The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Womens Lacrosse Stick in 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Womens Lacrosse Stick in 2023

Pick a Stick Based on Your Position

Attack players may want a lighter stick for quick passing and shooting, while defenders need a sturdier head for checking. Midfielders need an all-around stick since they play both offense and defense.

Traditional Pockets Offer More Control

Traditional leather and nylon pockets allow for greater ball control and a quicker release. Mesh pockets have more give for beginner players still developing skills.

Length Matters

Longer sticks up to the collarbone suit taller players’ reach. Shorter sticks around chin level provide tighter stick handling and passing for smaller players.

Make Sure It’s Legal

College and high school sticks must be between 35.5-43.25 inches. Pockets must be 7-9 inches wide and the top must sit within 1.5 inches of the scoop.

Flexibility Varies By Brand

Stick flexibility ranges from stiff to extra whippy. Intermediate and expert players can control more flexible sticks for increased passing and shooting speed.

Balance Impacts Feel

Heads with more offset toward the scoop end have a heel-heavy balance. Even balance offers a neutral feel. Try different balance points to find your preference.

Durable Materials Withstand Checks

One-piece magnesium and titanium alloy heads hold up well against checks. Some carbon fiber composite sticks sacrifice durability for ultra-lightweight.

Compare Top Brands

Test sticks from leading manufacturers like Gait, Maverik, STX, and Brine. Each brand has their own technologies and design philosophies.

Special Features Enhance Performance

Flared scoops for quick ground balls, offset heads for power shots, and textured grips all provide an edge. Consider what features suit your needs.

Factor In Your Experience Level

New players may opt for an entry level stick to learn on before advancing to high performance sticks with steeper learning curves.

Read Reviews Before Buying

Reviews from lacrosse sites can provide insight into sizing, durability, and feel from actual players’ experience using the sticks.

Set Your Budget

Sticks range from $30 for basic plastic versions up to $300 for elite carbon pro models. Determine what you can reasonably afford.

Shop Specialty Retailers

Lacrosse-focused stores have the best selection and staff expertise. Big box stores may lack variety or lacrosse knowledge.

Try In-Person If Possible

Online purchases are convenient but trying sticks in person allows you to get a true sense of balance, grip, and overall feel before buying.

Traditional Pockets Offer More Control

When selecting a lacrosse stick, one of the most important considerations is the type of pocket. Women’s sticks typically have either a traditional leather and nylon pocket or a mesh pocket. Players looking for maximum ball control and quick ball release will generally favor a traditional pocket.

The traditional pocket’s leather runners and nylon stringing allow for a “pocket” with more structure. This helps cradles the ball securely, while also providing a consistent and predictable release when passing and shooting. Beginners may struggle with the lack of give in a traditional pocket, but intermediate and advanced players appreciate the increased level of ball control.

In contrast, mesh pockets tend to have more flexibility and “whip” to them. This allows the head to flex and bend more to generate power. However, it also leads to less consistent ball control and release. The ball sits lower in the mesh pockets as well. Mesh pockets are a good choice for players still developing their passing and shooting mechanics who need extra forgiveness on off-center shots.

When looking for optimal feel and control though, most experienced lacrosse players will choose a traditional leather and nylon pocket. The tight channel and defined ball placement let them cradle and release the ball precisely where and when intended. This leads to quicker passes, more accurate shots, and fewer turnovers. The increased ball control of a traditional pocket simply can’t be replicated in the floppier mesh versions.

Make Sure It’s Legal

When shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick, it’s important to ensure it meets the regulations for your league or level of play. There are specific rules governing the allowable dimensions and features of legal sticks.

For NCAA women’s lacrosse, sticks must be between 35.5 and 43.25 inches long. The head must also be between 6.5 and 10 inches wide, measured at its widest point. The pocket must sit within 1.5 inches of the scoop at its lowest point and be no more than 9 inches wide across the top. Additionally, the top of the ball must sit above the sidewall when placed in the pocket.

High school rules are similar but a bit more restrictive. Sticks must be 35.5-43.25 inches long but heads can only range from 7 to 9 inches wide. The pocket must be shallow enough that the ball moves freely within all parts of the head both laterally and along its full length. Pockets cannot be too deep or too pinched.

Before buying a new stick, reference your league or association’s guidelines. Measure sticks you are considering to ensure they comply. While some minor adjustments like stringing and pocket depth can be modified after purchase, the head length and width cannot. Choosing a stick that meets regulations out of the box will prevent any issues that could lead to penalties or lack of approval for use.

It’s an exciting feeling finding a new lacrosse stick you love, but be sure to double check the specs align with the rules. The last thing you want is to have a stick you can’t use in games because it violates league policies!

Get the Appropriate Stick Flexibility

When shopping for a new lacrosse stick, pay attention to the flexibility rating or “whip” of the stick. This measures how stiff or flexible the materials are and affects ball speed and control.

For beginners, a medium to stiff stick is easier to control. Intermediate players may move to a medium-low flexibility, and advanced players can use extra whippy sticks for harder shots. Defenders tend to need stiffer sticks for checking, while attack and midfield players can use more flex for quick passing and shots.

Flexibility can vary quite a bit between stick models. Metal/titanium alloy or composite sticks with one-piece heads offer the least flex. Multiple-piece heads and sticks incorporating carbon fiber, nylon, or polymer tend to have more whip. Brands like Gait rate their sticks on a 1 (stiff) to 10 (extra whippy) scale.

Test different flexibility levels when demoing sticks to find the right balance of control versus ball speed for your game. While ultra-flexible sticks can rip off hard shots, they are tough to master for precision passing or catching. As your skills progress, you may opt for increased whip.

Considering your position and skill level when evaluating lacrosse stick flexibility will help you choose the right amount of bend. Don’t just default to the stiffest or whippiest stick – find the sweet spot that complements your strengths as a player.

Find the Right Weight Balance

When evaluating new lacrosse sticks, an important but often overlooked factor is the overall weight balance and feel in your hands. Manufacturers use different design elements that impact the balance point.

Heads with more surface area and offset toward the scoop end create a “heel-heavy” setup. This places more weight in the head for increased power on shots and checks. Sticks with the balance point midway down the shaft provide a neutral, even feel.

Balance can also be influenced by shaft material (alloy, composite, titanium, scandium, etc.) and additional features like rubber grips. Lighter shafts and more grip texture shift balance toward the head.

Trying sticks in person allows you to get a true sense of the weight distribution. Make practice motions like cradling, scooping, and shooting to determine if the balance suits your playing style. Some players prefer a stick heavier in the head, while others like an even balance.

Finding your ideal lacrosse stick weight balance takes experimentation. The right feel enhances control and power. Don’t assume the balance will be perfect without testing it yourself before buying.

Look for Durability in Materials

Women’s lacrosse sticks take a beating from checks, scooping ground balls, and general gameplay wear and tear. When shopping for a new stick, pay attention to the materials used in the head and shaft construction.

One-piece magnesium or titanium alloy heads generally offer the most durability and withstand hacks and pokes. Multi-piece composite sticks sacrifice some ruggedness for decreased weight. Carbon fiber heads are extremely lightweight but less rugged than alloys.

Shaft materials like scandium and titanium alloys also provide a nice blend of strength and lightweight feel. Standard aluminum alloy shafts are economical but dent more easily. Higher-end composite and carbon fiber shafts dent less but cost more.

Don’t just default to the cheapest stick if you want one that will last. The higher-end materials from top brands like Gait do cost more but can maintain their integrity much longer. Read reviews to get a sense of real-world durability when players test sticks in game conditions.

While no stick is indestructible, opting for sturdy high-performance materials will give you a lacrosse stick that holds up well to the rough and tumble nature of the sport.

Compare Brands Like Gait

The lacrosse stick market is dominated by a few major brands each with their own technologies and design philosophies. When shopping for a new women’s stick, it’s helpful to compare options across top manufacturers.

Gait is one of the most popular brands among elite and college players. They focus on innovative features like optimized sidewall geometries, TrueFlex bending zones, and interchangeable components across stick lines. Gait sticks offer a nice balance of control, speed, and durability.

Other leading brands like STX, Maverik, and Brine also make excellent sticks. STX targets optimal feel through techniques like precision pocket placement, Maverik stresses lightweight maneuverability, and Brine focuses on simplicity and durability.

By testing sticks across brands, you can get a sense of which approach best matches your playing style and strengths. Some brands may better suit certain positions too. Since brands vary in feel, technologies, and price points, trying a range is recommended.

Rather than just default to the big name brands, include upstarts like Epoch and StringKing too. But definitely include established brands like Gait in your product comparisons. Know the key players in the market.

Check for Desired Features Like Offset or Flared Scoop

Lacrosse stick technology has advanced in recent years with heads designed to enhance different facets of gameplay. As you shop for a new women’s stick, consider which construction features best suit your needs.

Offset heads shifted toward the scoop allow for increased power and a quick release, ideal for attack players. Defenders may want an asymmetric head shape for checking leverage. Models with a flared scoop make picking up ground balls easier.

Added texture on grips improves control and comfort. Removable end caps allow you to customize handle length. Interchangeable sidewalls let you modify pocket channel width. Manufacturers like Gait even offer heads with adjustable pivot points to tweak flex.

Think about your position and skill strengths. An attack player might benefit most from an offset head for ripping shots, while a midfielder may want a straight shape and flared scoop. Goalies need a stiff head and a deep pocket to corral saves.

When trying new sticks, note features that could enhance your game. The right technologies tailored to your needs can elevate performance and give you an edge on the field.

Read Lacrosse Stick Reviews Before Buying

With so many lacrosse stick options on the market, it can be tough to decide which is right for your game. Reading reviews from lacrosse sites and publications can provide helpful insight.

Experienced players will test sticks extensively and provide thoughts on performance factors like ball control, shot speed, durability, and overall feel. They’ll also speak to sizing and dimensions compared to claimed specs. You can get a sense of how sticks truly perform on the field.

Look for reviews that compare multiple sticks head to head. This gives you a sense of the relative strengths and weaknesses of different brands’ offerings. Reviews focused on certain sticks types like the best defenders sticks also help narrow options.

User submitted reviews can give you perspective from players with similar skill levels and positions to you as well. Watching video reviews also lets you see sticks in action.

Reviews help cut through manufacturer claims and provide real world feedback. Leverage them to determine which sticks best match your needs and budget before purchasing.

Know Your Budget and Stick Price Ranges

Women’s lacrosse sticks vary widely in price from less than $50 up to $300. Set a budget and know what you can reasonably afford before shopping.

Basic plastic sticks best suited for beginners start around $30-50. Mid-range sticks from trusted brands generally span $100-200. These offer good performance at moderate cost. High-end elite sticks with the most advanced materials and tech run $250+.

Heads, handles, and complete sticks have different price points. Heads range $50-120, shafts $60-150. Complete sticks together offer the best value but still vary from $100 to $300.

Set a spending limit appropriate for your experience level and needs. While pricier sticks offer advanced performance, beginners can get quality gear for less cost. Review budget and mid-range options you can buy without breaking the bank.

Knowing lacrosse stick pricing conventions helps narrow choices. Buying the most expensive stick doesn’t always make sense if you’re new to the sport. Find the sweet spot balancing cost and performance.

Shop Specialty Lacrosse Retailers

When purchasing a new women’s lacrosse stick, specialized lacrosse retailers are the best places to find the top brands and latest gear. Their expertise and selection surpass general sporting goods stores.

Shops like Lax.com and Lacrosse Unlimited carry sticks from all the major manufacturers like Gait, STX, Maverik, Brine, and more. Their online selection provides hundreds of stick options not available locally for many players.

Their staff also has specific lacrosse knowledge and can guide you to models that align with your skill level, position, and preferences. Local retailers catering to lacrosse are also excellent resources.

Compare this to big box stores that may only carry a handful of lacrosse sticks, if any at all. Their staff often has limited lacrosse expertise as well. The hands-on guidance and depth of selection at specialty retailers is far superior.

Take advantage of the stick knowledge and inventory lacrosse-focused shops provide. You’re more likely to end up with the ideal stick for your game when working with the experts.

Focus on Feel and Performance Over Looks

It’s tempting when shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick to simply choose the one you think looks the coolest. But evaluating true feel and performance is more important than visual aesthetics.

Flashy colorways, swooping scoop shapes, and intricate stringing don’t necessarily translate to enhanced on-field play. The best indicators of how a stick will perform come from holding it in your hands and simulating game motions.

Make cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting motions when testing sticks in person. See how the weight, balance, and flex work for you. If buying online, read about the sticks’ actual performance from player reviews.

A slick looking lacrosse stick might catch your eye, but the sticks that actually improve skills are those that feel natural and responsive in action. Don’t just buy marketing hype or looks without considering functional performance.

By trying sticks out and reading feedback from other players, you can find an extension of your arm rather than a fashion accessory. The right feel leads to lacrosse stick confidence.