Getting the Right Pocket and Hold for Your Playing Style
When it comes to lacrosse mesh, one of the most important considerations is finding the right pocket and hold combination to complement your playing style and position on the field. For midfielders who handle the ball a lot, a deeper pocket with a wider channel can provide superior ball control for cradling, while attackmen may prefer a mid-depth pocket with a quick release to whip the ball downfield.
The ideal pocket depth and shape will also depend on the level you play at. Beginners in youth leagues do well with a mid to shallow pocket that makes it easy to scoop ground balls and provides accuracy on passes. High school players looking to add velocity on shots should consider a slightly deeper pocket, while college midfielders need a pocket with enough depth and whip to sink 90+ mph shots from outside 12 yards.
No matter what position you play, the hold of the pocket is crucial. A tight channel provides more accuracy for stick handlers, while a wider channel gives you more whip on passes and shots. Middies doing most of the dodging may like a pocket with a bit more hold, while attackmen sit back and take rips with a looser pocket. Consider stringing the top tighter, and bottom wider or vice versa to get the best of both worlds.
Don’t forget to factor in your mesh type too. Hard mesh will maintain that crisp pocket shape, while soft mesh gives you more flexibility to customize the channel width and depth. Getting the right mesh and stringing combo takes experimentation, so don’t be afraid to tweak your pocket until you get the exact hold you need. The right pocket can be a game changer!
Finding the Right Lacrosse Mesh for Middies vs. Attackmen
When selecting the best lacrosse mesh, one of the most important considerations is choosing a pocket shape and mesh type that complements your position on the field. Middies and attackmen in particular have very different needs when it comes to ball control, shooting, passing, and scooping ability.
For midfielders who handle the ball the most, the ideal pocket is mid-depth or deeper, with a moderate channel width. This provides excellent ball control for cradling at top speed, while also giving you the ability to sink lower shots with velocity. A nylon/polyester soft to medium mesh is a popular choice, allowing you to customize the pocket to your exact specs. The softness helps cushion passes, while the mid-depth helps maintain ball control on the run. Make sure to consider weather – a shallow pocket in soft mesh can attrition in rainy games.
Attackmen need a pocket optimized for quick passing and deadly accurate shots, usually opting for a mid-depth or shallow pocket. Low pocket placements give excellent hold on sidearm and overhand shots, adding whip for blistering shot speed. You’ll want a channel on the narrower side for pinpoint passing. Hard mesh maintains that crisp pocket shape even as you pound shot after shot. Medium mesh offers a bit more finesse for quick stick maneuvers around the crease.
When stringing up a pocket, think about your primary role – lots of ball handling or setting up the offense? Go a little deeper. Sitting back looking for shots or quick one-touch passes? Consider a shallow or mid pocket. The design you choose can make all the difference in becoming a dominant threat anywhere on the field.
Choosing Between Soft, Medium, and Stiff Lacrosse Mesh
When selecting the ideal lacrosse mesh for your pocket, one of the biggest decisions is the stiffness level. Mesh comes in soft, medium, and stiff/hard variations, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Soft mesh is the most flexible option, usually made of softer nylon/poly blends. It conforms to any pocket shape, lets you customize the channel width easily, and provides excellent ball control. Soft mesh pockets tend to be deeper due to the flexibility, offering superior cradling ability for midfielders or attackmen. The trade-off is that soft mesh loses its shape over time, requiring frequent adjustments to maintain that perfect pocket.
Stiff or hard mesh is for players who value consistency. Made from thicker, less flexible nylon/polymer fibers, hard mesh keeps its shape throw after throw. The stiffness allows for precise pocket shapes that don’t need a lot of adjustment later on. Hard mesh also adds extra whip to shots, ideal for attackmen who value velocity and low pocket placement. The limitation is less flexibility in fine-tuning pocket depth or width.
Medium mesh provides a nice compromise, made from nylon/poly blends of moderate thickness. It offers some structure while still allowing you to customize pocket shape during stringing. Medium mesh pockets won’t attrition as quickly as soft mesh, but you’ll still get some added whip versus hard mesh. Many elite players use medium mesh for the best of both worlds.
Consider your position and needs when deciding on mesh stiffness. Defenders value consistency and don’t handle the ball as much, favoring hard mesh. Midfielders and attackmen can tailor soft or medium mesh to fit their exact style of play. As with pockets, don’t be afraid to experiment until you dial in your lacrosse mesh!
The Importance of Mesh Width for Ball Control
When stringing up a new lacrosse head, one of the key factors influencing ball control and handling is lacrosse mesh width. Narrower mesh provides more accuracy for stick handlers, while wider mesh adds velocity on shots.
For midfielders, a medium to wider mesh is preferred. This allows for excellent ball retention when cradling at top speeds, especially on sweeps and dodges. The extra width cushions passes and provides added whip on shots as well. The trade-off is that accuracy suffers at wider widths, making picky stick moves or tight passes more difficult.
Attackmen and snipers need accuracy on quick touch passes and pinpoint shots, favoring a more narrow mesh. Passing lanes are tight near the crease, requiring precision ball placement. On shots, a narrower channel focuses the ball’s force for added velocity and a tighter shooting channel. The limitation is that narrow mesh doesn’t add much whip on volleys or heat-seeking bouncers.
When stringing mesh into the sidewalls, consider tapering the width wider at the bottom and tighter up top. This gives you the accuracy of narrow mesh up top for shooting, combined with the ball control of a wider channel at the bottom for cradling. The ShootingStrings.com mesh tapering technique is a great way to get the best of both worlds.
factor in your position and needs when choosing mesh width. Wider mesh gives midfielders superior ball control, while narrow pockets provide deadly accuracy for snipers. Find the ideal width and your game will reach new heights!
Why Lacrosse Mesh Material Matters
When selecting your next lacrosse mesh, the specific materials used can make a big difference in performance and durability. While original meshes were made from leather or gut strings, modern meshes utilize advanced nylon, polymer and polyester blends to provide the best possible performance.
Nylon has been a go-to lacrosse mesh material for years thanks to its strength, consistency and abrasion resistance. By altering the thickness of the nylon fibers and using advanced weaving techniques, manufacturers can control the softness or stiffness of the mesh. Softer nylon meshes add superior pocket control and ball retention for midfielders, while stiff nylon mesh provides exceptional shape retention and shot speed for attackmen.
Polyester is also blended into modern lacrosse meshes, helping reduce weight while adding durability and weather resistance. Polyester mesh designs dry more quickly than traditional nylon, making them ideal for wet weather play. Polyester also costs a bit less than nylon, allowing for more affordable yet high performing mesh options.
Advanced polymer meshes have emerged in recent years, providing unrivaled stiffness and shape retention. Polymer fibers are woven in ways that reduce natural stretch, resulting in the most consistent pocket shape throw after throw. The ultra-stiff construction also maximizes ball speed for high velocity shots.
By understanding the performance benefits of newer nylon, polyester and polymer blends, you can select a mesh optimized for your position and style of play. Don’t settle for run-of-the-mill mesh – choose a technical material designed for domination!
Finding the Best Lacrosse Mesh for Faceoffs
Faceoff specialists have unique needs when selecting lacrosse mesh. Winning clamps and scooping ground balls requires specific stringing and pocket properties optimized for facing off.
The best faceoff mesh is stiff to keep its shape after dozens of clamps. Hard mesh made of thick, durable nylon or polymer fibers maintains its structure with minimal re-adjustment needed. You’ll stay consistent even during long games with relentless faceoff battles.
Pocket depth is also critical. A shallow to mid-depth pocket makes it easier to get under the ball on clamps, and provides fast ball exit on scoops. Make sure to taper the channel wider at the scoop to help funnel ground balls into the pocket. Pair the stiff mesh with soft nylon shooting laces to increase flexibility and scooping ability.
For optimal ground ball performance, faceoff mesh needs to protrude lower from the head. This adds stiffness at the critical scooping point while keeping the pocket shallow overall. Some faceoff specialists prefer two-piece mesh with a fused diamond top section to allow for more customization of pocket depth.
Don’t forget about weather! Carry a backup stick strung with soft mesh for wet conditions to improve ground ball scooping ability. Soft mesh conforms better to the soggy ball on scoops.
Master faceoff specialists experiment endlessly to get every advantage possible on clamps and ground balls. Find your edge by stringing up mesh and pockets optimized specifically for facing off!
Maximizing Your Shooting Power with Mesh Choice
One of the biggest factors affecting shot speed and power is your choice of lacrosse mesh. The material, stiffness, pocket depth and other properties all play a role in shot velocity.
Hard meshes are ideal for adding whip and speed. Stiff nylon or polymer fibers provide exceptional energy return as you load up your shot, projecting the ball faster off the pocket. Attackmen love the consistency and velocity of hardened mesh pockets.
Pocket placement near the middle or bottom of the head increases hold time on shots, letting you load up power before the final flick motion. Mesh that protrudes lower on the head also engages more of the head’s flex to propel ball faster. Just don’t go too low and limit your shooting range.
Consider stringing shooting strings and laces in a way that collapses the pocket around the ball as you shoot. This focuses the ball’s energy forward rather than upward for a tighter shot channel and blistering speed. Use a crisscross or 1-and-1 double ladder shooting string configuration.
Dialing in pocket depth, hold, and shooting strings takes experimentation. But once you master your mesh and stringing combo, you’ll be blowing shots past stunned goalies in no time. Unleash your inner sniper!
Getting More Whip and Velocity from Your Lacrosse Stick
Adding whip and velocity to your passes, shots, and clears is a matter of dialing in the right mesh and pocket configuration. The key factors are pocket depth, shooting strings, and mesh material.
Deeper pockets engage more of the head’s flex and allow you to load up power on passes and shots before releasing. Medium to deep pockets are best for increasing velocity. Just don’t go overboard – accuracy will suffer with pockets that are too deep.
Proper shooting string placement collapses the pocket for a tighter channel, adding whip. Popular shooting string patterns like 1-n-1 or interlocks force the ball forward when shooting for extra speed. Pockets strung too openly will lack velocity.
Stiff mesh offers the best energy return on shots, giving you more rebound force as you unleash. Brands like StringKing and ECD make ultra-stiff meshes perfect for highlight reel heaters. Soft mesh pockets are simply too trampoline-like for truly max velocity.
Middies should consider a slightly deeper pocket in softer mesh for superior hold and control at top speeds. Attackmen need a little more depth than middies along with hardened mesh for pinpoint accuracy and blistering shots on the doorstep.
Your secret sauce pocket starts with the mesh and strings. Dial it in correctly, and goalies won’t know what hit them when you bring the heat!
The Role of Mesh in Softening Hard Lacrosse Passes
Receiving crisp, high-velocity passes is much easier when you have lacrosse mesh optimized for reducing ball sting. The right materials and pocket style go a long way towards softening bullet passes.
Softer meshes made from more flexible nylon or polyester fibers naturally cushion passes better. The fibers compress to absorb impact rather than bouncing the ball back. Midfielders in particular benefit from soft mesh pockets that help tone down hot one-touch passes.
Wider mesh with a relaxed channel also dissipates the force of passes by giving the ball room to move laterally on impact. Wide diamond mesh paired with a mid-depth pocket is ideal for absorbing passes while maintaining control. Just don’t go too wide or catching accuracy will suffer.
Proper shooting string placement matters too. Shooting strings that force the ball to sit lower in the pocket increase hold time on passes, letting the ball nestle deep before you move it to your stick. Interlock and 1-and-1 patterns work well to needed give on receptions.
For defenders or goalies, a shallower pocket in stiff mesh maintains a responsive pocket cushioning without compromising ball control after the catch. Focus on precision above all else.
Dialing in the right mesh and pocket for receiving harsh passes takes experimentation. But once you master it, you’ll scoop feeds other players bobble and become a go-to option!
How Weather Impacts Your Ideal Lacrosse Mesh
Inclement weather can wreak havoc on your lacrosse stick and mesh performance. Rain, snow, and humidity all affect ball control, shooting, and passing. Having the right mesh for variable conditions is key.
For wet weather games, soft mesh performs better than stiff alternatives. The softer fibers absorb water better and provide superior grip on the soggy ball. Soft mesh also retains its pocket shape when soaked. A more mid-depth pocket also helps scoop water-logged ground balls.
In humidity, soft mesh again excels by absorbing moisture from the air. This keeps the pocket tacky. Hard mesh tends to get slick in muggy conditions. Wider mesh also provides more surface area for grip when the ball gets damp.
Cold weather sees hard mesh tighten up even more, becoming extra stiff. Soft mesh retains more flexibility and pocket feel as temperatures drop. A good conditioner helps keep mesh and strings supple in frigid conditions.
Always bring a backup stick strung with soft mesh to swap in for wet games. Keep your primary gamer for dry conditions, and switch on the fly when rain hits. Be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way!
Easy Stringing Tips for Popular Lacrosse Mesh Types
Stringing up different lacrosse mesh types like soft, hard, or wax meshes requires slightly different techniques to achieve the ideal pocket shape and performance.
Soft mesh pockets need to be strung a bit deeper due to stretching and settling over time. Start mid-depth and let the flexible mesh break in naturally. Use a 1-and-1 double ladder shooting string to tighten up the softened channel. Soft mesh also benefits from a diamond topstring to prevent over-widening.
Hard mesh demands a shallower pocket placement to account for the stiffness. Start low and increase depth over time as the stiff mesh loosens up minimally. Interlocks or double uterings give great hold for slick hard mesh. Don’t over-widen the channel on hard mesh pockets.
Pre-waxed mesh must be strung deeper right off the bat before warming up and re-waxing. The wax coating makes the mesh stiffer at first, so allow for pocket settling after heating up the wax again post-stringing. Use mesh specific sidewall strings like WaxMesh.
Regardless of mesh type, take time to shape and massage the pocket after stringing. Getting the ball parked right where you want it out of the gate means less adjustment down the road. Don’t rush the stringing and break-in process!
Caring for Your Lacrosse Mesh So It Lasts
Taking proper care of your lacrosse stick and mesh is crucial for maximizing durability and performance. With some basic maintenance, you can extend the life of your mesh pocket.
Always use a high quality mesh designed for longevity, like StringKing or Hero Mesh. These use advanced polymer blends that resist bagging, boost consistency, and improve weather resistance. Premium mesh lasts much longer than generic varieties.
Gently shape and massage your mesh pocket frequently, keeping the ball channel and shooting strings crisp. Pocket maintenance is easier with stiff mesh versus constantly adjusting soft mesh. Tighten up diamonds and sidewall strings as needed.
Clean mesh and shooting strings regularly remove dirt, balls wax, and debris that cause premature breakdown. Use mild soap and water, massaging the pocket carefully. Rinse and air dry, then apply conditioner.
Re-wax mesh pockets as needed, generally every few months or whenever consistency drops. Remove old wax buildup first for best results. Melt wax completely into the fibers before letting cool fully.
Store sticks properly when not playing, keeping them out of excessive heat or moisture. Avoid storing in hot cars or damp garages. Stick covers also protect pockets in transit.
With proper stringing, maintenance, and TLC, a high-end mesh pocket can easily deliver 2 full seasons of play or more. Treat it right, and you’ll get your money’s worth and then some!
When It’s Time to Retire Your Old Lacrosse Mesh
No mesh lasts forever, so knowing when to swap out an old pocket for fresh stringing is crucial. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to re-string.
Consistently losing its shape after stringing is a sure sign mesh is breaking down and losing its structure. No amount of adjusting and tightening will restore performance. Soft mesh is particularly prone to getting too baggy over time.
Holes, rips, and tears anywhere in the mesh are also a red flag. Frayed shooting strings, diamonds, and sidewall holes affect ball control. Cracks compromise ball retention and shot power. Visible mesh damage indicates a new pocket is needed.
Loss of stiffness and memory in your mesh is another clue. Softened mesh loses that crispness on passes and shots. Re-waxing only temporarily fixes this issue. Brittle and overly stiff old mesh also underperforms.
If you constantly battle uneven pocket wear, like only half the ball sinking into the channel, inconsistent break-in indicates losing mesh integrity. Pocket shapes should remain symmetrical.
Sudden loss of ball control and handling even after adjusting diamonds, sidewalls, and shooting strings also points to mesh deterioration. If basic maintenance doesn’t fix things, go fresh.
Be pickier about mesh quality, and a great pocket could deliver multiple seasons of play. But know when to retire mesh at the first signs of decline.
When It’s Time to Retire Your Old Lacrosse Mesh
No lacrosse mesh lasts forever, so knowing when to swap out an old pocket for fresh stringing is crucial. Watch for these signs that your mesh is due for retirement:
– Pocket losing shape constantly after stringing – no amount of tightening helps at this point
– Holes, rips, tears, and fraying anywhere in the mesh – cracked and damaged mesh can’t perform
– Loss of stiffness and memory – softened or overly stiff mesh loses crispness
– Uneven pocket wear – only half the ball sinking into the channel indicating inconsistency
– Sudden loss of ball control and handling even after maintenance – basic adjustments no longer work
With high quality mesh and proper care, a pocket could deliver multiple seasons of play. But at the first signs of mesh decline, it’s time to re-string with fresh new mesh for optimal performance. Don’t wait until your pocket is totally unusable to swap it out. Be proactive and keep your stick game ready!
Reviews of the Top Lacrosse Mesh Options on the Market
With so many lacrosse mesh options available, it can be tricky choosing the best one for your game. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the top meshes on the market right now:
StringKing Type 3s – This ultra stiff hard mesh maintains its structure exceptionally well thanks to the unique 3-string design. It provides elite consistency and blistering shot speed. The stiffness also boosts ground ball performance. Perfect for faceoff specialists, attackmen, and short sticks.
ECM Black – For midfielders or attackmen who want more finesse softness without losing consistency, ECM Black offers an ideal blend. It retains shape better than other soft meshes while remaining easy to string. The monofilament nylon construction improves weather resistance as well.
Throne Mesh – The poly-nylon blend gives Throne Mesh a perfect medium stiffness while also delivering quick break-in. It strikes an ideal balance between stiffness, shape retention, and adjustability during stringing. Midfielders will love the pinpoint pocket quality and smooth release.
Hero Mesh 2.0 – Featuring advanced weaving technology, Hero Mesh 2.0 offers elite stiffness without sacrificing ball feel and control. The proprietary textured surface improves handling and grip in all conditions. Perfect for a consistent yet responsive pocket.
Maverik Memory Mesh – Using memory polymer fibers, this mesh truly retains the pocket shape you string. It provides pinpoint consistency along with great ball hold for excellent handling. Memory Mesh sets the standard for shape retention.
With so many top options, be sure to experiment until you find your perfect match. The right mesh for you is out there!