The stick that lacrosse players use to play the game is also known as a "crosse" and is likely the most defining piece of equipment used. No other sport uses a stick, paddle or bat that resembles a lacrosse stick. Lacrosse sticks were all once made from wood, but now composite materials and fiberglass are the norm. A lacrosse stick is a relatively simple setup with only a few basic parts.
Types
Most lacrosse sticks you find are between 30 and 60 inches long. Attackmen who primarily play in the offensive zone usually prefer shorter sticks for shooting and ball handling. Defenders like longer sticks closer to the 60-inch range for added reach in defending the attackmen. Midfielders who play offense and defense might choose a stick in the 40- to 50-inch range. Goalie sticks are around 42 inches long and have a much larger pocket than other player's sticks. Women's sticks only go up to about 44 inches and have a shallower, more narrow head.
Shaft
The shaft refers to the handle of the stick, or the part that the player holds. Shafts can be purchased separately or along with a head. It is usually better in terms of feel and performance for the head and shaft to match. The shaft of a lacrosse stick may be oval, round, octagonal or combination. Wood is heavier than fiberglass or composite material.
Head
The head of a lacrosse stick refers to the vinyl or plastic piece that attaches to the end of the shaft. Lacrosse stick heads are removable and replaceable, and many players experiment with different heads until they find one that suits their game perfectly.
The pocket is the netting inside the head of the stick that the ball is carried in. Your pocket can be replaced, and may need to be during the season with heavy use. Lacrosse pockets are mesh, which is a prefabricated nylon, or traditional, which is a combination of leather and nylon. Mesh pockets are available in different levels of stiffness, and a traditional pocket may be strung a few different ways depending on the needs of the player.
Member Comments