Mesh breaks in easily to a nice precise mid-pocket ideal for handling and quick sticks. It bags out less than other meshes over time thanks to the stiffer nylon threads.

I also like Hero Mesh for players looking for a little more customizable whip and release. The thin diamond shaped knot design has a soft feel. It pockets up beautifully to fine tune hold and let the ball sit deep.

Both Mark Mesh and Hero Mesh provide great sense of ball control thanks to the soft feel. I can cradle comfortably and shift hands seamlessly without losing security of the ball.

When dialed in properly, Mark Mesh and Hero Mesh reward the 2D head with quick, consistent releases. My outside shots come off clean with tight rotation and accuracy.

Inside the Stringking line, the components work in harmony for superior performance compared to mixing and matching heads and mesh.

For midfielders, I recommend starting with Mark Mesh for a nice basic mid pocket with hold. Attackmen may prefer the enhanced whip of Hero Mesh for quicker feeds and shots.

No matter your position, outfitting your Mark 2D with optimized Stringking mesh unlocks the head’s full potential. The coordinated components work synergistically together to boost skills.