The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best PreStrung Lacrosse Heads in 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best PreStrung Lacrosse Heads in 2023

Why Pre-Strung Lacrosse Heads Are So Popular Among Players

In the world of lacrosse, more and more players are opting for pre-strung lacrosse heads instead of stringing their own. There are several good reasons for the growing popularity of these ready-to-play heads that come from the factory with specialized pocket stringing already installed.

First and foremost, pre-strung heads save players a lot of time and effort. Stringing a lacrosse head properly is an art that requires precision, skill and patience. For busy lacrosse players, avoiding this tedious process by purchasing a head with optimized stringing is an attractive option. This allows them to spend less time prepping gear and more time practicing and playing.

Pre-strung heads also provide consistency and reliability in performance. With hand-strung pockets, there is always a risk that stringing may be uneven or imperfect in a way that impacts ball control, shooting, scooping and more. Pre-strung models eliminate guesswork and offer stringing designed for optimal play right out of the box.

Additionally, pre-strung heads are often strung by professionals with specialized knowledge and experience. Brands like STX, Maverik and Warrior employ talented stringing experts to pre-string their heads with innovative pocket patterns. This expert stringing maximizes key factors like pocket depth, whip, hold and channel. Players can benefit from pro-level stringing without having to learn to string or hire a professional stringer themselves.

For new players especially, using a pre-strung head accelerated the learning curve. Beginners do not need to spend time mastering stringing techniques before getting comfortable catching, cradling, scooping and passing with their stick. With a pre-strung pocket designed for easy control, they can develop skills faster.

While hand-stringing loyalists still exist in lacrosse circles, pre-strung heads offer an easy, consistent and high-performing option that continues to surge in popularity year after year. For most players today, the convenience and reliability of a professionally strung pocket straight from the factory makes pre-strung lacrosse heads the top choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pre-Strung Lacrosse Head

With so many pre-strung lacrosse heads on the market, it can be tricky to decide which one is right for your needs. There are several important factors lacrosse players should consider when selecting a pre-strung head.

First, you’ll want to take into account your position on the field. Attackmen, midfielders, defenders and goalies all have different preferences for pocket type, depth, whip, hold and other stringing characteristics. Attack heads benefit from deeper pockets for control while taking shots on goal, while defenders need a flatter pocket for quick transitions and passes.

Your skill level also plays a role. Beginners do best with medium pocket depths for more control, while advanced players can use very deep or very shallow pockets for specialized play. It’s important to choose a pocket that matches your current ability and helps elevate your game through optimal ball control and release.

The material of the head itself makes a difference too. Harder plastics like those from Maverik provide the most rigid, consistent pockets. Flexible materials like STX Super Power give you more pocket whip. There are also hybrid heads that combine stiff and flexible composites. The right material for you depends on how lively or rigid you need the pocket to be.

Pocket shape is another consideration. Some pre-strung heads offer triangular pockets while others are more diamond-shaped. There are also channel/runner pockets optimized for midfield play. The shape impacts handling, hold and ball dynamics on passes, catches and shots.

It’s also helpful to read lacrosse head reviews from brands like Lax.com and Lacrosse Unlimited. Experienced players provide useful insight into how different pre-strung heads perform for passing, shooting, face-offs and scooping ground balls. This can help you narrow down your options.

While pre-strung heads simplify stringing, they are not one-size-fits all. Taking the time to carefully evaluate your position, skill level, preferred materials, pocket shape and depth will ensure you get the right pre-strung lacrosse head to elevate your game this season.

Reviews of the Top Pre-Strung Lacrosse Heads on the Market

With so many pre-strung lacrosse heads available from top brands like STX, Maverik, Warrior and Brine, it can be difficult to determine which models are truly the best. Looking at reviews and feedback from experienced players is invaluable when comparing high-quality pre-strung heads.

For attack players, the Maverik Optik is frequently cited as one of the best pre-strung options. Its hybrid stiff and flexible sidewalls give great hold and quick release, while the pre-installed medium pocket optimizes control. Many reviewers say it excels at cradleing, quick sticks and sinking top-shelf shots on goal.

In the midfield category, Warrior’s Evo Warp pre-strung head emerges as a top choice thanks to its stiff sidewalls, narrow channel and mid-low pocket. Players praise its pinpoint accuracy on long passes, scooping ground balls and wedging the ball out during faceoffs. Its durability after repeated hard checks is also a plus.

On the defensive end, players rave about the STX Hammer 500 for its exceptionally stiff sidewalls and mid-high pocket. It gives defenders excellent ball retention during clears and outstanding stops with its wide head design. Reviewers also note its consistency and long pocket life through seasons of use.

For goalies, the Brine King 4 gets high marks for being a lightweight yet robust pre-strung head. It excels at fast reaction saves thanks to its flexible sidewalls and mid-deep pocket optimized for goalies. Players also love the protection it provides the hand from high-velocity shots.

While personal preferences can vary, these lacrosse heads stand out time and again in player reviews for their excellent construction, pocket shape and performance. For players looking to upgrade their game with a top-tier pre-strung head, the Maverik Optik, Warrior Evo Warp, STX Hammer 500 and Brine King 4 represent the best options on the market currently.

How to Get the Most Value When Buying a Pre-Strung Lacrosse Head

With pre-strung lacrosse heads ranging in price from $50 to over $150, players want to make sure they maximize value when purchasing one. Using smart shopping strategies can help you get the most performance for your money.

One tip is to look for heads that come pre-strung with high-quality mesh instead of basic nylon. Mesh materials like Mark 2F from StringKing or Throne Mesh from Epoch offer better handling, consistency and durability over generic stringing mesh. Prioritizing quality stringing materials ensures better performance and longevity.

It is also wise to choose heads from brands with proven reputation and technologies. For example, heads from ECD, Maverik and Warrior utilize specialized plastics like Carbon Pro and Warrior Foam Core to improve stiffness, protection and pocket feel. Investing a bit more in heads with performance-enhancing technologies can be worthwhile.

Shopping online can help save money on premium pre-strung heads. Many eCommerce lacrosse sites like Lax.com, LacrosseMonkey and EastCoastDyes offer discounts and promos not found in most retail stores. Taking advantage of online deals maximizes savings on top-tier heads.

Buying last year’s head models is another way to score savings on high-performing pre-strung heads. Brands make minor tweaks each year but older models still play great. Searching for prior year clearsance heads can net big discounts.

While pre-strung lacrosse heads simplify play, finding one that provides maximum value takes some research. Looking for quality mesh stringing, proven technologies, online deals and prior year models are smart tips for getting the most performance for your money.

Beginner’s Guide to Lacrosse Head Stringing and Pockets

For new lacrosse players purchasing their first pre-strung head, it helps to learn the basics of lacrosse head stringing and pockets. Understanding these key concepts will help you select and string your next head.

The first key component is lacrosse sidewall stringing. This refers to the interwoven nylon cords along the sidewalls that form the foundational structure of the pocket. Double or triple sidewall stringing patterns create more defined pocket channels. Sidewall stringing impacts overall pocket shape.

Lacrosse shooting strings are another important element. These nylon cords run horizontally across the head to form the pocket shape. Shooting strings include a top string, mid-level shooting strings and a lower V-shaped bottom string. Proper string placement and tension allows fine tuning of pocket hold and release.

Mesh and traditional nylon lacrosse stringing are the materials used to create pockets. Soft mesh materials increase flexibility and pocket whip. Premium meshes like StringKing Mark 2F also improve handling and consistency. Stiff nylon pockets provide more rigidity and stability.

Pocket depth refers to how deep the pocket sits in the head. Depth is adjusted by loosening or tightening sidewall and shooting strings. Shallower pockets have a quicker release while deeper pockets provide superior ball control and hold.

Overall, understanding key concepts like sidewall stringing, shooting strings, mesh versus nylon and pocket depth helps newcomers select the right ready-strung head. It also allows players to make minor adjustments to pre-strung pockets to match their preferences as their skills progress.

Customizing Your Pre-Strung Lacrosse Head to Suit Your Playing Style

While pre-strung lacrosse heads provide an optimized pocket right out of the package, many players want to customize the stringing to perfectly match their skills and playing style. There are several easy ways to tweak a pre-strung pocket.

One option is to adjust shooting string placement. For example, raising the top shooting string higher in the head increases hold, while lowering it quickens release. Dropping the mid-level shooting strings deeper into the sidewall can also increase hold. Re-positioning any of the shooting strings fine-tunes pocket performance.

Altering shooting string tension is another simplecustomize. Tightening the knots where shooting strings attach to the sidewall slows ball release, while loosening the knots does the opposite. Finding your ideal tension dial in the optimal amount of hold or whip.

Swapping out the shooting strings for a different mesh, nylon or lace material allows you to change the overall feel and flexibility of the pocket. StringKing mesh provides excellent handling for stick tricks and quick releases. Traditional hard lacrosse lace increases overall stiffness.

For more advanced customization, re-stringing the entire sidewalls modifies the pocket shape and channel. Though time consuming, sidewall re-stringing allows radically changing the pocket design to suit your game.

While perfectly strung out of the package, most pre-strung lacrosse heads can be customized in small ways to truly maximize performance for an individual player’s style, position and skill level. Adjusting shooting strings, tension, materials and sidewalls transforms a generic pocket into your ideal personalized pocket.

Ensuring Proper Stringing Techniques and Pocket Depth in a Pre-Strung Head

While pre-strung lacrosse heads simplify the stringing process, it is still important for players to understand proper stringing methods and ideal pocket depths to get the most out of their gear.

In terms of stringing techniques, evenly-tensioned sidewall strings are critical for optimal pocket function. Sidewalls should have equivalent tension from top to bottom, with no loose or tightened areas. Consistent sidewall tension allows the pocket to maintain its intended shape during play.

Shooting strings must be properly interwoven with the sidewalls to create defined pocket channels without pinching the ball. Shooting strings that are unevenly threaded or knotted too tightly inhibit smooth releases and passing.

Mesh and nylon shooting strings should be adequately broken-in before play. New stiff strings cause increased friction and erratic ball releases. Taking the time to break-in shooting strings results in better pocket feel and performance.

For pocket depth, most experts recommend midfield sticks have a depth around two inches for optimal control and hold. Attack pockets can be deeper at around 2.5 inches for superior cradling and shot power. Shallower pockets of 1.5 inches or less facilitate extremely quick releases.

While pre-stringing removes much guesswork, lacrosse players should still inspect stringing methods and pocket depths on new heads to ensure ideal mechanics. Taking the time to master proper stringing and pocket depth boosts overall play.

Pre-Strung Heads for Various Lacrosse Positions (Attack, Midfield, Defense)

Lacrosse players in different positions on the field have varied needs and preferences when it comes to pre-strung heads. Understanding key differences helps attackers, midfielders, and defenders select ideal models.

For attack players, heads with more flexible sidewalls like the Maverik Optik provide better ball control for sinking shots on goal. The pre-set deep pockets on attack heads also excel at cradleing near the crease and quick stick passing behind the net.

In the midfield, stiffer heads with defined mid-pockets like the Epoch Hawk offer superior handling, hold and accuracy for long passes between midfield and attack or defense. Greater sidewall stiffness also provides durability against checks.

For defenders clearing the ball upfield, heads with medium stiffness like the Warrior Regulator offer excellent ball retention and quick transitions from defense to offense. The slightly wider head design of many defenders heads also aids in checking and knocking away passes.

Goalies rely on pre-strung heads with extra deep pockets to effectively smother shots and clear balls safely upfield. Wider heads provide more blocking surface, while flexible sidewalls allow adjusting pocket depth and shape to individual style.

While high-quality pre-strung heads work well across all positions, optimizing performance requires careful selection based on the specialized needs for each role on the field. With the right head, players excel at the specific demands of attack, midfield, defense or goalie.

Finding Pre-Strung Heads for Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse

When shopping for pre-strung lacrosse heads, it’s important to consider key differences between men’s and women’s lacrosse that impact ideal stringing and pocket design.

For women’s lacrosse, shallower pocket depths are required by most leagues for safety reasons. Pockets must sit above the sidewall to avoid excess ball retention near the head. Shooting strings are also limited to prevent deep pocketing.

In women’s lacrosse stick heads, more flexible sidewalls are common to increase whip for quicker passes and shots. Materials like alloy aluminum in East Coast Dyes heads provide excellent flex and handling.

Slimmer head designs optimized for women’s hands with closer sidewall dimensions are the norm in women’s pre-strung models. This improves control and feel. Lighter weight materials help reduce fatigue.

For men’s lacrosse, very deep pockets are allowed and common on pre-strung heads. More rigid sidewalls in heads like the Maverik Tank provide superior ball retention for physical play.

Knowing what to look for in women’s versus men’s heads makes selecting an ideal pre-strung model quicker and simpler. Choosing heads designed specifically for the unique demands of women’s or men’s lacrosse optimizes performance.

The Importance of a Properly Strung Head for Ball Control and Shooting

While lacrosse heads get plenty of attention, proper stringing is equally vital for optimizing ball control, passing, catching and shooting. That’s why a pre-strung head with an expertly designed pocket can elevate any player’s game.

Ideal shooting strings generate just the right amount of hold to “seat” the ball firmly in the pocket, while also allowing smooth, accurate release on passes and shots. Shooting strings that are too loose make the ball rattle around, while overly tight strings inhibit release.

Proper sidewall stringing sets up defined pocket channels that guide the ball naturally out the top center of the head. This lends accuracy to passes and shots. Irregular sidewall stringing can make ball trajectory erratic.

Correct pocket depth provides excellent ball control and feel whether cradling, passing or winding up for a shot. Ultra-shallow pockets release the ball prematurely. Overly deep pockets hinder handling. The right depth means never fighting the pocket.

High-quality mesh and nylon materials supply the right blend of flexibility and stiffness. Superior stringing materials like semi-soft mesh improve handling without sacrificing ball retention.

While even the best heads need proper stringing to perform at their peak, pre-strung models provide this expert stringing in ready-to-use packages. The right pocket takes your game to the next level.

How to Care for and Maintain Your Pre-Strung Lacrosse Head

Pre-strung lacrosse heads represent a significant investment for most players. Knowing how to properly care for and maintain these heads helps them stand the test of time and retain their high performance.

Storing heads in a mesh bag or with a head wrap protects the pocket strings from damage and deformation when not in use. Letting a head sit all off-season unprotected risks warping the strings.

Periodically checking shooting strings and sidewalls for fraying prevents full breakage during games. Replacing a few worn strings as needed extends pocket life. It’s easier than restringing an entire head mid-season.

Cleaning heads of dirt and debris after practices and games helps reduce gradual abrasion of the pocket materials. Gently clear away any particles, sweat and grime.

Avoid exposing strung heads to excessive moisture and humidity. Prolonged dampness encourages mold growth which weakens strings. Store heads in climate controlled conditions.

For heads seeing heavy use, occasionally re-tightening sidewall strings helps maintain pocket integrity longer. Natural loosening over time alters pocket shape and function.

With the proper precautions, pre-strung lacrosse heads easily deliver multiple seasons of top performance. Focusing on string protection, preventive maintenance and controlled storage conditions gives your investment the longevity it deserves.

Replacing Strings in a Pre-Strung Head vs Getting a New One

When a pre-strung lacrosse head starts showing wear, players face the decision of whether to re-string it or simply replace it entirely. There are pros and cons to each approach.

Replacing just the shooting strings allows preserving the original sidewall stringing and overall pocket structure. This retains the familiar feel of the head at a lower cost than a brand new one. However, re-stringing is still fairly time consuming.

For more significant pocket wear, re-stringing the sidewalls and shooting strings does provide a fully refreshed pocket. But this requires advanced stringing skill. Fully re-stringing also negates the value of buying a head pre-strung in the first place.

Opting for a brand new head guarantees maximized performance with the latest technologies. New heads feel crisp and responsive. The downsides are upfront cost and breaking-in a new pocket feel.

Considering factors like wear level, stringing skill and budget helps determine whether restoring an old head or replacing it makes more sense. For minimal wear, shooting string replacement preserves a familiar pocket. But for advanced deterioration, starting fresh with a new head may be wiser.

With proper maintenance, most pre-strung heads perform reliably for multiple seasons before showing signs of decreased function. But by weighing all factors, players can make the right call between re-stringing and replacement when the time eventually comes.

Buying Pre-Strung Heads Online vs In a Retail Store

When it comes time to purchase your next pre-strung lacrosse head, you’ll need to decide whether to buy online or in-store. There are advantages and disadvantages to each option that are worth considering.

Shopping online provides convenient access to a huge selection of heads without leaving home. Top lacrosse retailers like Lax.com and Universal Lacrosse offer every major brand and model on their sites. Online shopping makes finding specialty heads easier.

The ability to compare prices across multiple sites makes it simpler to find deals shopping online. Online-only discounts and free shipping offers also help maximize savings compared to physical stores.

However, buying pre-strung heads in a physical store allows closely inspecting and handling heads before purchasing. This helps assess quality and functionality. Returns and exchanges are easier done in person as well.

Retail stores also provide opportunities to test out heads with on-site stringing experts. Their guidance can help identify the best match for your needs. Developing a relationship with local lacrosse shops builds valuable expertise.

Ultimately, balancing factors like selection, pricing, convenience and hands-on experience helps determine if online or in-store shops are best for your next pre-strung head purchase. With the right approach, you can access the gear you need and stick to your budget.

Are Pre-Strung Heads Worth the Cost? An Analysis

With pre-strung lacrosse heads often costing $50 to over $150, players rightly wonder if these ready-to-use heads are worth the investment compared to buying an unstrung head and stringing it yourself.

The main value proposition of pre-strung heads is convenience. The time and effort saved by avoiding having to string the head yourself or pay for stringing services is substantial. Pre-stringing lets you spend more time playing rather than prepping gear.

Pre-strung heads also deliver reliably excellent performance thanks to pro-level stringing expertise. Brands meticulously engineer the pockets for optimal handling, control, passing and shooting. This quality maximizes playability.

The advanced materials used in pre-strung pockets like semi-soft mesh and flash nylon also improve durability, consistency and feel compared to average stringing jobs. You pay more but get premium components.

However, the cost savings of buying an unstrung head and installing basic nylon strings oneself or getting a basic stringing job can be over $50 compared to premium pre-strung models. This allows allocating more budget to other gear.

Ultimately, for players who prioritize convenience and consistently high performance, pre-stringing is likely worth the cost. But for budget-focused players less concerned with pro-level stringing, unstrung heads present the better value.