The Ultimate Guide to Colored and Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
The Ultimate Guide to Colored and Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
Introduction to Colored and Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
For lacrosse players looking to customize and enhance their sticks, colored and waxed mesh are great options. The mesh is the diamond-shaped netting strung into the head of the lacrosse stick. Coloring and waxing the mesh can provide aesthetic, performance, and durability benefits. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about colored and waxed lacrosse mesh.
Benefits of Colored Lacrosse Mesh
Adding color to your lacrosse mesh allows for creative customization and can help spot your stick more easily on the field. Lacrosse mesh comes standard in white or black, but dyeing it any color you want really makes your stick stand out. Beyond aesthetics, the right color mesh can increase visibility and help with handling. For example, lime green mesh pops against a white ball. Mesh color is totally up to your preferences though – go bold or stick with neutrals.
Different Types of Colored Lacrosse Mesh
Today’s mesh options provide a spectrum of possibilities when it comes to coloring your pocket. Traditional types like nylon and polyethylene mesh dye easily with fabric dyes. Performance meshes like ECM (East Coast Mesh) and Throne Fiber also take dye well. For customizable colored mesh without the work of dyeing it yourself, companies like StringKing and Warrior sell pre-dyed mesh in multiple hues. The mesh material affects how it absorbs dye, so use the right dye for your type of mesh.
How to Dye Your Own Lacrosse Mesh
Dyeing your own lacrosse mesh allows full creative control over the color choices. After choosing a dye suited for nylon or poly materials, simply submerge the mesh in dye according to the product’s instructions. For a tie-dye effect, tightly gather different mesh diamonds with rubber bands before soaking. Heat setting with an iron or dryer will help the color last. Take precautions to avoid staining gear or surfaces when dyeing mesh yourself.
Best Dyes for Coloring Lacrosse Mesh
Look for fabric dyes specifically formulated for synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester when picking a dye for your mesh. Many general purpose liquid dyes or packets made for synthetics work well. Popular options include Rit All-Purpose Dye and iDye Poly. For convenience, Jacquard makes nylon-specific dyes in multiple colors. When unsure if a dye will take, test it on scrap mesh first. Follow instructions to get the mesh fully saturated.
Waxing Lacrosse Mesh for Extra Hold and Ball Control
Waxing the lacrosse mesh adds grip, structure, and water resistance. Think of it like wax for a surfboard – it helps the pocket “hold” the ball better through catching, cradling, and passing. The wax weatherproofs mesh from getting soggy in wet conditions. It also stiffens the diamonds for extra ball control. Re-wax frequently to keep the pocket fresh. There are many lacrosse specific waxes, or use surfboard wax.
Types of Wax for Lacrosse Mesh
Lacrosse wax comes in solid cakes or tubes of paste/liquid wax. Hard waxes need to be gently rubbed into the mesh. Smooth wax pastes get worked thoroughly into the diamonds. Examples of popular waxes are Throne Mesh Wax, StringKing Mesh Wax, and Goalie Monkey Super Sticky Wax. Some local surf shops also carry multipurpose wax suitable for lacrosse sticks. The wax consistency determines application technique.
Applying Wax to Your Lacrosse Pocket
Prepping and waxing the mesh takes some time and elbow grease for best results. Start by shaping and stringing your desired pocket style. Clean the mesh first before waxing. For hard wax, gently rub it over the mesh going in multiple directions to transfer the wax. For pastes, vigorously massage the wax into the diamonds using gloves and really pushing it into the weave. Remove any excess buildup with a rag. Let it set before playing.
Pros and Cons of Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
Waxing lacrosse mesh brings benefits but has tradeoffs too. The increased grip and structure improve ball control. The hydrophobic surface repels water. Downsides are that it takes more “break-in” time and can get gummy in extreme heat. Reapplying wax when needed mitigates these issues. Overall, wax helps fine-tune pocket performance.
Best Waxes for Lacrosse Heads
When shopping for lacrosse specific mesh wax, standout options include StringKing Wax, ECM Wax, and Throne Mesh Wax. These waxes are formulated to penetrate synthetic mesh for maximum grip. Surfboard waxes like Sticky Bumps also work very well. For lacrosse goalies, thicker “super sticky” waxes provide extra tackiness. Test different wax consistencies to find your preference.
Maintaining Colored and Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
Like most gear investments, colored and waxed mesh requires care and upkeep. Avoid excessive heat when possible to prevent wax melting or dye fading prematurely. Rewaxing the mesh routinely will refresh the grip and waterproofing. Use gentle laundry detergent and air dry mesh when cleaning. With some maintenance, colored and waxed mesh will hold up reliably.
Re-Waxing Your Mesh for Optimal Performance
Plan to reapply wax every few weeks or as often as needed. Frequency depends on your level of play. Before rewaxing, clean the old wax out with a stiff brush or towel. Use lighter fluid to dissolve and remove built up wax if needed. Then work the new wax thoroughly into the diamonds like the initial application. Proper maintenance waxing enhances the mesh pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colored and Waxed Mesh
People often wonder about how coloring and wax affect mesh performance and durability. In general, dyeing does not degrade the integrity of synthetic mesh if proper dye is used. The wax actually extends the life of mesh by waterproofing it. Waxing does increase stiffness somewhat but also really tunes the pocket. Overall, colored and waxed mesh remain fully functional with added customization.
Top Colored and Waxed Mesh Brands on the Market
When it comes to colored and waxed mesh for lacrosse, top brands include StringKing, ECD, Throne, and Warrior based on quality and popularity. These companies make both standard and customized colored mesh, plus specially formulated wax. Trying different mesh and wax products leads to finding your favorites. Custom mesh dye jobs also available from various retailers.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick With Colored and Waxed Mesh
Stringing a fresh lacrosse head? Go bold by dyeing the mesh an eye-catching color before installing it. Love your current pocket but want more control? Rewax the mesh for grip. Colored and waxed mesh allow you to put a personal touch on your stick’s look and performance. With the right methods, you can customize your lacrosse pocket exactly how you like it.
Benefits of Colored Lacrosse Mesh
Adding vibrant color to your lacrosse mesh provides both style and functionality benefits. Visually, colored mesh makes your stick pop and adds swag. Got a team color scheme? Rep it in your strings. Want something that stands out on the field? Go bright. Match your gear or embrace custom combos. Beyond just looks, the right hue can improve visibility and handling. For example, opt for lime green mesh if you’re after high contrast with the white ball while cradling or passing. Red mesh can sharpen your focus. Mesh color options today span the entire rainbow, so express yourself. Bottom line, colored mesh gives your stick personality while also potentially boosting performance through optimized visibility.
Different Types of Colored Lacrosse Mesh
When looking to add some color to your lacrosse pocket, you’ve got options. Traditional nylon mesh has been around forever – this OG style can be dyed any color. Poly meshes like ECM (East Coast Mesh) and Throne Mesh also readily accept fabric dye. The material composition affects how the color sets, so use a dye formulated for synthetics. For pre-colored mesh you just string up, check out the offerings from ECD, StringKing, and Warrior. They produce factory dyed mesh in a range of hues like red, blue, green, orange, pink, and more. You can also find custom dyed mesh from various retailers if you want something totally unique. The possibilities are wide open thanks to the different types of colored lacrosse mesh available today. Get creative with colors that make your pocket pop.
How to Dye Your Own Lacrosse Mesh
Looking to spice up your lacrosse stick with a custom colored pocket? Dyeing your own mesh at home is totally doable. Start by picking a high-quality all-purpose nylon dye formulated for synthetics, like Rit or iDye Poly. Jacquard makes dyes specifically for nylon too. Gather your materials – dye, large container for soaking, tongs, gloves, paper towels, etc. Prep the raw mesh by washing with mild detergent to remove any coating. Next, make the dye bath by mixing the dye powder or liquid as directed on the packaging, using enough dye for full saturation. Submerge the mesh and soak for the recommended time. For tie-dye variations, tightly gather different mesh diamonds with rubber bands first. After dyeing, rinse until the water runs clear. Heat set the color by tossing the dyed mesh in the clothes dryer or gently ironing between towels. Take precautions to avoid staining surfaces during the process. With some simple DIY techniques, you can dye lacrosse mesh any vibrant color your heart desires.
Best Dyes for Coloring Lacrosse Mesh
When dyeing your own lacrosse mesh, it’s crucial to use a dye formulated for nylon or polyester fabrics. All-purpose Rit Dye works reliably for coloring lacrosse mesh vibrant hues. It comes in liquid or powder forms in a huge range of colors from primary colors to neon shades. iDye Poly is another trusted brand that adheres well to synthetic materials like mesh. For foolproof dyeing, Jacquard makes specific dyes just for nylon in both bright and neutral tones. Testing dyes on mesh samples first helps dial in application techniques and final color. Follow individual dye instructions for best results. With quality dyes made for synthetics, it’s simple to customize your lacrosse pocket with bold, head-turning colors or more subtle shades that uniquely make it your own.
Waxing Lacrosse Mesh for Extra Hold and Ball Control
Waxing lacrosse mesh provides players with improved grip, structure, and water resistance to fine tune pocket performance. The wax penetrates into the diamonds of the mesh, coating the synthetic nylon or polyester fibers. This impregnating effect creates a tacky grip on the mesh to help “hold” the ball better through all maneuvers – catching, cradling, scooping, and passing. The stiffer wax also adds stability to the pocket for enhanced ball control when maneuvering downfield or dodging defenders. Plus, wax makes mesh virtually waterproof so rain and humidity won’t soften your pocket. Reapply wax routinely to keep the mesh and grip fresh. With waxed mesh, you can really take your lacrosse game to the next level through optimized handling.
Types of Wax for Lacrosse Mesh
When it comes to waxing your lacrosse mesh, you’ve got options for products and formulas. Many companies like StringKing, Throne, and ECM make specific waxes for lacrosse mesh that provide optimal grip. These come in cakes or tubs and vary from smooth pastes to firm blocks. For a classic surfer approach, Hawaiian-style sticky surf waxes from brands like Sex Wax or Sticky Bumps also work excellently. The wax consistency ranges from hard, which needs to be gently rubbed in, to thick pastes that require working thoroughly into the diamond pattern. Lacrosse players can also use multipurpose paraffin wax for coating mesh. Testing different wax types lets you find your preference for grip and ease of application.
Applying Wax to Your Lacrosse Pocket
Getting the most out of waxing your lacrosse mesh requires proper preparation and technique. Start with a newly strung head or refresh an older pocket by cleaning out built-up wax residue. Use a stiff brush or towel with a lacrosse specific solvent to remove gunk. Shape and define the pocket style as desired before waxing. For hard waxes, gently rub the block over mesh diamonds in multiple directions to transfer the wax coating. With paste waxes, vigorously work the product into the pockets using gloves and plenty of elbow grease to penetrate the weave. Remove any excess wax with a clean rag. Let the fresh wax set overnight before hitting the field. Regularly re-waxing your mesh every few weeks or as needed will keep your pocket performing optimally all season long.
Pros and Cons of Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
Waxing your lacrosse stick mesh provides performance enhancing benefits but also has some tradeoffs to consider. On the plus side, wax significantly improves grip and pocket hold. The waterproofing effect keeps your pocket crisp in wet conditions. The stiffer diamonds give you greater accuracy and ball control. Downsides are that brand new waxed mesh has a longer break-in period. The wax can also soften and get gummy in super hot weather. Re-waxing regularly helps minimize these drawbacks. Overall, waxed mesh gives your game an edge once broken in, with the minor compromises of some additional maintenance and tuning required in extreme temperatures.
Best Waxes for Lacrosse Heads
When shopping for the best lacrosse mesh wax for optimizing your pocket’s grip and performance, top options include StringKing Mesh Wax, Throne Mesh Wax, and ECM Mesh Wax. These specialty waxes are formulated to penetrate and coat synthetic nylon or polyester mesh. StringKing’s wax is a smooth paste that applies easily. Throne Mesh Wax is a thicker “super sticky” wax ideal for goalies seeking maximum tack. ECM wax comes in a solid cake that melts into the mesh when rubbed. For a classic approach, surfboard waxes like Sex Wax or Sticky Bumps work extremely well too. Testing different lacrosse mesh wax textures and consistencies will help you find the one that suits your preferences and playing style.
Maintaining Colored and Waxed Lacrosse Mesh
Caring for colored and waxed lacrosse mesh requires some routine maintenance for optimal longevity. Avoid excessive heat from dryers or car interiors to prevent premature fading of dye colors. Rewax mesh every few weeks during peak season to maintain tackiness and water resistance. Gently hand wash dyed mesh with mild detergent and air dry to preserve hues. Use a stiff brush and lacrosse specific cleaner to remove built-up wax residue before reapplying. Spot clean stains promptly. Store gear properly when not in use. With the right techniques for care and upkeep, your custom colored and waxed lacrosse pocket will hold up reliably for many seasons of play.
Re-Waxing Your Mesh for Optimal Performance
To keep your lacrosse stick performing at its best, plan to re-wax the mesh routinely. Frequency depends on level of play, but every 2-4 weeks is a good rule of thumb. Start by cleaning out all old wax residue, using a stiff brush or towel with solvent. This allows the new wax to fully penetrate. Select your preferred lacrosse mesh wax and apply a fresh coating using the same process as the initial waxing. Thoroughly work paste wax into the diamonds or rub hard wax briskly over the surface. Let the re-waxed mesh set overnight before playing so the wax can fully cure. Proper re-waxing restores grip and waterproofing that deteriorates over time. Don’t wait until your pocket feels slippery – stay proactive with wax maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colored and Waxed Mesh
People often have questions when considering colored and waxed lacrosse mesh. In terms of durability, dyeing mesh does not damage or degrade it if proper synthetic fabric dye is used. The wax actually extends the life of the mesh by weatherproofing it. Performance-wise, both coloring and waxing are enhancements – colored mesh aids visibility while wax allows better pocket control. Wax does add some stiffness, but also really tunes the pocket to your playing style. Brand new waxed mesh needs a break-in period as the wax softens through use. Re-waxing helps optimize grip again. The bottom line is that colored and waxed mesh remains fully functional while providing customization options.
Top Colored and Waxed Mesh Brands on the Market
When shopping for colored or waxed lacrosse mesh, quality brands include StringKing, ECD, Throne, and Warrior. StringKing offers pre-dyed mesh kits with coordinated stringing in vibrant hues. ECD (East Coast Dyes) is known for mesh dye expertise and also makes wax. Throne provides a range of waxes from firm to super tacky for customizeable grip. Warrior sells factory colored mesh pieces for a bold pocket pop. Smaller retailers like Custom Mesh provide personalized mesh dyeing services too. Testing products from leading colored and waxed mesh brands will help you find your favorites to make your stick uniquely your own.
Customizing Your Lacrosse Stick With Colored and Waxed Mesh
Looking to make your lacrosse stick uniquely your own? Add some flavor by customizing the mesh pocket with coloring and wax. Dye the mesh yourself at home with fabric dyes in bold hues like crimson, lime green, or neon orange. Or choose pre-dyed mesh from leading brands in any color combo. Waxing the mesh, either by itself or in addition to dyeing, allows tuning the pocket feel to your handling preferences. Apply lacrosse mesh wax for grip and waterproofing. Combine colored and waxed mesh for high visibility and optimized control. With the wide range of coloring and waxing options today, you can create a customized pocket style that matches your playing personality.
