A lacrosse player needs to be comfortable with his stick to succeed at the game. You have many options when it comes to the specifications for your stick's shaft and you will need to factor in cost, composition and quality when making your decision. Different leagues and age groups have different restrictions on shaft length and composition, so do your research before you purchase a lacrosse shaft.
Hickory
Wood lacrosse shafts were the first used in the game's infancy centuries ago, according to the Simply Lacrosse website. Hickory was preferred, based on durability, but players had to sacrifice quickness because of its weight. A short hickory pole, 30 inches long, weighs about 10 oz. and is best-suited for attackers. It cost $27.99 before shipping on hickorylax.com, as of February 2011. The site touts the durability of hickory and says its density gives attackers the results they're looking for when striking other players.
Aluminum
The benefit of aluminum lacrosse shafts is price, as they can be purchased for as little as $15, according to the Elevation Lacrosse website. Longer sticks may cost around $25, as of February 2010. The downside of aluminum is its lightweight, low-density material is prone to bending and breaking. The versatility of aluminum is recommended for beginners who don't know which position is best for them. The website recommends moving up to stronger materials once you have figured out which position you want to play and have learned more about the game.
Titanium
Titanium is the No. 1 choice for Major League Lacrosse players, according to Lacrosse.com because of its higher strength-to-weight ratio compared with aluminum. Titanium provides ample durability without its weight slowing a player's shot. Warrior titanium shaft is the top choice, according to the website, and the 30-inch shaft cost $171.99, as of February 2011.
The Warrior Titan Pro Titanium is the No. 1 choice among MLL pros.
Alloy
Alloy's biggest benefit is its light weight combined with great strength, unlike aluminum. Alloy shafts, according to Lacrosse.com, can be made of a variety of materials, such as C405, Vandium and other mixtures. An additional benefit of alloy that other types of shafts do not have is the grip can be built into the shaft, providing great feel and longevity for the spot on the shaft where your hands go. The Warrior Alloy 6000 stick, 30 inches long, cost $22.99 as of February 2011.
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