Focus on Your Position and Play Style When Picking a Stick
As an attacker, midfielder, or defender, consider the best lacrosse stick specs for your position. Attackers tend to use lighter sticks for quicker shots and passes, while defenders need a sturdier head and pocket to scoop up ground balls and intercept passes. Midfielders benefit from a balance of both. Also factor in whether you take most shots on the run or from set positions. Your style of play matters just as much as your role on the team.
Materials Like Aluminum, Titanium and Carbon Fiber Impact Stick Attributes
Lacrosse stick shafts today are made from alloys like aircraft grade aluminum, scandium titanium, and carbon fiber composite. Each material affects the stick’s handling, durability, and price. Aluminum shafts are affordable but can dent. Titanium offers an ultra lightweight feel. Carbon fiber is exceptionally strong yet flexible. Do your research to see which lacrosse stick shaft material best matches your preferences and budget.
Find the Optimal Head Shape, Size and Stringing
Narrower stick heads excel at accurate passing and shooting, while wider heads scoop up ground balls more easily. Legal women’s stick heads range from 6 to 9 inches wide. Consider stringing as well. Tighter stringing gives greater ball control, while a deeper pocket helps retain possession on checks and cradles. Be sure the pocket is ILLEGAL for gameplay. Test out pre-strung options, or customize the stringing yourself for an ideal release and hold.
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Shop Clearance Lacrosse Sticks to Stay Within Budget
New gear can get expensive, so keep an eye out for lacrosse sticks on clearance at sporting goods stores and online retailers. You can often find last season’s gear deeply discounted. With some minor stringing adjustments, a clearance stick can give you the same performance as this year’s model at a fraction of the price. Be flexible on colors and designs to maximize potential savings on your next women’s lacrosse stick purchase.
Consider Stick Materials: Aluminum, Titanium, Carbon Fiber
Today’s lacrosse sticks feature shafts constructed from various alloys and composites, each with their own advantages. Aircraft-grade aluminum shafts like those from Maverik are affordable and time-tested, though prone to dents. Scandium titanium shafts seen in STX sticks offer exceptional strength-to-weight ratios for lightning quick moves. Carbon fiber composite shafts from brands like Warrior provide elite-level stiffness and responsiveness. Do your homework to determine which lacrosse stick shaft material aligns with your budget and provides the right blend of durability, weight, flexibility, and handling for your position and playing style.
For example, slick-handed attackers may favor ultra-lightweight titanium for quicker shots on goal. Take-no-prisoners defenders benefit from the ruggedness of aluminum to scoop up loose balls. Midfield transition players can leverage the strength and stiffness of carbon fiber for firm checks and passes upfield. By balancing performance, price, and feel across material options, you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Find the Optimal Head Shape, Size and Stringing
When selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, pay close attention to the head shape, size, and stringing pattern. Narrower stick heads typically provide more accurate passing and shooting, while wider heads make scooping up ground balls simpler. Legal women’s lacrosse stick heads range from 6 to 9 inches across, so try out multiple widths with your position and style in mind. An attacker may prefer a narrow 6-inch head for pinpoint shots, while a tenacious defender benefits from a wider 9-inch head to gobble up turnovers.
Consider stringing as well. Tighter stringing generally gives you greater control over the ball, at the cost of some hold. A deeper pocket helps you retain possession on checks and cradles, but can reduce passing and shooting precision. Many sticks now come pre-strung with an optimal pocket, or you can customize it yourself for the ideal release point and ball hold. Make sure to factor in stringing just as much as head size, finding the right balance of ball control, hold, and release point for your game.
Testing out stick heads and stringing patterns is the best way to dial in your optimal specs. Consult lacrosse gear guides, ask for teammate recommendations, and take advantage of manufacturer trial periods. With the right head shape, width, and stringing for your position and skills, you’ll gain an instant edge on the field.
Don’t Forget the Handle Length and Shape
An often overlooked aspect of choosing a new women’s lacrosse stick is finding the right handle length and shape for your height and position. Legal stick handles range from 35.5 to 43.25 inches, so taller players tend to prefer the maximum length for greater reach. Shorter players opt for 35.5-37 inches for quick stick handling. Consider your role as well – defenders may want a longer handle for pokes and checks, while attackers value shorter handles for tight cradling and shots in traffic.
Handle shape is another variable, as some sticks feature octagonal or other ergonomic shaft designs for enhanced control. Make sure to test different handle lengths and shapes when shopping for your next women’s lacrosse stick. With the handle dialed in for your body type and position, you’ll gain consistency in your passing, catching, cradling and shooting when the game is on the line.
Don’t simply default to the longest legal handle without trying out other lengths first. Arm yourself with the knowledge of how handle length and shape impacts performance. Consult lacrosse experts, read online reviews, and leverage any stick trial periods to your advantage. Finding your optimum handle specs takes research and experimentation, but it’s worth the effort for on-field domination.
Compare Brands Like STX, Maverik, Brine, Warrior
With so many top lacrosse stick brands on the market, it’s important to compare companies like STX, Maverik, Brine and Warrior when shopping for your next women’s stick. STX often focuses on innovative technologies like carbon composite heads for elite level play. Maverik sticks offer a great value-to-performance ratio. Brine provides versatile options across price points and skill levels. Warrior emphasizes shaft and head engineerings for increased power and accuracy.
Do your homework on each brand’s strengths and weaknesses based on your position, skill level, and budget. Read online reviews and get input from teammates to see what lacrosse stick brands they prefer and why. If possible, try out sticks across brands to get a feel for differences in handling, throwing, scooping, and shooting. This first-hand testing is invaluable when determining what brand truly resonates best with your preferences and style of play.
While one company may get the most hype, another brand could be a better match for you. Keep an open mind, do test different lacrosse sticks hands-on, and make an informed decision. With the right brand in your hands, you’ll gain an advantage over opponents this season.
Shop For Complete Sticks or Custom Build Your Own
When buying your next women’s lacrosse stick, you’ll need to decide between complete pre-built sticks or customizing your own from scratch. Complete sticks provide an out-of-the-box option ready to use, while building your own lets you hand pick the shaft, head, and stringing to your exact specs. Both routes have their pros and cons.
Pre-strung complete sticks are the simpler option, letting you hit the field faster. But you are limited to the factory stringing and setup. Going full custom gives you control over each element like head shape, shaft material, and stringing pattern. However, it does require more research and work to assemble the perfect stick.
Consider your needs, skills, and willingness to tinker. Advanced players may appreciate the customization of a self-built stick. Beginners often benefit from an optimized complete stick to develop skills. Talk to teammates who’ve customized their stick versus buying complete, and decide what makes the most sense for you and your game right now.
Read Lacrosse Stick Reviews Before Buying
Before deciding on your next new women’s lacrosse stick, be sure to read reviews from other players. Lacrosse stick review sites like LaxAllStars.com can provide in-depth evaluations on the latest gear. Video reviews on YouTube are another great way to see sticks in action. Don’t just take the manufacturer’s word when it comes to performance and quality.
Look for reviews that assess key factors like shaft and head durability, shooting and scooping consistency, ease of stringing, and value for the price. Pay attention to reviews from players with a similar position and skill level as you. A defender may critique different stick aspects than a midfielder or attacker. Consider both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective.
By consulting lacrosse stick reviews before buying, you can leverage the experience of others to make the most informed decision. The right women’s lacrosse stick will boost your game, so turn to online reviews to be sure you choose wisely.
Buy Based on Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
When selecting your next women’s lacrosse stick, be sure to match the stick specs and features to your current skill level. As a beginner, an all-around head with a basic pocket is ideal to develop fundamentals. Intermediate players benefit from sticks with greater pocket control for elevating passing and catching. Advanced lacrosse athletes can leverage elite sticks with advanced materials and optimized stringing for next-level performance.
The right stick for a novice just starting out differs greatly from a stick for a seasoned varsity lacrosse veteran. Seek out sticks marketed toward your ability first, before considering other factors. An advanced carbon fiber shaft and tight stringing could hinder a beginner learning proper technique. Be honest about your skills and choose accordingly for the fastest development and most enjoyment of the sport.
Consult with coaches and experienced teammates for stick recommendations tailored to your skill level. With the proper women’s lacrosse stick, you’ll accelerate your improvement this season whether you’re just starting out or working to take your game to the next level.
Make Sure It’s Legal For High School and College Play
When shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick, it’s crucial to ensure it meets the legal specifications for your league and level of play. High school rules mandate pocket depths, ball retention tests, and stick dimensions. NCAA and club lacrosse have additional standards. Consult your coach or governing body’s guidelines before purchasing to avoid any issues.
New lacrosse heads must come under 108mm across at the widest point. Pockets cannot be too deep or allow the ball to sink below the bottom of the sidewall. Goalies also have defined legal stick dimensions. Do research ahead of time on approved lacrosse sticks and heads rather than assuming any stick will comply.
Getting on the field only to have sticks fail inspection is frustrating and avoidable. Reference the mandated rules, read product details thoroughly, and confirm legality before buying your next women’s stick. Ensuring it meets regulations will let you play confidently and avoid potential penalties.
Choose Colors and Designs You Love
When selecting a new women’s lacrosse stick, don’t overlook the importance of finding a color and design you genuinely love. While performance matters most, you’ll feel more confident and have more fun playing with a stick that matches your personal style.
Browse the wide range of colors available across all the top lacrosse brands. Beyond basic options like black, white, and navy, you can find sticks in vibrant hues of neon green, bright pink, purple, and more. Consider a two-tone fade or ombre colorway for additional flair. Most brands offer limited edition graphics and patterns too.
While you don’t want to choose a stick solely for aesthetics, the reality is you’ll play better with one you love. Make sure it fits your taste as you narrow down the performance factors. Finding your perfect stick is a balance of playability, feel, and style. Choose wisely and you’ll be excited to hit the field with your new favorite gear this season.
Consider Stick Weight and Balance
When shopping for a new women’s lacrosse stick, factor in the overall weight and balance to find your ideal specs. Stick weight affects maneuverability and feel on cradles, checks, shots and passes. Balance impacts performance too.
Lighter sticks around 9-11oz make swift moves easier, while heavier 12-15oz sticks provide more stability and control. Test out sticks across the weight range to determine what works best for your playing style and strengths. Balance is key as well – make sure the stick doesn’t feel too bottom-heavy or top-light when held.
Don’t simply go for the lightest or heaviest option without testing the in-hand feel. Cutting down a long handle can redistribute weight toward the head for example. Talk to experienced teammates to get insight on preferences for weight and balance in a women’s stick. Get hands-on with different specs to find your personal sweet spot of stability, quickness and control this season.
Factor in Price and Budget
When shopping for your next women’s lacrosse stick, factor in how much you’re able and willing to spend. Lacrosse sticks range widely in price from under $50 up to $200+ for elite level sticks. Set a budget that works for you before starting your search.
Less expensive lacrosse stick options from brands like STX and Brine can still offer excellent performance for beginners. Premium sticks from Maverik and Warrior utilize cutting-edge technologies and materials with a price tag to match. It’s not necessary to spend big if you’re just starting out or playing recreationally.
Consider buying last year’s model sticks on sale or discounted second-hand sticks in good condition to maximize value. With the right research and shopping strategy, you can find high quality sticks that fit your budget and won’t break the bank. Don’t sacrifice quality just to save money, but also don’t overspend for features you may not fully utilize.
Get Properly Sized and Fitted at a Sporting Goods Store
When investing in a new women’s lacrosse stick, take the time to get properly sized and fitted at a sporting goods store. The knowledgeable staff can measure your arm length and hand size to recommend the ideal stick dimensions. You can test out sticks right in the store to evaluate weight, balance and feel across different brands and models.
Don’t just order a stick online without trying it hands-on first. The in-store fitting experience is invaluable for identifying the sticks that perform and feel best for your physique and position. You can ensure the handle, head, and pocket all fit your body and playing style. The staff can even suggest re-stringing or handle adjustments to customize the fit further.
Taking the extra time to get sized and fitted in-person will pay dividends with your new gear. With a stick dialed into your specs, you’ll gain confidence and consistency out on the field. Don’t settle for a factory default stick. Get fit for lacrosse stick perfection this season.
