The Ultimate Guide to the Maverik Kinetic 20 Lacrosse Head

The Ultimate Guide to the Maverik Kinetic 20 Lacrosse Head

An Overview of the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 Lacrosse Head

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head is one of the most innovative and popular heads on the market today. As an upgrade to the original Kinetic head, the 2.0 version features key enhancements and new technologies to improve performance. At its core, the Kinetic 2.0 utilizes a hybrid rail design that combines the stiffness and ball control of a pinched head with the flexibility and scooping ability of an open sidewall. This innovative rail helps optimize the head’s overall feel and makes it easier for players to cradle, pass, and shoot the ball.

One of the standout features of the Kinetic 2.0 is the strategically designed scoop which helps you gain possession off ground balls. The scoop has a steep angle to pick up ground balls without scooping up dirt. Plus, it has an improved shape and entry point to channel the ball directly into the pocket. Once you secure the ball, you’ll benefit from enhanced ball control thanks to the head’s upgraded stringing holes and sidewall design. The hybrid rail along with minimized sidewall flare help contain shots and passes. For added ball security, there are narrow channels around the scoop to hug the ball. Whether you’re an attackman surveying the field for a feed or a midfielder sprinting downfield on the clear, the Kinetic 2.0 gives you the control you need.

Key Features and Technologies of the Kinetic 2.0

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 stands out from other lacrosse heads thanks to several key features and proprietary technologies. At the core of the head is Maverik’s new Dual Rail technology which combines a rigid lower rail with a flexible upper rail. This hybrid rail design optimizes stiffness and flex to give you the best of both worlds. The rigid, thickened lower rail boosts handling and ball control similar to a traditionally stiff pinched head. But the flexible upper rail allows for better scooping due to its open sidewall design.

By tuning the lower and upper rails differently, Maverik created a head with unique flex points for enhanced passing, catching, and shooting. The pinched lower rail maintains the head’s structure for excellent ball retention while the flexible upper rail collapses around the ball upon contact. Together these technologies give you an overall quick release when passing and improved ball feel when carrying or receiving passes. The strategic placement of the rail along the sidewall also helps shift flex to the upper corners. This retains stiffness through the throat of the head for more accurate shooting while allowing the head to flex around the ball.

Maverik also equipped the Kinetic 2.0 with an upgraded 2-shot injection molded head design. Unlike single injected heads, the 2-shot molding provides a thicker, denser rail for improved sturdiness. This enhances the head’s stiffness without making it rigid or compromising flex. The end result is a lightweight but highly durable lacrosse head optimized for quick breaks, pinpoint passing, and blistering shots. Between the hybrid rail and 2-shot construction, the Kinetic 2.0 gives players the perfect blend of rigidity, flex, and strength.

How the Kinetic 2.0 Compares to Other Maverik Heads

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 stands out from other heads in the Maverik lineup thanks to its innovative new features and hybrid rail design. When comparing the Kinetic 2.0 to heads like the Maverik Optik, Maverik Tank, and Maverik Rome NXT, you’ll notice key differences that make each head unique.

The Optik has more flex and whip to its sidewalls which generates faster release speeds. This ultra-flexible head favors offensive players who want maximum velocity on passes and shots. In contrast, the Kinetic 2.0 has a stiffer lower rail to improve ball retention, control, and handling. This balanced flex pattern benefits both offensive and defensive players.

The Maverik Tank head is designed as a stiff, rugged head for aggressive players. It maintains structure and shape better for players who lay big checks. While also stiff, the Kinetic 2.0 has strategic flex points to allow it to better conform around the ball. This helps players maintain control of the ball throughout possessions.

Finally, the Rome NXT is another hybrid head with a flexible upper sidewall and stiff lower sidewall. However, Maverik’s Dual Rail system takes hybrid rail design even further on the Kinetic 2.0. By extending the stiff lower rail higher up the sidewall and optimizing the flex profile, the Kinetic 2.0 has better throwing consistency and control over the Rome NXT.

Overall, the Kinetic 2.0 stands out with its balanced blend of stiffness for handling and strategic flex for passing and shooting. No other current Maverik head employs hybrid rail engineering to the same degree as the Kinetic 2.0.

The Benefits of the Hybrid Rail Design

The hybrid rail design of the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 is what truly sets this head apart from others on the market. This innovative engineering provides unique performance benefits you can’t get from a single-rail stiff or flexible head.

By utilizing a thickened, rigid lower rail and open flexible upper rail, the Kinetic 2.0 maintains structure in the bottom of the head for excellent ball control and feel. You’ll notice crisp, consistent passes and shots thanks to the added stiffness down low. The head won’t wobble or twist during throws, even under pressure. This precision and rigidity offer attacking players more accuracy when shooting on goal.

Yet by allowing the upper sidewall to flex and whip, the hybrid rail enables enhanced ball control on cradles, scoops, and catches. On ground balls, you can use the upper flexibility to help wrap the head around the ball and secure possession. The upper rail also collapses around outside passes and shots to improve catches. And when carrying the ball upfield, the increased flex conforms to the ball better so you can cradle faster and smoother.

In essence, the Kinetic 2.0’s hybrid rail optimization gives you the precision of a stiff head through the lower sidewalls with the supple control of a flexible head up top. You get a responsive flex profile that caters to all lacrosse handling, passing, and shooting scenarios. The blended rail construction is a game-changer for maximizing your two-way play as a midfielder or delivering pinpoint finishes as an attackman.

Optimized Scoop and Improved Ball Control

In addition to its hybrid rail technology, the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 stands out with its optimized scoop design and enhanced ball control capabilities. The engineers at Maverik redesigned the scoop and ball channels to make securing ground balls and carrying the rock easier than ever.

The Kinetic 2.0 features a scoop with increased depth to improve ground ball pickup. As balls lie on the turf, the deep pocket helps envelop and contain them with less chance of bobbling. Maverik also optimized the angle and entry point of the scoop to make initial ground ball contact more consistent. The steeper angle allows you to scoop through the ball cleanly without picking up excess dirt or turf. Your top hand slides smoothly along the contour of the scoop for controlled pickups. An enhanced connection point then channels ground balls rearward into the head’s pocket.

Once you secure possession, you’ll enjoy even better ball control thanks to the Kinetic 2.0’s tuned stringing holes, minimized sidewall flare, and rail placement. The stringing layout combined with the hybrid rail help cradle and direct the ball centrally into the optimal throwing position. Strategically placed sidewall stringing holes also let you tweak the pocket to your exact preferences. With the Kinetic 2.0, ground balls go from the turf into the pocket with less struggle. And cradling leads smoothly into passing and shooting thanks to enhanced retention.

Enhanced Stiffness and Durability

In addition to its innovative flex profile, the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head provides players with improved stiffness and durability compared to previous generations. This helps boost the head’s performance and longevity through seasons of play.

The source of the increased stiffness comes from Maverik’s two-shot injection molded head construction. Unlike single injected plastic heads, the 2-shot molding utilizes a dense, high-grade plastic for the first injection along the rail and sidewall. Maverik then adds a second injection of softer material for the scoop and throat areas. This creates a head with premium blended plastics.

The end result is a rigid, thickened rail that maintains structure and stiffness without compromising mass. Despite its lightweight feel, the Kinetic 2.0 retains its shape and precision better than most heads on hard checks, late releases, and high velocity shots. The dual-plastic construction ensures the lower rail stays rigid for improved consistency while the softer scoop material allows for better flex during ground balls and catches.

Beyond pure stiffness, the 2-shot molding also enhances the head’s overall durability. The dense rail plastic helps resist warping and deformation compared to standard single-shot plastic heads. It maintains its structure and shape over time and use. And if you do experience any warping, the strategically placed flex points prevent damage from spreading across the entire frame. For players looking for a featherlight but extremely sturdy head, the Kinetic 2.0 delivers.

Pros and Cons of the 2-Shot Injection Molded Construction

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head utilizes an innovative two-shot injection molding process to optimize stiffness, durability, and performance. This high-tech manufacturing method provides both advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional single-shot molding.

Looking first at the pros, the two-shot injection molding creates a dense, rigid rail on the Kinetic 2.0 using premium grade plastic. This boosts the head’s stiffness for consistent handling and accuracy when passing and shooting. The dual plastics also reinforce high-stress areas prone to bending and warping, improving structural integrity over time. Additionally, two-shot molding allows for more customization with different plastics in different regions to tune the flex and feel. The Kinetic 2.0 takes advantage by utilizing a softer plastic on the scoop for better flexing.

However, two-shot molding isn’t without its downsides. The added injection process increases manufacturing time and cost. So the Kinetic 2.0 retails at a higher price point than single-injected heads. The process can also lead to less uniform plastic distribution during cooling compared to single-shot heads. This introduces inconsistencies in stiffness and flex within batches. Lastly, the bonded plastics can separate over time, reducing durability gains.

Overall, the performance benefits of two-shot injection molding outweigh the costs for most players. But it does come with tradeoffs. If on a budget or desiring the most uniform flex, a single-injected head may be preferable. The Kinetic 2.0 best suits players willing to pay more for optimized stiffness and durability at key areas like the rail.

Strategic String Hole Placement for Custom Stringing

One underrated feature that sets the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 apart is the strategic placement of its stringing holes. The tuned layout combined with its hybrid rail design allows players to customize stringing to match their exact playing style.

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 features a trio of top string holes just below the scoop to allow midfielders to tweak whip and release points. You can also utilize the three holes to shift the pocket higher or lower on the head. This tuning enables you to adjust hold and precision for quick stick situations in traffic or feeding on the crease.

In the throat, an overturned triangle stringing hole provides added attachment points for customizing pocket depth and ball retention. Stringers can also utilize the additional holes to create unique pocket styles like a double triangle top string. Combined with the rigid lower rail, you can achieve maximum ball control in the throat tunable to your preference.

The Kinetic 2.0 also incorporates offset sidewall stringing holes to let stringers tweak sidewall stiffness. By adjusting the angle of interlocks and anchors, you can make the upper sidewall release faster or store more energy for rip shots. For players who obsess over custom stringing touches, the Kinetic 2.0’s holes unlock your creative potential.

In the end, the thoughtful hole placement gives you options to adjust pocket position, depth, and sidewall stiffness. With the proper stringing, you can optimize the hybrid rail design for your exact style of play. The Kinetic 2.0 offers one of the most customizable lacrosse heads available.

Is the Kinetic 2.0 Legal for High School and College Play?

One common question surrounding the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head is whether it meets regulations for organized high school and college play. With its innovative engineering and non-traditional appearance, some wonder if the Kinetic 2.0 fits within the guidelines.

The good news is that the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 is fully legal and compliant with high school and NCAA standards. Maverik specially designed the head shape and specifications to satisfy regulatory requirements. This includes factors like the overall length, width, and sidewall design.

In terms of length, the Kinetic 2.0 meets the maximum 10-inch measurement from the top inside edges by the scoop. It clocks in under the limit at 9.75 inches. For width, the inside edges at the widest point measure the legal minimum of 6 inches across all versions of the head.

The Kinetic 2.0 also adheres to related rules governing the sidewall design. The hybrid rail steps and dimensions conform to the allowable measurements and shapes. And the scoop attaches to the sidewalls in a legal fashion. The only caveat is for goalies – the Kinetic 2.0 must be strung traditionally and can’t utilize a triangle top string.

In the end, Maverik did their due diligence with the Kinetic 2.0 to ensure players at all levels can utilize the head within league rules. As one of the most cutting-edge heads in the game, it’s impressive the Kinetic 2.0 achieves performance gains while remaining compliant.

Recommended Pocket Styles and Stringing Setups

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head provides players with a highly customizable canvas thanks to its hybrid rail design and stringing hole layout. Here are some recommended pocket styles and setups to maximize the head’s performance.

For midfielders, an open mid-high pocket typically works best to generate fast throws and shots. A mid pocket with a double runner setup helps center the ball while allowing quick release. Using nylon mesh or soft lacrosse mesh provides some hold while still offering snap and velocity. The top string holes also enable tweaking the release point higher or lower on demand.

Attackmen can utilize a mid-low pocket for improved hold near the scoop area. This helps keep the ball tucked on drives to the crease or quick sticks around the net front. A single runner mid-low pocket paired with stiff lacrosse mesh gives the best control. The overturned triangle hole also enables maximizing hold at the throat.

For the ultralight feel, stringing the Kinetic 2.0 in a traditional style with anchored top strings and double runners provides an optimized setup. This takes full advantage of the rigid lower rail for stability while allowing the upper sidewalls to flex. Utilizing cross-lacing techniques also boosts pocket consistency and longevity over time.

In the end, the stringing versatility of the Kinetic 2.0 enables tunable pocket styles for any position. Just ensure the setup complements the head’s hybrid flex profile for optimized control and release capabilities on runs, feeds, and shots.

Player Positions That Benefit Most from the Kinetic 2.0

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head is designed to provide performance benefits for players at all positions. However, some benefit more than others from its innovative dual rail flex profile and enhanced control capabilities.

Starting at midfield, this hybrid head gives players the perfect blend of ball retention, passing precision, and shooting velocity. The rigid lower rail maintains pocket stiffness for cleaner catches at full sprint. It also enables accurate feeds to cutting attackmen through traffic. And the flexible upper rail produces fast release speeds critical for blistering shots on cage.

Attack players also see gains with the Kinetic 2.0 thanks to the pinpoint control around the crease. The focused stiffness keeps the ball centered during quick sticks for increased accuracy. It also provides superior ball protection against swarming defenders. And the upper flex improves touch for anywhere-release shots on duck-ins or rolls back to the strong hand.

Face-off specialists appreciate the Kinetic 2.0’s ability to dig out ground balls off the draw. The extended scoop and channeled flex grab loose balls with less fish-hooking needed. Once secured, the hybrid sidewalls make it easier to clamp and transport the ball upfield.

For players looking for consistently excellent performance in all facets of the game, the Kinetic 2.0 brings balance. The strategic flex profile benefits anyone, but especially midfielders, attackmen, and face-off players.

Goalies Who Prefer the Kinetic 2.0 Over Other Heads

While designed primarily for field players, some goalies also like using the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 head for protecting the crease. Here are the types of netminders who benefit most from choosing the Kinetic 2.0.

Aggressive goalies who play out of the crease appreciate the Kinetic 2.0’s ability to snag ground balls and clear it smoothly upfield. The extended scoop and flexible rail help secure balls tossed out of the goal area. And once in hand, the lower rail stiffness improves clamping and transporting downfield.

Quick clearing goalies also utilize the Kinetic 2.0 to ignite fast breaks off saves. The rigid rail structure enables snapping hard outlets off stops. And the upper flexibility adds velocity to hit breaking midfielders in stride for odd-man chances before defenders can recover.

Goalies looking for added ball protection like the Kinetic 2.0’s enhanced control around the goal mouth. The focused lower stiffness cradles tighter to shield against crashing defenders on handoffs. It also provides precision on quick sticks to open cutters.

Overall, goalies with great stick skills and who act as field players benefit most from the Kinetic 2.0’s hybrid flex profile. The balanced stiffness and flex enhance clear attempts, outlets, and ball retention in crowd situations around the crease.

Tips for Maintaining and Extending the Life of Your Head

The Maverik Kinetic 2.0 is built to last thanks to its premium materials and construction. However, taking proper care of your head helps maintain peak performance and extends its useful life. Here are some useful tips:

– Inspect your head regularly for cracks or warping, especially after impacts. Catching damage early prevents further issues.

– Wipe off dirt and debris from the scoop and sidewalls after each use to prevent buildup. This reduces wearing of the plastic.

– Avoid exposing the head to excess moisture and extreme temperatures which can damage the materials.

– When stringing, use proper techniques like double runners and cross-lacing to reduce stress on plastic. Tie knots tightly and evenly.

– Consider using head wax or protectant sprays to reduce weathering from sun exposure during games and practices.

– Store the head carefully during the off-season to prevent accidental dropping or bending which can warp the frame over time.

– Retighten sidewall strings as needed to compensate for natural stretching and maintain pocket integrity.

– Know when to retire the head if damage or warping becomes severe. Trying to prolong use beyond that further accelerates wear.

With regular care and maintenance, you can keep a Maverik Kinetic 2.0 performing like new for multiple seasons before needing to replace it.

Where to Buy the Kinetic 2.0 at the Best Price

As one of the hottest new lacrosse heads available, the Maverik Kinetic 2.0 is in high demand. Here are some tips for finding the best deal on the Kinetic 2.0:

– Check Maverik’s website first – they often run specials that discount the Kinetic 2.0 and other heads. Sign up for email alerts on deals.

– Look for online lacrosse retailers like Lax.com, Lacrosse Monkey, and East Coast Dyes that offer price matching if you find a lower price elsewhere.

– Keep an eye out for coupon codes and timed sales around holidays and big events. Retailers often discount products like the Kinetic 2.0 during peak shopping periods.

– Consider lightly used heads via lacrosse forums and resale sites. Players frequently upgrade heads before the useful life ends, reselling gently used ones.

– Buy last-generation Kinetic heads for big savings. The performance improvements of the Kinetic 2.0 are marginal over the original for most players.

– Purchase bundles that include heads, shafts, mesh, and gloves for higher overall savings compared to individual purchases.

– Join youth or club teams with sponsorships or discounts at major retailers to access member-exclusive pricing.

– Wait for end of season clearance sales rather than paying full price at launch. Retailers deeply discount remaining stock ahead of new gear releases.

With smart and thorough shopping, you can secure a Maverik Kinetic 2.0 lacrosse head for less than retail cost. Taking advantage of sales, bundles, and used deals provide the highest value.