The Different Kinds of Lacrosse Netting

The Different Kinds of Lacrosse Netting
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The netting or mesh of a lacrosse stick gives a player the ability to pass, shoot or carry the lacrosse ball. Individual preferences dictate the many different types of mesh varieties. Players often have to use the trial-and-error method to determine which type of netting works best for their game.

Hard Mesh

Hard mesh netting comes in a diamond pattern and is recommended for all players, though it is especially effective for new players. It offers solid ball control, quick release for passing, a fast shot and stands up well in poor weather.

Soft Mesh

Players who are not as confident with ball control will often have soft mesh netting recommended.The softer netting is raw nylon and it will help the player who is intent on catching the ball and maintaining control. Players who often have the ball hit the middle of their catching area and pop out can do well with soft mesh netting.

Monster Mesh

This is one of the more popular types of netting used in lacrosse sticks and the monster mesh netting comes in 6, 7, 8, and 10 diamond patterns. The more diamonds across in a row on your netting, the more responsive the stick is to your game. Generally speaking, the 10-diamond monster mesh pattern is the most responsive and top players can use this type of netting for a quick release when shooting.

Canadian Mesh

Canadian mesh netting comes in two types -- hard and soft. Hard netting is noted for its quick release and the ability to shoot the ball with a little extra speed as well as its durability in poor weather conditions. Soft mesh is responsive and tends to grip the ball better. Players who take a lot of face-offs can benefit from this type of netting in their lacrosse stick.

Micro Mesh

Micro Mesh gets its name from the pattern of small diamonds in the pocket netting of the stick. Micro Mesh is very soft and it will give the player a feel for the ball in the pocket, but it has limited durability. Ten diamond mesh may be a better choice.

Ruby Mesh

Ruby mesh is quite similar to 10 diamond mesh. However, the diamonds in the ruby mesh are elongated. For some players, the ruby mesh may result in a faster shot and a quicker release, but most players will not see any difference.

Fresh Mesh

Fresh mesh was a concept developed by a manufacturer that used synthetic plastic in a 10 diamond pattern. While it worked well for shooting, passing and catching the ball, it took a long time to break in fresh mesh and it had limited durability.

References

Article reviewed by Geoffrey Darling Last updated on: Jul 14, 2011

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