Choose the Right Lacrosse Stick Based on Your Position and Skill Level
Selecting the proper lacrosse stick is crucial for maximizing your performance on the field. The stick you choose should align with your position and current skill level. For example, attack players generally use a lighter, more maneuverable stick for quick passing and shooting. Midfielders need an all-around stick with good balance between handling and shooting abilities. Defensemen opt for a sturdier head and stiffer shaft to scoop up ground balls and defend against offensive attackers.
As a beginner, focus on finding a stick with excellent ball control and handling rather than specialized sticks made for passing or shooting. A mesh pocket with a mid to deep sidewall and a soft to medium scoop works well for newer players learning how to catch, cradle and pass the ball. Go for a head width and sidewall angle that retains the ball without it rattling around too much. Look for sticks marketed towards entry-level players if you are just starting out. Intermediate players can start looking at sticks that give them more finesse and ball placement for passing to teammates or firing off accurate shots.
It’s smart to consult with coaches or experienced teammates for stick recommendations based on your position and skill level. They can guide you towards heads and shafts that will support your development and performance at your current stage. With a properly fitted lacrosse stick, you’ll gain confidence in your abilities to handle ground balls, pass crisply, receive passes in traffic, and shoot with precision. Taking the time to find the right stick for your skill level and position on the team will pay dividends in how rapidly you progress as a lacrosse player.
Select a Stick Length that Matches Your Size for Optimal Performance
When selecting a new lacrosse stick, one of the key factors to consider is the length of the shaft and how it corresponds to your height and position. Choosing a shaft length that is suited to your size will improve your control, range, and leverage on the field. The general guideline is to go with a stick that extends from the ground to somewhere between your nose and chin when standing upright. However, you can fine-tune your stick length based on your playing style and position.
For midfielders who need to run up and down the field, a stick length on the shorter end of the range may be preferable for better maneuverability and increased speed. Attack players also tend to favor shorter sticks for quicker passing and shot release. On the other end of the spectrum, defensive players and goalies often opt for longer sticks that provide them with more reach for intercepting passes, blocking shots, and picking up ground balls.
Beyond position-based preferences, your height is a major factor. Taller players need longer sticks to match their bigger frames and wingspans. If you are on the shorter side, going with a shorter shaft allows you to more easily cradle and control the ball while suited to your stature. Those with average heights for their age group can stick right in the middle of the typical length range.
Testing out different stick lengths is the best way to gauge what works for your proportions and playing style. Go into stores and practice cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting with a range of sizes if possible. Consult with teammates who play similar positions to see what lengths have worked well for them. Dialing in the right shaft length for you will pay huge dividends in allowing you to handle ground balls, pass and receive efficiently, and shoot with accuracy.
Choose the Right Stringing Based on Your Skill Level and Position
The stringing pattern and pocket style of your lacrosse stick can significantly impact your ability to catch, pass, shoot, and scoop ground balls. As a beginner, focus on sticks with mid to deep pockets that help you gain control over the ball. As you advance, you may want to adjust your pocket and stringing to be flatter for sharper passing and quicker release when shooting.
For midfielders who handle the ball the most, a medium to deep pocket typically works well to help cradle and control ground balls. The nylon strings should hold the ball securely but not too deep to hinder quick passing. Attack players tend to favor pockets that are a bit shallower for crisp passes and shots. Defenders need a pocket that scoops up ground balls easily without letting the ball rattle around too much.
If you are new to the sport, have the person stringing your stick put in a basic traditional pocket or mesh pocket that will help you learn the fundamentals. Intermediate players may want to try out different shooting strings or a deeper pocket to add more whip on shots. Advanced players can experiment with unique stringing and pocket styles like a shift pocket to optimize the stick for their position.
Testing out sticks with different pocket depths and stringing patterns is the best way to find what works for your skill level. An ideal pocket should hold the ball comfortably without impairing your ability to execute fundamentals like cradling, catching, passing, and scooping. The right stringing also adds touch and finesse to shots as you develop your shooting mechanics and accuracy.
Get the Right Lacrosse Stick Weight to Maximize Your Performance
The overall weight of your lacrosse stick is an important factor that directly impacts your level of control, endurance, and shooting power. Heavier sticks provide more durability and power but can cause fatigue over the course of a game. Lighter sticks are easier to handle and maneuver quickly, but may compromise stability and checking strength.
For beginners, err on the side of selecting a lighter stick in the 15 to 22 ounce range. This allows you to focus on developing proper fundamentals like cradling, scooping, catching, and passing without tiring out too quickly. Midfielders who cover a lot of ground also need a stick on the lighter end for speed and endurance.
Defenders and attack players can go a bit heavier for added force when batting away shots or ripping off hard shots on goal. Goalie sticks are the heaviest to provide extreme durability during saves and clears. Advanced offensive players may also benefit from adding some weight for increased shooting velocity once proper technique is developed.
Testing out sticks of different weights during practice or warm ups is the best way to find your ideal balance of lightness and power. Go for the lightest usable weight that still provides you with enough stability and strength you need for your position and playing style. The optimal lacrosse stick weight enables you to play at your highest level without compromising agility, endurance or durability over a full 60 minute game.
Test Different Lacrosse Sticks Before Buying to Find the Best Fit
With so many lacrosse stick variables like head shape, shaft material, and stringing, it’s highly advisable to test out multiple sticks before purchasing one. By taking the time to experiment with different equipment, you can get a first-hand feel for what works best for your position, skill level, and personal preferences.
If possible, try out the sticks of teammates to get a sense of different lengths, weights, flexes, and head shapes. Most lacrosse specialty stores will also let you hold and possibly throw with demo sticks on site so you can compare different models. Some retailers even allow short term rentals or generous return policies so you can take sticks for on-field testing before fully committing.
As you experiment, pay attention to factors like ball control, scooping, passing, catching, shooting, checking, and durability. Try sticks suited for your position as well as alternatives to see what feels most natural. For goalies, testing out different heads and lengths is critical for finding optimal save range and clearing ability.
By taking the time to test out multiple lacrosse sticks before buying, you can feel confident you are selecting the best equipment for your abilities and needs. Hands-on testing takes the guesswork out of lacrosse stick buying so you get many seasons of peak performance with a stick customized to your preferences.
Read Lacrosse Stick Reviews to Learn from Others’ Experiences
Reading lacrosse stick reviews from other players, coaches, and experts is a valuable part of the research process when selecting a new stick. Getting insights from those who have used specific sticks extensively can help guide you towards models that will match your needs and playing style.
Look for reviews that go in-depth on factors like shaft flexibility, head shape, throwing and catching performance, ground ball scooping, durability, and value. It’s useful to read reviews from players similar to you in size, skill level, position, and age group for the most relevant insights. Watch for trends in what players liked and disliked about each stick.
Trustworthy lacrosse sites like LaxAllStars.com and USLacrosse.org have reviews directly from players, coaches, and industry experts. Retailer sites may also compile product ratings and customer reviews that give first-hand accounts of pros and cons. YouTube channels can provide video reviews showing sticks in action.
While testing sticks yourself is ideal, reading reviews gives you a head start in narrowing down your options. Focus on sticks with consistently positive feedback around performance, durability, and value from multiple credible sources. This market research ensures you select a stick that excels for players like you.
Consider Youth vs Adult Lacrosse Sticks Based on Age and Size
When selecting a lacrosse stick, it’s important to consider whether a youth or adult stick is most appropriate based on your age, size, skill level, and league regulations. Lacrosse sticks for youth players are sized down to help with handling, control, and safety.
Youth sticks feature shorter shafts, smaller heads, and lighter overall weight. Shaft lengths start at 30” for U8 and go up to 47-52” for U15 players. Head widths range from 4.5” to 6” across youth sizes. The lighter composite materials and weight distribution aid first-time players with fundamentals.
Once players reach high school and college, they progress to adult sticks with longer shafts in the 52-72” range and wider heads 6-10” across. The longer shafts provide elite players with superior reach, checks, and ball control. But they require strength and experience to wield effectively.
Younger developing players are best served starting out with an age-appropriate youth stick fitting their size and abilities. As you grow and progress to higher skill levels, you can graduate to the full-sized heads, shafts, and heavier weights of adult sticks. Selecting the right stick for a player’s age fosters skill development, confidence, and safety.
Consult Coaches, Teammates or Experts When Choosing Your Lacrosse Stick
Making the most informed lacrosse stick selection involves consulting knowledgeable people who can provide position-specific advice tailored to your skills and needs. Speaking with coaches, experienced teammates, and reputable lacrosse equipment retailers will guide you towards ideal sticks.
Explain your playing style, strengths, and areas needing improvement to your coach and get their input on preferred head shapes, pocket types, stringing, and flex for your position. Ask experienced teammates what sticks provide them with the best handling, shooting, checking, or scooping for insights you can apply when selecting your own.
Visiting a specialized lacrosse retailer gives you access to staff members well-versed in fitting sticks for players of different sizes, ages, positions, and skill levels. Be transparent with them about your needs so they can make educated recommendations you can then go test for yourself.
With so many stick variables, speaking to people deeply embedded in the sport provides an invaluable perspective you just can’t get on your own as a newer player. The right lacrosse stick has the potential to rapidly accelerate your development and performance when matched to your skills.