The Most Important Piece of Equipment in Lacrosse
Your lacrosse stick is your primary tool for catching, throwing, cradling, checking, and scooping ground balls. It's the equivalent of a tennis racket and a baseball bat combined. Per US Lacrosse participation data, the sport grew 35% from 2018–2024, making it the fastest-growing team sport in America — and new players are swimming in confusing equipment choices.
Stick Anatomy: The Basics
- Head: The plastic scoop at the top. Contains the pocket (mesh or traditional stringing) that catches and holds the ball.
- Shaft: The metal or composite handle. Length varies by position and rules.
- Pocket: The mesh or string netting inside the head. Determines ball control, release, and feel.
- Butt end: The bottom of the shaft. Must have an end cap (safety requirement).
Head Shapes by Position
| Position | Head Shape | Width | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attack | Narrow, offset | Min width (6"–6.5") | Tight channel for ball retention during dodges. Narrow pinch for quick release. |
| Midfield | Medium, versatile | 6.5"–7" | Balanced for both catching and shooting. Moderate pinch. |
| Defense | Wide, flat | 7"–10" | Maximum scoop width for ground balls and checks. Mounted on a long pole (52"–72" shaft). |
| Goalie | Extra wide (12") | 10"–12" | Massive catching area. Flat profile for blocking shots. |
| Face-off (FOGO) | Specialized, flexible | Variable | Maximized for clamp moves. Higher flex sidewalls. |
Shaft length rules (NCAA men's): Attack/midfield: 40"–42" shaft. Defense: 52"–72" shaft (long pole). Goalie: 40"–72" shaft.
Pocket Types
Mesh Pockets (Most Common)
Semi-soft mesh is the current standard. It's pre-formed for a consistent pocket, breaks in quickly, and performs well in wet weather. Major mesh brands: StringKing, East Coast Dyes (ECD), Throne.
- Semi-soft: Best for most players. Quick break-in, consistent pocket. Industry standard.
- Semi-hard: More channel definition, better for advanced players who want specific pocket placement.
- Performance mesh (6-diamond, 7-diamond): Tighter weave for more ball control. 6-diamond is most popular.
Traditional Pockets
Leather and nylon string pockets. Rare in modern play but legal. Provide unique feel and maximum customization. Very long break-in period. Mostly used by purists and artistic stringers.
Shaft Materials
| Material | Weight | Durability | Feel | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Heavy | Good (bends, doesn't break) | Vibrates more | $20–$50 |
| Alloy blend | Medium | Very good | Balanced | $40–$80 |
| Carbon composite | Light | Good (can crack) | Dampened vibration | $80–$200 |
| Scandium/titanium | Very light | Excellent | Premium feel | $100–$250 |
Recommendations
Complete Sticks (Beginners)
Heads (Intermediate/Advanced)
Common Mistakes
Sources & Further Reading
- US Lacrosse. "Participation Survey 2024." uslacrosse.org
- StringKing. "Lacrosse Head and Mesh Guide." stringking.com
- East Coast Dyes. "Mesh Technology Guide." eastcoastdyes.com
- Lax.com. "Position-Specific Stick Guide." lax.com
- Paul Rabil (YouTube). "Stick Selection Tips." youtube.com/@paulrabil
