What is a 15 Degree Lacrosse Head?
If you’ve played lacrosse for a while, you know that lacrosse heads come in different angles – 10 degrees being the most common. But over the past few years, 15 degree lacrosse heads have become incredibly popular, especially among elite players. So what gives these heads an advantage?
The angle of the scoop and sidewalls on a lacrosse head affects its performance. A 15 degree head has a more pinched scoop and pinched sidewalls compared to a 10 degree model. This allows for quicker releases, more hold, and better ball control. The steeper scoop angle helps you scoop up ground balls more easily. And the pinched sidewalls give you extra strength for checking. Let’s look at why players making the switch to a 15 degree head are seeing their game improve.
Shooting Accuracy and Power
The tight channel of a 15 degree head grips the ball better during your shooting motion. This allows you to whip the ball with more force while maintaining control of your shot placement. When shooting with a 15 degree head, you’ll notice shots flying off your stick with greater speed and pinpoint precision.
Quicker Releases and Faster Passing
During fast-paced games when quick ball movement is key, the ball moves through a 15 degree head with lightning speed. The ball sits deeper in the pocket, allowing you to carry it closer to your stick’s sweet spot. From this position, you can make faster feeds, whizzing passes across the field. Your teammates will be amazed at the velocity you can get on your passes.
Improved Ball Control and Handling
Having the ball sit lower in the head’s narrowed channel gives you superior control during cradling, dodging, and shot fakes. The ball moves less within the pocket, staying secure. This lets you smoothly transition from carrying to shooting or passing without the ball wobbling. Defenders will have a tough time checking a 15 degree head because of the vice-like grip it provides.
Better Scooping Low to the Ground
The 15 degree scoop is designed to dig under ground balls and spring them into the pocket. Even low bouncing shots and passes are gobbled up with this high-performance scoop. The scoop’s shape lets you maintain momentum as you chase down ground balls. No more crashing your stick to the ground trying to get underneath the ball!
Stronger Checks and Pokes
The pinched sidewalls and stiff construction materials of many 15 degree heads allow you to lay some crushing checks. You’ll notice your stick won’t bend or twist as much on contact. This lets you rip off aggressive stick checks without losing control or possession. The sidewalls also give your pokes extra pop when you need to knock the ball free.
Why Lacrosse Players Choose 15 Degree Heads
From youth to college players, switching to a 15 degree head is a popular way to enhance your playing abilities. The pros definitely outweigh the cons. Here’s a recap of the top reasons lacrosse players are making the switch:
- Increase shot speed and accuracy
- Lightning-quick passes and releases
- Superior ball control and handling
- Scoop up ground balls with ease
- Lay harder checks without losing possessions
- Poke check and strip the ball more effectively
- Consistent pocket hold and throwback
While a 15 degree head may feel drastically different at first, over time you’ll notice the performance benefits start to reveal themselves in your play. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and give this popular head style a try.
Top Brands Making 15 Degree Heads
Most major lacrosse brands now offer high-quality 15 degree heads so you can get the same features and durability as their 10 degree versions. These are some of the top options on the market:
- Epoch Hawk 15 Degree
- STX Stallion 15 Degree
- Maverik Tactik 2.0 15 Degree
- Nike CEO U 15 Degree
- Warrior Evo 5X 15 Degree
- Gait Torque 15 Degree
Within each brand’s lineup, you’ll find heads best suited for attack, midfield, defense, goalie, and women’s lacrosse. Be sure to match the head’s styling with your position and playing style.
Epoch Hawk 15 Degree Head Review
One of my personal favorites is the Epoch Hawk 15 degree. This head provides a deadly mix of quickness, hold, and durability. The Hawk has an hourglass rail design that channels the ball to the lowest legal depth. Its sidewalls are designed to withstand big collisions by goalies and defenders. I’ve also found the Hawk to have amazing ground ball capabilities thanks to its stiff, winged scoop.
During shooting, the channel narrows through the throat to provide amazing ball control and whip. My outside shots especially have seen a boost in velocity thanks to the Hawk’s channeled design. If you normally use an Epoch head, definitely give the 15 degree Hawk a shot.
Stringing 15 Degree Heads for Optimal Performance
To get the most out of a 15 degree head, you’ll want to string it to complement the head’s strengths. Here are some stringing tips to maximize your new head’s potential:
Proper Pocket Placement and Shooting Strings
Focus on forming an evenly-shaped mid-low pocket to center the ball in the head’s narrow channel. Traditional mid-high pockets won’t take full advantage of the head architecture. I suggest a double or triple runner shooting string setup to really grab the ball on passes and shots.
Achieving Desired Throwback and Hold
The right mix of sidewall knot tension and stringing materials gives you both hold and release. Nylon hockey laces typically provide the best hold through the channel. Leather laces add more finesse to cradling. Combine the two for explosive shots and quick feeds.
Start with a basic mid-low pocket and tweak things from there until you achieve your desired level of hold and release. Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s the fun of stringing!
Trying a 15 Degree Head for the First Time
Making the switch to a 15 degree head can feel foreign at first, even for experienced players. Here are some tips for getting used to your new head during those early practices:
- Take some solo reps to get a feel for cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting
- Focus on ball control drills to develop stick skills in the new head
- Use it in shooting games/drills before bringing it into live play
- Play wall ball regularly to break-in the pocket
- Get used to the new ball positioning during cradling and dodging
- Be patient – it may take a few weeks to feel totally comfortable
Don’t get discouraged if your performance drops initially. As you build confidence and skills with the new head, you’ll experience noticeable improvements over your old setup.
Making the Switch from a 10 Degree Head
Moving from a 10 degree to a 15 degree head requires adjusting your mechanics to align with the head’s capabilities. Here are some helpful tips for current 10 degree players looking to make the switch:
- Prepare for the ball to sit deeper in the pocket
- Use a more upright cradle when carrying the ball
- Choke up slightly on shooting for maximum speed
- Release the ball earlier on passes
- Scoop through the ball more on ground balls
- Execute checks and pokes with precision
It will take time to re-train your muscle memory and instincts to leverage the 15 degree head’s advantages. But once you get comfortable, your game will quickly elevate to new heights. The effort is well worth it!
Benefits of Using a 15 Degree Head
There are some clear advantages you’ll notice after switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head. Let’s do a deeper dive into the key benefits you can expect:
Unparalleled Ball Control
The narrowed throat of a 15 degree head wraps the ball in a vice-like grip, keeping it centered in the pocket. You’ll notice significantly less wobbling and movement of the ball within the head during fakes, cradling, and shot or pass prep. Defenders will struggle to dislodge balls from your stick with checks and pokes thanks to this superior control.
Lightning-Fast Releases
Due to the ball sitting lower in the pocket, you can whip your stick through passing and shooting motions with greater speed. The ball moves in a tighter channel from pocket to release point, adding velocity. Your passes will seem laser-guided, flying off the head instantly. And your shots will sizzle towards the net before goalies can react.
Pinpoint Passing Accuracy
With the ball centered in the pocket, your passes exit the head’s sweet spot more consistently. Even long-distance feeds seem to find their target. Passes out of a 15 degree head feel telepathic thanks to the dialed-in accuracy you achieve.
Blistering Shot Power
The focused throat and sidewall design of a 15 degree head amplifies the amount of energy you can transfer to shots. You’ll absolutely smoke point-blank goals. But more impressively, you’ll also extend your shooting range due to the extra yards you get on shots. Kiss those worm-burners goodbye!
Superior Scooping
Thanks to the angled scoop, you’ll become an absolute vacuum when gobbling up ground balls. The scoop shape lets you dig under ground balls quickly without compromising your momentum chasing after a loose ball. Winning possessions off the whistle will be much easier.
Devastating Checks
The sturdy construction and stiff sidewalls of most 15 degree heads allow you to lay bone-crushing checks. You’ll be able to rattle your matchup’s cage without sacrificing control or risking possession. Just beware of the penalty box until you master the appropriate check intensity.
Weaponized Pokes
The pinched sidewall design turns your stick into a jabbing weapon on defense. You’ll be able to unleash nasty targeted pokes to knock balls free from dodging midfielders and attacking players. Just avoid the hands and settle for shin-music pokes to stay clean.
Total Confidence
As you adjust to a 15 degree head, the benefits start to reveal themselves through everything from ground balls, passing, shooting, dodging, and checking. You’ll begin playing with renewed confidence knowing your stick gives you advantages in all facets of the game.
These performance benefits accumulate to make choosing a 15 degree lacrosse head an easy decision. Take time to find the right head for your game, dial in an ideal stringing, and get out there and start dominating!
Shooting Accuracy and Power
One of the biggest areas of improvement you’ll see with a 15 degree lacrosse head is shooting. Both shot accuracy and ball speed receive a nice boost. Let’s examine why:
Tighter Channel Control
During the shooting motion, the narrowed throat on a 15 degree head grips and controls the ball better. This tighter channel helps stabilize the ball’s release point, leading to more accurate shots. The ball simply can’t wander off course thanks to the honed in throat design.
Focused Energy Transfer
Since the ball sits deeper into the head, more of the energy from your bottom hand and arms transfers directly into the ball upon release. The result is shots with noticeably more velocity and distance. You’re essentially able to throw more of your body’s power into shots.
Natural Whip Action
The angled scoop and sidewalls promote a whipping effect as you shoot, acting like a slingshot. This natural flex adds even more speed to shots, especially on the run or from further out. The head construction helps maximize your physical shooting mechanics.
Pinpoint Placement
Between the added velocity and the stable release point, you can pick corners and place shots with deadly precision using a 15 degree head. Getting shots past goalies becomes much easier when you can consciously aim for top corners or elusive spots.
Extends Shooting Range
The speed and control benefits let you uncork accurate shots several yards further out from the goal. Defenders have to respect your shooting threat from farther away, opening them up to getting beat on dodges.
Great for On-The-Run Shots
Thanks to the energy-storing whip effect, 15 degree heads excel at adding velocity to on-the-run shots. You can maintain accuracy while sprinting at full speed. This makes you an absolute handful in transition situations.
As you practice shooting more with a 15 degree head, you’ll gain confidence placing shots and stretching your range. Defenders and goalies will quickly come to fear your newfound shooting prowess. Just make sure to use your powers for good!
Quicker Releases and Faster Passing
One of the most noticeable improvements when switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head is the quickness of your passes. Let’s look at a few reasons why:
Ideal Ball Positioning
With the ball sitting deeper in the pocket, your hands naturally grip the stick closer to the optimum passing sweet spot. This takes out any delay from having to slide your hands up or down into passing position.
Unobstructed Release Points
The angled sidewalls promote a clean release point out of the head. The ball’s trajectory isn’t disrupted like in some wider heads where the ball has to curve around the sidewalls upon release.
Focused Energy Transfer
Similar to shooting, the centered ball placement allows you to transfer power efficiently through your hands and stick. More energy gets directed into the ball, boosting pass speed.
Lightning-Quick Throat Passing
The narrowed throat really amplifies the velocity on quick-stick passes. You can deliver devastating feeds to cutters right off the catch. Defenders will be constantly surprised by the speed at which you move the ball.
Deception Factor
The ball moves so quickly out of a 15 degree head on passes that it’s tough for defenders to react in time. This adds to your ability to sell fakes before passing since defenders can’t rely on tracking ball movement.
As you adjust to the fast release out of a 15 degree head, you’ll become a passing wizard, zinging crisp feeds all over the field. Your teammates will love running cuts knowing the ball will hit them in stride.
Improved Ball Control and Handling
One of the biggest perks of switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head is taking your overall ball control to the next level. Here’s why you’ll notice big improvements:
Superior Cradling
With the ball sitting deeper in the pocket, cradling becomes smoother and requires less effort. The ball moves less within the head, reducing wobble as you run down the field. Long pole midfielders especially benefit here.
Easier Catching On The Run
Snagging passes one-handed while sprinting is easier with a 15 degree head. The pocket shape helps secure catches since the ball sits right in the sweet spot on receptions.
Quick Transitions
Transitioning from cradling to shooting or passing is seamless with a 15 degree head. The ball positioning promotes fluid motion out of any carrying position.
Savvy Shot Fakes
Keepers and defenders will be completely fooled by your shot fakes with a 15 degree head. The excellent hold and control support smooth transitions from fake to shot or pass.
Behind-The-Back Styling
The pinched channel design gives you supreme confidence trying behind-the-back cradling, passing, and shooting. The ball stays put, allowing stylish playmaking.
Deft Dodging
During dodges, the ball stays centered as you transition from carrying to passing/shooting. You won’t need to adjust hands or settle the ball before firing.
Overall, switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head will make the ball feel like an extension of your stick. You reach a new level of command over possession play.
Better Scooping Low to the Ground
One of the most underrated advantages of switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head is the improved ability to scoop up ground balls. Here’s why:
Angled Scoop Design
The scoop shape on a 15 degree model allows you to dig under ground balls better. You can maintain momentum chasing a ground ball without needing to stop and rake back.
Stiff Scoop Materials
Most modern 15 degree heads use stiff scoop materials that don’t bend or deform when contacting ground balls. This preserves the scoop angle for getting under ground balls.
Heavier Scoopweighting
Some 15 degree heads position additional weight in the scoop to help guide the head down towards ground balls. This makes the scooping motion more natural.
Sidewall Design
The narrowed throat and pinched sidewalls on a 15 degree model guide ground balls into the pocket with less disruption. Some wider heads tend to spit out angled ground balls.
Strung Pocket
A properly strung mid-low pocket in a 15 degree head gives you superb control popping ground balls straight up into the pocket on lifts.
Quick Transitions
The scoop and pocket design make it easy to scoop and transition immediately into cradling or passing without settling the ball.
If gaining an edge on ground balls is important to you, a 15 degree lacrosse head is hard to beat. The engineering gives you advantages from the moment a ball hits the turf.
Stronger Checks and Pokes
The construction of most 15 degree lacrosse heads provides key advantages when executing checks, pokes, and defensive techniques. Let’s look at how:
Stiff Sidewalls
Many modern 15 degree heads utilize premium materials in the sidewalls that don’t bend or warp on contact. This allows you to unleash checks without losing head stiffness.
Strategic Reinforcements
Some heads reinforce vulnerable areas like the scoop, sidewall ends, and throat with extra material or protective pieces. This boosts durability for relentless checkers.
Pinchpoint Accuracy
The narrowed throat and sidewalls on a 15 degree head give you more accuracy targeting poke checks and lifts. You can be surgical poking for hands or at exposed sticks.
Focused Ball Dislodging
Checks with a 15 degree model keep the ball locked in the throat, transmitting energy directly to the ball for maximum dislodging. Wider heads lose some check intensity.
Superior Ball Protection
When absorbing checks, the deep pocket and tight throat of a 15 degree head keep the ball secure and under control. Your hands take less abuse on checks.
Reduced Penalty Risk
The pinpoint accuracy on checks and pokes means you can be physical within the rules. No need for wild swings that might draw flags.
For defensive-minded players, switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head makes you an absolute menace. You can intimidate opponents without sacrificing control or ball security.
Why Lacrosse Players Choose 15 Degree Heads
The popularity of 15 degree lacrosse heads has skyrocketed in recent years. Players at all levels are making the switch. What’s driving this trend?
Desire for Better Shooting
Players are constantly looking for ways to boost shooting power and accuracy. The focused design of a 15 degree head naturally improves mechanics for rifling shots.
Need for Quicker Passing
In the modern fast-paced game, quickly moving the ball by passing is crucial. 15 degree heads deliver lightning-fast ball movement.
Seeking an Edge on Ground Balls
Gaining extra possessions off ground balls can make or break a team. The scoop on a 15 degree head makes gobbling up 50/50 balls easier.
Wish for Superior Control
Lacrosse is evolving into a finesse game. A 15 degree head gives players the control necessary for delicate cradling, dodging, and shot fakes.
Desire for Confidence
New gear that improves performance inherently boosts confidence. The advantages of a 15 degree equip players with swagger.
Keep Up with Competition
As more players adopted 15 degree heads, it became necessary to switch just to keep up. The technology reached a tipping point.
While early adopters benefited most, there are still big advantages to be gained from switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head today. Don’t be afraid to jump on this popular bandwagon!
Top Brands Making 15 Degree Heads
All the major lacrosse brands now produce high-quality 15 degree heads to meet surging demand. Here are some top options by brand:
Maverik
STX
Epoch
Nike
Warrior
Gait
Within each brand’s lineup, you’ll find heads optimized for each position – attack, midfield, defense, goalie, and women’s lacrosse. Be sure to match the head to your playing style.
With so many high-end options now available, players are truly spoiled for choice. Take your time demoing different heads to find your perfect match.
Epoch Hawk 15 Degree Head Review
One of my personal favorite 15 degree lacrosse heads is the Epoch Hawk. Having used it for over a season now, here’s my in-depth review:
Shooting
The Hawk provides amazing ball control and whip on shots. My outside snipes have never been harder or more accurate. The stiff throat really lets you lean into shots without losing mechanics.
Passing
I can absolutely laser quick-stick passes with the Hawk thanks to the deep pocket and quick release sidewalls. My feeds immediately standout for crispness and speed.
Ball Control
Cradling, juking defenders, and transitional play all feel silky smooth with the Hawk. The pocket hold and sidewall design give you supreme command of the ball.
Ground Balls
The Hawk’s scoop is perfectly constructed to dig under grounders while maintaining acceleration. I’ve noticed a big uptick in ground ball wins.
Durability
The Hawk uses some premium materials that really withstand slash and poke abuse. It holds up well during box lacrosse sessions too.
I prefer a mid-low pocket, and the Hawk perfectly frames one. The channel shape lends itself well to nice hold while still releasing cleanly.
Versatility
The balanced design suits both offensive and defensive styles well. I see the Hawk performed at the highest levels across positions.
Overall, the Epoch Hawk 15 degree is arguably the most well-rounded and versatile head out there. I highly recommend players give it a try!
Stringing 15 Degree Heads for Optimal Performance
Stringing is an artform, but here are some general tips for getting the most out of your 15 degree lacrosse head:
Mid to Mid-Low Pocket Placement
Forming a pocket in the mid to mid-low zone centers the ball perfectly in the narrow throat for excellent hold and control.
Leathers for Superior Hold
Leather lacings generally provide the best retention of the ball in the pocket. Focus leather on the shooting strings and crosse for a locked-in feel.
Shooting Strings for Velocity
A 15 degree head really benefits from a double or triple set of shooting strings to grab the ball during passing and shooting for extra velocity.
Custom Pocket Break-In
Take time playing wall ball with a new pocket to shape the leathers exactly how you like for your style of play.
Fine Tuning the Channel
Minutely adjusting sidewall knots and shooting string placement lets you tweak the channel for your desired hold and release speed.
Matching Head and Pocket
Consider head features like the scoop, throat, and sidewalls when shaping the pocket. Complement the technologies.
While general guidelines help, don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials, knots, and shooting string configurations when stringing a 15 degree head until you find pocket perfection!
Proper Pocket Placement and Shooting Strings
Two key factors when stringing a 15 degree lacrosse head are pocket placement and shooting strings. Here’s how to optimize both:
Mid to Mid-Low Pocket
Forming the pocket in the mid to mid-low areas of the head positions the ball perfectly in the throat channel. This provides maximum hold and control.
Double or Triple Shooting Strings
Adding a double or triple set of shooting strings allows for excellent grip and spin on shots. The extra strings also help with quick stick passing.
Shooting String Materials
I prefer a combo of nylon hockey lace up top for power and a single leather shooting string below for finesse. This blends velocity and feel.
Pocket Shape Consistency
Focus on forming a uniformly shaped pocket for consistent releases across the entire striking area.
Proper Sidewall Tension
The right sidewall stringing tension keeps the pocket framed within the throat without bulging or collapsing on shots.
Diamond Top String
A traditionally strung diamond top string provides the optimal brace for the pocket against the scoop.
Taking the time to string your 15 degree head properly pays huge dividends in maximizing the technology benefits.
Achieving Desired Throwback and Hold
Tuning a 15 degree lacrosse head’s pocket for your perfect blend of hold and release involves precision and nuance. Here are some tips:
Sidewall String Tension
Increase sidewall knot tension for more defined hold or loosen for quicker release. Find your ideal tension.
Shooting String Location
Shooting strings positioned higher in the throat increase hold, while lower placements add quicker release.
Pocket Materials
Leather laces increase hold and definition. Synthetic laces make for smoother release. Blend both for balance.
Break-In Period
Allow several practices with a new pocket to shape the leathers and strings to your playing style.
Wall Ball Sessions
Frequent wall ball reps molds the pocket precisely for your desired throwing motions.
Monitor Adjustments
Make small measured adjustments to things like knots, lacing, and shooters to incrementally tune hold and release.
Match Your Game
Tweak the pocket based on the amount of hold you need for your field position and style of play.
While achieving the perfect custom pocket requires patience, the added control is well worth the effort.
Trying a 15 Degree Head for the First Time
Switching to a 15 degree lacrosse head for the first time can be an adjustment. Here are some tips for the transition:
Gradual Break-In
Ease into using the new head during drills and shootarounds before bringing it into games.
Focus on Fundamentals
Use solo repetition to re-train fundamentals like cradling, scooping, passing, and shooting.
Wall Ball Sessions
Frequent wall ball reps will help you adjust to the new pocket and release point.
Tune the Pocket
Make minor pocket adjustments early on to optimize the channel and shooting strings for your style.
Stick to Strengths
Build confidence by leaning on the skills the new head enhances rather than overdoing new techniques.
Cheat to Old Habits
In moments of adjustment, don’t be afraid to cheat back to your old head’s mechanics until the new techniques become second nature.
Trust the Process
Stick with the 15 degree head through the initial learning curve to experience the full performance benefits.
Have patience with yourself mastering a 15 degree head’s nuances. Once everything clicks, your game will reach new heights!
Making the Switch from a 10 Degree Head
Transitioning from a 10 degree to a 15 degree lacrosse head requires adjusting some mechanics. Here are some tips:
Prep for a Deeper Pocket
The ball will sit lower in a 15 degree head, so you’ll need to orient your hands slightly lower on cradling, passing, and shooting.
Get Used to Quicker Releases
The fast release of a 15 degree head makes timing on passes critical. Lead teammates earlier as they cut.
Choke Up on Shots
To control the extra whip, your bottom hand should inch up ever so slightly on shots.
Be Wary of Overpassing
The ball jumps out of a 15 degree head, so be cautious not to overpass teammates on leads.
Scoop Through the Ball
Take advantage of the scoop by staying forward and scooping through ground balls.
Embrace the Stiffness
Don’t be timid on checks. Trust the head’s stability and go in confidently.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Repetition and wall ball are key for retraining your muscle memory and instincts.
Give yourself time to adjust to the nuances when transitioning to a 15 degree lacrosse head. Soon it will elevate every aspect of your game.