Lacrosse Heads

In the old days, picking a lacrosse head was easy because there were so few to choose from. There were only two big manufacturers—STX and Brine—and each only made one or two different heads. By the 1990s, they started to make more, based somewhat on position. Brine really set the tone for the future when they introduced the M line of heads with a version each for attack, midfield and defense.

Nowadays, each year brings a new line of heads from every manufacturer. Or a sequel. Or an anticipated refresh of a favorite from years ago. There are more than two companies making heads now and each of the many great shops out there from Maverik to Gait to True, Warrior, ECD and STX and everything in between, all produce excellent position-specific heads.

That means there are now more heads to choose from than ever before, each designed and engineered for different uses on the field. Attack heads are light and tight, while defense heads are heavier and wider. Goalie heads more resemble pool skimmers or fishing nets,but the different shapes and sizes serve each of those positions and the different demands of the game for each spot on the field.

All that choice however can be paralyzing.

Not to be confused with the complete lacrosse stick, the head is the curved plastic pocket that attaches to the top of a lacrosse shaft. Heads come in mostly white, but can be dyed or purchased in other colors. They are most often made of plastic, or a plastic-nylon blend, and must adhere to strict specifications, depending on the level of play.

At its most basic, a lacrosse head should be comfortable to throw and catch with. Is it wide enough for you? Is it light enough? Some elite players look for a stiffer head that won’t warp over time. Other players prefer a lighter head that allows them to shoot faster and harder.

Beginning players should find a head they like based on how it feels, how it throws and catches. But also how easily it scoops the ball, how well it protects it, and where the deepest part of the pocket would be.

Typically, all modern lacrosse heads are made of plastic.

From top to bottom, there are several parts of a lacrosse head:

• Scoop: the top of the head where the ball will enter the head when scooped off the ground.
• Face: the front of the head. The face shape will vary depending on make and model.
• Sidewall: the side of the head, typically open and supported with struts. The design of the struts is a good indicator of make and model.
• Pocket: a mesh or leather stringing that holds the ball inside the head.
• Throat: the bottom of the head, where the plastic meets the shaft. The shape and cut of the plastic is indicative of the make and model.

Universal lacrosse rules mandate that heads measure no less than 6.5 inches at the wide part of the scoop and no less than 3 inches at the narrow channel near the throat. Heads may only measure 10 inches from the ball stop to the tip of the scoop.

Usually most new lacrosse heads will price at $89.99. Anything more than that is considered high for a lacrosse head. Some models will retail for more, depending on if they incorporate new technologies or high-grade materials. Used or clearance listings can be found on SidelineSwap at up to 70% off retail.

Lacrosse heads are designed with different purposes in mind. Defensive heads are wider to help defenders break up or intercept offensive passes. Attack heads, meanwhile, are narrower and designed for increased ball control and precise shooting accuracy.

The price to restring a lacrosse head will differ depending upon how much customization is desired and where you go for the restringing. The average cost of restringing a lacrosse head in the United States without stringing supplies is between $10 and $25 dollars.

Warps in a lacrosse head typically occur from abuse, improper storage, or simply over time during the rigors of the game. Lacrosse heads, like other equipment, have a breaking point after prolonged stress or impacts and warping is an indication of this. If your lacrosse head is warped, it should be replaced.

Lacrosse heads are pretty tough, but they can break easily. With lacrosse heads, the harder you hit them, the more likely they are to break. In colder weather, stiffer heads can become brittle and break whereas in warm weather, flimsy heads can break.