Lacrosse sticks are made specifically for men, women and juniors, and for attackers, midfielders, defenders and goalies. Starting with your gender or age, then taking into account the position you'll be playing, and matching this information to the various characteristics of sticks will help you match the right stick to the right player.
Men's Sticks
Manufacturers have gravitated to toward aluminum, graphite or titanium for men's sticks rather than the traditional wood shaft due to the high swing speeds men generate and for durability reasons. Men's sticks have traditional or mesh pockets, depending on for which position the stick is being used. The traditional pocket is stiffer, which offers more shooting accuracy, but less ball handling control while running. The mesh pockets are deeper, offering more ball control.
Women's Sticks
Women's sticks are lighter and smaller than men's sticks. More women use wooden sticks than men, with aluminum their second choice. A woman's stick has a shallower pocket than a man's, with the ball sitting no more than halfway in the pocket, and with no more than two shooting strings. The pocket is the traditional style, made from nylon laces and leather straps, which need replacing after repeated use.
Youth Sticks
Youth sticks are generally made of plastic, which is lighter and less expensive than wood or metal. Children usually play with the deeper mesh pocket to help them control the ball better. These sticks feature a pointed mouth to help children pick and throw the ball more easily and accurately.
Sticks by Position
Attackers prefer shorter sticks which provide better maneuverability and control. Midfielders prefer medium-length sticks, which allow them to play offense or defense since the stick is not made to favor any one playing characteristic. Defenders prefer longer sticks, since their primary goal is to reach and stop balls rather than throw or pass them. Goaltenders use sticks in the 42 inch range to help them stop balls with more quickness. Too long a stick decrease maneuverability, too short a stick decreases defensive reach.
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